Head J - Ministry of Defence

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Head J – Ministry of Defence

5.15 pm

Regional security environment

Mr Michael Palmer (Pasir Ris-Punggol): Sir, I beg to move,

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That the total sum to be allocated for Head J of the Estimates be reduced by $100.

Last year saw a distinct change in the world economy. Certainly, at home, Singapore has excelled with a 14.5% growth and generally across the region, economies have recovered from the financial crisis of 2008. Unfortunately, tensions and fighting in parts of Asia have caused serious concern. Most recently, the fighting that erupted between Thailand and Cambodia over the disputed Preah Vihear temple. The ceasefire that was negotiated and agreed on by the two countries with help from ASEAN neighbours was a cause for celebration. But this incident demonstrates that even two countries that are partners in the ASEAN community can take up arms against each other.

Prior to that, there was severe armed conflict between North and South Korea that began with the sinking of a South Korean vessel, the Cheonan, killing some 46 sailors. This was followed by the artillery barrage on the South Korean Yeonpyeong Island which killed two South Korean soldiers and wounded various others. The North Koreans are unrelenting and continue to pursue their nuclear weapons programme. The conflict was so severe that some speculated that this could result in a second war between the north and south.

This increase in armed conflict in the region has put the spotlight on Asia and, in particular, the tension between the United States and China. In January this year, President Hu Jintao made an official visit to the United States and was received by President Obama. The visit appeared to be positive, with signals from both sides showing that there could be a fresh start to Sino-US relations. It was also the first time that China had expressed concern over North Korea's continued pursuit of its nuclear weapons

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programme. What is clearly lacking, however, is the discourse between the militaries of the two countries. This shows that while the political leadership seems to have some intention of refreshing relations, the wills and intentions of both militaries are quite different.

Relations between the United States and Japan have also experienced some bumps in recent times. Tensions reached a high over the call for a relocation of the United States' military base in Okinawa. In January this year, the United States' Defense Secretary, Mr Robert Gates, spoke to students of Keio University during his visit to Japan. Secretary Gates said that a strong military alliance between the United States and Japan was important to deter North Korea and prevent China from behaving "more assertively" toward its neighbours. In answer to a question from a student about the possible weakening of China's civilian control over its military, Mr Gates said that over the past several years, there have been some signs of "disconnect" between the military and civilian leadership in China. He cited examples of military incidents that apparently took place without the knowledge of Chinese civilian leaders. The regional security architecture is growing more complex. The recent and rapid rise of China as a military power has made the presence of the United States even more pressing. It is a fine balance that Singapore and ASEAN should support.

With that in mind, may I ask the Minister the following questions:

(i) What is MINDEF's assessment of the regional security environment?

(ii) What is MINDEF's role in the regional security architecture?

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(iii) What progress has been made in evolving the regional security architecture?

(iv) Will China's increasing presence in the region as a dominant power have an effect on the security architecture in the region and, if so, what will that effect be?

(v) What will MINDEF's position be with regard to the US and China as regional security powers?

(vi) What are MINDEF's views on the tension between North Korea and South Korea? Does the Minister see that situation escalating?

(vii) Does MINDEF see India, Australia or Japan playing a part in the regional security environment? If so, what role would that be?

(viii) Does MINDEF see any other countries in the region playing a larger role in the security environment in the region?

Cooperation between major powers

Ms Indranee Rajah: Thank you, Mr Chairman. China is the fastest growing economy in Asia. Clearly, it wishes to flag its metaphorical muscle, it wishes to make its mark on the polital economic and diplomatic stage. At the same time, you have India, which is resurgent, newly confident. From time to time, we have tensions between Japan and China, between Korea and Japan, between Korea and China. Then we have the United States which occasionally has tensions with China and, at the same time, seeks to have influence in the region.

In the light of this interplay between the various powers who obviously are interested in this region, I would like to ask the Minister to comment on the relationship and the interplay between the major powers in the region and how this affects the regional defence environment.

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Also, in the midst of all this going on, you have little Singapore, right in the centre of it. I would like to ask the Minister what role Singapore can play in this environment. How Singapore can work to facilitate peace and cooperation between the major powers so as to ensure stability for the region?

ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus 8

Dr Lily Neo (Jalan Besar): Mr Chairman, Sir, ASEAN is an important regional organisation and has serve its members well for many years. ASEAN's importance is underscored by its evolution. Changing with times to meet the needs and purposes of its growing membership. One of the significant changes is the formation of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus 8 (ADMM +8). For many years, security related issues are discussed at the ASEAN Regional Forum at the Shangri-La Dialogue.

Both of these entities have shortcomings in the important area of discussing security-related matters. The ADMM +8 is, hence, a step in the right direction in view of the growing number of security related issues emerging. The other potential areas of conflict, which occur officially outside the region of ASEAN, have a significant and direct impact on the countries of ASEAN nonetheless.

Sir, ADMM +8 includes countries like China, Japan, Russia, South Korea and others which have long-standing unresolved territorial issues. These issues will directly impact the peace and stability of the ASEAN region if they trigger violence. Since the concept paper of ASEAN ADMM +8 was adopted in 2006 and a meeting held as recently as 2010, may I ask the Minister, what has ADMM +8 achieve so far? Has the ADMM +8 help resolve any regional disputes? Have the meetings held so far led to any confidence-building outcome amongst its

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many members? Finally, what can we expect from the future of ADMM +8?

Defence relationships

Ms Ellen Lee (Sembawang): Sir, it appears that our defence relations with our neighbouring countries, namely Malaysia and Indonesia, have been relatively good and cordial. After the International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision on Pedra Branca, the WikiLeaks saga late last year as well as the Singapore-Malaysia CIQ deals, I believe selected tension may have been felt across both sides. As such, I would like to ask the Minister for an update on the state of our bilateral defence relations with both countries. Are we cooperating better with our neighbours to enhance our collective security in Southeast Asia? In particular, are we cooperating with our neighbours in any other mutually-beneficial collaboration? How about cross-border sole or joint defence training especially in the sea and in the air, that is, in terms of airspace issues?

Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef (Marine Parade): Mr Chairman, Singapore is a tiny nation situated at the crossroads of Asia. Being small and open, we are subjected to a variety of influences. The post-cold war years have post-multi-dimensional challenges. We are a highly responsible member of the global community and we are in the region which continues to evolve by the day with volatile security and defence issues to consider.

Our external links with the regional and global nations will be helpful as they serve as channels for communications as well as information exchange and military cooperation. It also helps that we are members of groups such as the Five Defence Power Arrangement. How does MINDEF see our strategic role in the area of regional and Asia Pacific defence as well as security climate in the coming years? What direction will our defence relationships take with the major powers

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as well as with regional partners? Will we have further systematic cooperation to enhance the peace and stability in the region as well as globally?

Terrorism

Dr Lam Pin Min (Ang Mo Kio): Sir, the global security landscape has changed profoundly after September 11th. Many countries worldwide are facing the multi-faceted threats of terrorism and Singapore is no exception. Security lines are now blurred. Terrorists target their objectives indiscriminately with the intention to cause maximium damage and chaos in the community. The Government must respond quickly to the ever-evolving threats from possible terrorist attacks.

Prior to September 11th, for instance, airport security was run by private operators. Armed soldiers patrolling in teams were never seen within the airport vicinity. Now, it is a common sight. Although we have been spared from terrorist attacks, we are nevertheless a stated target of terrorist groups. We must always remain vigilant to guard against such an eventuality.

The Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) stated objective is to protect the homeland of Singapore against external threats. After September 11th, the role of the SAF appeared to have been expanded to include homeland security which has always been raison d'etre of the Home Team. Notwithstanding the security needs of the nation, the SAF Act was amended in 2007 to allow for this expanded role for the SAF, empowering it to perform certain specific roles of homeland security.

I would therefore like to ask the Minister what is the future possible evolution of the SAF in contributing to homeland security. Has this continuous threat of terrorism affected the way the

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SAF operate and train its soldiers? Is the SAF capable of handling a major terrorist attack such as the one in Mumbai?

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development (Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman): Mr Chairman, since September 11th, 2001 almost 10 years ago, the significance of the issue of terrorism to Singaporeans appears to be like the flickering of festive lights, coming on and going off at different points in time. It could be a reflection of Singaporeans' confidence in our security agencies and thus the sense that we are all always well protected. Of course, periodically when near incidences or actual terrorist attacks are reported in different parts of the world, this issue will come to the consciousness of Singaporeans again.

Sir, when the Budget 2011 was announced by the Minister for Finance, some critics asked why we should spend so much on our defence and that we should reduce defence spending and divert our resources to other aspects of our society like education and helping the poor. While this may sound attractive, it is critical that we address such thinking. What is important is for Singaporeans to understand the critical role of MINDEF in ensuring Singapore's safety and security and the significance of the sense of confidence that Singaporeans have that I have mentioned earlier; not to mention the confidence that our foreign investors have in us.

We should do more to educate Singaporeans on MINDEF's role in addressing security issues beyond traditional understanding of land, sea and air defence. Homeland security has been much associated with the Home Team but much of homeland security is also MINDEF's responsibility. Can the Minister share with the House MINDEF's role and contribution to homeland security apart from deploying some of our Servicemen at

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our border checkpoints like the air and the sea ports? How has MINDEF introduced this expanded role in managing terrorism and homeland security in its current operations and training of our defence personnel?

Deployment in Afghanistan

Ms Indranee Rajah: Chairman, I would like to ask the Minister for an update of our deployment to Afghanistan. The SAF has to train to operate in real conditions. We train in Singapore, ICT, we train overseas, we do war games but there is nothing like the deployment in Afghanistan because in Afghanistan, the danger is real, the danger is present and it is a matter of life and death.

We sent our people there to do a particular work, and it is important for us to know how they are performing. I would like to know what contributions the SAF has made to the operations in Afghanistan. Sometimes people ask what a small country like Singapore can do. What can we contribute to the efforts there? Why are we there? I would also like to ask the Minister what is the benefit to the SAF in participating in Afghanistan. What lessons have they learnt operationally? Also because in Afghanistan, they would have to work with other Armed Forces, what has the working relationship of the SAF with these other Armed Forces been like? And in essence, what are our takeaways from our experience in Afghanistan and how has that helped the SAF to be more ready in its defence of Singapore?

5.30 pm

International security operations

Dr Lily Neo: Mr Chairman, Sir, Singapore is a tiny country in terms of physical size. Notwithstanding that, we have contributed effectively many times in the arena of international relations.For

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example, in the "Thanks" column of the Straits Times today, a New Zealander said, and I quote, "Singapore's experts and aid have helped lift our spirits in our darkest hours" on Singapore's contribution during the Christchurch earthquake. We have participated in many other areas on international security of cooperation as well. These have helped to enhance peace and stability in many places, some far away from Singapore.

Just last year, in January 2010, we took command of the Combined Task Force (CTF). This was a proud moment for Singapore. It was the first time that Singapore was given the command of a multi-national taskforce. The CTF is an international effort, formed in 2009, to actively help deter, disrupt and suppress piracy. The objective is to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations.

I would like to commend all our personnel who were involved in commanding the CTF. Please allow me this opportunity to congratulate the men and women involved in making us proud in the Gulf of Aden.

It is also timely to ask the Minister for Defence, since the command of the CTF, how effective have we been and what is the future role of Singapore in the CTF?

Our participation in multinational security operations, however, is not just restricted to Somali or the Gulf of Aden. Since September 11th, Afghanistan has become the focal point in the battle against international terrorism. We recognise the importance of Afghanistan and are committed to the international cause of fighting terrorism. Hence, we have been involved in the reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan since 2001. It is a good 10 years now and much resources have been expended. Our involvement in Afghanistan has been multi-faceted; we have soldiers there helping with its

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reconstructions and we have medical personnel there trying to improve its general healthcare conditions. Going forward, it is important for us to know what role Singapore will be taking in Afghanistan. I would like to hear from the Minister what our committed plans in Afghanistan are.

Sir, the reconstruction of Afghanistan is a multinational security operation and, through the years, Singapore has cooperated with many like-minded countries like Australia, United States and others in this effort. In multinational operations, it is hard enough to navigate through different cultures, let alone try to surmount the difficulties in achieving the national interests of each and every country involved. Thus, how has Singapore fared in terms of relations with other countries and how has this mission contributed positively to the international standing of Singapore?

Maritime security

Ms Ellen Lee: Sir, as an island-state, we are highly dependent on our maritime trade and services. That makes us very vulnerable to piracy attacks in nearby waters. Could the Minister tell us his assessment of the security challenges, give us an overview of the maritime security landscape plus the terrorist threat situation in the Straits?

I am also asking the Minister to share with us if the situation has improved, the role that the Republic of Singapore Navy and COSCOM play, and whether or not there are further steps to be taken or have any steps been taken to further augment our maritime security measures.

Sir, I would also like to know about the progress of specific defence cooperation, such as combating piracy and terrorist attacks in the Strait of

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Malacca which is critical to our economic well-being.

3rd Generation SAF

Mr Michael Palmer: Sir, the SAF embarked on its transformation to a 3rd Generation SAF in 2004. The aim was to become a leaner and more potent fighting force that would use technology as leverage to deal with threats.

In our 3rd Generation SAF, the power of technology is not only that we have it; the power lies in the networked capabilities of its machines, thereby giving the SAF more speed, precision and mobility. To this end, there was a concerted effort to network and connect each different component part so as to enable all parts to work as a whole. This would include making use of electronic and computer technology and the requisite training to achieve an Integrated Knowledge-Based Command and Control System.

As part of the transformation to a 3rd Generation SAF, we invested in a range of advanced hardware and technology. Notwithstanding the increase in the hardware and technology, however, the backbone of the SAF must continue to be its people. Singapore faces a declining birth rate. The measures that have thus far been employed to raise our Total Fertility Rate do not appear to have had a significant effect.

We have one of the lowest birth rates in the world and, as a result, an ageing population. This must necessarily have an effect on every sector of our workforce. Manpower will become more scarce. The average age of the worker will rise. We have already raised our retirement age to cater for this.

The SAF will not be immune to the effects of a low birth rate and the ageing workforce. It has, and will continue to

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have, to take steps to cater for this phenomenon. In the last two years, retirement ages have been increased in the SAF and a new scheme known as the Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) allows officers with special skills such as Engineers to convert to MDES officers and retire much later. Our ageing population will become a serious challenge to maintaining a proficient fighting force.

In light of this, may I ask the Minister the following:

(i) Could the Minister please provide an update on the SAF's transformation to a 3rd Generation fighting force?

(ii) What steps is the SAF taking to guard against the low birth rate and ageing population in Singapore?

(iii) Will an ageing population result in a compromise to the SAF's operational readiness?

(iv) How can we continue to attract, develop and retain the right people for the 3rd Generation SAF?

(v) Will the SAF look to keeping its top talent and capable soldiers on for longer before retiring them?

Ms Ellen Lee: Sir, on the question of a 3rd Generation SAF, I would like to ask the Minister how have the SAF's new acquisitions been integrated with its current capabilities.

Over the past few years, whether on land, on the sea or in the air, the SAF has made numerous acquisitions towards its arsenal of weapons and capabilities from additional submarines, new fleet of fighter jets to new armour acquisitions such as the Panther tanks.

We have also initiated many enhancements to drive our SAF towards a 3rd Generation SAF. In the same vein, I

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believe we have also acquired other new and state-of-the-art hardware to stay ahead and to ensure that we have a world-class SAF and viable defence capabilities.

In view of the numerous acquisitions by the tri-service, I wish to ask the Minister how these newly procured equipment, weaponry and systems are being integrated with the SAF’s existing capabilities and how far have we assimilated our soldiers and formations with these new acquisitions.

The Chairman: Dr Lam Pin Min, please take your two cuts together.

New and enhanced career schemes

Dr Lam Pin Min (Ang Mo Kio): Mr Chairman, MINDEF introduced the new Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) in 2009 which has taken effect since 1st April 2010. For a start, the scheme for officers and warrant officers is tailored for engineers and specialists in military intelligence. Can I ask the Minister for an update on the new and enhanced career schemes and whether it has achieved its desired objectives? I would also like to ask if the scheme will be extended to other non-combat vocations in the Singapore Armed Forces.

