ADVANTAGE: Mr Joshua Chao, 21, feels the new national service testimonial, giving details of his contributions, will boost his chances when applying for scholarships. -- PHOTO: MINDEF

His potential bosses will also know he was 'committed and driven' as deputy manpower officer of 1st Guards Battalion, and was key in his unit passing a human resource audit with flying colours.

This is one concrete way to recognise contributions of national servicemen beyond monetary rewards, Minister of State (Defence) Koo Tsai Kee said yesterday.

Currently, the efforts of national servicemen are recognised in the form of cash benefits like an additional $100 in Growth Dividends this year and higher tax relief for national service commanders.

Mindef also highlights to a national serviceman's employer when he does well during in-camp training and shows skills, such as leadership, that are relevant to the workplace.

Now, Mindef also wants to recognise those who have just finished full-time national service.

Previously, they received a certificate of service that states only their vocation, and generic grades given for conduct and performance.

But since last November, servicemen like Mr Chao have been able to take home a more detailed write-up describing their two years in uniform.

The 21-year-old thinks it will boost his chances when he applies for a scholarship with employers such as Singapore Technologies Aerospace and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, to pay for a degree in aerospace engineering.

'National service is my first employment. So beyond my academic results, they can know about my working attitude and leadership abilities,' he said.

Recognising servicemen's contributions in these ways helps reinforce their commitment to national service.

It is important that they do not see it as just 'clocking time', Associate Professor Koo told MPs during the debate on the defence budget.

Support from the public, employers and the family is also crucial, he added.

New recruits at the 3rd Singapore Infantry Regiment found that out for themselves last year when, after a tough training session, they received letters of encouragement from their families whom they had not seen since enlistment.

Prof Koo also spoke about ways to strengthen new citizens' and individual Singaporeans' commitment to defence. Before new citizens enlist, they and their families will get to visit the Basic Military Training Centre.

He said more also needs to be done to help Singaporeans understand how they can contribute to Total Defence as individuals.

A government survey last year showed that only 50 per cent of Singaporeans polled felt they were mentally prepared for a terrorist attack, down from 67 per cent in 2006.

Participation in security-related exercises also dropped to 14 per cent last year, from 23 per cent the previous year.

chinlian@sph.com.sg

Ministry of Defence