Singapore: More frequent and larger increments in the rank
allowance for NSmen is among the recommendations put up by the
fifth committee set up to Recognise the Contributions of
Operationally Ready National Servicemen to Total Defence or RECORD
V (Five).
Releasing its recommendations at a news conference
Thursday, the committee chaired by Minister of State for Defence,
Associate Prof Koo Tsai Kee also listed proposals such as enhanced
fitness corners in housing estates for the Individual Physical
Proficiency Test (or IPPT), a new SAFRA clubhouse in Punggol, and a
HomeTeam NS clubhouse in the eastern part of Singapore.
The committee said it identified five key considerations
in coming up with the latest proposals.
They are rising aspirations, the importance of leadership,
encouraging fitness, globalisation and increased work demands, and
building cohesion.
To meet rising aspirations, the committee's recommendation was for
more frequent and larger increments in rank allowance with the
quantum of each increment based on the contribution of the NSman
since his last increment.
So as to better recognise NSmen in combat vocations, the committee
also suggested a greater combat allowance so that the allowance
premium given remains substantial throughout the operationally
ready NS cycle.
It was also proposed that those holding command appointments should
be given an "add-on allowance" to recognise their greater demand
and heavier responsibilities.
Emphasizing the importance of family support for NSmen the
committee suggested that NSmen who have performed well during
in-camp training should be presented with vouchers for defence and
national education related attractions.
To encourage fitness, the committee said existing fitness corners
in housing estates for IPPT training should be enhanced along with
the creation of new fitness corners designed for such
training.
To help NSmen better balance their military training and work
demands during in-camp training, current business centres within
camps should be enhanced to provide wireless internet access.
The committee also said NSmen should also be allowed to bring into
camp their company-configured laptops, Blackberry devices and PDAs
for use during non-training hours.
Finally, the committee called for a new SAFRA clubhouse in Punggol,
while Home Team NS could consider building one in the eastern part
of Singapore.
- CNA/sf