Forum: Conscription policy must be based on critical need
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We thank Patrick Tan for his letter, “Time to relook topic of women serving NS” (Oct 28), and his views on how Singapore can strengthen its national defence amid an increasingly uncertain security environment and declining birth rates.
NS is a national commitment to Singapore’s security that requires considerable time and effort from our national servicemen and the support of their families, employers and the wider community. This is why conscription for NS must be based on our critical national defence and security needs.
The Ministry of Defence and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) regularly review our manpower requirements to meet Singapore’s defence needs. This considers factors such as demographic trends, evolving security challenges and technological advancements.
Today, enlisting male citizens meets the SAF’s defence needs, and there is no critical need to enlist women for NS. We are also taking steps to ensure every national serviceman is meaningfully deployed. For example, the refreshed Medical Classification System enables a more precise characterisation of servicemen’s medical fitness, enabling some to be deployed to vocations they were previously ineligible for. The Enhanced Expertise Deployment Scheme enables NSmen to be redeployed to units where they can contribute their civilian expertise.
Women are making important contributions to Singapore’s defence and security. They serve as SAF regulars and through the SAF Volunteer Corps. The Singapore Defence Volunteer Network (SG Defence) offers more ways for women and new citizens to contribute to defence based on their skills and interests. We welcome more women to step forward for defence through these pathways.
Our national defence is a shared responsibility. We thank all Singaporeans, men and women, for their strong support for NS and Total Defence.
Shaun Goh
Director Manpower
Ministry of Defence