Exercise Heartbeat - 313@somerset prepares against terror attacks

1. A counter-terrorism exercise codenamed ‘Heartbeat’ was held on 18 January 2019 at 313@somerset. The exercise was organised by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), and supported by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Cluster Lead for the SGSecure at Workplaces Programme. Neighbouring Safety and Security Watch Group (SSWG) members, building management and tenants in 313@somerset participated in the exercise.
2. Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar GRC, Ms Joan Pereira, observed the exercise which tested the coordination between the Home Team agencies and the community in response to a simulated terror attack at 313@somerset.
3. Singapore’s workplaces have been stepping up their emergency preparedness through the appointment of SGSecure representatives within their organisations. These representatives help to prepare the workforce to respond against terror threats, and serve as a point of contact with the authorities during crises. Mr Lawrence Mok, Property Manager of 313@somerset, is one such SGSecure representative. 
4. Arising from Mr Mok’s efforts, 313@somerset has actively incorporated SGSecure elements into their operations through the review of the mall’s emergency procedures, staff training and table-top exercises with terror-related scenarios. He has also played a leading role in the mall’s engagement with retailers on SGSecure. Through briefings at induction sessions and fire drills, circulars and other marketing efforts, many retailers in 313@somerset are more aware of the threat and preventive measures. Many have also taken active steps to prepare themselves through bizSAFE, a programme to help workplaces build capabilities to manage health, safety and security risks. Currently, over 80% of the mall’s tenants are onboard the bizSAFE programme.
5. Cheryl Goh, General Manager of 313@somerset, said “313@somerset’s participation in this exercise gives us the opportunity to put our emergency procedures into practice. This enables the mall and retailers to stay vigilant and prepared in the event of such threats. It is part of our ongoing journey to improve safety and security measures to protect our shoppers and tenants.”
6. Ya Kun, a food and beverage company which also participated in the exercise highlighted the importance of preparedness and vigilance of their staff in dealing with terror attacks. The company has also appointed their SGSecure representative, and has been taking steps to convey the SGSecure message to their staff through regular town hall meetings and the display of relevant advisories at their outlets.
7. Community stakeholders and businesses are encouraged to enhance their emergency preparedness and may refer to existing resources at the websites listed below for more information:
   www.sgsecure.sg
   www.police.gov.sg/resources/prevent-terrorism
   www.mom.gov.sg/sgsecure