Monetary rewards for NSmen receives thumbs up
A majority of Yahoo! Answers users disagree that the monetary
incentives laid out by the government would “cheapen” the national
duty of serving
National Service (NS).
That sums up the sentiments of most respondents who responded to
a question posted by Yahoo! Answers, “Should
NS contribution be rewarded with money?“
In his
National Day Rally speech,
PM Lee Hsien Loong announced that NSmen will receive monetary
rewards to recognise their contributions to the country.
According to the
Ministry Of Defence, NSmen will receive up to $3,500 after the
completion of each of the three cycles. There are a total of three
significant stages in NS: Operationally Ready Date (ORD),
Reservist training and Post-Reservist. This means Singaporean NSmen
are eligible to receive up to $10,500 in monetary incentives.
Most of the respondents applauded the move and see it as a
positive step to recognise the efforts of NSmen.
Yahoo! Answers user Emmanuel said, “Yes, rewarding NS
contribution with money is most welcomed. This is one thing our
government has the ability to provide to its citizens. With the
high cost of living in Singapore, this can be a big help to the
servicemen.”
Another user, Notgatherox, said, “NS men can use the
money to pay for university when they leave NS.”
“Getting money for NS recognises NS men as valuable, and since
they have devoted their years to NS, they should get something in
return,” he added.
“Everyone knows that money cannot buy time. However, I applaud
the government for giving out this incentive. It gives a sense of
appreciation for the men who have served the country”, said
Wandi.
One user, Mats said, “This should be seen as a very
positive and good step and motivate all NSmen as they are getting
an additional incentive in addition to the opportunity to serve the
motherland.”
Then, there are those who argued that those who have completed
their NS should not be forgotten.
Said Derek, “We hope the government can still remember
the first generation of NSmen who set the base for SAF in the 60′s
And 70′s.”
Jack K agreed, “If it is a form of recognition then it
should apply to all who have served and that includes those who
have already served and completed their reservist cycle.”
“It is not fair to the older group whom served their best and
gave the best to the nation and was not even remembered or
recognised,” said another user, Anthony Korea.
However, there were some who felt that the incentives would
“cheapen” their services and as NS is a national duty.
Among them, Kee Hock said, “Being Singaporean is about
loyalty and love for the country; it’s a true-blue qualitative and
emotional bond. Money will just cheapen it.”
BB L commented,”It’s our duty to serve our nation, to
protect our family and friends. Monetary reward is secondary.”
“It’s a duty to serve Singapore. The early generation of
national servicemen served with pride without such reward,” said
Alison Chan.
If give out money make ns men cheap, then reduce the ns lah.
