Reply by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean to Parliamentary Questions on Deferment from Full-time National Service

Mr Speaker, Sir, Ms Joscelin Yeo has asked about local sportsman, Matthew Goh's application to be deferred from full-time National Service (NS) in order to participate in this year's Asian Junior Championships and World Junior World Championships.

NS is to meet the critical need of ensuring Singapore's security and survival. It is therefore important that it has the support and the commitment of Singaporeans, especially those who are required to serve NS. We have been able to achieve this because we have consistently adhered to the fundamental principles of universality and equity in NS. Universality dictates that it is the duty of every NS liable male to serve NS. Equity is where every National Serviceman is treated the same way, regardless of background or status.

Every NS liable male has to postpone his personal pursuits to serve the nation. This is why we have to be very careful when granting deferment, even if it is for three months. We cannot ignore the sacrifices of those who report diligently to serve their NS. We must adhere to the above principles in order to preserve the integrity and strength of our NS system.

Nevertheless, in selected situations, MINDEF does exercise flexibility while still upholding these principles. In particular, MINDEF allows deferment from full-time NS for exceptional sportsmen who have been selected to represent Singapore in major competitions based on the merits of each case. In assessing each case, MINDEF considers his past achievements, his potential in his chosen field and the need for the deferment. For example, MINDEF granted deferment for sailor Justin Liu. Justin had proven himself an exceptional sailor by winning gold medals at the 2006 Doha Asian Games and 2007 SEA Games, and was granted deferment to allow him to train full-time for the 2010 Asian Games.

MINDEF had considered Matthew's case very carefully, but turned down his appeal as the circumstances were not exceptional to warrant granting of deferment.