MHA said the incident demonstrated the value of being prepared for emergencies, as such attacks, although relatively rare in Singapore, can happen anytime and anywhere.

“All of us, like the two men who responded to the attack and the parishioners who provided first aid to the priest, can do our part to increase our community’s resilience to emergencies by remaining alert and responding appropriately to threats. The ministry said, “First aid includes life-saving measures such as the use of AED devices and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.” acquisition of skills,” he said.

“These skills can make the difference between life and death and are critical before authorities arrive on the scene, as in this case.”

St Joseph’s Church was represented at the Bukit Panjang Town Community Response Roundtable (CRRT) last month.

The CRRT initiative is part of the SGSecure national movement, which aims to build relationships among key community stakeholders and strengthen crisis preparedness.

He said MHA and the People’s Association are currently working with Bukit Panjang Town CRRT to disseminate information to their partners and stakeholders and to surface any concerns that may arise within the community.

The ministry added that SPF will also continue to work with religious organizations to remain alert and prepared for emergencies.

“WE ARE LUCKY”

Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam said in a statement that he was “encouraged to read that support from other faiths in Singapore had increased in the immediate aftermath of the attack”.

“We have seen in other countries that incidents of violence in a religious setting or with religious overtones can sometimes create mistrust and suspicion within religious communities,” said Mr. Shanmugam, who is also the law minister.

“We are fortunate in Singapore that our various faiths and their leaders stand shoulder to shoulder to support each other through challenging times, including this incident. This will be a good benefit to our society if other attacks, including terrorist attacks, occur.”

Father Lee is currently being held at the National University Hospital. He was conscious and in stable condition, the church said in a Facebook post late Saturday night.

The suspect will be charged on Monday with intentionally causing grievous bodily harm with a dangerous weapon, and police will seek a court order to arrest him and submit to a psychiatric evaluation.

MHA has urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing.

“Instead, let’s stay calm, united and focus on supporting those affected by this incident,” he said.