IN THE last 10 years, fewer than 10 Singaporean sportsmen and
musicians have been given permission to defer their full-time
national service.
These deferments are often sought when the young men want to
pursue their studies, training or represent Singapore in
International competitions.
However, rarely is approval given because it is vital to uphold
the NS system's strength and integrity, by making it universal and
fair to all Singaporeans, said Dr Ng Eng Hen, Second Minister for
Defence in Parliament on Thursday.
Also, the NS system provides for Singapore's national security
and survival, he noted.
These factors form the basis of the three principles underlying
NS, said Dr Ng, adding that permission had been given for
exceptional talents.
He was replying to Nominated MP Eunice Olsen, who wanted the
Defence Ministry (Mindef) to be more flexible in giving
deferments.
She referred to a Straits Times report last December about Mr
Keegan Ng. The 20-year-old had won the Marion S. Gray Outstanding
Musician Award at age 11.
He wanted to study piano at the Eastman School of Music in New
York, but was told he had to complete his NS first. He has since
given up his plan and is now deciding whether to study accountancy
or business administration.
Said Ms Olsen, a classical pianist: 'As a musician, I know how
vital it is to continuously hone one's skills. I think the ministry
could be more flexible in granting deferments."
In explaining the Defence Ministry position, Dr Ng underlined
the three principles that underpin NS.
First, he said NS ensures Singapore's national security and
survival. This is the basis for the Enlistment Act, which mandates
that all NS-liable males are to be enlisted at the earliest
opportunity on turning 18.
Second, universality makes NS a duty for every male, fit
Singaporean to fulfil.
Third, equity ensures every national serviceman is treated the
same way, regardless of background or status.
Also, Mindef recognises that NS involves a sacrifice from all
individuals who have to postpone personal pursuits to serve the
nation, he said.
'This is why we must adhere to the three principles articulated
to preserve the integrity and strength of our NS system.'
However, Dr Ng also pointed out that Mindef does exercise
flexibility in selected situations, he said.
For example, it lets students to defer full-time NS to complete
their studies up to A Levels, polytechnic diplomas or equivalent
qualifications.
It also defers full-time NS for exceptional talents based on the
merits of each case. But such talents are very rare, he added.
He cited several examples such as swimmer Sng Ju Wei, sailor
Maximilian Soh, violist Lim Chun and pianist Lim Yan, and added
that they still have to serve NS after their deferment period.