Time Allocation Between Active Training and Waiting During In-camp Training for Reservists and Measures to Improve Time Management and Training Effectiveness

Ms Valerie Lee asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence (a) what is the proportion of time that reservists spend on active training or assigned duties versus waiting between activities during in-camp training (ICT); (b) whether the Ministry has studied feedback on any perceived inefficiencies during ICT; and (c) what steps are being taken to improve time management and training effectiveness.

In operations and training involving NSmen, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) ensures adequate time for the safe and effective preparation and conduct of the activities as well as sufficient rest and recuperation across different phases, even as it seeks to minimise the overall time imposition on the NSmen.

The SAF actively monitors NSmen's experiences and gathers feedback from them through various means, including post-ICT surveys. Over the years, the SAF has acted on the monitoring and feedback to make operations and training involving NSmen more efficient.

For example, the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) for NSmen has been decoupled from their ICTs, allowing them to complete their fitness requirements at their own convenience. The IPPT experience has been redesigned to reduce the time spent by NSmen. The conduct of ICTs has been made more efficient through digital tools, such as the OneNS app, which allows NSmen to carry out various ICT administrative functions digitally. Waiting time between training activities has also been reduced where feasible, through efforts such as better pre-ICT planning and resource allocation, and decoupling of small group and commanders' training to reduce waiting time for the majority of soldiers. The SAF has also enhanced its facilities, such as the Multi-Mission Range Complex, for more efficient conduct of training.

The SAF will continue to monitor and improve operational, training and administrative efficiencies for NSmen while ensuring the safe and effective conduct of activities as well as sufficient rest and recuperation for them.