Written Reply by Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing on 3 Nov 2026 to Parliamentary Question on Measures To Enhance Welfare & Safety During BMT

The case cited by the Member is currently under investigation. We should not speculate on the circumstances or causes of the national serviceman’s death while investigations are ongoing.

On the Member’s broader question about support for recruits undergoing Basic Military Training (BMT), the Ministry of Defence/Singapore Armed Forces (MINDEF/SAF) has an established system to support recruits in their transition from civilian to military life. This starts with the pre-enlistment medical examination, which includes screening for mental health conditions. Those with mental health conditions will be reviewed by in-house psychiatrists to determine their suitability to serve National Service (NS) and deployment to appropriate roles.

Upon enlistment, recruits undergo a progressive BMT curriculum, complemented by activities to foster social bonds and equip them with skills to adjust to the physical and mental demands of BMT. We also survey each recruit within 48 hours of enlistment to assess their well-being. Orientation Officers help recruits acclimatise and provide social and emotional support as well as tips and skills to help recruits cope with the learning curve. On MINDEF/SAF’s mental health support system, then Senior Minister of State for Defence, Mr Heng Chee How, has elaborated on this in his response to the Parliamentary Questions from Mr Desmond Choo and Dr Wan Rizal on 7 March 2024.