People development

The human resource is a single most important element in any given organisation. The SAF is no different. In fact, the SAF is also one of the biggest employers in Singapore. The SAF performs a vital role of providing a stable social political environment in Singapore. More than that, however, is the reputation and capability of the SAF. For instance, Jane's Defence Weekly rated Singapore Armed Forces as the most advanced forces in Southeast Asia. A huge part of this acclaimed accolade lies with the men and women of the SAF.

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Singapore is an open economy and we are currently experiencing good economic growth. There is thus a keen competition for human talent. SAF is no different. Although the SAF has introduced schemes such as the MDES as part of people development, it is not shielded from the enticement of better-paying and more glamorous jobs in other sectors. This being the fact, I would like to ask the Minister for an update on the professional development of SAF personnel and how is MINDEF planning to attract new talent and retain existing ones so as to maintain a credible and professional armed forces.

NS policy

Mr Viswa Sadasivan: Sir, as I was drafting this speech, I recall a five-day army battalion mission exercise in a rough terrain overseas. It was physically demanding even for the fittest of soldiers, with sweltering heat and humidity. I remember how parched my Muslim soldiers were as it was Ramadan and they were not able to consume water. Looking at their condition, I gave them the option of not continuing with the exercise. They insisted on continuing because, otherwise, they said their "buddies" would have to bear their load. In response, many of the other soldiers decided to go without water to keep their Muslim "buddies" company. We proceeded this way, with my officers and I keeping a lookout for heat exhaustion.

Mr Chairman, these were not specially picked soldiers. They are ordinary Singaporeans you find in our heartlands, displaying extraordinary strength of character as NSmen. The motivation was commitment to each other as comrades. This basic human instinct translates naturally to professionalism and a commitment to serve.

It is experiences such as these that instilled in many NSmen, especially key

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appointment holders, an enduring sense of commitment to the nation. Many of these NSmen have ceased to see National Service in terms of a "legal liability" they are required to fulfil.

This is why it irks me when I come across young Singaporeans or their parents who seek ways to evade National Service (NS), or worse, when highly qualified people mock those who show a measure of commitment to NS. More than anything else, it is a grave insult to the thousands of NSmen who gave their best, and many who continue to do so.

Forty-four years have passed since the first batch of National Servicemen was enlisted. And after all these years, National Service is seen by many, even today, as just a fulfilment of one's "legal liability". This is unfortunate. At a factual level this may be true but, at an emotional and fundamental level, NS has to be more than just a "legal liability". And I do believe that there is a significant number of Singaporeans for whom NS has come to mean more than just a legal liability – just that their voices are often drowned in the din of cynicism. I meet committed NSmen regularly – they are from all walks of life, holding a range of NS appointments.

I have given the matter much thought, and am convinced that one reason why many male Singaporeans and their parents still view NS as something to grit your teeth and bear with is that it is overwhelmingly positioned as a "legal liability". If this is what you hear most of the time when referring to NS, the image of "liability" would naturally override other perspectives.

It is important to give greater voice to the emotive aspect of National Service which, in my view, provides a more authentic perspective. To facilitate this, I have three suggestions which I hope MINDEF would consider:

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Firstly, to consciously reduce the usage of the administrative term "legal liability" which encourages a focus on the start and end date, which is not what NS is, in essence. The term "NS commitment" should be used more often, instead of "NS liability". What I am suggesting is not just a play on words. It goes beyond that, as the term "NS commitment" more accurately captures what NS is about – an emotional commitment which does not have a run-out date

Secondly, to balance the notion of NS as an act of "conscription" with the idea of Singaporeans stepping forward to serve willingly. I know there are male Singaporeans who were not called up for NS but are willing to serve and, similarly, females who are prepared to do NS. It would be a meaningful gesture if MINDEF could provide the opportunity for such Singaporeans, in a formal manner, to volunteer to do NS. The numbers may not be large, but I am confident we have a critical mass of Singaporeans who will step forward. It would send a potent signal.

Finally, there should be a greater sharing of powerful NS stories that epitomise the human spirit. Within the SAF, there should be more opportunities for sharing of experiences – formally and informally.

Psychological adaptation

Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef: Mr Chairman, every now and then we hear of cases of National Service personnel having issues related to mental health and psychological issues, different forms of stresses and, in some cases, few, not many, related to crime as well.

As we know, some of these people already have a previous position to these conditions and may have been diagnosed even before entry into National Service.

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The training and conditions during National Service can no doubt bring on some of the symptoms. How are psychological issues being handled in the SAF? What forms of counselling are being offered? For cases where we do know of their previous position, how are they managed whilst in National Service?

In the operations and exercises carried out by the SAF, are there routine pre- and post-event counselling and debrief to address psychological stresses? I am sure that the Ministry will agree with me that the maintenance of psychological wellness and well-being of our National Servicemen is one of the crucial areas we need to give focus to.

5.45 pm

Training safety

Mr Sin Boon Ann (Tampines): Sir, rigorous and thorough training for our servicemen is necessary to prepare them adequately for their role as defenders of our country. However, training safety is just as important. Their families have entrusted them to us and any lapse in our training safety record is bound to erode the community's trust and chip their family's commitment to NS.

Will the Minister for Defence give us an update on the efforts by the Ministry to improve training safety records of our servicemen? What are the latest figures and the number and extent of injuries and fatalities during training? In addition to equipment and procedural safety, we have to pay attention to the general level of fitness of our NSmen. The younger generation may lead a more sedentary lifestyle. Does the Ministry think that we have sufficient measures to prepare them for the tough training so as to reduce injuries during training?

The Chairman: Ms Indranee Rajah, please take your two cuts together.

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RECORD V

Ms Indranee Rajah: Mr Chairman, the RECORD V Committee made a number of recommendations on how we could recognise our operationally-ready NSmen. These included, but were not limited to, online access for NSmen doing ICT, the rank allowance increments for NSmen, increased combat or operational allowance for NSmen and command appointment add-on allowances as well as the revised rank allowance for NSmen for the warrant officers and specialists and NSF specialists.

I would like to ask the Minister for an update on the progress of the implementation of these recommendations and how the NSmen have benefited from them and how they have been received.

National Service Recognition Award

I would also like to ask the Minister about the implementation of the National Service Recognition Award. This was announced last year, I believe. The award ranges between $9,000 and $10,500 and it was to be effective from 29th of August 2010. I believe that it was to be paid in three tranches – $3,000 after the Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA), $3,000 at the mid-point of the national service and another $3,000 on the completion of their Operationally-Ready National Service (ORNS). I would like to ask the Minister because the first stage should have been implemented. I would like to know what is the status of the National Service Recognition Award.

Total defence

Dr Teo Ho Pin (Bukit Panjang): Mr Chairman, Sir, February 15th is Total Defence Day for Singapore every year but how many Singaporeans pay attention to this day? Are Singaporeans aware of the significance of Total Defence Day? What are they doing on Total Defence Day?

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Sir, when I asked a number of Singaporeans as to whether they know what Total Defence is, many do not have an idea. Many also do not know what to do for Total Defence. This situation is indeed worrying and calls for a re-look into our Total Defence outreach and education efforts.

Sir, the concept of Total Defence was introduced in 1984 and comprises five key components, namely psychological, social, economic, civil and military defence. Despite years of campaign and outreach by MINDEF, the level of awareness, readiness and fighting spirit amongst Singaporeans to defend our country is still very lacking. Sir, while I appreciate the outreach efforts of MINDEF using different activities – campaigns, songs, competitions, movies, exhibitions and animation contests – to engage Singaporeans, Total Defence is not about song and dance. Total Defence is about defending our country against aggressive forces or crises.

Sir, the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990 provides a grim reminder of a small country's vulnerability. Therefore, we need to take total defence seriously and adopt a more consistent approach to instil a sense of pride and loyalty among Singaporeans. We must provide the same message to all Singaporeans to protect our land and be prepared to die for Singapore.

