Harmonious society key to curbing terrorism

I refer to the report “Religious counsellors save two secondary schoolboys from further radicalisation” (June 24, online). While I am relieved to know of the voluntary reporting of potential radicalisation, I am shocked at the cases involving schoolboys.

This shows that children, who are more vulnerable than adults to negative influences and wrongdoings owing to their immaturity, are already targets for terrorists.

In addition, the Government had to tackle the recent cases of the infant-care assistant and auxiliary police officers under the Internal Security Act.

I agree with Associate Professor Eugene Tan’s commentary “Trust is vital in efforts to counter terrorism” (June 26) that governments do not defeat terrorism on their own, but societies do, and that trust between various parties is critical.

When there is a terrorism-related activity, we may hear of members of the public putting the blame on the government. Who is the culprit, however, and what could have been rectified?

Governments can take preventive measures and heighten security, but it is ultimately about the society’s mindset. We must study and understand the purpose of radicalised people. What is more important than their family?

It is also important to understand that as a multiracial nation, we should stand together and help one another.

I am certain that with harmony and equality among all parties, we will stop terrorism one day.