James Du moved from China to Singapore with his
family when he was six. He was nine years old when he and his
family became Singapore citizens.
Today, the 29-year-old said NS was instrumental in his integration
into Singapore.
"Going through army really solidified my thinking. Sacrificing three years of my
life was a commitment device for my
nationality. That common experience I've
shared amongst all my army peers from all walks of life, all races,
Malays, Indians, Singaporean Chinese. All going through the same
regiment together has really made me think I'm truly
Singaporean."
Another foreign-born resident, 18-year-old, Martin Cada will enlist
when he graduates from Nanyang Polytechnic.
The second-generation permanent resident (PR) has been living in
Singapore for the past six years.
But like many other foreigners in Singapore, he too wants to keep
his cultural identity.
"I've adapted some Singaporean traits, but you know it's still, I
want to be Filipino, I want to be recognised as a Filipino. NS is
not going to change that for me," Martin shared.
Martin used to dread the thought of NS, but recently had a change
of heart.
His elder brother, also a PR, is currently serving NS.
"I was able to enjoy some of the benefits of becoming a Singapore
PR. So I think it's just fair that I have to serve NS, just to give
back to Singapore, who has taken care of me," he said.
However, both Martin and James said there's no need to make it
mandatory for all new citizens, past the enlistment age, to serve
NS.
"It's not realistic. Number one, they've already passed their
eligible age to serve. Maybe they're too old to be involved in this
experience. And besides, they are working individuals contributing
to Singapore society. In reality, I think they have other things to
do. But if children want to be called Singaporeans, definitely they
have to serve," James said.
In line with government efforts to attract foreign talent, first
generation PRs who are able to contribute to Singapore
economically, are exempted from national service.
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