Engaging Singaporeans on "Celebrating 50 Years of National Service"

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Ong Ye Kung delivering the welcome address at the SGfuture engagement session.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Ong Ye Kung engaged over 30 national servicemen and members of the public at the Future of Us Marketplace this evening, where he was the Guest of Honour for the SGfuture engagement session, "Celebrating 50 Years of National Service (NS)".

Speaking at the event, Mr Ong, who is the advisor to the NS50 Executive Committee, highlighted the importance of NS as a source of pride and strength for Singapore. He said that generations of national servicemen and their families have contributed to the success of NS and encouraged the audience to share ideas and ways to commemorate the upcoming 50th anniversary of NS in 2017. Mr Ong said, "Through the commitment of our national servicemen, we have built a credible defence force that helps ensure the security and safety of our nation." He added, "For those who have NSmen among your loved ones, your support for NS is vital. You are one of the reasons why they serve NS - to protect their family, their children and their loved ones."

During the engagement session, participants took part in small-group discussions where they discussed how they see NS evolving to face future challenges. The participants also suggested ways and initiatives to commemorate NS50 and show appreciation to all national servicemen for their contributions. One of the participants, Mr Ong Chu Xian, said, "As an NSman, I feel that the engagement session was very meaningful, as it allowed us to shape the national conversation on how we can better appreciate the contributions of our national servicemen. Just as the saying goes, it is the small things we do in everyday life that count the most."

Mr Ong engaging in a discussion with participants at the SGfuture engagement session.