Public Transport Security Command Community Roadshow 2026 - Opening Address by Ms Sim Ann, Second Minister for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs

Deputy Group Director, Public Transport, Mr Alex Ang,

Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr Zhang Weihan, 

Partners from the Land Transport Authority and National Crime Prevention Council, 

Public Transport Operators, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Introduction

1. A very good afternoon to everyone. I am pleased to join all of you today at the Public Transport Security Command Community Roadshow 2026.

2. It is heartening to see so many of our partners, including the Land Transport Authority, public transport operators and the National Crime Prevention Council, here today. We appreciate your efforts in supporting the Police in enhancing public awareness of safety and security issues in the public land transport network. 

Crime Trends in the Public Land Transport Network

3. The overall crime trend has remained stable in the public land transport network. Notably, the number of outrage of modesty cases that took place on the public land transport network has decreased by 28.6%, from 84 cases for the period from January to June 2025 to 60 cases for the same period in 2026. This is a significant reduction considering the expanding train network and increasing commuter ridership. But we can do even better. 

Public Vigilance and Community Action

4. While Singapore’s public land transport network is generally safe, an alert and vigilant community remains an important defence against crime and security threats. A timely observation, a prompt report, or a willingness to help someone in need can make a real difference.

Community Partnership

5. This is where the 'SaferSG, Together' movement comes in. Under this movement, individuals join the Riders-on-Watch network to receive the latest crime information, alerts and advisories related to the public transport system from the Police. Since the launch of the network in 2019, its membership has grown to more than 17,000 strong. These members serve as additional eyes and ears on the ground during their daily commute and strengthen our collective ability to detect, deter and respond to crime and security threats.

6. Riders-on-Watch members are encouraged to share safety and security advisories with their families and friends. They are invited to take part in community engagement activities and play an active role in strengthening community vigilance and resilience. Their commitment demonstrates that safeguarding our public land transport network is a shared responsibility, requiring the collective efforts of the authorities, transport operators and the community.

S.P.O.T. Action Protocol

7. While we have seen a decline in outrage of modesty cases in the public land transport network, we remain committed to strengthening efforts to prevent crimes from occurring. Earlier this year, the Police launched a year-long campaign, "Don't be a Bystander! SPOT it. Report it." to guide the public on how to respond when they witness sexual crimes.

8. This campaign introduced a framework for action that can be applied by anyone who witnesses or experiences an incident of a sexual nature, such as a case of outrage of modesty. S.P.O.T. stands for Spot it, Protect the victim (and oneself), Observe key details, and Tell the Police.

9. To amplify this message, the SPF Public Transport Security Command has partnered public transport stakeholders to bring this message directly to commuters through its latest series of eye-catching crime prevention visuals at key MRT stations.

10. With more than seven million commuter ridership daily, we hope that the campaign will first, raise public awareness of safety and security issues in our public land transport network; second, empower commuters to take action through the S.P.O.T. protocol; and third, encourage everyone to play a part in preventing and reporting sexual crimes.

Launch of Alert Allie

11. The values of remaining vigilant and taking action when it is safe to do so are also reflected in Alert Allie, our new digital storybook for children and families, which we are launching today. Through an engaging storyline, this story aims to empower young readers to become responsible citizens by encouraging them to play a part in spotting and reporting suspicious persons, items or activities.  We hope this initiative will help to nurture a more informed and community-minded generation.

Closing

12. The community’s role in fostering a shared culture of vigilance and guardianship is important. I hope you will share the story of Alert Allie with your friends and family. We need your partnership, which has been key to Singapore’s continued safety and stability. Also, I encourage each of you to stay informed, by signing up for initiatives such as Riders-on-Watch and take a proactive approach in your daily commute; ‘Don’t be a bystander! Spot it. Report it.’ Spread the campaign’s S.P.O.T. message: Spot, Protect, Observe and Tell. 

13. Together, we will create a safer Singapore for all. Thank you and I wish everyone a fruitful and enjoyable event, and a wonderful weekend.