SINGAPORE, June 12 — The SGSecure mobile application has been installed on more than 550,000 mobile devices since its launch, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The app, which enables the police and the Singapore Civil Defence Force to send alerts to the public in times of emergencies, and for the public to report suspicious activities, is part of the SGSecure movement launched last year.

And at the Kolam Ayer Emergency Preparedness Day yesterday, Communications and Information Minister Yaacob Ibrahim called on more Singaporeans to download and use the app.

"Some of our seniors here may not be so familiar with the use of apps. So I hope those of us who are more digitally savvy can share with them what this app is all about,” he said.

He added that his ministry has incorporated SGSecure messages into television programmes such as Channel 8’s Eat Already and Happy Can Already, and Channel 5’s Steady Lah!.

Some 1,000 residents participated in yesterday’s event, and Dr Yaacob called on the community to join in the fight against terror, not only by staying alert but also by staying united.

"When an attack happens, we have to stand together and not spread rumours or untruths to cause distrust among our community.

"This will be playing straight into the hands of the terrorists’ goals.

"Their objective is to sow hatred and fear.” — TODAY