Supplementary Question

Mr Nicholas Fang: Thank you Mr Speaker. Thank you Minister for the answer. It is heartening to note that the cadet actually did put up efforts to resist, contrary to some negative aspersions that are being cast in online media about the inability to protect his own weapon. I have one supplementary question. It pertains to civilian contractors that provide transport services in and out of SAF camps. It's been my own personal experience that transport companies registered with the SAF or with MINDEF are then able to bus loads of either full-time NS men or NSmen in and out of SAF camps to ranges for live-firing etc. And I have also noticed that some of the drivers are foreign nationals. When they go into camps, they are not actually required to be inspected, or to book in, because they have a badge from the transport company. So what measures are in place to ensure that the transport companies in their hiring procedures, does the proper screen and scan of the personnel they hire to make sure they don't present a security risk to our camps. Thank you.

Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen: Sir, I don't have enough information about the specific aspects that the Member has brought up, and I'll be happy to answer them specifically if he files an additional question. But let me just speak in general terms.

There are strict procedures ensuring the security of our key installations and camps; and all visitors including civilian contractors will be required to submit a form, a photo ID of himself in exchange for a security pass. Long term contractors working in sensitive areas must also do likewise with their photographs and clearance from MSD, the Military Security Department, which are prominently displayed in the guardroom; they will also exchange the original work permit card for a civilian contract pass on a daily basis. The contractors are also reminded to stay within the area of their work, and at no time should they be roaming through our camps and bases.

More Resources

• Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Security Checks of Personnel Entering Singapore Armed Forces Military Camps