New Central Manpower Base Enhances National Service Experience

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing (centre) officiating the new Central Manpower Base (CMPB) Opening Ceremony, along with Permanent Secretary (Defence) Mr Chan Heng Kee (left) and Chief of Defence Force VADM Aaron Beng (right).

Mr Chan delivering his speech during the opening ceremony.

Mr Chan interacting with a parent of a pre-enlistee undergoing enlistment procedures at the Medical Classification Centre.

Mr Chan interacting with an NSman using the self-checkout kiosk at the Lifestylemart.

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing officiated the opening of the new Central Manpower Base (CMPB) today. Synonymous with generations of National Servicemen, CMPB is a one-stop service hub that supports the National Service (NS) community throughout their NS journey. With the new facility, NS-related services from pre-enlistment to operationally ready NS are consolidated under one roof.

Mr Chan visited the facilities and observed the pre-enlistees (PE) undergoing smoother and enlistment procedures at the Medical Classification Centre (MCC). Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chan highlighted the significance of National Service in Singapore. He said, “It is not just about the building itself, but the processes behind it... what is different in this building are the people behind it. The people who are constantly evolving their processes to be more efficient, more servicemen- and servicewomen-centric, and more effective in delivering the outcomes. That is our commitment in our ethos to stay ahead of the challenges and evolving needs.”

To continually support the NS community in their journey, services provided at the facility were extensively user-tested before launch to ensure experiences are user-centric. Equipped with a mobile-friendly registration and queue system, as well as new medical equipment and facilities, PEs undergoing medical screening at CMPB can expect a modern and pleasant experience.

NSmen will be able to take their Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) and undergo NS Fitness Improvement Training (FIT) programme at the all-weather Fitness Conditioning Centre (FCC) with practical improvements such as an increased number of score-check kiosks and process improvements to reduce waiting times.

Consolidating essential healthcare services for our National Servicemen, CMPB also houses the SAF’s second Regional Health Hub (RHH), serving as a one-stop hub for various medical needs. As the first outlet with self-checkout kiosks, the Lifestylemart located at CMPB offers PEs, national servicemen and service personnel a convenient and hassle-free experience. In addition, personnel are also able to make online purchases through OneNS and opt for home delivery or self-collection from e-lockers at CMPB.

With the new facility conveniently connected to public transport networks, including a direct linkbridge to Cashew MRT station, the NS community as well as members of the public can easily access a range of community amenities such as the outdoor exercise facilities, food court, cafe, convenience store, and a childcare centre.

In closing, Mr Chan expressed his hopes that the new facility will continue to strengthen support for NS and the community. He said, “CMPB is more than just a noun, more than a word in the Singaporean lexicon…MINDEF and the SAF are committed to making it the most efficient and effective touchpoint – not just for our NSFs, but throughout the NSmen journey, including our volunteers. This commitment to keep improving our processes is something priceless that money can never buy. Today, as we mark the completion of CMPB, it is our commitment to defence; it is our commitment to providing the best support for our servicemen and women. Most importantly, it is our commitment to continue to innovate at speed – to do justice to the resources that the country has given to us in defending our nation.”

Also present at the opening ceremony this morning were Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Minister of State for Defence Mr Desmond Choo, and senior officials from MINDEF/SAF, DSTA, as well as members of the project committee, ACCORD and grassroot leaders of the community at CMPB.

More Resources

Speech by Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing at the Official Opening of the New Central Manpower Base on 14 October 2025

Fact Sheet: New Central Manpower Base (CMPB) – One Stop Hub for NS Matters