Advisory on the Public Display of Foreign National Emblems in Relation to the Israel-Hamas Conflict

1. The Ministry of Home Affairs is aware that there are apparel and paraphernalia with foreign national emblems related to the Israel-Hamas conflict being sold online and worn or displayed by members of the public. We have also received queries on the actions that will be taken if such items are displayed or worn in Singapore, including by travellers seeking to enter Singapore.

2. Unless expressly exempted, the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit is an offence under the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949. If convicted of the offence, the individual may be liable to a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for a term of up to six months, or both.

3. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities. All travellers using our checkpoints are also advised not to display or wear such articles. The authorities will take firm action against those who refuse to comply, including denying their entry into Singapore.

4. In particular, promoting or supporting terrorism through the display of apparel or paraphernalia that carry logos of terrorist or militant groups, such as HAMAS or its military wing Al-Qassam Brigades, will not be condoned.

5. The peace and harmony between different races and religions in Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let events happening externally affect this peace and harmony we have in Singapore.

6. Singaporeans may wish to show support to those affected by the ongoing conflict by contributing to authorised fundraising activities and donation drives in support of humanitarian relief efforts by charities which have been granted a Fund-Raising for Foreign Charitable Purposes permit by the Commissioner of Charities, such as the Singapore Red Cross Society and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin (Blessings to All) Foundation.