Sir, I wish to suggest the following for the Minister to consider. First, set up a Total Defence Council comprising all stakeholders of our country, the 3P (Public-Private-People) sectors to spearhead the defence efforts. Two, design a Total Defence curriculum to educate young and old Singaporeans about Total Defence. Three, develop a Total Defence system and conduct regular exercises to increase readiness of our people. Four, sound the Total Defence sirens on February 15th every year and observe five minutes of

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silence to commemorate the deaths of those who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation in 1942. This will constantly remind Singaporeans of the significance of Total Defence.

Sir, I wish to ask the Minister the following questions: First, what is the Total Defence operational readiness among Singaporeans? Two, what programmes are in place to instil a strong sense of Total Defence among Singaporeans? And three, how does MINDEF monitor and measure the effectiveness of its Total Defence outreach efforts?

National education campaign

Mr Sin Boon Ann: Sir, due to our social stability and safe environment, most Singaporeans tend to take our status quo for granted. This is particularly so for many youths who have not experienced anything other than peace and harmony.

Although National Service (NS) has been introduced for more than 30 years, many Singaporeans still do not take that and the Total Defence as seriously as they should. Some even ask for the duration of NS to be reduced further or even scrapped altogether. As we have seen in recent news reports about other countries, a country's peace and stability is a very fragile thing. Total Defence is absolutely critical to the very survival of Singapore. Total Defence is about involving every Singaporean in defending Singapore. There is room for everyone in military defence, civil defence, economic defence, social defence and psychological defence. How have we measured up so far? Are our people operationally ready?

Sir, I like to ask the Minister for Defence on his assessment of the effectiveness of our National Education campaign in helping Singapore to build up a strong Total Defence capability so far and an update on new campaigns if necessary.

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Commitment to defence

Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef: Mr Chairman, Singapore is one country where the introduction of National Service does work well with positive outcomes. As I see it, National Service has always provided a very important integration and consolidation platform for every Singaporean son. It builds character, makes men out of boys and has numerous other positive elements and influence on their lives.

But National Service has also come across as an area where many still have misperceptions about. There have been educational materials and even TV programmes targeted towards this over the years. But I feel more needs to be done to consolidate the understanding even further. What are MINDEF's action plans with this aspiration in mind? What are the upcoming educational publicity and other programmes MINDEF has planned to enhance the awareness and understanding of our public.

Mr Teo Chee Hean: Mr Chairman, Sir, first of all, I would like to thank the hon. Members for their comments and questions, and for their commitment to Singapore’s defence and security.

Mr Michael Palmer and Ms Indranee Rajah enumerated the various challenges on the regional security environment and asked for an update as well as the role played by the US, China and other regional countries. Sir, in the Asia-Pacific, China and India continue to grow at a fast pace. This contrasts with the picture elsewhere. Europe continues to be gripped by the woes of a number of euro-zone countries. The United States is grappling with a large budget deficit. This has meant that economic dynamism and weight has been shifting eastwards. Defence expenditures reflect this shift. They are falling in the West while rising in

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Asia. The recent unrest in several Middle Eastern countries has also led to some concern with the stability of global energy supply and prices.

The growing economic weight of China and India has given them more confidence, and a greater desire to play a larger role in regional and global affairs. They have new and expanded interests, such as access to trade routes and resources, and will seek to safeguard them. They are expanding their naval and air forces to extend their reach and influence. This is resulting in a shift in the relationship between the major powers in our region. Traditional flashpoints such as the Korean Peninsula also remain. On this issue, which Mr Palmer asked about, we hope that all parties will exercise restraint and reduce tensions through dialogue as a stable and nuclear-free Korean Peninsula is crucial for regional stability. We do not want to see nuclear proliferation in our region.

The key question on everyone’s minds is how dynamics between the US and China affect our region. Given the high degree of inter-dependence in the relationship, both sides recognise that having friendly relations is in their best interests. However, there is also potential for competition and friction. Domestic pressures in both countries, too, will continue to complicate the relationship. As China undergoes a leadership transition and the US a presidential election in 2012, both sides cannot afford to appear weak, especially on matters that affect domestic support.

Southeast Asia, rich in natural resources and where critical sea lanes converge, is a region where the key interests of the US and China intersect and often played out. China is working hard to build up its relationship with

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Southeast Asian countries and to manage areas where there are differences. In parallel, the Obama Administration has resolved to remain a "resident power" in Asia and has stepped up its engagements with Southeast Asian countries. Both sides seek to deepen their trade relationships with the region. These are positive developments for Southeast Asia, which can then play a role in fostering good relations between the US and China.

Mr Michael Palmer, Ms Indranee Rajah, Dr Lily Neo and Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef asked about the regional security architecture and the role played by MINDEF as well as other countries in shaping it. In today’s evolving strategic environment, countries need to come together to build trust and confidence, and to cooperate in tackling complex security challenges that affect everyone. An open, inclusive and flexible regional security architecture can therefore facilitate this process, by bringing together the key stakeholders to address issues of concern, promote mutual understanding, build confidence, and provide a construct through which countries can cooperate in areas of shared interests, in spite of differences in other areas.

On our part, MINDEF seeks to contribute ideas and concepts to crystallise and strengthen the security architecture as well as useful capabilities towards regional cooperative activities. We play an active role in institutions such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), and the ADMM-Plus, the newest component of the architecture, which Dr Neo asked about.

Last year, only four and the half years after the first ADMM meeting in 2006, the ADMM-Plus was inaugurated with an ADMM+8 format, comprising the 10 ASEAN countries and eight "Plus" countries – Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Russia

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and the US. These are key extra-regional countries that have a stake in the region and can contribute expertise, perspectives, and resources to help deal with regional challenges. The establishment of the ADMM-Plus is a significant milestone in the history of ASEAN, strengthening ASEAN’s ability to set the regional agenda and its position as a driving force for regional defence cooperation. The inaugural ADMM-Plus agreed to advance practical cooperation among the 18 militaries, particularly through the establishment of Experts’ Working Groups (EWGs) in five areas – humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, maritime security, peacekeeping, counter-terrorism and military medicine. The ADMM+8 provides a forum where people can air their views, say how they feel, what their concerns are, so others can understand them. At the same time, after the discussions, it provides avenues and channels where they can work together in these five areas and develop in a concrete way their desire for cooperation.

MINDEF is also actively involved in the Shangri-La Dialogue, held annually in Singapore. The Shangri-La Dialogue plays a unique role in the regional architecture by bringing together defence ministers, senior officials and academics from the region and beyond for a frank exchange of views. This key event will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year. 2011 also marks the 40th Anniversary of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA), a grouping that has become an integral part of the regional architecture. The 8th FPDA Defence Ministers' Meeting will be held in Singapore on 1st November 2011 – "1-11-11". It marks the day that the FPDA was founded 40 years ago. Over the years, the FPDA has proven to be an adaptive institution, relevant to the changing strategic environment and the needs of its members.

Ms Ellen Lee asked about bilateral defence relations with our neighbours and

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key partners. Our defence ties with Malaysia are deep and broad-based. They encompass a wide range of interactions between the defence leadership as well as among the rank and file through regular bilateral exercises and exchange visits.

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Last October, I attended the inaugural Putrajaya Forum in Kuala Lumpur,

where I spoke alongside Defence Minister Dato' Seri Zahid during a panel discussion. Singapore and Malaysia also collaborate closely in the Malacca Strait Patrols and the FPDA. All these interactions have enhanced the friendly ties between both sides.

Our defence relationship with Indonesia remains strong with regular and wide-ranging interactions between the SAF and the Indonesian National Defence Forces. I recently visited Indonesia last December and attended the 30th anniversary celebrations of Elang Indopura, a bilateral exercise between both Air Forces. It was a wonderful occasion because they brought back the officers who had taken part in the early Elang Indopura exercises from the very beginning and they were able to interact with each other. I also met with President Yudhoyono, Vice President Boediono, and Defence Minister Purnomo. In my interactions with these Indonesian leaders, I was heartened to hear their strong affirmation of our warm and friendly bilateral relationship, and their agreement that both sides should further explore opportunities to expand cooperation for mutual benefit.

The US remains one of our strongest and closest defence partners and a country with whom we share fundamental interests and strategic perspectives. Our relationship with the US affords us technology access and training opportunities to build our operational

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capabilities and readiness. Last November, the SAF conducted in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the first battery live-firing exercise involving our new High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). Our new Sikorsky S-70B navel helicopters were also based in the US from November 2009 to September last year for integration training with our frigates. We continue to maintain F-16, F-15SG, Chinook and Apache training detachments in the US. On our part, we also welcome visits by US ships and aircraft to Singapore. We believe that the continued presence in our part of the world by the US is important for regional peace and security.

With China, we have progressed our defence relationship. A second joint counter-terrorism exercise between the SAF and PLA, which focused on counter-terrorism security operations for major international events, was held in Singapore last November.

We continue to enjoy close defence ties with Thailand and Brunei, and increasingly with Vietnam, with whom we conducted mutual naval ship visits and our third Defence Policy Dialogue last December. Our relations with other regional partners like Australia and New Zealand also remain warm and strong. We share a history of operational cooperation with both countries, such as in the multi-national stabilisation and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. Last year marked the 20th year that the SAF has been exercising in the Shoalwater Bay training area in Australia. I am glad that some of the Members of the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) were able to come along with me to see that.

Following the earthquake in Christchurch last week, more than 100 SAF personnel, who had been on exercise in New Zealand at that time, together

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with an SCDF team, have been assisting the New Zealand Defence Force and local authorities in their rescue and relief operations. We have also deployed two C-130s to airlift humanitarian aid and supplies to victims of the earthquake and evacuate civilians from Christchurch to Wellington and Auckland. A team of forensic experts from the SAF, Health Sciences Authority and the Singapore Police Force has also just arrived in Christchurch to help with the identification of earthquake victims.

Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef, Dr Lam Pin Min, Dr Maliki Osman and Dr Lily Neo asked about the evolving threats to Singapore's security, whether the SAF's mission has changed, its role in homeland security and its contributions to international security operations. In today's interconnected world, states face an array of complex transnational threats such as terrorism and maritime security. In such an environment, the spectrum of operations that the SAF has to undertake has expanded, although the SAF's basic mission has not changed. The SAF's mission remains to deter threats to Singapore's security, territorial integrity and sovereignty, and should deterrence fail, to secure a swift and decisive victory over the aggressor.

One example of the wider spectrum of operations the SAF undertakes today is in homeland security. Singapore continues to be a target of terrorists and we must remain on our guard. A seamless inter-agency effort to counter this threat is essential. The SAF, therefore, works closely with other Ministries and Homefront agencies to do so. One example is the Maritime Security Task Force which works closely with other maritime agencies, like the Police Coast Guard, to enhance Singapore's maritime security. Another example is the Island Defence Task Force which conducts peacetime security operations, such as the protection of key installations together

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with Homefront agencies. The SAF's Special Operations Force remains the intervention force for terrorist hostage incidents, and the SAF's units that deal with chemical, biological, radiological and explosive threats support the Home Team.

Given its transnational nature, the terror threat cannot be resolved by any one country acting alone. A multinational effort is necessary. Ms Indranee Rajah asked about Afghanistan. Afghanistan remains a key element in this global fight against terrorism and Singapore is committed to doing its part, within our means and in useful ways, for the multinational stabilisation and reconstruction efforts there. Our deployments support the larger international efforts to prevent extremists from using Afghanistan as a base to export terrorism. We have been contributing to the multinational efforts in Afghanistan since 2007. Last year, the SAF deployed medical and surgical teams, a weapon locating radar detachment and an unmanned aerial vehicle Task Group to Oruzgan province. We currently have in Oruzgan a six-man Imagery Analysis Team to provide imagery interpretations and intelligence support. We will also deploy another 13-strong medical team to the US-led field hospital there this May. We concluded our four years of contributions in Bamiyan province in October last year with the completion of the Foladi Comprehensive Health Clinic. Afghan, civilian and NGO groups are now providing many of the services needed in Bamiyan. We have, therefore, concluded the SAF's operations there in Bamiyan.

We have also responded to the call for more military institutional trainers to build up the Afghan National Security Forces to prepare them to assume responsibility for security by 2014. A team of 10 SAF institutional trainers is now working in partnership with the Australians at the Australian Defence Force-sponsored Artillery School at the Kabul Military Training Centre.

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Our servicemen operate in tough conditions in Afghanistan, where the work and terrain are challenging. Our people are well trained and we augment their training and equipment appropriately for the specific requirements of their mission. Our men have proven themselves to be adaptable and resilient. This has allowed the SAF to effectively carry out its mission in Afghanistan and glean valuable operational lessons which are then shared with the rest of the SAF. Through the course of their deployments, our servicemen have done Singapore and the SAF proud and are highly regarded by our international partners. Our medical teams have helped to heal soldiers and civilians, our UAVs have successfully supported key operations and our weapon locating radar has provided warnings of incoming rocket attacks that have saved lives and avoided casualties. We have left with Members a DVD [ indicating ] which they can have a look at to get a flavour of the sort of operations that our men and women are conducting in Afghanistan and the kind of operational challenges they face.

Dr Neo and Ms Lee also asked about our maritime security efforts and our counter-piracy contributions in the Gulf of Aden. As a maritime nation, Singapore has an interest in preserving the freedom of navigation, the safety of international shipping and in combating threats at sea, such as piracy and maritime terrorism. Led by our Maritime Security Task Force, we are establishing a new National Maritime Security System to promote even stronger information sharing, situation awareness, decision making and operational coordination among our maritime security agencies. This will enable us to respond more effectively to a wider spectrum of maritime threats.

We continue to extend information sharing beyond Singapore's borders by building up the Navy's Information Fusion

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Centre (IFC) as a key regional maritime information sharing hub. Last year, I spoke about the IFC and how it enables an international network of partners to share information to facilitate timely and effective responses to maritime threats. This network of partners continues to grow. Ten countries deploy liaison officers to the IFC and the IFC has linkages with 38 agencies in 25 countries, enabling it to tap on information from a wide range of sources.

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia continue to conduct coordinated maritime and combined air patrols under the ambit of the Malacca Strait Patrols. While ensuring the security on the Strait of Malacca and Singapore remains our priority, we continue to play our part in the international efforts to combat privacy in the Gulf of Aden. As it is not possible for a country to protect its own shipping in all key sea lanes around the world, we will have to depend on international cooperation to secure these sea lanes for everyone's use. Last year, we commanded the Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 from January to April and deployed an SAF Task Group comprising a landing ship tank with two helicopters from June to October. During our command of CTF 151, the SAF led more than 2,500 personnel from nine navies. At the invitation of the Combined Maritime Forces, a senior Singaporean naval officer - supported by an SAF command team – will, once again, command CTF 151 from March to June this year. In the second half of 2011, we have plans to deploy a third SAF landing ship tank and helicopter Task Group to the Gulf of Aden.

Mr Palmer and Ms Lee asked for an update of the SAF's transformation to a 3rd Generation armed forces. Last year, I reported to this House that the key building blocks of the 3rd Generation SAF are in place. Through our steady and

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prudent investment in defence, we continue to strengthen these building blocks – transforming the SAF into an advanced networked force, making the SAF more flexible and responsive, and placing emphasis on developing our people.

The most visible prong of the SAF's transformation journey is the progressive introduction of more capable platforms, which adds important new capabilities to the SAF. Apart from the return of our Sikorsky naval helicopters to Singapore, the Air Force inaugurated its first local F-15SG squadron in April last year, while the Army took delivery of its first HIMARS artillery rocket platform last July. These new capabilities ensure that the SAF is ready to meet the challenges of the future across the air, land and maritime domains.

Many of our acquisitions replace ageing 2nd Generation SAF systems that have served us well over the last 20 to 30 years. The Air Force will take delivery of the Heron 1 UAV in 2011 to replace the Searcher-class UAV that has been in service since the 1990s. The Heron 1's longer flight endurance and better surveillance capabilities will provide the SAF with superior battlefield situational awareness. The Air Force will also replace our 30-year old RAPIER air defence system with a new SPYDER-SR ground-based air defence system which can more effectively deal with the wider spectrum of current and future aerial threats. The Navy will begin designing a new class of vessels to replace our 2nd Generation Fearless-class patrol vessels. These patrol vessels have been in service since the 1990s – the first were in service since the 1960s, I served on those – and will be more than 20 years old by the time we replace them.

