PM Wong, faith leaders condemn act of terrorism

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said Singapore strongly condemns the Dec 14 shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach that has killed at least 16 people and left 40 people hospitalised.

- Lok Jian Wen Correspondent

In a letter to his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese on Dec 14, he wrote: "Singapore strongly condemns this act of terrorism. Such acts have no place in our societies and undermine the peace and security we all cherish."

"This senseless violence struck a place cherished by Australians and visitors alike, including many Singaporeans," PM Wong said.

"On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and my heartfelt sympathy to those who were injured," he added.

PM Wong said Singapore stands firmly with Australia in solidarity and support during this "painful and difficult time".

He also wrote in a Facebook post at around 11.15pm that he was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic incident. "My thoughts are with all those who are affected," he said.

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim said he was deeply saddened by the tragic terror attack.

"Such acts of violence have no place in our societies. Everyone should feel safe to practise their faith freely and without fear, whether in a mosque, synagogue, church or temple," he said on Facebook on Dec 15.

Associate Professor Faishal said the Malay/Muslim community in Singapore remains committed to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect with all communities, regardless of race or religion.

He added that he was heartened by the extraordinary courage of Mr Ahmed al Ahmed, a fruit seller who was captured on video wrestling, then disarming one of the attackers, and was now recovering from gunshot injuries.