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By Lee Siew Hoon
Air travellers will have to put up with some
inconveniences, as airports all over the world tighten their
security checks this month as the anniversary of the September
11 terrorist attacks in the United States draws near.
And Singapore's Changi Airport is no exception.
According to a recent survey by the International
Air Transport Association, Singapore is tops in airport security,
but it is taking no chances.
For the first time since the immediate aftermath
of the September 11 attacks, it is once again beefing up security
checks and patrols at various key locations.
 Apart
from more stringent baggage checks and screening, more armed
patrols can be expected.
The joint SAF and police patrols are here to
stay for the foreseeable future.
The stepped up security during the month of
September will certainly drive home the message that Singapore
is no soft target for any troublemaker.
One traveller commented, "I feel very safe.
It's good to have more patrols as it makes the place safer
and encourages people to visit."
Another one commented, "It's rather scary
because you think something can really happen, that's why
they have to be here!"
Col Soh Poh Theen, Director, National Security
Secretariat, said, "There is no immediate threat but
it's always better to be safe than sorry, so all these are
precautionary measures which are necessary."
All other entry points, such as ferry terminals
and Woodlands Checkpoint, will also be subjected to more stringent
immigration and security checks during this period.
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