Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Defence (a) whether the Ministry has considered creating dedicated workspaces in camps for NSmen during In-Camp Training (ICT) to handle urgent work without disrupting training; (b) what measures are in place to ensure employers do not interrupt NSmen’s ICT obligations with work-related demands, particularly in roles requiring continuous availability; (c) whether the Ministry will review policies to better balance ICT obligations with professional duties and ensure that NS obligations do not disadvantage Singaporean men in career progression compared to female and foreign counterparts.

Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen:

NSmen are called up for In-Camp Training (ICT) for periods necessary to meet essential operational and training needs. To minimise disruption to NSmen and their employers, NSmen are typically notified of their call-ups up to six months in advance so that suitable work coverage arrangements can be planned early. NSmen with critical work commitments during the stipulated ICT period can apply for deferment, and make up for their ICT at a later time.

During their ICT, NSmen who need to address unforeseen or urgent work exigencies are allowed to do so on their own devices in designated non-sensitive areas of the SAF camps. Wireless@SG is also being progressively installed in SAF camps, which provides NSmen better connectivity.

NSmen’s duty to perform ICT is backed by legislation. Under the Enlistment Act, employers are required to grant their NSmen employees leave of absence during their ICT period. Employers who contravene the legislative provisions are liable for fines or custodial sentences. MINDEF has not had to take such legal actions against employers because employers in Singapore understand the critical need for NS and have been supportive of their NSmen employees. In the small number of cases whereby NSmen felt that they were not supported or discriminated by their employers, the causes were predominantly misunderstandings or miscommunications which were resolved after MINDEF’s facilitation. 

MINDEF also has a range of efforts to further encourage employers to support their NSmen employees. These include regular engagements as well as recognition of exemplary employers via the NS Mark accreditation and Total Defence Award.