Police probe death of new SCDF recruit

The police are investigating the death of a 21-year-old Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) recruit, who was found dead yesterday morning at the SCDF's National Service Training Institute in Jalan Bahar.

The recruit, Mr Edwin Ong Koon Chwee, had enlisted on Tuesday. Before he was found dead, he had posted an update on Facebook, where he said his bunkmates found him "blur" and a burden.

It is understood that no foul play is suspected.

In a statement on Facebook, the SCDF extended its condolences to Mr Ong's family and said it was providing them with support.

Perm Sec of defence devt leaves health post

Major-General (NS) Ng Chee Khern, 50, will relinquish his post as the Second Permanent Secretary for Health on March 1.

He will remain Permanent Secretary of Defence Development at the Ministry of Defence, and will lead the development of a long-term defence technology masterplan, and help formulate a strategic plan for the next phase of the Singapore Armed Forces' transformation.

Maj-Gen Ng will also chair a planning committee for the development of digital technologies in the Government.