Senior Minister of State for Defence: SAF Exploring Newer COVID-19 Detection Methods for Large-Group Testing

SMS Zaqy observing a soldier collecting a saliva sample for saliva testing.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad visited the Infantry Training Institute (ITI) at Jurong Camp this afternoon.

During the visit, Mr Zaqy interacted with Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) from the 791st Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (791 SIR) undergoing weapons and skills refresher training in preparation for their Army Training Evaluation Centre (ATEC) Stage 1 evaluation during their In-Camp Training (ICT). He also observed the conduct of newer COVID-19 testing methods currently on trial by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) as it progressively resumes more training activities.

Highlighting the need to explore other options to facilitate large-group testing, Mr Zaqy said: "The SAF is progressively resuming ICT to ensure that we maintain operational readiness. At the same time, we are also looking at other methods ... We are also experimenting with different types of tests, like saliva testing." Mr Zaqy also said that the SAF is exploring newer test methods such as the Antigen Rapid Tests, for large-scale events where faster turnaround is critical. He added, "These are methods which the government as a whole is testing out for large-scale events."

Sharing his thoughts after his engagement with the NSmen, Mr Zaqy said, "As Singapore battles the COVID-19 pandemic, this is where our commitment to defence cannot waver. We are [progressively resuming ICT] so as to ensure that we maintain operational readiness, and a high standard of training ... I have to commend our NSmen for their dedication, because we have seen many of them in high spirits and high morale, and many have also indicated appreciation that the SAF has put in place testing measures as well as provided them the assurance that training is done safely, at the same time, pursue their training like before, but with certain measures in place."

The SAF has progressively stepped up its training tempo and has put in place Safe Management Measures to safeguard the health and well-being of servicemen. These measures include twice-daily temperature taking, enhanced hygiene practices and frequent disinfection of common areas. Servicemen have been split into smaller functional groups for all activities and meal times have been staggered to avoid cross-interaction between groups. The SAF will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Singapore and review the safe management measures in place to keep servicemen safe.

SMS Zaqy engaging NSmen from the 791st Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment during his visit to the Infantry Training Institute this afternoon.

The NSmen carried out weapons refresher training during their In-Camp Training.