SINGAPORE: The quality of local security firms has improved, according to an annual assessment by the Singapore Police Force.

Law and Second Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam said on Tuesday the number of agencies receiving the A Grade went up by eight to 27.

In addition, 59 per cent of those taking part in the grading exercise were graded B, compared to 52 per cent last year.

Opening the World Security Summit together with Malaysian Home Affairs Minister Syed Hamid Albar, Mr Shanmugam warned that the threat of global terrorism remains unabated, even as concerns rise about the world economy.

They said the private security industry is another important defence against the threat of terrorism.

There are also plans to introduce common standards in the security business, under the umbrella of the ASEAN Security Community.

Mr Shanmugam said: "Ultimately, our efforts must translate to a safer and more secure environment at the home front. Within our respective geographies, we are confronted with challenges which increasingly place a premium on strong local partnerships"

The forum is an opportunity for security professionals to discuss issues such as emerging security threats, the use of technology and sharing expertise in conducting risk assessments.

The annual grading exercise audits all licensed security agencies and the results give customers a clearer picture of whom they should use. There are now some 27,000 security officers in the industry, up from 18,000 in 2005.

- CNA/yb/ms