The Police and the National Parks Board (NParks) understand that there may be plans to organise activities related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, during and under the banner of an unrelated event that will be held at the Speakers’ Corner.
As highlighted in our news release of 18 October 2023, there are public safety and security concerns with assemblies and processions which are organised in relation to the conflict. Such activities may have an adverse impact on the peace and harmony between different religions in Singapore, and heighten tensions between the communities. The conduct of any such events or activities at the Speakers’ Corner would therefore be a breach of the Public Order (Unrestricted Area – Speakers' Corner) Order 2023, as events and activities touching on religion at the Speakers’ Corner are not exempted from the need for a Police permit.
The Police and NParks would also like to remind members of the public that only Singapore citizens and Singapore entities are allowed to organise or speak at assemblies or processions at the Speakers’ Corner; and only Singapore citizens and permanent residents are allowed to participate in assemblies or processions at the Speakers’ Corner without requiring a permit, subject to the conditions in the Public Order (Unrestricted Area – Speakers' Corner) Order 2023.
Foreigners and foreign entities are not allowed to organise or speak, or participate without a Police permit, in any assemblies or processions at the Speakers' Corner. Organisers of events at the Speakers' Corner have the responsibility of ensuring this. Foreigners visiting or living in Singapore should abide by our laws and should not import issues or politics of other countries into Singapore. This is a long-standing principle which has helped maintain harmony and public order in Singapore, as well as our good relations with other countries. Those who break the law will be dealt with firmly, and this may include termination of their visa or visit or work pass where applicable.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
30 April 2024 @ 9:10 PM