THERE'S A PART FOR EVERYONE IN TOTAL DEFENCE

15 Feb is Total Defence (TD) Day.

You may not realise it, but TD is part of our everyday life. A simple greeting with your neighbours, being aware of suspicious characters, and serving National Service, are all part of TD.

The theme for this year's campaign is "There's a Part for Everyone". It encourages all Singaporeans to play a more active role in creating a stronger Singapore.

"Total Defence is important to us because it concerns our life, our home and our loved ones. So it's important that we be aware, participate and be prepared at all times because you never know what will happen and when it will happen," said Colonel (COL) Gavin Chay (right), Acting Director/Deputy Director of NEXUS, Ministry of Defence.

"But when it happens, all of us will know how to respond to it in a united and systematic way."

The main highlight of the TD campaign is the Total Defence PhotoFest 2005, where you can view the five aspects of TD captured in still pictures.

If you want to share your visual perspectives on TD, get your cameras ready for the "Total Defence Caught in Action!" photo competition (see story below).

"A lot of Singaporeans are taking pictures with their handphones and cameras," said COL Chay.

"People can capture TD moments anywhere, anytime, so we are riding on this trend. That will enhance people's awareness of, and participation in, TD."

In addition, from 15 Feb, you will be treated to a series of television and radio commercials, print and bus advertisements spreading the message on TD.

A new set of TD icons, designed by Ms May Wong (left), a 20-year-old student from Temasek Polytechnic, will also be used to promote TD programmes.

"When I was designing the icons, one thing I kept in mind was the need to highlight the five aspects of TD," said Ms Wong.

"I think the icons help them recognise and better relate to these five aspects."

What's more, a new, contemporary rendition of the evergreen Total Defence song, "There's a Part for Everyone", will be performed by Singapore Idol finalist, Ms Olinda Cho (left).

"I am very proud to be given the chance to sing this song," said Ms Cho, 24, who is with Artiste Networks Pte Ltd.

"I remember singing it during National Day in school, and it was one of my favourite songs."

"I'm very proud to be able to sing this new version and to do my part for Singapore," she added.



Visit www.totaldefence.org.sg/td2005 from 15 Feb for more information on TD.

Take part in Total Defence!

~ Total Defence Photofest 2005
Pop down to Suntec City Entertainment Centre Atrium for the photo exhibition from 15-20 Feb. About 100 photographs depicting the five aspects of TD will be on display. All pictures were taken by members of the Photographic Society of Singapore.

~ "Total Defence Caught in Action!" Photo Competition
You can take your own pictures showing what the five aspects of TD mean to you and how people can participate in TD. There are two categories, namely Youth (21 years and below) and Open. Entry forms can be downloaded from the TD website from 15 Feb, or obtained from the Photographic Society of Singapore located at Selegie Arts House. The competition will last from 15 Feb to 15 May.

~ "Total Defence in Action!" TD Neopets Online Activity
Learn more about TD through interactive scenarios, role-playing and quizzes. This is an activity specially designed to reach out to students in primary and secondary schools and junior colleges. It will be available on the TD website from 15 Feb.

~ A host of activities are also being organised by the Singapore Police Force, Singapore Civil Defence Force, National Heritage Board and schools. Visit the TD website to find out more from 15 Feb onwards.

~ The Public Warning System (PWS) "Important Message" signal will be sounded on 15 Feb at 12.05pm. Tune in to any local FM radio station to learn more about the three different PWS signals.

What is Total Defence?

Total Defence was first introduced in 1984 to highlight the important role that every Singaporean can play in the defence of Singapore.

TD day is commemorated on 15 Feb, the day that Singapore fell to the Japanese in 1942 during World War II.

TD is divided into five aspects:

Civil Defence
Knowing what to do during emergencies and being vigilant and alert at all times.

Economic Defence
Staying relevant and competitive through rapid change and development. Also putting in place robust economic systems that can continue to function in times of crisis.

Military Defence
This is about deterring aggression, being operationally ready and meeting all kinds of challenges.

Psychological Defence
Having pride in, and being loyal and committed to our country. And having the will, resolve and resilience to overcome challenges.

Social Defence
Singaporeans of all races and religions living and working together in harmony, as well as helping fellow Singaporeans.