Workers’ Party (WP) chief Pritam Singh, who is currently on reservist duty, has been hit hard by the death of actor and national serviceman (NSman) Aloysius Pang.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Jan. 24, at 6.14am, a mere six hours after news of Pang's passing broke, Singh said he has been back in camp since Monday this week.

Pang, 28, died on Wednesday from injuries he sustained during a Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) training exercise in New Zealand.

Singh, major rank

Singh, an NSman who serves as a combat engineer and holds the rank of major, said National Service training has evolved to become more focused.

He recounted how things have improved in the military over the years, such as its quality of personal equipment and food, as well as emphasis on safety while balancing it with realistic training.

But one thing remains constant.

Singh said: “That sense of camaraderie -- regardless of rank, race or religion when we swap our civvies for uniform, even if it is only for a few weeks a year."

Singh ended his post with a tribute and extended his condolences to the fallen actor.

He wrote: “Rest in peace Aloysius Pang. Like all NSmen and NSF personnel who have passed on while on duty, we pray for strength for their families and loved ones through difficult times. And we stand with them.”

COI convened

Mindef said an independent Committee of Inquiry (COI) will be convened to investigate the circumstances leading to Pang’s accident.

Details of Pang's passing have been revealed at a press conference on Jan. 24.