Mindef launches 3 new defence volunteer roles in performing arts, including dancers, singers & livestream support

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) will introduce three new volunteer roles in the performing arts and entertainment sector under the SG Defence Volunteer Network.

SG Defence is a community in which Singapore residents can volunteer in Mindef and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to help with national defence.

Speaking at an appreciation event for defence volunteers on Jul. 25, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing said that the launch comes as part of Mindef's partnership with So Drama! Entertainment.

The three new volunteer pathways are as follows: Volunteer Performers, Live Show Production Support, and Event Support Volunteers.

Performers include dancers, musicians, singers and emcees, who can contribute during Mindef and SAF's productions.

Live show production support volunteers may contribute to sound engineering, live video, multi-camera operations, stage management and live-stream support, while event support volunteers can help support and ensure events run smoothly.

With the new pathways, Singaporeans with creative and technical talents will be able to serve in the area of national defence.

Shared responsibility

The SG Defence Volunteer Network was first announced by Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad on Feb. 27.

It brings all defence volunteers under a central administrative office.

At the inaugural event, Chan emphasised that while National Service remains the foundation of the nation's defence, it must be supported by the rest of society.

“It is with your effort that we have such a strong and credible defence force… The fact that you are not conscripted, and the fact that you do not have to do it but you choose to do it is the most powerful signal that we can have of how Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, and various other people can help to contribute to the defence of Singapore," he said.

Chan added that the ministry is broadening its approach beyond operationally-ready NSmen, including strengthening its "rings of support".

These include former NSmen, families, employers, new citizens and the wider community.

High uptake in volunteer roles

According to Mindef, there has been an encouraging response from the public since the launch of SG Defence in May this year.

The ministry received more than 300 applications within the first two months.

The positive momentum is expected to continue growing, said Chan.

He highlighted some of these roles, such as volunteers who lend their expertise or lead guided tours at the Singapore Discovery Centre, the Air Force Museum and the Navy Museum.

Volunteers at SAFRA, meanwhile, support NSmen and their families through mentoring, community programmes, and engagement activities.

SAFVC volunteers also serve alongside full-time National Servicemen, NSmen and SAF regulars in peacetime operations and training, contributing to the SAF’s operational readiness.

Singaporeans and residents interested in joining the SG Defence Volunteer Network can visit this website for more information.