Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Opening Swimming Pools and Gyms in Military Camps on Weekends and After Work Hours for Operationally Ready Nsmen to do Reservist Training Preparations

Mrs Lina Chiam: To ask the Minister for Defence whether the Ministry will allow swimming pools and gyms in military camps to be opened to Operationally Ready National Servicemen on weekends or after work hours for their reservist training preparations.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: SAF camps are restricted areas, and facilities in these camps are designed to support military training. These camps should only be accessed by authorised personnel to minimise the risk of sabotage or loss of information and equipment which could compromise the safety and security of our soldiers and citizens. NSmen on ICT may use the facilities in camps, such as the swimming pool and gym, during allocated time slots on weekdays.

We recognise the importance of supporting our NSmen to prepare and train for their In-Camp Training (ICT). Our NSmen enjoy preferential SAFRA membership rates, and SAFRA clubhouses are equipped with swimming pools and gyms to support their fitness training. SAFRA EnergyOne gyms also offer preparatory training courses, designed by fitness experts, to help NSmen improve their Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) performance.

NSmen who need additional help in the IPPT can attend the IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT), which focuses on progressive fitness training, at the Fitness Conditioning Centres. The IPT is available on weekday evenings and weekends. We will extend the IPT to other venues, such as public parks through the "IPT in the Park" initiative, to provide greater convenience for our NSmen.

Through these avenues and initiatives, we will partner our NSmen and motivate them to take personal ownership of their fitness, so that they continue to be physically fit and prepared for ICT.