NSmen are the backbone of Island Defence: Dr Maliki

SMS Dr Mohamad Maliki bin Osman (in white) observing Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) from the 613th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (613 SIR) undergoing Protection of Key Installations training during their In-Camp Training (ICT).

Senior Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman visited Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) from the 613th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (613 SIR), undergoing In-Camp Training at Island Defence Training Institute (IDTI), Clementi Camp this morning. As part of his visit, Dr Maliki observed the refresher training that was conducted to prepare the unit in executing Protection of Key Installations operations as part of the Island Defence Task Force (IDTF).

During his visit, Dr Maliki interacted with the NSmen of 613 SIR. He commended the operational readiness of the NSmen and highlighted that National Service (NS) remains a cornerstone of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and Singapore's defence. He said, "National Service and our committed NSmen are the backbone of the SAF. Our NSmen have contributed greatly to the peace and stability that Singapore enjoys." Dr Maliki also recognised the commitment and professionalism of national servicemen in defending Singapore. He said, "It is very encouraging to see this continued commitment and dedication of our NSmen. This is only possible with the strong support from families and employers, so that our NSmen can focus fully on the trainings and missions on hand when they are in camps."

Dr Maliki was accompanied by Commander 2nd People's Defence Force/IDTF Colonel Dinesh Vasu Dash and other senior commanders from the SAF.

Dr Maliki (in white) interacting with NSmen from 613 SIR as part of his visit to their ICT at Clementi Camp this morning.