Amid Thailand’s cannabis reversal, Singapore reinforces its zero-tolerance stance on drugs
As Thailand steps back from its liberal cannabis laws, Singapore is doubling down on its hardline drug policy. Minister K. Shanmugam firmly reiterated the nation’s stance, calling it the “right policy” to safeguard society.
Firm Stance Amid Regional Shifts
On June 28, Singapore’s Coordinating Minister for National Security, K Shanmugam, reinforced the country’s commitment to its strict drug laws, calling continued criminalisation “the right policy.” Speaking at a community event in Nee Soon, he addressed Thailand’s recent policy reversal that bans recreational cannabis use — just two years after its decriminalisation.
Shanmugam noted concerns about “possible outflows” of cannabis-related issues from Thailand into Singapore, highlighting the government’s vigilance and independent policy approach. “We decide not based on what other countries do,” he said. “We look at the science, the social impact, and act in the best interest of Singaporeans.”
Rising Global Risks Reinforce Tough Approach
Using a disturbing example, Shanmugam referenced an incident at a Moscow airport where a drug-intoxicated man threw a toddler to the ground, leaving the child critically injured. This, he argued, illustrates the global consequences of relaxed drug laws.
He expressed concern over conditions in countries that have decriminalised drugs, citing the visible rise of cannabis shops and youth drug use in Thailand. “It is obviously a serious position,” he said. “Why would we want it?”
Public Support Remains Strong
According to Shanmugam, 85% of Singaporeans support the current tough-on-drugs policy. This includes support for the heavy penalties imposed on drug offenders. “People who asked for liberalisation are shutting their eyes to the immense harm,” he said, emphasizing the Cabinet’s unanimous support for maintaining criminalisation.
He warned against adopting the more liberal models seen in other countries, where the societal damage, in his view, outweighs any perceived benefits.
Security Concerns Heighten Vigilance
Shanmugam also linked the drug issue to broader national security, referencing rising tensions stemming from the Iran-Israel conflict. He said extremist threats may spill over into Southeast Asia, targeting both Western and Muslim assets. “If we get attacked, you will get international headlines,” he warned.
In response, Singapore has heightened its security posture, preparing for various scenarios in the event of a regional escalation.
Raising Public Awareness Through SGSecure
Despite the island’s safety record, Shanmugam stressed that Singaporeans must not be complacent. He highlighted low public vigilance during security drills, where unattended items often go unreported. The government aims to boost awareness through initiatives like SGSecure, encouraging everyday citizens to take responsibility.
“We’ve been trying for years… awareness goes up and comes down,” he said. “That’s the reality when a country is safe.”
Singapore’s steadfast approach to drug criminalisation serves as a clear message to both citizens and neighbouring nations: national interest, security, and social stability outweigh global trends. As Thailand reverses course on cannabis liberalisation, Singapore reaffirms that strict drug control — backed by science, policy independence, and public support — remains essential to its safety. For Indonesians observing regional trends, Singapore’s position highlights a critical counterpoint in the debate over drug policy in Southeast Asia.
Sources: Asia One (2025) , Mothership (2025)
Keywords: Drug Criminalisation, Singapore Policy, K Shanmugam, Cannabis Reversal, Thailand Drug Law, SGSecure
