Keynote
Topic: “Facing CBR Threats - Are We Ready?”
Speaker: LTC Eric Yap, Director of Operations, Singapore Civil Defence Force

March 29, 09.50 – 10.20

Abstract:
Since the early 1990s, the concern that terrorists might use Chemical, Biological or Radioactive (CBR) materials as a weapon of mass destruction has increased steadily. The presentation takes a critical look at the CBR threat in a civil environment globally and in particular, Asia. It examines the key concerns to governments, emergency response authorities, and the population at large following a CBR type attack vis-à-vis conventional forms of terrorist threats.

The presentation will also discuss a multi-prong approach to dealing with the threat that encompasses the strategy of prevention and protection, public preparedness and investing in the development of a comprehensive emergency response capability.

Biography:
Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Eric Yap, aged 38 years joined the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) in 1993 after obtaining a first-class BA (Hons) Degree from the UK. He is also a Fulbright Scholar from the Emerson College, Boston, USA with a MA Degree in Management Communication.

Presently, he is the Director of Operations for the SCDF. Throughout his 13 years of service in the Force, LTC Eric has held a variety of appointments largely in frontline operations. Between 1995 and 1998, he was seconded to the Ministry of Home Affairs as an Assistant Director taking charge of national emergency plans and training. In 1998, he was appointed as the Officer Commanding of Changi Fire Station, which is also the busiest and largest fire station in Singapore in terms of operational coverage. From 2001 to 2004, LTC Eric was the Commander of the 1st Civil Defence Division with 5 fire stations and 6 fire posts under his direct command.

LTC Eric has been awarded the Republic’s National Day honours of the Public Administration Medal (Bronze) from the President in 2004.