Reply to The Washington Post’s Query on National Service

Under Singapore law, all Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents must serve National Service (NS) for two years when they reach 18 years of age. This conscription into the military was introduced 51 years ago very soon after our independence and continues to enjoy strong and wide support today. National polls^[1] show that over 98% believe that NS is crucial for national defence and security. Singaporeans know that they cannot count on others and must defend Singapore themselves and that with a population of only 3.5 million citizens, conscription is vital and necessary to build a capable Singapore Armed Forces for national defence.

Over a million Singapore males have performed their NS duties since it was started. Conscription is applied rigorously for all males and stiff penalties, including jail terms, are imposed on those who do not enlist at the time required. In 2017, the Appellate High Court increased sentences for NS defaulters and re-affirmed that every male must serve NS at the time required, putting aside personal pursuits, so as to maintain equity for all. This strict implementation of Singapore’s NS policy is the reason why strong support has been maintained for over 50 years.

For sportsmen, the Ministry of Defence exercises flexibility and they are given time to train while serving their NS. National servicemen are still able to represent Singapore in major Games including the upcoming Asian Games and have continued to excel in their sports and professional careers during and after they have served their NS.

^[1] 2013 independent survey on ‘Singaporeans’ attitudes towards National Service’, conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies.