Defence & foreign affairs — Topics

1 Oct 2018

Considerations for Singapore’s Agreement to Malaysia’s Request to Postpone High-Speed Rail Project

Singapore agreed to Malaysia’s request to suspend the High-Speed Rail project for two years until May 2020 in the spirit of bilateral cooperation, though it could have enforced the original agreement and sought compensation.
The suspension will push the project’s completion to 2031 and incur abortive costs of S$15 million, which Malaysia will reimburse by January 2019.
If Malaysia does not resume the project by May 2020, it will be deemed terminated, and Malaysia must reimburse Singapore for all project implementation costs incurred up to the suspension.
Singapore remains open to discussions with Malaysia on reducing costs during the suspension but is not obliged to accept any proposed changes.
Staff working on the HSR project will be redeployed to other MRT-related projects in Singapore during the suspension to utilize their skills.

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10 Sep 2018

National Service Defaulters

Over the past 10 years, an average of about 350 National Service defaulters each year have either failed to register, enlist, or return after their Exit Permit expired, with about one third arrested or having come forward to resolve their offences.
Efforts to trace NS defaulters include sending registered mails to their last known residences (including overseas), conducting house visits, and contacting educational institutions they attended; the Ministry of Defence works with the Police to arrest defaulters, and those charged face punishments set by the Courts under the Enlistment Act.
No specific clemency criteria or details on pardons were provided in the response, as the focus was on enforcement and judicial processes rather than clemency criteria.

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10 Sep 2018

Enforced Physical Exercises or Physical Drills as Punishment for Disciplinary Infringements by Servicemen in SAF

Dennis Tan Lip Fong questioned whether physical punishments like enforced exercises or drills for disciplinary infringements are still permitted in the SAF and, if not, when they were prohibited.
Ng Eng Hen stated that such physical exercises and non-physical punishments are allowed under strict SAF guidelines, including limits on repetitions and durations, and are prescribed in the Joint Manpower Directive.
He noted that unauthorized punishments or violations of training safety regulations are prosecuted within the SAF or through criminal prosecution in the State Courts.

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10 Sep 2018

Full-time National Servicemen Requiring SAF Financial Hardship Assistance after Enlistment

Leon Perera requested statistics from the Ministry of Defence on NSF financial hardship assistance requests, recipients, average aid amounts, processing times, and related AWOL cases over five years.
The Senior Minister of State outlined the Term Financial Assistance scheme, noting about 120 NSFs receive aid monthly for an average of eight months, with applications processed within two weeks, and additional quick grants also available.
The Minister confirmed that financial hardship was cited by about 28 AWOL offenders annually (14% of cases), with very few re-offending after receiving help, and stressed that stern disciplinary action is taken alongside financial support and counselling.
Leon Perera asked about re-offending rates among AWOL cases citing financial hardship and whether NSFs are charged for taking unauthorized paid work; the Minister replied that re-offending is rare and advised NSFs to seek help rather than take prohibited work.

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6 Aug 2018

Coverage of Singaporeans Working in Foreign Diplomatic Missions in Singapore under Employment Act

Ms Tin Pei Ling asked whether Singaporeans working in foreign diplomatic missions or embassies in Singapore are covered by the Employment Act, if they can access the Employment Claims Tribunal, and what support is available for employment grievances.
Mrs Josephine Teo confirmed that such Singaporeans remain covered under the Employment Act and have access to the Employment Claims Tribunal.
While diplomatic obligations under the Vienna Convention may limit enforcement measures, the government expects compliance with Singapore laws and will use diplomatic efforts to seek adherence.
Singaporeans in these roles can also seek assistance from the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management for mediation and advisory services on employment disputes.

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6 Aug 2018

Proportion of Full-time National Servicemen Downgraded for Mental Issues

Sylvia Lim inquired about whether the proportion of Full-Time National Servicemen downgraded for mental issues has increased in recent cohorts compared to earlier decades.
Minister Ng Eng Hen stated that approximately 4% of each National Service cohort over the past five years was downgraded for mental health issues, primarily after pre-enlistment check-ups.
The Minister noted that the prevalence of mental disorders among NSFs reflects that of the general male population in Singapore.
He emphasized that the Singapore Armed Forces provides comprehensive support, including medical treatment, counselling, and a 24-hour hotline for NSFs.
Unit commanders receive training to understand mental health conditions and regularly interview NSFs to identify and address any psychological stresses.

