Statistics on Bullying Cases in National Service in Past Three Years and Protocols to Ensure Victim Safety During Investigations

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence regarding bullying in National Service (a) what are the annual statistics on apprehended perpetrators and the nature of these cases in the past three years; and (b) what protocols ensure victim safety and prevent further harassment when both the victim and perpetrator remain on the premises or within the same unit during investigations or rehabilitation.

The Ministry of Defence and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) take a proactive approach to ensuring the well-being of our Full-Time National Servicemen (NSFs).

Prior to their enlistment, we work closely with schools, community partners and other stakeholders to help them prepare for National Service (NS). These include NS information sharing sessions held at schools and the Singapore Armed Forces Reservists' Association as well as virtual visits to the Basic Military Training (BMT) Centre.

During BMT, every recruit is assigned a buddy for mutual support and receives education and training to help them better recognise signs of stress, cope with challenges and provide support for their buddies. The recruits also have access to their commanders, who are trained to pick up signs of distress, as well as support from professional staff, including doctors, psychologists, counsellors and orientation officers at the BMT Centres' Care Hubs.

Throughout their full-time NS, NSFs are regularly interviewed and engaged by different levels of commanders, who would identify NSFs with potential problems and render assistance. Para-counsellors are available in every unit and psychologists in the divisions provide frontline support. Recognising that some NSFs may not be comfortable to share their questions or problems openly, the SAF operates a series of accessible hotlines, including those for counselling, safety and feedback.

The SAF takes a zero-tolerance stance towards unacceptable workplace conduct. Reports related to workplace harassment are investigated and those who engage in such behaviour will be dealt with. Where needed, units will make arrangements for affected service personnel to receive support services, such as psychological care, and/or implement suitable redeployment or distancing arrangements to minimise distress for parties.