The MHA said the incident showed the value of being prepared for emergencies, as such attacks can happen anytime and anywhere, despite being relatively rare in Singapore.

“Like the two men who helped deal with the attack and the members of the congregation who provided first aid to the priest, we can all play our part to strengthen our society’s resilience to emergencies by remaining vigilant, responding appropriately to threats . , and learning life-saving skills such as first aid, use of AED devices and cardiopulmonary resuscitation,” the ministry said.

“These skills can make the difference between life and death and are critical before authorities arrive on the scene, as in this incident.”

St Joseph’s Church was represented at the latest Bukit Panjang Town Community Response Roundtable (CRRT) last month.

The CRRT initiative is part of the national SGSecure movement, which aims to build relationships and strengthen crisis preparedness among key community stakeholders.

The MHA said it and the People’s Association are currently working with CRRT Bukit Panjang Town to disseminate information to partners and stakeholders and highlight any concerns that may arise within the community.

The SPF will also continue to work with religious organizations to be alert and prepared for emergencies, the ministry added.

“We are lucky”

In a statement, Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam said he was “encouraged to read of the outpouring of support from Singapore’s other faiths in the immediate aftermath of the attack”.

“We have seen in other countries that incidents of violence in a religious setting or with religious overtones can sometimes arouse mistrust and suspicion between religious communities,” said Mr Shanmugam, who is also the law minister.

“We are fortunate that in Singapore, our different faiths and their leaders have stood shoulder to shoulder with each other in difficult times, including this incident. This will help our society if and when other attacks, including terrorist attacks. , takes place.”

Father Lee is currently admitted to the National University Hospital. The church said in a Facebook post late Saturday night that he was conscious and in stable condition.

The suspect will be charged Monday with voluntarily causing grievous bodily harm with a dangerous weapon, and police will seek a court order for the man to be remanded in custody and undergo a psychiatric evaluation.

The MHA has urged the public to refrain from speculation as investigations are ongoing.

“Instead, let’s remain calm and united and focus on supporting those who have been affected by this incident,” it said.