MINDEF COMPUTERIZATION PROGRAMME

Mr Sia Khoon Seong asked the Minister of Defence what steps are being taken by his Ministry to encourage greater computerization in line with the stated national policy towards computerization.

The Minister of State of Defence (Dr Yeo Ning Hong) (for the Minister of Defence): Mr Speaker, Sir, Mindef is the biggest user of computers in the Republic. Currently, it operates the entire range of computers available: Microcomputers, minicomputers, super minicomputers, mainframe computers, and special purpose computers.

The Ministry started using computers some 14 years ago. Computers were first used for manpower records, payroll, national service enlistment and control of stores. More complex applications like the computerized allocation of manpower to various vocations according to physique and educational qualifications, and on-line issue of exit permits followed. A study of all possible areas for computerization in Mindef and the SAF was completed last year. Advanced computer techniques are now used to support personnel and logistics management, and for military applications like war games, and studies in mobilization of men and equipment. Much effort is also going into office automation with word processors and small computers.

Our computer expertise has been put to more than just Defence applications. For example, Members of the House may recall that in the MRT study, a number of officers assisted the Hansen Team in computer simulation to examine the feasibility of an all-bus transport system.

Computer professionals in Mindef have been very active in the Government's current computerization effort. They did much of the groundwork leading to the establishment of the National Computer Board and the Institute of Systems Science. In the formulation of the Civil Service Computerization Programme, they made up about half the technical members of the Systems Team which studied the various ministries.

New approaches in the design of information systems are being introduced. There is an in-house training centre which teaches computer personnel new skills and methods in software development. Much time is spent educating computer users on how to get the most out of their computers. In addition, computer appreciation courses are regularly conducted for those with limited knowledge of what computers can do. The Ministry has also helped organizations like SAFRA and the NTUC set up microcomputer clubs and training centres.

Because of Singapore's small population, our defence has to be capital-intensive. Mindef will therefore keep abreast of development in computer technology and will continuously exploit opportunities for automation and computerization. We will also contribute, wherever possible, to the national computerization programme.