Increasing Reservist In-camp Durations and Frequency in View of Uncertainties in Regional and Global Security
Ministry of DefenceSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns whether the Ministry of Defence plans to increase the frequency or duration of In-Camp Training or raise the statutory age limit for Operationally Ready National Servicemen. Minister Chan Chun Sing replied that current commitments are broadly adequate, balancing necessary operational training with the impact on national servicemen, their families, and employers. He stated that the Singapore Armed Forces will conduct more intensive training for selected units and continue to optimise deployments by tapping into the civilian expertise of volunteers. The Minister thanked those who serve beyond mandatory requirements and noted that the ministry will continue to expand opportunities for servicemen to contribute in various areas. Should a review of commitments be required in the future, the Ministry of Defence will provide a clear rationale and seek support from Parliament and the public beforehand.
Transcript
62 Mr Lee Hong Chuang asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence in view of uncertainties in regional and global security, whether the Ministry has any plans to (i) increase reservist commitments, including the frequency or duration of In-Camp Training or (ii) raise the age limit for reservists, like Finland.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: National Servicemen make up the bulk of the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) manpower. In deciding on the frequency and duration of our Operationally Ready National Servicemen's (NSmen) call-ups, we have struck a careful balance between the operations and training needed to keep Singapore safe and secure, and the imposition on our NSmen and their families and employers.
Today, we have many NSmen who volunteer to serve beyond their mandatory requirements. Others have contributed in new roles that tap on their deep civilian skills, experience and expertise. I thank all of them for going beyond the call of duty. We will continue to optimise our NSmen's deployment and expand opportunities for those who are able and willing to contribute in more areas of our national defence.
The frequency and duration of In-Camp Training and the statutory age for our NSmen are broadly adequate for our current needs. SAF will conduct more intensive or specialised training in selected units that require it. Should there be a need to review NSmen's commitments more generally in future, the Ministry of Defence will explain the need and rationale clearly and seek Parliamentarians' and the public's support ahead of time.