Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Awards and Grants

Mr Gan Thiam Poh: To ask the Minister for Defence whether the Ministry will consider giving an award/grant to families of Singaporean soldiers who have died while in service since 1965, in recognition of the soldiers' contributions to nation-building and as part of SG50 celebrations.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: SAF's existing framework of awards and grants are based on the principles of appropriate recognition and compensation for soldiers who die in service. Awards are given to recognise our servicemen who have distinguished themselves by acts of exceptional courage and sacrifice which go beyond the call of duty. Compensation amounts take reference from the Work Injury Compensation Act.

It would not be appropriate to vary the criteria for awards or grants based on special occasions such as the SG50 celebrations. We should keep to the principles underlying these awards and grants to maintain equity within and across generations.

Instead, there are other ways in which to acknowledge those who have died in the service of our country as Singapore celebrates our 50th birthday. Various units will use this occasion to commemorate all those who have contributed to building the SAF. We hope that these commemorative efforts will inspire current and future generations to recognise the sacrifices of our servicemen, especially of those who have died for the service of our nation, and strengthen their own resolve to keep our home safe and secure.