Permits to organise gatherings and protests that show support to political causes of other countries will not be granted. This was a clear declaration from the Singapore Police Force on Saturday (Sep 28).

This declaration is a reaction to the many rallies that have been held in several countries in recent months to support Hong Kong protests, with some clashes turning violent.

For the citizens’ protection, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised Singaporeans to defer non-essential travels to Hong Kong.

Anti-totalitarian rallies

With regards to planned anti-totalitarian rallies in Singapore, the police warned that foreigners visiting or living in Singapore will have to abide by the country’s laws.

“Action will be taken against those who break the law. This may include termination of visa or work passes,” police said.

“At the Speakers’ Corner, only Singapore citizens and permanent residents are allowed to participate in assemblies without a permit, subject to the conditions in the Speakers’ Corner rules.”

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Singaporeans “feel” for Hong Kong protesters but do not support violence

In June this year, more than three-quarters of 1,000 Singaporeans surveyed said that they supported Hong Kong’s current protests against a controversial extradition bill. Such “support” is perceived to be a result, according to political analysts, and a reflection of the close-knit ties between the “twin cities.”
Still, the observers said the strong support level did not necessarily mean Hong Kong-style street politics would soon spring up in the strictly governed Lion City.
In an article published by the South China Morning Post, the writer said that “thoughtful Singaporeans” were “deeply saddened” by events that were unfolding in Hong Kong, In an an op-ed for The Straits Times, it said that Singaporeans were watching “in sadness and bewilderment” the television footage of the July 1 storming of Hong Kong’s Legislative Council building by protesters. -/TISG