The call for entries for the fourth edition of local short film competition ciNE65 kicked off yesterday with the release of two commissioned films, including one featuring a cameo by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen.

The biennial competition is organised by Nexus, a department of the Ministry of Defence responsible for Total Defence and national education, to give local film-makers a platform to express their local identity through film.

This season's theme is Home Truly, and features films by local directors Sanif Olek and Wee Li Lin, both set in neighbourhood hair salons.

Mr Sanif's The Usual was inspired by memories of his national service days, when he served as a commando. It revolves around a national serviceman who visits his childhood barber for a haircut, and has flashbacks of his first trip to the barbershop as a young boy with his late father. It also features a post- credits cameo by Dr Ng.

In a Facebook post on the four-minute video, Dr Ng said: "Our Singaporean memories make us who we are and draw us closer as one people. We want to encourage Singaporeans to share what is precious to them."

Ms Wee's The Perm is based on her childhood experience and tells the story of a young girl experimenting with her first perm in a tight-knit neighbourhood salon.

Film entries will be accepted from January till noon on April 17. An awards ceremony will be held in July.