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6 Aug 2018

Plans to Review Eligibility Criteria for National Service Deferment

The Minister for Defence, Ng Eng Hen, emphasized that National Service (NS) is a fundamental and non-negotiable obligation for all male Singaporeans, based on principles of national security, universality, and equity, as upheld by the courts.
He explained that deferments are granted only very selectively for national interests, such as for elite athletes training for the Olympics, and not for personal career pursuits, as was the case with Ben Davis, whose application was rejected because his primary goal was his professional football career without a clear commitment to return for NS.
The Ministry has shown flexibility for sportsmen, such as adjusting enlistment dates and granting time off for training, and examples exist of footballers who completed NS before pursuing professional careers, demonstrating that both duties can be balanced.
There are no current plans to review the eligibility criteria for NS deferment or to establish a separate review committee, as the existing framework and strict application are deemed necessary to maintain fairness and the integrity of NS.
The debate underscored the importance of personal sacrifice for national defense, with the Minister urging MPs and the public to consider the broader societal implications of any exceptions to NS obligations.

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6 Aug 2018

Singapore's Contribution to Upcoming Singapore Convention on Mediation

Singapore contributed to the drafting of the Singapore Convention on Mediation by actively negotiating and building consensus at UNCITRAL, with a multi-agency team including MinLaw and local experts, chaired by a Singaporean, helping to accommodate diverse interests and lead discussions on key issues.
Singapore will host the UN treaty signing ceremony in August 2019, which will be the first UN treaty named after Singapore, promoting the Convention through international awareness efforts and sharing its expertise to encourage early adoption by other countries.
Singapore is preparing its legal industry by developing its dispute resolution ecosystem, including establishing institutions like SIMC and SIMI, passing the Mediation Bill to strengthen enforceability, and planning briefings and training with industry partners to ensure businesses and practitioners are competent in using international commercial mediation.

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6 Aug 2018

Singapore’s Role Post Trump-Kim Summit

Singapore hosted the Trump-Kim summit to facilitate peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, with its neutrality and credibility being key factors in the selection of the venue.
Singapore is not directly involved in bilateral talks or negotiations between the US, North Korea, and other parties but supports denuclearization efforts through multilateral platforms like the ASEAN Regional Forum.
The summit strengthened Singapore-DPRK relations, leading to high-level exchanges and increased mutual understanding, while Singapore continues to fully implement UN sanctions on North Korea.

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6 Aug 2018

Findings and Follow-up Actions on National Service Training Death

The COI found that CFC Lee’s death resulted from heat stroke, with contributing factors including breaches of safety regulations—such as unauthorized intense training the day before and insufficient rest—and inadequate on-site casualty management and delayed evacuation.
The SAF has implemented immediate measures, including a simplified evacuation protocol for disoriented personnel, enhanced cooling methods, and stricter enforcement of safety rules, to prevent future heat injuries and achieve zero training fatalities.
The Minister emphasized collective responsibility for safety, urging soldiers to speak out about health concerns and commanders to proactively remove at-risk individuals, while awaiting outcomes from police and coroner inquiries before any disciplinary actions.

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6 Aug 2018

Ministry’s Policy on Assisting Singaporeans who Seek NS Deferment

The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth supports NS deferment for athletes who consistently demonstrate high potential to succeed in international competitions and provide a definitive commitment to return to serve NS, as seen with swimmers Joseph Schooling and Quah Zheng Wen.
The Ministry works with MINDEF, MHA, and National Sports Associations to accommodate training for enlisted athletes, allowing them to train with their teams during NS, rather than solely relying on deferment.
For team sports, the Ministry assesses the overall team development plan, the athlete’s role and potential contribution, and the readiness for major games when considering NS deferment or training privileges.

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6 Aug 2018

NS Deferment for Sportsmen

Members of Parliament asked about the criteria for National Service deferment for sportsmen, including whether professional contracts like Benjamin Davis's with Fulham FC qualify, and how deferment applies to team sports, individual sports, and non-sporting achievements.
The Minister for Defence explained that NS deferment is granted only exceptionally for national interest, not personal career pursuit, and highlighted past deferments for Olympians Joseph Schooling, Quah Zheng Wen, and Maximilian Soh under strict conditions.
The application for Benjamin Davis was rejected because his father could not commit to a return date for NS, prioritized his son's career over national duty, and did not outline contributions to Singapore football, which contravenes the principle of equity in the Enlistment Act.
MINDEF has shown flexibility by adjusting enlistment dates, granting time off, and offering disruptions for national servicemen in team sports like football and water polo, while maintaining that NS and sporting excellence can coexist.
The Minister emphasized that deferment is not based on talent alone but on national interest, and that Singaporeans like Saifullah Akbar and the Fandi brothers have fulfilled NS while pursuing professional football careers.

