I REFER to the report, "Don't be demoralised, PM Lee rallies ISD officers" (my paper, Sept 9).

It is right and highly commendable of the Prime Minister to rally Internal Security Department (ISD) staff, who suffered from a loss of morale due to Mas Selamat Kastari's escape.

The presence and contribution of the ISD have indirectly contributed to the success of Singapore's economy.

In today's context, terrorist threats are possible anywhere in the world, and one never knows when an attack might happen.

No country can afford to suffer any form of terrorist attack or sabotage.

Big countries like the United States cannot afford such a blow, let alone Singapore.

Therefore, with Singapore's security in mind, the nation has to be constantly vigilant.

We have to be alert to any kind of infiltration of our military or political scene.

Our society is becoming increasingly diverse and complex, thus widening the scope of ISD officers' jobs and making their work a greater challenge.

The officers will require new and different mindsets, and more knowledge, skills and experience to deal with new problems and complex issues which come their way.

The Government is always determined and prepared to face challenges on all fronts.

Hence, Total Defence – which encompasses military, civil, social, economic and psychological defence – is of crucial importance to Singapore.

Mr Teo Kueh Liang

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