Mindef exploring suitable NS60 recognition package for past & present national servicemen

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) is planning to enhance its recognition initiatives for national servicemen in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of national service (NS).

In a YouTube video, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing said Mindef is looking into ways to keep operationally ready national servicemen “stay in communication” with their unit mates.

“They are some of our best NS advocates, and they can join — they can volunteer their services in many domains beyond the combat formations, and I think there's an opportunity for them to continue contributing, continue to keep in touch with one another,” Chan said.

In response to media queries, Mindef said it is exploring a suitable NS60 recognition package for national servicemen, past and present, The Straits Times reported.

It added that the NSF allowance has been reviewed four times over the past 10 years.

The allowance for a recruit in basic military training (BMT) has increased by 65 per cent since 2015.

“Beyond providing for their training and military needs, Mindef has a professional team that regularly reviews the NS allowance to ensure that it remains relevant to the personal upkeep needs, taking into account changes in the cost of living and other relevant factors,” Mindef said.

Commemorative events

A series of NS60 commemorative events and initiatives, such as an NS Exhibition and Army Open House, will also take place to recognise the efforts of servicemen.

Chan also touched on the National Service Housing, Medical and Education (NS HOME) awards that recognise national servicemen's efforts.

According to OneNS, recipients of the NS HOME awards can receive up to S$18,500 for housing, healthcare and education needs.

Chan shared that he is a “big advocate” of the initiative as he “think these are things that are critical” to national servicemen.

“I've given the team some instructions to see how we can make this more impactful, more meaningful for our NSmen to better take care of them as they go through their life challenges while they serve the country and continue to take care of our security,” Chan said.