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SAFRA clubhouses should cater for NSmen of all ages

I applaud SAFRA for recognising national servicemen’s sacrifices and contributions by having a mix of clubhouses and building new ones, too (“New Punggol SAFRA clubhouse to cater to young families”; June 19).

I applaud SAFRA for recognising national servicemen’s sacrifices and contributions by having a mix of clubhouses and building new ones, too (“New Punggol SAFRA clubhouse to cater to young families”; June 19).

But as an older NSman, I am concerned about SAFRA Mount Faber being turned into an executive lifestyle club. What will be its distinguishing criteria compared with the other clubs? How will older NSmen continue to enjoy all SAFRA clubhouses?

Already, SAFRA had converted its clubhouse at Carpenter Street into a Game Haven, which is now being redeveloped into a new entertainment mega-club for NSmen to dance, sing and socialise over drinks. Is this suitable for older NSmen?

While SAFRA caters for different groups of NSmen, its theme concepts must be holistic and not neglect older NSmen and pioneers who prefer a club that caters for the young and old, executive and non-executive.

SAFRA Toa Payoh was redeveloped into a “learning” and “fun” hub, while SAFRA Yishun targets those who prefer “adventurous” activities. Such themes are good ways to attract certain NSmen, but older ones feel disengaged.

A better clubhouse theme is one that is neutral and emphasises inclusiveness. The image of a clubhouse is one that caters for the young and old, fit and not-so-fit middle-aged NSmen, and not only young families.

Finally, in recognising the objective of NSmen training to keep fit, SAFRA gyms could do better by having longer operating hours. Now, the gyms open too late (7am).

NSmen must rush their training to reach work on time, which is 8am for many of us. And the operating hours are too short on Sundays and public holidays.

SAFRA should look at the 24-hour gym at Woodlands’ ACE The Place Community Club, where people enjoy the flexibility to train at their own time.

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