High-level committee looking to strengthen support for NSmen holds seventh meeting

The Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) chaired by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen held its seventh meeting at the Safra Mount Faber on Friday morning. -- PHOTO: MINDEF
The Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) chaired by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen held its seventh meeting at the Safra Mount Faber on Friday morning. -- PHOTO: MINDEF

The Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) chaired by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen held its seventh meeting at the Safra Mount Faber on Friday morning.

Groups looking into greater support for NS, as well as recognition and benefits, submitted their final reports to the steering committee.

Members at the meeting discussed several recommendations, which follow the latest round of public feedback. These include suggestions to improve the way the Individual Physical Proficiency Test is managed, and boosting measures to support national servicemen in areas of housing, healthcare and education. Another idea is to expand the roles of the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence and the SAF Veterans' League to deepen engagement with key stakeholders.

Mr Gerald Singham, a member of the committee, said: "I am happy with the process and outcome of the CSNS. We met with a wide range of stakeholders so a lot of the recommendations are a reflection of what our NSmen would like to see. In terms of the actual recommendations, I think that they are meaningful and at the same time, it does not make NS into something that is too transactional. I personally feel that defence of our country is a sacred duty and it should not be reduced into something that is transactional."

The committee has reached out to more than 40,000 people since last year, and will announce its recommendations by June. Those interested may visit www.strengthenNS.sg to find out more.

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