SINGAPORE — Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said National Service (NS) plays a pivotal role in nation-building and provides the foundation for economic growth and a strong, cohesive society.

He added that dedication and commitment towards NS will help ensure the independence and continued progress of the nation.

“As a small country in an uncertain region and world, we will continue to need NS to ensure that we can look after our own defence and security, and chart our own independent course,” Mr Teo said.

“However, we know that NS is a heavy commitment. Earlier and current generations of Singaporeans have served, and keep us safe and secure. We need to ensure that future generations of Singaporeans, as well as families and employers, remain equally committed to NS.”

Mr Teo, who is also the Home Affairs Minister, made these comments at the Home Team awards ceremony on this evening (Oct 17).

Ten NSmen from the Singapore Police Force and the Singapore Civil Defence Force received the Home Team NSman of the year award while 70 employers were recognised for their strong support and understanding regarding their employees’ NS commitments.

Mr Teo also noted that full-time national servicemen (NSFs) and NSmen are an integral part of the Home Team and that over time, many of them have taken on larger responsibilities and risen to senior positions.

He said: “For over 15 years, SCDF NSFs have been deployed alongside SCDF regular fire-fighters and respond together for 995 emergency calls every day. SCDF NSFs now make up more than half of SCDF’s frontline fire-fighting and rescue force.

“They are actively involved in land-based operations, as well as deployed for marine fire and rescue incidents. Despite their young age, they have demonstrated leadership, professionalism, and courage during fire and rescue operations.”

Mr Teo also noted that for the past decade, senior police NSmen have taken charge of police security operations at the annual Geylang Serai Bazaar, which sees over 300,000 visitors during the month-long period.

“If you were to visit the bazaar, you will not be able to tell Home Team NSmen apart from the regular officers. Indeed, many police NSmen have volunteered year after year for this annual operation. The police NSmen help to manage the massive human and road traffic during the bazaar and ensure that all shoppers have a safe and pleasant experience,” he added. CHANNEL NEWSASIA