Singapore's Cybersecurity Strategy 2016

Singapore has updated its Strategy in 2021. Please click here for the Singapore Cybersecurity Strategy 2021.

- 5 October 2021

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced Singapore's Cybersecurity Strategy at the Singapore International Cyber Week on 10 October 2016.

Cyber technology can enable and empower business and society, but only if it is safe and trustworthy. However, cyber-attacks are increasingly frequent, sophisticated and impactful. Globally, we have seen a surge in cybercrime and cyber-attacks on essential services such as power and banking services.

At best, successful cyber-attacks can lead to inconveniences. At worst, they can result in significant disruptions to the economy and to our society. The effects of a cyber-attack on Singapore have ramifications beyond our shores. Singapore is an open economy and connected to the rest of the world. It is a major international centre for trade, finance and logistics. A cyber-attack on Singapore could potentially impact the wider regional and global economy.

Cyber threats are borderless. Strong international collaboration in cybersecurity is requisite for our collective global security. Collective action by the Government, businesses, individuals and the community is necessary for a safer cyberspace.

The Strategy sets out Singapore’s vision, goals and priorities for cybersecurity. It engenders coordinated action and facilitates international partnerships for a resilient and trusted cyber environment. This will enable us to realise the benefits of technology and so secure a better future for Singaporeans.

Four pillars underpin our strategy. Singapore will:

• Strengthen the resilience of our Critical Information Infrastructure.
• Mobilise businesses and the community to make cyberspace safer, by countering cyber threats, combating cybercrime and protecting personal data.
• Develop a vibrant cybersecurity ecosystem comprising a skilled workforce, technologically-advanced companies and strong research collaborations, so that it can support Singapore’s cybersecurity needs and be a source of new economic growth.
• Step up efforts to forge strong international partnerships, given that cyber threats do not respect sovereign boundaries.