Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Processing Time for Make-up Pay for In-Camp Training

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong: To ask the Minister for Defence (a) why does SAF still require 10 working days to process NSmen make up pay for in-camp training; and (b) whether SAF can reduce the current processing time of 10 working days.

Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen: NSmen who have submitted their claims are paid their Make-Up Pay within 10 working days from the start of their ORNS activity. The primary reason for this timeline is to verify the NSmen’s training attendance before payment is made, to ensure accountability in the use of public funds. In practice, NSmen are typically paid within five working days for Low Key In-Camp Trainings (ICTs) and seven working days for High Key ICTs. In some cases, a longer time may be needed to verify claim details with NSmen and their employers.

We regularly review our systems and processes to make the process of claiming Make-Up Pay more efficient and convenient for our NSmen and their employers. Employers are encouraged to register with the Direct Reimbursement to Employers of Claims for NS Training, or DIRECT, scheme. Under this scheme, the employer will continue to pay the serviceman his usual pay and claim reimbursement from MINDEF.