PSS488 Integrated Public Safety And Security Management: End Of Course Assessment (ECA) | SUSS

ECA Submission Guidelines

Please follow the submission instructions stated below:

1. ECA Cover Page + report in ONE MS Word File Only to the submission link entitled “ECA”.

All files must be uploaded by Friday, 21 March 2025, 12:00 Noon. Resubmission is allowed before this cut-off time.

The word limit of this ECA is 3,000 words (+/-10% allowance), including in-text citations, but excluding references.

Read The Scenario Carefully Before Answering The Questions.

You will be graduating soon, and one of the local multi-national corporations (MNC) in Singapore is keen to hire top students from the course as its security and risk control management associates. However, competition is tough and the MNC is prudent in its candidate selection. The MNC has asked all its hiring candidates to undertake a risk assessment of an impending overseas project. Candidate submissions will be marked against what the MNC’s in-house security department has recommended, and excellent submissions will be asked to proceed to the next round of hiring interviews with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Security Officer (CSO).

This MNC, Merlion Telecommunications, a leading telecommunications company based in Singapore. Over the years, it has built a reputation for providing cutting-edge communication solutions across Southeast Asia. As part of its strategic growth plan, it is now setting its sights on the new Indonesian capital, Nusantara. Specifically, it has identified Sepaku as a promising location for establishing an office near Nusantara. It is part of the core area of the new capital and has been earmarked for significant development, including digital infrastructure. This expansion presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in terms of security and risk management.

Telecommunication providers like Merlion Telecommunications play a crucial role in modern society by ensuring seamless communication through various services such as mobile networks, internet services, and data transmission. They enable connectivity for individuals, businesses, and governments, facilitating everything from personal communication to critical business operations and emergency services.
The typical infrastructure required for reliable telecommunication operations are:

• Data Centres. Establishing a robust data centre is crucial. This facility will house servers, storage systems, and networking equipment. It should have redundant power supplies, cooling systems, and physical security measures to ensure continuous operation.
• Fiber Optic Networks. Deploying a comprehensive fibre optic network is essential for high-speed internet and reliable communication services. This network should connect the data centre to various parts of the city and beyond.
• Cell Towers and Base Stations. To provide mobile network coverage, strategically placed cell towers and base stations are necessary. These should be equipped with the latest technology to support 4G and 5G services.
• Backup Power Systems. Reliable power supply is critical. Installing backup generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) will ensure that services remain operational during power outages.
• Network Operations Centre (NOC). A NOC will monitor the network’s performance, detect issues, and coordinate responses to any disruptions. This centre should be staffed with skilled personnel and equipped with advanced monitoring tools.
• Cybersecurity Infrastructure. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols, is vital to protect the network and data from cyber threats.
• Disaster Recovery Systems. Establishing disaster recovery systems, including off-site backups and redundant network paths, will help ensure business continuity in case of natural disasters or other emergencies.
• Smart City Integration. As Nusantara aims to be a smart city, integrating telecommunications infrastructure with smart city systems (e.g., intelligent transport systems, smart buildings) will enhance overall efficiency and service delivery.\

Their key success factors in operations are summarised below. If the security and operations team can work closely to ensure the following factors are reliably delivered to their customers, Merlion Telecommunications should be in an excellent position to win many telecommunications contracts.

• Network Reliability and Coverage. Ensuring robust and extensive network coverage is essential. This includes maintaining high uptime and minimal service disruptions.
• Technological Innovation. Staying ahead with the latest technologies such as 5G, IoT, and AI to offer advanced services.
• Customer Service. Providing excellent customer support to address issues promptly and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Regulatory Compliance. Adhering to local and international regulations to avoid legal issues and build trust with stakeholders.
• Security. Protecting the network and customer data from cyber threats and ensuring privacy. They have identified several vulnerabilities and challenges that require close monitoring and management, including:
• Cybersecurity Threats. Telecommunication networks are prime targets for cyber-attacks, including hacking, malware, and DDoS attacks.
• Physical Security. Protecting physical infrastructure such as data centers, cell towers, and offices from vandalism, theft, and natural disasters.
• Regulatory Risks. Navigating different regulatory environments and ensuring compliance with local laws and international standards.
• Operational Risks. Ensuring uninterrupted service amidst technical failures, power outages, and other operational challenges.
• Data Privacy. Safeguarding customer data against breaches and unauthorised access.

The hiring team has requested the candidates to undertake a security and risk assessment review of their expansion plan in Nusantara. Recognising that the scenario brief provided may not be as comprehensive, the hiring team is happy to answer any questions regarding this assignment through a video conference. Meanwhile, you may make relevant assumption and state them clearly in your answer. You may now answer the questions below. Good luck!

Question 1

To prepare for your call with the hiring team, describe at least three clarifications about the assignment above you would like to ask the hiring team. Briefly explain your rationale for those questions. Formulate a broad approach to conducting the security risk assessment and explain that approach to the hiring team, including the key stakeholders that you have identified for risk and security assessment exercise.

Question 2

For the scenario above, identify the potential threats and hazards to this project, and formulate at least five security risk statements (according to the format presented in the Study Guide) to describe the risks to the company.

Question 3

Construct a risk mitigation action plan (reference the Study Guide) for the risks that you have identified earlier.

Question 4

Assess the role of technology in supporting the risk mitigation plan you have presented in the earlier question.