Security Risk Assessment before Engaging Security Services

Mr Zainal Sapari asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs whether a security risk assessment, with standards defined by a certified professional security agency, can be made mandatory for businesses, building owners and individuals who engage security services.

A security risk assessment is carried out for the purpose of identifying suitable physical, procedural and technological measures to mitigate major security risks. Such a risk assessment is currently mandatory for buildings deemed as critical infrastructure, that is, they provide essential services vital to our country's survival. MHA works with relevant Government agencies and the owners of critical infrastructure to conduct the risk assessment of their entire site, including the building premises.

For the other buildings, including residential premises, security risk assessment is not mandatory.

The Government has implemented a series of outreach programmes targeted at building owners, to enhance their security knowledge and encourage them to adopt best practices in building security and procurement. For example, MHA's "Guidelines for Enhancing Building Security" provides building owners with practical information on how they can enhance the security of their buildings. MOM and its tripartite partners have also launched a guidebook providing detailed and practical guidance on best sourcing for better security services. In addition, risk assessment is one of the factors taken into account in the grading of security agencies. These measures encourage security agencies and building owners to work together to consider the unique operating environments and tailor solutions to enhance the overall security outcomes.