ACCORD MEMBERS GET A FORMIDABLE EXPERIENCE

What does the latest Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) warship look like? And how does it operate to keep Singapore's sea lines of communications safe?

Nine members of the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) found out the answers when they visited RSS Formidable on 22 Dec.

Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen, who hosted the visit, and the ACCORD members interacted with the frigate's crew.

In the process, they learnt more about RSS Formidable's operations, and gained a better understanding of the RSN's transformation to a 3G force.

"I'm really impressed by what the frigate can do," said Principal of Innova Junior College Yeo Hong Mui (below, right).

"As a layperson, you really don't know what goes on inside the frigate. So I appreciate this opportunity to find out what makes this warship a very powerful mean machine, manned by a lean group of personnel."

There may soon be more opportunities for other community groups to visit SAF units.

Speaking to the media after the visit, Dr Ng said ACCORD was thinking of inviting more groups, such as educationists and unionists, to visit SAF units.

"We want to increase the outreach and the effectiveness so that the various groups of Singaporeans can understand how the SAF is transforming," said Dr Ng.

"Because of the current security situation, it's even more important for everyone to understand the SAF's capabilities, to be reassured as well as to understand their roles in Total Defence," he added.

ACCORD was formed in 1984. It serves as a platform for the public to provide feedback on defence-related issues.