SMS ONG: NS REMAINS IMPORTANT IN DEFENDING S'PORE AGAINST ALL THREATS

National Service (NS) continues to play an important role in securing peace and security as Singapore faces more complex threats such as terrorism.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Ong Ye Kung made this point at the Basic Military Training (BMT) Graduation Parade at the Marina Bay Floating Platform on 12 Dec.

In his speech to over 4,200 graduating recruits, Mr Ong, who was the reviewing officer of the parade, noted that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) had provided a safe and secure environment for Singaporeans in the last 50 years.

He urged the newly-minted soldiers - from the Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) and 4th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (4 SIR) - to continue the good work done by more than 900,000 national servicemen before them.

"It is important that you continue to carry the torch of Singapore' s defence because the world we live in has become complex and uncertain," said Mr Ong.

This month, 14 lives were lost in a shooting rampage in Southern California, United States. Last month, 130 lives were lost in the coordinated terrorist attacks that hit Paris, France.

"Hence as soldiers, even more as Singaporeans, we must all remain vigilant and strong as one people, to withstand and recover from any threats that might come our way," Mr Ong added.

It is perhaps this sense of responsibility that pushed the recruits to successfully complete nine weeks of arduous training.

One example is Recruit (REC) Jason Kavinesh Joshua, who had to go through an eight-week Physical Training Phase before BMT because of his initially poor level of fitness.

But NS instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility, which in turn motivated him to do his best. Today, he graduated from BMT as the Best Recruit and Best in Physical Training of Scorpion Company.

"Singapore's policy to have all boys to serve NS is good. It allows young teenage boys to learn more and take on more responsibilities," said the 21-year-old.

"Even though we are still young, I believe it is important for us, as NS boys, to understand the problems that Singapore is facing, like the threats from terrorism."

REC Jeremy Ng, 19, Best Recruit of Alpha Company in 4 SIR, agreed: "It is important to take these threats seriously. Everyone has a part in preventing them from coming to Singapore.

"You can be from any vocation. Whether you are a commando or guardsman or medic, every soldier plays a part."