THE ABCS OF TOTAL DEFENCE

Still not sure what Total Defence (TD) is all about? It is actually as simple as ABC!

A for Award.

Know someone who really puts TD concepts into action? Nominate him or her for the TD Citizen Award at www.totaldefence.org.sg/td2005.

B for Bonds.

It is important to build strong bonds between the various ethnic and religious groups in Singapore. Learn more about the customs and practices of others - visit a church, a Chinese or Indian temple or a mosque. Meet your friends of other races over a dinner feast of 'chai tau kway', mee goreng, roti prata and wash it all down with some English tea!

C for Civil Defence.

Civil Defence is about knowing what to do during civil emergencies. Be prepared by picking up first aid knowledge and knowing evacuation procedures, so that you will have the skills to save lives and property, should the need arises.lives and property, should the need arises.

D for Day.

15 Feb is Total Defence Day. On this day in 1942, Singapore fell to the Japanese. By commemorating this historical occasion, it reminds all Singaporeans how important it is to be self-reliant in defending our country.

E for Economic Defence.

Economic Defence is about building a strong economy that will not break down during crises. It is also about having relevant skills to stay employable in a fast developing world.

F for Five.

There are five aspects in TD: Military, Civil, Economic, Social and Psychological Defence.

G for Go out!

National Servicemen will get a chance to go out of their camps and participate in the TD Tour. By visiting places with historical significance like Waterloo Street, the civic district and Changi chapel and museum (below), they will learn about the importance of TD and their role in Singapore's defence.

H for Hand and House.

The familiar TD logo represents both a hand and a house. The hand symbolises action, unity and completeness - TD is not complete if any of the five 'fingers' is missing. Moreover, the logo is shaped like a house, symbolising Singapore as our homeland. With TD, we are better able to safeguard our home.

I for Icons.

Still confused about the five aspects of TD? These icons will help you to identify and understand each aspect of TD better.

J for Jingle.

First introduced in 1984, the TD jingle is a familiar tune to many Singaporeans. But for the younger generation, the TD song is back this year, updated by a Singapore Idol favourite, Olinda Cho (right)!

Visit the TD website to download the song.

K for Kids.

TD is not just for adults; kids can also learn about TD through online games. This year, Nexus, together with the Ministry of Education, developed a special TD NeoPets online activity that seeks to teach kids on the five aspects of TD in a fun and interactive manner.

L for Lifelong Learning.

What can you do to contribute to Economic Defence? Embrace lifelong learning - constantly upgrade your skills and knowledge to stay relevant and employable in our rapidly changing environment.

M for Military Defence.

The SAF is a credible defence force that can deter aggression. Should deterrence fail, it will secure a swift victory over the aggressor.

N for National Service (NS) and O for Operational-readiness.

For over 35 years, NS has helped ensure Singapore's security. Today, our operationally-ready soldiers remain committed to training, using the latest weapons and technology to meet new challenges on the battlefield.

P for Psychological Defence.

Psychological Defence is about being loyal and committed to, and having pride in, Singapore.
Psychological Defence is also about having the will and mental strength to overcome any challenges that may come our way.

Q for Quest.

This is a TD 'quest' for all photography enthusiasts! From 15 Feb to 15 May, submit photographs that capture TD in action. Your pictures can depict scenery, people or activities centred on any of the five aspects of TD. Visit the TD website or more details.

R for Race.

Singaporeans of different races and religions live and work together in harmony, which is essential for us to enjoy continued peace and stability. Celebrate our diversity on Racial Harmony Day on 21 Jul.

S for Social Defence.

In addition to maintaining racial and religious harmony, Social Defence is also about helping fellow Singaporeans. We are 'One People' and have the responsibility to contribute to the community; help the less fortunate and underprivileged, regardless of their race, language or religion.

T for Threats.

In recent years, Singaporeans have become more aware of non-conventional threats like terrorism and cyber and chemical warfare. While these threats are complex in nature, take heart in knowing that MINDEF and the SAF are working with other security agencies to deal with the threats.

U for United.

Although some challenges can look daunting, when Singaporeans are united in pride and passion for the country, we can defend and safeguard our sovereignty and independence, and overcome all obstacles.

V for Vigilant.

We take responsibility for the safety of our loved ones by remaining vigilant and prepared at all times.

W for Warning.

Did you know that as part of Civil Defence, a nation-wide warning system is in place? The Public Warning System is a network of sirens located all over the island. When you hear 'pulsating blasts', tune in to any local FM radio station for an important announcement. 'Wailing blasts' warn of imminent threats like an air raid. You should then move quickly to the nearest bomb shelter. 'Continuous blasts' tell you that the threat is over and all is clear.

X for 'X-tra' and Y for You.

TD is not about doing anything 'x-tra'. It is really the little things you can do every day. Take NS seriously, take part in civil emergency exercises, pick up new skills, forge close ties with Singaporeans of other races and religions or just feel proud to be a Singaporean. This is how you can contribute to TD.

Z is for Zip.

Now that you have read the ABCs of TD, zip to it and play your part in TD!