Singapore – In response to public furore over the incident and case handling of NUS student Monica Baey being illegally filmed showering by fellow student Nicholas Lim as well as related on-campus voyuerism cases, the university has now upped its campus security and measures against perverts.
As reported by Today, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has increased the number of hostel security guards, added transponder-access locks at hostel restroom entrances and has started covering gaps below shower cubicle doors.
Via an internal circular sent to students on May 3 (Friday), NUS revealed a raft of measures against voyeurism as well as for increasing student security on campus.
NUS senior deputy president and provost Professor Ho Teck Hua noted the university is working “expeditiously” to ensure students’ safety.
In addition to the security measures listed above, NUS has started installing new cameras and will start roving security patrols to cover more campus locations.
According to Prof Ho, at least 300 new cameras will be installed by the end of June, and more than 860 shower cubicles will be anti-Peeping Tom by early October.
By end June, access to restrooms will be by transponders currently used to open hostel gates and room doors.
“These measures will act as a stronger deterrent against potential offenders and improve overall security on campus,” said Prof Ho.
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Aside from campus upgrades, NUS has also started reviewing its disciplinary measures and policies as well as victim support system. A new Victim Care Unit will be launched during the 2019/20 academic year.
“Our long-term goal is to foster an enduring culture of respect and support, one that makes our campus a place where you feel safe,” Prof Ho added.
On April 22, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye gave the following statement on the university’s Facebook page.
“UPDATE – Statement from NUS President
‘I welcome the Board’s announcement of the formation of the review committee on sexual misconduct. The “second strike and you are out” policy for sexual misconduct offences will be part of this review. NUS will take a hard stand on offences that impact the safety of our students. We must make our campus safe and supportive for all members of our community. I look forward to working closely with the review committee members to strengthen the disciplinary process and support network for our students.’ – Prof Tan Eng Chye”
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