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10 Jul 2018

Accuracy of National Service’s Physical Employment Standards System

Christopher de Souza asked about ensuring accuracy in the PES system when private medical practitioners recommend a downgrade.
Ng Eng Hen explained that PES grades are assigned at pre-enlistment screening based on medical history and examinations, with further specialist assessments if needed.
The SAF Medical Board, chaired by a senior officer, reviews and updates PES grades objectively, considering both private and public sector medical assessments.
For complex cases, a Specialist Medical Board with a civilian senior medical specialist provides additional objective advice.
Final PES grades incorporate operational context and requirements of the SAF to ensure optimal contribution from each serviceman.

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10 Jul 2018

Ragging Culture in SAF

The Ministry of Defence and Singapore Armed Forces maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse or ragging, with comprehensive safety management systems and strict authorization required for all training activities.
Unauthorized activities, bullying, or non-compliance with safety regulations are severely punished through military or criminal prosecutions, as evidenced by past cases resulting in detention or imprisonment.
SAF personnel are encouraged to report any unauthorised activities or punishments through designated hotlines and feedback units, with every complaint investigated thoroughly.

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9 Jul 2018

Recruits to SAF Volunteer Corp

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef inquired about the total recruits, gender ratio, dropout rate, and potential reviews of the SAF Volunteer Corps since its inception.
Minister Ng Eng Hen reported over 700 volunteers selected from 2,700 applicants, with a low 3% dropout rate mainly due to medical or training issues.
The volunteer pool has over 40% females, and the SAFVC has expanded roles, introduced new training modules, and increased deployment opportunities to enhance national defence contributions.

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9 Jul 2018

State of Bilateral Relationship with Malaysia After Last Election

Singapore will work with the new Malaysian government while reaffirming three key principles: upholding the sanctity of international agreements, resolving disputes through international law, and maintaining Singapore’s reputation as a credible partner.
On the 1MDB issue, Singapore has conducted thorough investigations, taken enforcement actions, and cooperated fully with Malaysian authorities, and will continue to assist in legal processes for asset recovery.
Regarding the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail project, Singapore seeks clarification on Malaysia’s position and will seek compensation in accordance with the bilateral agreement and international law if the project is terminated.
On the 1962 Water Agreement, Singapore will fully honour the agreed terms and expects Malaysia to do the same, emphasizing that Malaysia lost its right to review the price in 1987 and cannot unilaterally change the agreement.

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17 May 2018

National Service Training Deaths

The Minister for Defence outlined the findings and safety lapses from two recent NS training deaths, detailing corrective measures such as stricter night vision device checks, seatbelt enforcement, and heat injury prevention protocols, while emphasizing a zero-fatality goal through independent investigations and external reviews.
MPs raised concerns about the "tekan" culture, reporting channels for abuse, and the psychological readiness of commanders and servicemen, with the Minister affirming zero tolerance for abuse and highlighting existing hotlines, training, and command accountability.
The Minister for Home Affairs addressed the SCDF training death, condemning the misconduct and committing to enhanced safety measures and command responsibility, while parliamentary questions focused on improving empathy in command, post-commission training, and embedding safety culture through storytelling and external panel oversight.

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17 May 2018

Ministerial Statement

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien proposed a motion to allow a Ministerial Statement by the Minister for Defence to be taken before resuming the debate on the President's Address, overriding standard parliamentary procedures.
The motion signifies the government's intent to address a pressing national security or defense matter urgently, prioritizing it over the scheduled debate.
The proposal reflects a procedural maneuver to ensure timely communication of critical updates to Parliament and the public.

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7 May 2018

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will advance Singapore’s security and opportunities by focusing on ASEAN Chairmanship, strengthening regional resilience and connectivity through initiatives like the Smart Cities Network, and deepening ties with key partners including China, the US, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Singapore will promote free trade and economic integration by pushing for progress on the RCEP, EU-Singapore FTA, and other agreements, while expanding partnerships in emerging markets such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America.
The Ministry will uphold international law, support peaceful dispute resolution, expand capacity-building under the Singapore Cooperation Programme, and enhance consular support for overseas Singaporeans.

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7 May 2018

Prime Minister's Office (National Security Coordination Secretariat)

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Singapore faces complex new challenges to national security, including geopolitical tensions, terrorism, and cyber threats, which require a coordinated government response through the National Security Coordination Secretariat (NSCS).
The NSCS enhances the government’s ability to identify emergent risks, such as those from new technologies or cross-cutting vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure like energy, water, and finance, and integrates these insights into long-term planning.
The secretariat develops national security education programs for public officers to ensure awareness and sensitivity to security considerations across all policy domains.
To counter high terrorism threats, the NSCS collaborates with agencies and research institutes to understand extremist trends and equip frontline officers with skills to protect vulnerable groups, such as youths.
The NSCS will continue to work with agencies and stakeholders to build capabilities, identify risks, and develop coordinated responses to maintain Singapore’s stability and resilience.

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