Born to run

For 3rd Sergeant (3SG) Ong Jia Hui, there's nothing quite like running at Marina Bay - she heads there for an hour-long run every Sunday. "It's so scenic here. And there are a lot of fellow runners so that gives me more motivation to keep exercising." 

This 21-year-old is constantly seeking action and adventure. She convinced her elder brother to go skydiving with her in Gold Coast in 2016, and wants to try bungee jumping next. The former national youth shooter also takes part in five full- and half-marathons every year. 

3SG Ong was inspired to join the Armoured Infantry when she was just 16 years old. She recalls watching the 2014 National Day Parade on TV and being impressed by the Regimental Sergeant Major, Senior Warrant Officer Jennifer Tan. "She proved that ladies could be tough." 

3SG Ong got the chance to meet her hero two years later. "I went up to tell her that she was my inspiration. I said, ‘Ma'am, I want to be like you.'" 

Now, 3SG Ong hopes she can also be someone who inspires others. "I would love to influence more women to join the military!"

Catch 3SG Ong in action on the Magzter edition of PIONEER!