Ms Lee asked how the SAF integrates new acquisitions with current capabilities. The strength of the 3rd Generation SAF is not just drawn from having more

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platforms or having better hardware. Less visible but just as important is the multiplier effect from the SAF's ability to network its array of systems and capabilities. When we first embarked on this networked SAF six or seven years ago, it was quite difficult to explain to people what it was that we were trying to do.

I think now most people understand this because they can see the power of the networks.

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Integrated Knowledge Based Command and Control allows the SAF to create an overall fighting system more effective than the sum of its individual parts. For example, the Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle is not just an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC). It has an on-board Battle Field Management System and connectivity with the soldiers who deploy from it. So it acts as a node for our soldiers to network with land and air platforms, such as the Leopard Main Battle Tanks and Apache helicopters. Even for simple things like enabling the soldiers to recharge their batteries, it helps to maintain that network force and for them to be able to remain present on the battlefield. This allows them to operate as an integrated, networked and more capable war-fighting system.

Mr Palmer asked about the impact of Singapore's demographic trends on the SAF. The birth rate has fallen since 1997. At the same time, our enlistees are better educated. These resource trends were indeed among the reasons for embarking on the 3rd Generation SAF. By anticipating these trends and capitalising on them, MINDEF has made the necessary adaptations without compromising operational readiness by exploiting technology, using fewer people, and commercialising our logistics and support functions.

The improving educational profile of our population has proven to be an

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important advantage. Today's servicemen are better educated and adaptable and, hence, better able to master new skills and operate more technologically complex systems. This has allowed us to proliferate systems such as light-weight UAVs and the Advanced Combat Man System down to our soldiers. This also allows the SAF to field more capable 3rd Generation platforms that require less manpower to operate.

I went to visit some new designs for battlefield management systems for our armoured vehicles. What they have done is that they have got polytechnic students to come in and play with the models that they have set up for the man-machine interface for the display and control systems in the fighting vehicle. This helps our engineers in the industry to design the system. Eventually, these polytechnic soldiers, when they join the SAF, will be operating these systems which they helped to design at the prototype stage.

Our Formidable-class frigates are good examples of how we have been able to have the capability but with fewer people. It has a crew half of what many other navies need to operate a similar class of ship. And now other navies, including the US Navy, are just beginning to operate ships of this size and class with similar sizes of crew that we are operating. MINDEF will continue to take stock of the challenges we face and build on our strengths to find effective solutions to new challenges.

Sir, at the heart of our transformation efforts is our people – the key resource enabling us to realise our 3rd Generation transformation. We need to therefore attract, develop and retain people with the right set of values and abilities. This is an issue which Mr Palmer asked about. This House will be aware that MINDEF has put in place new and enhanced career schemes to enable us to do so. At the

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same time, to increase the professional depth of our servicemen and to facilitate life-long learning, we have strengthened our professional development and continuing education programmes. These efforts have been well received.

Dr Ng Eng Hen will now elaborate on these initiatives and also speak on the subjects of National Service and training safety which several Members have asked about. Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee will later speak on implementation of the RECORD V initiatives and MINDEF's efforts to reach out to and engage various segments of Singaporeans on defence issues, including Total Defence.

The Second Minister for Defence (Dr Ng Eng Hen): Sir, if I may elaborate on some issues raised by Members. MINDEF agrees with Mr Michael Palmer and Dr Lam Pin Min that attracting and retaining the right people for the SAF is critical to keeping its edge. Dr Lam said that it was the single most important resource, and we agree. And this indeed was the reason why we introduced new career schemes last year, so that we could better match the aspirations of people seeking a career within the SAF.

As the Deputy Prime Minister has just mentioned, the 3rd Generation SAF also requires deep professional competence in many vocations. We have therefore also rolled out numerous professional development programmes to equip our servicemen with the competencies required.

A new scheme of service was created – called the Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) – to build and retain deep professional expertise in critical military domain areas, such as engineering and intelligence. This new career pathway has been well received. There was a 95% take-up rate among the personnel eligible for conversion to MDES. Servicemen who

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have converted to MDES are enthusiastic about the greater opportunities for professional development and career progression.

Let me give just one example to illustrate – Air Force technician Military Expert 2 (ME2) Ang Boon Siong, who attained his Bachelor of Engineering in 2009 from UniSIM through part-time studies. He is being recognised for his outstanding performance and strong potential. At age 28, he will be the youngest amongst his peers to be emplaced in the rank of ME4 upon completing his Military Domain Expert Course.

In tandem with the introduction of MDES, we have enhanced the schemes for Warrant Officers and Officers. Under the enhanced schemes, our Officers can stay with the SAF till age 50, instead of retiring in their mid-40s. Warrant Officers retire at age 55. Servicemen under the MDES scheme retire at 60. This was a point raised by Mr Michael Palmer about extending the career lengths. The career lengths of our enhanced schemes balance the needs to allow more time for professional development without losing the dynamism that is critical to an effective and potent SAF. However, where there is a critical organisational need, the SAF does selectively retain our servicemen beyond their stipulated retirement age.

The Enhanced Warrant Officers Scheme has been well-received. Under this scheme, those with potential to reach Warrant Officer rank can do so earlier. Their jobs have also been re-designed and restructured to focus on combat leadership roles, and to anchor key SAF competencies in leadership, tactical war-fighting expertise and training supervision. Many Warrant Officers and Specialists look forward to the greater responsibilities and new pinnacle appointments that they can now undertake.

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Let me give one example. Army Senior Warrant Officer Lee Sung Cheng has the honour of being the first SAF Warrant Officer to be appointed as Commanding Officer of a Training School. He assumed command of the Specialist and Warrant Officer Advanced School on 31st January this year. This was a post previously held by a Lieutenant-Colonel. In Senior Warrant Officer Lee’s words, he said that such appointments "speak volumes of the faith and trust that the organisation has placed upon our Warrant Officers".

SAF Officers have also welcomed the wider range of continuing education, professional military education and training, and leadership development opportunities presented by the Enhanced Officers Scheme. The public response to these schemes in terms of recruitment has been encouraging. Against the backdrop of strong economic conditions and a tight labour market, more have chosen to embark on an SAF career in 2010 as compared to 2009. This is a positive sign as we need to continue to attract able and committed people to the 3rd Generation SAF.

The SAF will step up professional development and continuing education programmes to equip our servicemen at different points of their career.

Dr Lam Pin Min asked about our professional development programmes. Let me give some details. For example, the Centre for Army Lessons Learnt, which was created in October 2010, aims to enhance the Army’s learning from military operations and training exercises. This year, the SAF will establish the SAF Centre for Operational Learning, which will spearhead efforts to draw operational lessons learned that are applicable across the three Services and, where necessary, institutionalise them into doctrines and processes.

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The SAF will continue to work with appropriate professional partners to ensure high standards of its programmes. For example, the SAF established partnerships with the Justice Institute of British Columbia and Nanyang Polytechnic in April last year to enhance paramedic training for its combat medics. These partnerships allow the SAF to strengthen the basic medical knowledge of its medics, give them the skills to treat more complex medical conditions as well as attend to casualties in an operating theatre or an intensive care unit. Our medics can also choose to pursue Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses in paramedic care.

Over the past year, the SAF has also collaborated with various Institutes of Higher Learning to further strengthen the SAF’s continuing education system. Through the SAF-NTU Academy that was established last year, NTU co-conducts modules at the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College, which are accredited towards NTU Masters programmes. The SAF has also worked with NTU to launch a 12-week Undergraduate Professional Military Education and Training Programme that provides SAF personnel with foundation courses in military knowledge. Completion of this programme earns the officers credit towards Degree requirements at the four public universities in Singapore.

The SAF has also established tie-ups with universities to accredit the professional training that our personnel receive in the SAF. For example, UniSIM, in collaboration with the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida in the US, will accredit up to 20 credit units to graduates of selected Air Force Training Command courses towards relevant Bachelor Degrees from both universities. Such accreditation is a strong testament to the rigour and quality of our training and development programmes.

