There is one primary goal for the need of NS Reservist.
To build up a mobilisable force for defence when the need
comes, for Singapore's defence.
This bulk force, make the quantity number, to deter any
aggressor to try attack Singapore. Its diplomatic and
psychological.
Be glad when a war really comes, you're a reservist, you're not
at the frontline, first.
Serving 3 years of NSF is definite a no-no, as it requires more
logistics, admin and other resources to maintain NSF itself. Supply
food, electricity and water to NSFs doesn't come cheap.
Imagine the sh!tty bills you are paying for your
utilities.
I doubt anyone would support a 3-year NSF. Any individual
education path will be ruin. Many people are already complaining
about the 2-year NSF being a "bad break" from continuing their
studies or even working in the society, to catch up with
our fellow female citizens. NSFs may be student at that point,
but long term, they'll still need to contribute to the economy. And
remember, most of the so-called students are "graduates" from
different institutions, from polys, unis and ITEs, they are
"operational ready" to contribute to our economy.
Even if all your suggestions are taken, it'll takes years to
implement, to get use to it as ecomically and socially there are
short-term impacts to consider as it'll shake the whole society,
especially parents.
RT, IPPTs, are something I dislike too. But I guess, its the
only thing to push up the fitness of all able-bodies militia
gentlemen, by hook or by crook, when we are all are working like
dogs in this dreaded society.
Singapore has a small population, at a national level, men are
multitasked somehow ... sadly.