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We are also leveraging on technology to facilitate the professional development of our servicemen. For example, LEARNet, which is currently available at the Basic Military Training Centre, the Specialist Cadet School and the Officer Cadet School, allows our soldiers to access online training content to carry out self-directed learning. The SAF has also put in place an SAF-wide knowledge repository system for official documents and information, and this has contributed to the SAF’s productivity because it enables our personnel to store, search and access information rapidly and securely. More importantly, it accelerates the propagation of knowledge and information.

I am pleased to inform Members of this House that the SAF was conferred the Asian Most Admired Knowledge Enterprise 2010 Award for the progress that we have made in this area. The winners of this award were selected by a panel of Asian Fortune Global 500 senior executives and leading knowledge management experts, and the other winners last year included Infosys Technologies, LG Electronics, and Toyota. So we are in great company.

All these initiatives illustrate the SAF’s commitment to training and developing our people. We believe that as a small armed forces, the SAF must maximise the potential of each serviceman, and develop them well to be better prepared for future challenges.

Sir, I agree with Mr Viswa Sadasivan that it is every Singaporean’s duty to defend the country. In fact, I was greatly cheered by his views and his own perception of what National Service means. I also agree that after 44 years, we have had strong support for NS from Singaporeans. During passing out parades, you see generations of fathers and sons. Many of you who have sons

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would have experienced it and it is a very special moment. It has a unique place in the hearts of many Singaporeans. We will continue to engage the hearts and minds of Singaporeans so that all of them will believe that this is a commitment more than a liability.

But we must bear three fundamental principles in mind when considering full-time NS. First, it must be only for critical national need because it imposes considerable cost both to the individual and to the nation. That critical need is national security and our survival. Second, it must be universal. All young Singaporean males who are fit are conscripted. Because if some males are conscripted but others are not, there will be strong feelings of unfairness. The third principle is equity, which means that our NS policies are applied equitably to everyone regardless of background or status.

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From time to time, there have been calls to extend NS beyond this remit to fulfil social objectives or otherwise. While these objectives are laudable, we must not dilute the restriction of NS only to critical needs of national security and survival and base it on the three fundamental principles I have just articulated. At present, there are no operational needs that justify imposing upon women to serve NS. But we agree with Mr Viswa that, indeed, MINDEF welcomes women and others not called up for NS to volunteer their services in the SAF as well as in the support of Total Defence. For example, there are women volunteers serving as nurses in the SAF's Combat Support Hospitals and as Community Emergency Response Team members in various constituencies. We can consider other areas, as he has suggested, where women volunteers and others can make a meaningful contribution in the defence of our nation.

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Sir, Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef asked how the SAF ensures the psychological well-being of our National Servicemen. Prior to enlistment, all pre-enlistees are provided with a comprehensive guide to mentally prepare them for NS. The numerous videos on cyberpioneerTV on YouTube on Basic Military Training (BMT) are also part of our efforts to help pre-enlistees and their families prepare themselves for NS. In addition, they undergo medical and psychological tests to ascertain whether they are suitable for enlistment and deployment. Those who are identified with possible psychological problems are given the appropriate counselling or psychiatric assistance upon enlistment.

Upon enlistment into BMT, commanders pay attention to the common problems faced by their recruits in adjusting to various aspects of NS life, such as regimentation, physical demands and communal living. They are taught stress management skills and are assigned to a buddy that can look out for them during training.

During the course of his NS, every National Serviceman is interviewed regularly by his commanders, which allows him to bring up problems that he may encounter. Our commanders undergo basic counselling training and mental health awareness programmes and are equipped to identify and address the issues raised by their soldiers. If they require more specialised assistance, soldiers can be referred to medical officers, para- or professional counsellors, or SAF psychiatrists. In addition, we have a 24-hour SAF Counselling Hotline, which soldiers can call if they need help.

Sir, Mr Sin Boon Ann asked for an update on training safety. I would like to assure the House that the safety of our people is of paramount importance. I agree with him that we must uphold the

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trust that the community and families placed on SAF and MINDEF when they send their sons for NS.

At the organisational level, the SAF has established a rigorous set of Training Safety Regulations and procedures to ensure that safety measures are systematically incorporated into all our training activities. There is also a robust risk assessment process in place, to ensure that our personnel identify risks before every significant activity, and that these risks are mitigated. The SAF also seeks to instil a strong culture of safety in our soldiers through leadership emphasis, and by enabling open reporting systems and practices in our units. At the individual level, our servicemen are drilled on how to conduct their activities safely and trained to be safety conscious. For example, new entrants to the SAF must undergo safety induction training.

While we do our best to reduce incidents to a minimum, all of us recognise that they cannot be totally eliminated. The SAF will continue to maintain high safety standards and take active steps to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our servicemen. We strive to keep this as low as possible.

Mr Sin Boon Ann asked for some figures. Let me provide the figures that I have. Overall, the number of training incidents has been on a decline. For example, if we compare 2008-2009 versus 2010-2011, the training incidents reduced from 97 to about 36, which is about a third. If I can give another example, the number of heat injury cases – something that we are all quite familiar with – has decreased from quite a high from many years ago, in fact, close to 100, to now about 14 cases. This has been the result of the safety system that was rechecked. They looked at what were the factors and the various measures in place. These positive trends encourage us

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to continue to try hard and make sure to reduce the number of incidents to the lowest possible.

Let me now hand over to Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee who will speak on the RECORD V initiatives, and MINDEF's efforts to engage Singaporeans on defence issues.

The Minister of State for Defence (Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee): Mr Chairman, Sir, Ms Indranee Rajah asked about the implementation of the RECORD V recommendations and how our National Servicemen have benefited. I am pleased to report that we have fully implemented 14 out of the 18 recommendations accepted by the Government. Another three are in the process of implementation. As for the remaining recommendation, we have started planning for its implementation.

One proposal that we have fully implemented in the past year is the National Service Full-time (NSF) of the Year award, which aims to recognise NSFs who have made significant contributions during their National Service. A total of 70 NSF of the Year awards were given out. One of the award recipients, Third Sergeant Muhammad Khairul Rusydi Bin Mohamad, said the award served as an affirmation of the strong support he received from his commanders and peers.

RECORD V had also recommended that the Government give National Servicemen additional allotments in Growth Dividends schemes. Members of this House will be aware that the Minister for Finance announced in his recent Budget Statement that all NSFs, NSmen and ex-NSmen will receive extra Growth Dividends of $100 to recognise their contributions to Total Defence. This is on top of their Growth Dividends entitlement.

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The three RECORD V recommendations that are still in the process of being fully implemented are the enhancement of fitness corners around Singapore and business centres within our military camps as well as the building of the fourth Fitness Conditioning Centre.

Thirty fitness corners have been enhanced so far. NSmen who live near fitness corners in areas like Bishan-Toa Payoh, Sembawang, Tampines, Tanjong Pagar and West Coast can now train for their IPPT literally at their doorsteps. For the coming year, another 30 fitness corners will be enhanced by SAFRA.

Three of our camps have also been equipped with enhanced business centres, where NSmen can now use their laptops and PDAs during non-training hours to do their business or to connect with their families or officers. Feedback from our NSmen indicates that nine in 10 believe that this initiative had helped them to better balance their National Service and work commitments. In view of the positive response, we are expanding this initiative to another 20 camps from next month onwards.

Construction of the fourth Fitness Conditioning Centre in Kranji is also ongoing and will be completed by the end of this year to facilitate the conduct of IPPT. The remaining RECORD V recommendation that is yet to be implemented is the building of new SAFRA and HomeTeam NS clubhouses in the north-eastern and eastern parts of Singapore, and we have started planning for this.

Ms Indranee Rajah also asked about the implementation of the National Service Recognition Award (NSRA). The purpose of NSRA is to provide sustained recognition for Singapore citizens who serve National Service. By the time he completes his ORNS training cycle, each

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NSman can expect to receive $9,000, as rightly pointed out by Ms Indranee Rajah, or $10,500 if he is a commander.

I am pleased to inform this House that the first disbursement of the award was paid just a few days ago on 28th February. This gesture of recognition has been well received by NSmen. For example, Lieutenant Louis Chia, who recently completed his full-time NS as a commander, received $3,500 in his Post-Secondary Education Account for the first milestone of the award. That means that he finished his full-time National Service. He told us that this is a useful way to recognise servicemen like himself and the award would go towards paying for his NUS tuition fees.

On Total Defence – this is a topic which is at the heart of some Members like Dr Teo Ho Pin. Dr Teo Ho Pin and Mr Sin Boon Ann asked about the operational readiness of Singaporeans for Total Defence and the effectiveness of our National Education (NE) efforts. Dr Teo also asked whether a Total Defence Council for stakeholders to play a role can be set up. Sir, allow me to take these questions together.

Total Defence has worked well for us. It has been effective in bringing Government agencies, private sector organisations and individual Singaporeans together to effectively deal with national crises such as the fallout from the September 11th attacks in 2001 and the outbreak of SARS in 2003. More recently, Total Defence saw us through the worst economic crisis since independence. We were able to bounce back quickly because we had put in place sound economic fundamentals and built up trust between Government, employers and workers.

Sir, MINDEF reaches out to Singaporeans through the annual Total Defence campaign to encourage everyone to

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contribute and play a personal part in building a strong nation together. This, as Dr Teo points out, is the key mission of Total Defence. It is presented in five components to help Singaporeans understand the different roles they can play in the different sectors of society. For example, as Dr Teo himself would be aware, the SCDF conducts the Emergency Preparedness Day at various grassroots events as well as CPR and firefighting drills for the public and schools. He has also helped us to conduct some of these exercises. Just recently, the Holland-Bukit Timah GRC/Bukit Panjang SMC held an Emergency Preparedness Community Day on 20th February 2011. All this adds up to Total Defence with each constituency doing its part with support from various agencies. The public would also know that the SCDF sounds the Public Warning System sirens at 12.05 pm every Total Defence Day to remind Singaporeans of the significance of Total Defence. So, we do it, Dr Teo. This is accompanied by radio broadcasts to explain the different types of siren sounds. There is also the counter-terrorism exercise, Exercise Northstar, which the SAF participates in.

It also involves various Government agencies in a Total Defence effort to fight terrorism. Two thousand personnel from 15 Government agencies took part in Northstar VII in 2009. As part of social defence to build national resilience, MHA, with support from MCYS, MOE, MICA, MOM and PA, coordinates the Community Engagement Programme, which drives efforts to promote racial and religious harmony within the local community as well as encourages Singaporeans to be trained to cope with crises and emergencies.

While each component of Total Defence is driven by a separate Ministry, MINDEF also organises the annual Total Defence campaign. Over the past few years, our Total Defence campaigns have

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involved our partner agencies like MOE, MCYS, PA, NHB and MHA, and focused increasingly on the "Heart" and "Hands" of Singaporeans to engage them at a more affective and experiential level. For this year’s campaign, "Home – Keeping It Together", we have also involved the People and Private Sectors, as part of the 3P partnership that Dr Teo mentioned, in a joint effort to encourage Singaporeans to help raise funds for needy families and the elderly. This is part of social defence. Through the "click for charity" tie-up with ComChest, more than 130,000 Singaporeans have done their part for Total Defence by downloading the music video "Home". Each download will be matched by a $1 donation from the following organisations: Aurigin Technology, the Lee Foundation, NTUC Fairprice Foundation, SembCorp, Singapore Pools, Singapore Turf Club and the Tote Board. Let us do our part for Total Defence – please click.

This year's Total Defence campaign completes the trilogy of themes that encourage Singaporeans to take ownership of our nation’s defence, and is a fitting sequel to the theme of "What Will You Defend?" in 2009 and "I Will" in 2010, where the natural flow is for Singaporeans to respond by saying "I will defend our home". The remake of the song "Home" aims to instil a sense of pride and loyalty among Singaporeans, and serves to remind us that underlying the concept of Total Defence is the fundamental conviction that Singapore is worth defending simply because it is our Home. The participatory and interactive nature of the Total Defence campaigns in recent years demonstrate the shift from a messaging paradigm to one of dialogue, sense-making and self-discovery, one which encourages more voices, more stakeholders or champions for Total Defence, particularly from outside Government. This year, 39 Singaporean

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artistes with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra have come together to express their own feelings about Total Defence through the song "Home". The singers are a microcosm of Singapore – from various backgrounds and age groups – and they have successfully reached out to all Singaporeans, young and old alike, about the importance of Total Defence.

MINDEF’s open, inclusive and bottom-up approach of involving various stakeholders in the public, private and people sectors, as seen in the Total Defence campaigns in recent years, is working well. The aim is to get Singaporeans to express themselves, as the best messages are bottom-up, coming from Singaporeans to their fellow Singaporeans, as well as take action that contributes and strengthens Total Defence. Post-campaign surveys in the last three years have shown that the level of awareness and support for Total Defence remains high, with an average of 91% of respondents saying that they have heard of Total Defence and will commit themselves to Total Defence.

MINDEF and other Government agencies involved in Total Defence now play more of a facilitative role to allow both the people and private sectors to also play their part in Total Defence. MINDEF will study the idea of a Total Defence Council, proposed by Dr Teo Ho Pin, to see whether it fits into our ongoing Total Defence efforts.

6.45 pm

Commitment to defence. Sir, Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef asked how MINDEF engages Singaporeans on the importance of the SAF and National Service to strengthen their commitment to defence. MINDEF actively engages different segments of Singapore society on defence issues through various ways. Besides bringing students to SAF camps and holding Open Houses where all Singaporeans can experience the SAF first

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hand, SAF units have been co-organising activities with schools to enrich the students' national education experience. For example, as part of the SAF's Total Defence Day engagement efforts this year, soldiers from 41st Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment set up a display by armoured vehicles, weapons and combat rations at National Junior College. The students got a close-up and hands-on feel of the SAF's equipment, and were joined by 41 SAR soldiers in full battle gear in a road run, which the school organised as part of its Total Defence Day programme. This was well received by the school and the community around it.

In addition, we engage the public through new media channels like YouTube, Flickr and Twitter. PIONEER , MINDEF's monthly magazine, which Members have in their bags or chairs, has also gone on iPad. Last year, I spoke about how viewers can learn more about SAF by watching short cyberpioneerTV YouTube clips on life in the SAF. We continue to see a positive viewership momentum, with more than 230 cyberpioneerTV clips garnering more than 2.9 million views – a six-fold increase a year on. The cyberpioneer Facebook page has also attracted close to 10,000 fans since it was set up in March.

Sir, I am sure most, if not all of the Members here, have heard of the "Every Singaporean Son" series that aired on cyberpioneerTV on YouTube last year. Patterned after reality-TV shows, the series followed a group of 15 recruits as they went through BMT, and attracted over one million cumulative views over 18 episodes. The series, which was produced by MINDEF to allow pre-enlistees and their parents to have a better understanding of what goes on in BMT, has even been picked up by the National Geographic Channel and will premiere on the channel on 8th March.

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This May, MINDEF will be putting out a new series, "I am a Soldier, Sailor, Airman" which shows the wide spectrum of vocations in the SAF. I hope the public will find this series equally interesting.

Sir, we are heartened to note that there is a strong public commitment to defence and support for National Service. On our part, MINDEF will continue to ensure that our National Servicemen are recognised for their efforts. We will also continue to reach out to all segments of Singapore society, including the public, private and people sectors, through a multi-channel and multi-platform approach to further strengthen their commitment to defence as well as Total Defence. Together, we can work towards making Singapore a stronger and more resilient Home for all of us.

The Chairman: Ending with military precision. Clarification time. No clarifications. Mission accomplished ahead of time. Mr Palmer.

Mr Michael Palmer: Mr Chairman, first, I would like to thank the Ministers and Minister of State for their very comprehensive replies to our queries and questions for their full report of MINDEF and the advances in the SAF, and also finishing with military precision with four seconds to spare, I believe.

Before I close, I would also like to, on behalf of Members in this House, express our support for the men and women of the SAF training in Bahrain and the Gulf of Aden as well as the humanitarian efforts in Christchurch. I think all of us support them and they do Singapore proud.

With that, Mr Chairman, may I seek leave to withdraw the cut.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn .

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The sum of $11,595,000,000 for Head J ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates.

The sum of $480,000,000 for Head J ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates.