The Music & Drama Company (MDC) was established to strengthen the morale of our SAF Armed Forces through live entertainment like musicals, song and dance performances and music videos. As well as on-stage performers, the company employs a range of experts who work hard behind the scenes to make these productions a success. 

Take Nur Amirah Bte Ahmad Azam, for instance. As a Senior Lead Technician in Show Production, she manages LED screens, live switching, multi-camera production and content creation. 

Amirah joined MDC in 2018. She is also the Head of Video, a role that involves overseeing all video aspects and concepts within her department.

Building a career in Show Technologies

Amirah graduated from Ngee Ann Polytechnic with a diploma in Audio-Visual (AV) Technology. An internship at The Show Company, a local show production and equipment hire company, further deepened her interest with Show Technologies and fuelled her desire to learn more about the industry. She then took on freelance roles as a Show Technologies crew member, steadily refining her skills and developing the expertise that has shaped her career. 

While working at MDC in 2019, she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Digital Media, graduating in 2023.

Amirah explains that she was drawn to her job because she wanted to try something new and different. 

“After working on all kinds of events during school and my internship, I developed a genuine interest in the field,” she says.

“Understanding the intricacies of running a show, managing clients’ expectations, and seeing the tangible results of my hard work have continuously motivated me to stay in the industry and strive for growth.”

She explains why Show Technologies is crucial to any production, particularly live performances.

“It is a key element in creating an immersive and emotionally engaging experience for the audience, ensuring that the intended message is effectively conveyed.

“A well-crafted soundscape fosters an emotional connection between the audience and the event, offering clarity and depth. Every aspect of Show Technologies plays a vital role in enhancing the atmosphere and engagement of an event. With synchronised visuals, lighting, and powerful soundscapes, AV Show Technologies sets the energy and tone, delivering an unforgettable experience for the audience.”

No two productions are the same

What Amirah loves most about her job is that every live production is different. This, she says, gives her the opportunity to experience and contribute to a variety of events, meet diverse individuals, and work in all kinds of environments. It also allows her to explore countless creative aspects and inspires her to innovate for future productions.

“Being a part of MDC allows me to work with colleagues from different departments and to tap into my creativity and technical expertise. Plus, it gives me the chance to suggest ideas that might enhance the quality of a show,” she says. “I also get to contribute ideas, take creative ownership of projects, and see my input directly reflected in the final production. This involvement, together with my responsibilities, has given me a deeper appreciation for live event production.”

Naturally, the job comes with its challenges, one of which is keeping up with the latest Show Technologies trends and staying relevant in an industry that is constantly evolving. However, Amirah believes that adapting to changes and embracing new technologies is essential, especially with advancements such as AI, Machine Learning, Virtual Reality, and state-of-the-art display technologies shaping the future of Show Technologies.

“While staying relevant is challenging, it’s also exhilarating and drives me to grow and improve,” she adds. 

Bringing new ideas to the job

Amirah relishes bringing new ideas and immersive solutions to live productions. For example, she actively researches and experiments with advanced video systems like Augmented Reality (AR) and projection mapping to discover innovative ways to enhance immersive experiences. 

She also collaborates with colleagues who specialise in different skill sets, such as lighting and audio, because “great ideas often emerge from brainstorming and creative teamwork,” she points out. 

Amirah sometimes reflects on past productions, too, to get new ideas or to go over what could have been done better. And she gets inspiration from attending concerts and live productions. 

While there’s no room for error in her line of work, Amirah says that she has experienced a couple of technical glitches in the past. 

“I once encountered a power trip, or electricity cut-off, right in the middle of an event. It brought the entire show to a halt so we had to rush to restore power,” she explains.  

“My team and I had to act swiftly and decisively in that critical moment. Everyone needed to execute the necessary steps to get the show back on track. All this had to be done in seconds, so it was quite stressful!”

Doing work that’s important and meaningful

Amirah has been involved with several important events for MDC. 

In 2018, she was part of the MDC team that worked on the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and its gala dinner. In 2021, she was Overall Video Lead at the Singapore Defence Technology Summit. And in 2023, she served as Technical Manager for the National Day Observance Ceremony (NDOC) and was part of the creative team for MDC50, held at Victoria Theatre.

In 2016 and 2017, prior to joining MDC, she was the main visual programmer for the National Day Parades (NDP).

Amirah is proud of the fact that her work serves a meaningful cause. 

“I love knowing that my efforts help amplify the message of honour and appreciation for our service members’ contributions,” she explains. 

One significant production she’s worked on is SAF Day, an annual event that celebrates the service of former and current NSmen, NSFs, Regulars, and veterans. As the second-most important military parade after NDP, Amirah says that it holds great significance. 

“Each year, MDC is committed to delivering a professional, high-quality AV Show Technologies system that is continuously maintained and improved. One of the most powerful moments in the parade is when the participating NSmen recite the SAF pledge, reaffirming their loyalty to Singapore. It is in these moments that I truly feel the impact of my work.”

In the near future, Amirah hopes to produce her own technology-based art and have it featured in i Light Singapore, Asia’s leading sustainable light festival. Until then, she wants to continue to touch the hearts of NSmen and bring a smile to their faces by creating engaging live visuals that show gratitude for their contributions. 

“By leveraging cutting-edge technology, including immersive and interactive elements, I aim to deliver memorable experiences,” she says. 

“My goal is to not only impress but also show appreciation for our NSmen by ensuring that their events are special.”

Read more about the team of talents who work with Nur Amirah at MDC, including wardrobe designer and stylist Jeremy Jiang and senior sound designer Guo Ningru.

Follow MDC socials for the latest updates: Instagram @musicanddramacompany, TikTok @musicandramacomp, Facebook @musicanddramacompany and YouTube @musicdramacompany

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The post She Creates Perfect Visual Aspects To Capture The Audience’s Imagination appeared first on eNSMAN.

You can hardly discuss the NSman’s time in the army without mentioning the iconic 24km route march. Informally known as the ultimate trial where one transitions from being an Ah Boy to a man, this pivotal milestone demands that our soldiers be at their best, both physically and mentally.

We asked four National Servicemen who have conquered this challenge about their personal experience in the 24km route march, and the lessons in perseverance they learned along the way.

“Just recently, I have heard that there will be be some changes to the 24km route march. I’m not too clear about the details, but I think it’s going to be broken into two separate phases. Regardless, it is still a major endeavour even for the fittest of the bunch. While the trek is definitely physically demanding, the true test is in our minds, where we are challenged to complete a truly daunting feat. I recall at one point thinking that the task is nearly impossible, that I wouldn’t be able to do it. And I wasn’t the only one.

Miraculously, I made it all the way, as well as the many sceptics who marched alongside me. We chanted military tunes, sang some of our generation’s greatest hits (albeit, badly) and talked about the life that awaited us after National Service. As we pushed forward, the light at the end of the tunnel became brighter, and it became clear that were stronger and more capable than we thought.

To the young soldiers who are fed up with old geezers telling them how easy they have it – ignore them! You don’t have to prove anything to anyone but yourself! This route march is the culmination of every challenge, adversary and obstacle that you have overcome during your time as a soldier, and I hope that you believe in yourself as much as I believe in you!”

– 3SG (NS) Patric Teng , 2PDF, Infantry

“My 24km route march was pretty ordinary, apart from the haze problem that we had to contend with. I dreaded the march (who wouldn’t?) but was excited to finally be on the mainland. It’s one thing to have our practice marches at Tekong, where the terrain was mainly forested. But it’s not every day that you get to go off the beaten path, trekking through areas of  Singapore that I would not normally visit!

It was as much a physical test as it was a sightseeing adventure, and that really helped to take my mind off the mounting exhaustion and discomfort that intensified as we neared the finishing line! I wouldn’t do it again, but it is an experience that I will remember for a lifetime!”

– 3SG (NS) Huang Mao Han, 701SIR MSC, Logistics

“The days leading up to the 24km route march were uninspiring – we all assumed the march to be a pointless military drill, a fitness test marketed as a pivotal milestone. But to my surprise, during an informal sharing by my Officer Commander before the march, we found out that there is a historical and cultural significance to the route march. Going back to one of Singapore’s darkest moments, when Japanese forces invaded and occupied our land, prisoners of war were forced to march from Nicoll Highway to Changi. Little did they know, they were marching to their living tombs. 

This march is our way of remembering our fallen soldiers, of commemorating the noble sacrifice of those who fought to protect a nation that we love. Sure, the route march will be tough. But it is the least we can do in honouring our hard-fought sovereignty that our predecessors have worked so hard to preserve.”

– CPL (NS) Jonathan Leh, Specialist Cadet School, Trainer

“My 24km route was probably much more different than what it is today! I remembered starting at Sungei Gedong before we proceeded to the West Coast, then passing by Singapore Discovery Centre as we trudged forward to the War Memorial. What followed was a short speech given by our Commanding Officer and a short celebration marking our Passing Out Parade! It felt apt to ‘graduate’ at this ceremonial space, kind of like our way of appreciating our veterans.

Overall, I enjoyed the serenity of the march and having the opportunity to visit lesser-known areas like Kranji Dam. It helped that my platoon was very prepared for the exercise, often reminding one another to keep our bootstraps tight and our feet powdered.”

– CPL (NS) Donald Yeo, 46 SAR, Armour Infantry

Main photo: SPH Media Trust

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It feels like just yesterday that we welcomed the arrival of 2025. Already, vibrant shades of red abound and families will soon gather around the dinner table to usher in the glorious entrance of the Year of the Snake. We caught up with four celebrants to learn how they plan to make the most of this auspicious Lunar New Year!

The Year of the Snake is already set to be an incredibly promising year!

Before anything else, ORD LO! After this month, I’ll finally fulfil my National Service obligations, and I’m so pumped to kickstart the upcoming milestones of my life! Soon after Lunar New Year, I’ll begin my work-study programme while getting some much-needed personal time at home. It’s going to be a Ssspectacular Year! 

This year the festivities fall on two weekdays and I’m really looking forward to the extended time to catch up with family and friends. It doesn’t sound like much, but last year’s celebrations were rather rushed because they happened on the weekend, then I had to return to camp. It didn’t feel much like a reunion, and more of a fleeting moment. At least we can take our time this year to unwind and celebrate. For this Lunar New Year, I’m going to cherish every moment, from the time spent with my loved ones to our reunion dinner (yay!) and the festive ambience! 

– Zavier Tan, National Serviceman (Artillery) 

What a great year to be a Rat (not literally of course)!

For those born in the Year of the Rat, we are supposedly going to do especially well this year. More wealth and better health, I hope! Celebrations wise, I’m visiting my relatives and friends, just as we do every year. And we cannot have a Lunar New Year gathering without some gambling, like ban luck and maybe even some rounds of Mahjong. 

Then after, back to slaving for money until 2026 comes around. But on a more optimistic note, Happy Chinese New Year everyone!

– Faith Tan, Talent Manager

The lo hei or tossing of yusheng at Lunar New Year gatherings is a must. Here are the 5 must-dos for a successful lo hei!

Time to collect the ang baos (red packets)!

Just kidding (not really)! But on a more serious note, I am hopeful that the Year of the Snake brings about new opportunities for me. In a way, it already has! Soon, I’ll begin my training as a financial advisor, and I’ll see where that takes me. Whatever it is, I really just want to jump-start something for myself this year to get the ball rolling. 

I’m excited for the upcoming celebrations! Sure, getting to see my relatives is great and all but the long holiday is a great time for many of us to catch up on our mounting sleep debt. It feels like everyone around me really needs this time to relax. So, I’m making it a point not to rush through the festivities! I plan to drop by the Pokemon card shop with my friends, maybe grab dinner and window-shop before heading home to spend time with the family. To my fellow celebrants – have an amazing rest and a better Lunar New Year! Huat ah! 

– Declan Lee, Financial Advisor Trainee

Chinese New Year has always been very hectic for me and the family.

We often talk about the joy of our reunion dinners, but someone has to prepare them. I go to the wet markets in the morning to get the freshest ingredients in preparation for the actual day. That said, going all the way for Lunar New Year makes it so worth it when my family tells me, “Thank you mummy! Very nice!” We rarely get to eat together, seeing how busy everyone is, so I want to make this year’s reunion dinner special, you know? To start the Year of the Snake with a bang! 

I’m just so grateful that my close friend invited my family to her home for dinner this year. So, we’ll have two opportunities to dine together, one at home and another hosted by my good friend. This is almost a one in a million opportunity for us. Wishing everyone good health and luck this Lunar New Year! 

– Veniz Kwong, General Manager

Main photo: SPH Media Trust

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If you watched the Düsseldorf Military Tattoo 2024 held in Germany last September and marvelled at the performers’ costumes, you have Jeremy Jiang to thank. As a wardrobe designer and stylist at the Music & Drama Company (MDC), it is his job to design apparel and provide visual styling for live performances and video productions by MDC. 

Jeremy is living his passion. As a teenager, he envisioned a career “that blends creativity with storytelling”. 

“I create detailed visual proposals to conceptualise looks that align with the project’s narrative, functionality, and aesthetic vision,” he says, describing his role at MDC. 

“I also manage a team to ensure smooth execution and effective collaboration, and I source fabrics and materials from trusted vendors known for their quality and variety, carefully selecting each piece to enhance the overall look and feel of the final designs.”

A fashion dream come true

Jeremy’s interest in fashion began when he was in his teens. He was inspired by how clothing could tell stories, express a person’s individuality, and honour cultural heritage. He realised that he had a deep desire to create meaningful designs that seamlessly merged tradition with modernity. 

“I believe that fashion has the power to serve as a platform for self-expression and inclusivity, and I’m passionate about using it to create a positive impact,” he adds. 

Jeremy is also a mentor to young designers from various fashion academies, a role that he enjoys and takes seriously. 

“Mentorship is a deeply personal and meaningful endeavour for me, as it offers me a chance to give back to the fashion industry and contribute to shaping Singapore’s fashion and art scene.” he explains. 

“I support young designers by encouraging creative exploration and equipping them with practical skills such as project management, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of preserving our multicultural heritage.”

Over the years, Jeremy’s role as a designer has evolved and, in the near future, he sees himself further expanding into academic research and engaging in collaborative projects.

Costumes help tell a story

It’s easy to take the costumes in a performance for granted, but Jeremy says that they bring characters and narratives to life and make them visually compelling. Additionally, they convey cultural and contextual elements, enhance the storyline, and help performers fully embody their roles.

But there’s a lot more to costume design than meets the eye, as Jeremy explains. 

“Preparation involves months of careful planning, from conceptualising designs and sourcing materials to fittings and coordinating with a team. Staying organised requires detailed schedules, regular team check-ins, and a robust inventory system to track every element. Collaboration and communication are key to ensuring a smooth production process.”

Although his job can sometimes be high-pressure and involve tight deadlines and logistical hurdles, Jeremy shares that he gets a rush when he sees the performers in his designs and he receives positive feedback from both the performers and the audience. 

“Hearing compliments like ‘Your designs made us feel confident and authentic’ or ‘The costumes brought the story to life’ make the effort truly rewarding,” he says. 

Outside of work, Jeremy finds joy and stress-relief in illustrating. He’s also deeply interested in cultural research and likes exploring traditional arts and crafts. Spending quality time with friends also helps him unwind.

Jeremy looks up to designers like Demna Gvasalia and Iris van Herpen for their boundary-pushing creativity and their skill in weaving philosophical elements into fashion. And he says that some of his favourite costumes ever were from the musical The Lion King, as they left him in awe with their “innovation and cultural depth”. 

Proud of what he does

Jeremy was the Principal Costume Designer for the Düsseldorf Military Tattoo 2024, a job that he says was an honour and a rewarding creative challenge. 

His aim with the designs was to tell a cohesive story of unity and diversity through colours, patterns, and fabrics that resonated with Singapore’s multiracial society.

One challenge he encountered at the time was designing costumes that allowed for quick and seamless changes during the performances. 

Collaborating closely with the dancers and creative director Andy Cai, he came up with a way to integrate quick wardrobe changes into the choreography. 

“It was a team effort and required multiple fittings and experimental rehearsals to perfect the functionality of the costumes,” Jeremy explains. 

“The wardrobe concept was thoughtfully designed to incorporate two distinct looks within a single cohesive ensemble for each dancer while enhancing the performance.”

Jeremy has also designed costumes for the MDC HOMEGROWN music festival and SAFRA Beer Music Play 2024. He says that he feels good knowing that his work helps to support the goals and ideals of our NSmen. 

“I take pride in contributing to stories that celebrate the resilience, camaraderie, and identity of NSmen. It’s fulfilling to witness how my work adds to the narrative, creating a visual and emotional connection for the audience.” 

Read more about the team of talents who work with Jeremy at MDC, including senior sound designer Guo Ningru and dancers Jeslyn Yang and Cosmas Hoo. 

Follow MDC socials for the latest updates: Instagram @musicanddramacompany, TikTok @musicandramacomp, Facebook @musicanddramacompany and YouTube @musicdramacompany

Main photo: NAFA/Nefful International

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Did you know that SAFRA has a clubhouse in Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD)? Known as SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street, this recreational hub has everything that you would expect of a SAFRA clubhouse, with an abundance of food and entertainment offerings open to both SAFRA members and the public.

The twist? It also has a vibrant nightlife scene that no other SAFRA club has seen before! Especially with its latest unveiling of not one, but two brand new eateries as well as an upcoming cocktail lounge, this location has plenty of exciting developments in store. 

Compelling as it is intriguing, we simply had to learn more about this place. We speak to Kennie Liu, managing director of SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street about its origin story, his inspiration behind some of the clubhouses’ latest ventures, and his personal aspirations. 

Celebrating both the nostalgic and contemporary

There really is no better spokesperson for SAFRA’s enigmatic 8th clubhouse – SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street – than Kennie Liu, the heart of this urban entertainment hub. Fuelled by a passion for recreational hospitality, Kennie is determined to see this clubhouse become the go-to social space for city dwellers and NSmen seeking a vibrant nightlife scene that is both wholesome and thrilling.

“Unlike other SAFRA locations, which are often found in residential areas, our clubhouse is situated at the heart of the city’s nightlife and business hubs,” he says. “We cater to a pretty wide group, from working professionals to families and even tourists.” 

While SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street has seen multiple iterations and rebranding efforts over the years, its live music performances on its fifth floor have always been their mainstays, embodying the conviviality that the clubhouse wants to be known for.

To Kennie, it was a no-brainer to integrate music into its primary offerings. “Music seemed like the perfect way to foster the vibrant atmosphere that we envisioned. But it’s more than that; it’s about forming that emotional connection between the performers and our guests, whether it’s through sing-alongs or enthusiastic crowd engagement.”  

That said, the last thing that Kennie wanted for this integrated recreational centre was to be known for only one thing. He wished to create a multifaceted space, a social hub that could cater to a myriad of preferences and inclinations. “Ultimately, we want to set ourselves apart by offering a distinctive blend of heritage, modern entertainment and community engagement,” Kennie stresses. 

An ambitious feat for sure, but he might have just figured out an ingenious way of achieving this balance. “It’s all about our tapping into familiar cultural touchpoints that resonate with all Singaporeans. Simple moments, such as savouring a cup of kopi with friends, are the simple joys that connect us. And we hope to recreate these experiences for our visitors,” he shares. 

Hence, the recent opening of its latest ventures, JUwei Old Nanyang Coffee Shop (聚味老南洋咖啡店) and Er Dang Jia Lala Pot ( 二当家啦啦煲), heritage-driven conceptual eateries that in his words, “reflect a desire for nostalgia and comfort, especially as people seek familiar and authentic dining experiences in a fast-paced, modern world.” 

This commitment to preserving our cultural roots is evident – the coffee beans used in JUwei Old Nanyang Coffee Shop are roasted over charcoal, just as coffeeshops of the past did, and the setting of its newest hotpot dining outlet, Er Dang Jia Lala Pot is themed after the casual family meals at home, serving up a variety of stewed broths for a piping hot time.

A bumpy ride

It definitely hasn’t been a walk in the park for Kennie. 

Soon after taking over the reins in 2020, he found himself stuck in a deep trench that was Covid-19. Business disruption and imposed pandemic restrictions left his financials in the red. In an attempt to reinvigorate the club’s offerings, Kennie dedicated three floors to an e-Sports gaming space, only to be faced with a lacklustre reception.

He wasn’t a quitter, though. Kennie was determined to revamp the clubhouse once more with new and creative culinary and entertainment concepts to stay afloat. And thankfully, as the impact of Covid-19 began to die down and the F&B industry began recovering, Kennie and SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street have finally gotten their heads above water. 

When asked about the drive that kept him in the race, Kennie replied, “the entrepreneurial journey is filled with ups and downs, and success rarely comes overnight. What separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest is their ability to persevere through adversity and keep pushing forward when things get tough.”  

Though, if you knew the life he lived before his time here, it is understandable how this stoic form of discipline came about. Initially poised to be a Sergeant during his National Service, his go-getter attitude and determination led him to a rare invitation to the prestigious Officer Cadet School, where he served as a Second Lieutenant. Later, he was promoted to Captain in 2007 and was entrusted the role of Company Commander during his reservist duties.

After many stints of leadership, Kennie understands full well that true leadership is not about issuing mandates. It’s about “rolling up your sleeves”, doing the work while inspiring those around you to do the same. It seems like his military experience has primed him for this challenge, for as Kennie emphasises, “we are trained to think on our feet and adapt to unexpected challenges. The ability to stay composed under pressure has been crucial in my entrepreneurial journey.” 

Through his many successes and failures, Kennie understands that he cannot do it alone. “Just like in the army, where each member plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the mission, in business, the success of an organisation depends on how well the team works together,” he introspects. 

Kennie hopes to emulate this unique comradery here, at SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street, by creating a “welcoming environment where families, friends and NSmen can relax and enjoy themselves.” Crystal Fairy, their upcoming cocktail lounge, will add to their existing social offerings with an elegant and upscale setting for NSmen to unwind after a long day. 

“Ultimately, we hope that SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street can be a place for NSmen to celebrate milestones and create lasting memories with those who have walked the same path,” he reiterates. 

A love for life and fun

When asked the question, “What would you have liked to be if you were not an entrepreneur?,” Kennie gave a really unexpected response: “I would love to be a gamer, specifically, a professional gamer who gets paid to play games.” 

It does paint a very different picture of him, and SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street as an extension. Kennie truly enjoys bringing people together, for he believes that nothing beats the experience of spending time with loved ones. With this in mind, he is unafraid to push the boundaries of traditional clubhouse offerings to create an entertainment destination that is unlike any other in Singapore. 

If you’re looking for a succinct description of this clubhouse, its mantra sums it up nicely: Let’s Gather – Eat, Sing, Play, Fun (吃歌玩乐). 

Read our review of JUwei Old Nanyang Coffee Shop at safra.sg/juwei-old-nanyang-coffee-shop-a-nostalgic-medley-of-wok-hei-kopi/

Additionally, check out our overview of some of SAFRA @ 29 Carpenter Street’s offerings at safra.sg/safra-29-carpenter-street-is-a-late-night-hidden-gem/

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As we approach the finale of another year-long act and head towards 2025, it’s time that we close the curtains, take a bow and toast to another eventful performance. The year 2024, like its predecessors, came with its fair share of highs and lows, shaking up the mundane with quirky twists and bumps along the way. 

In this introspective edition of NSmen Share, we speak to four servicemen about their reflections on 2024 and hopes for 2025!

“It’s hard to believe it’s going to be 2025 already. It’s harder to accept that I’m reaching 30. Cue the existential crisis! 

Interestingly, this year is the very first time my unit was activated during our manning period. It was definitely a novel experience. Still, it was nice to see my platoon mates again. On that note, I do hope to meet up with my military buddies more often – there are so many observations and experiences that are exclusive to us that no one else can truly relate to. From our eccentric Encik to the endearing cookhouse auntie, we share so many memories that remind us of our more youthful, and perhaps, more naive forms of ourselves. 

So much has happened – I graduated, found a job, secured myself a Build-To-Order (BTO) unit, travelled the world (well, at least a fifth of it) and made new friends. It feels like the train is finally leaving the station and going full steam ahead. I’m still unsure about the next destination, but I’m excited about what’s to come!”

– CPL (NS) Po Tat Hoi, Driver 

“Great news (for me, at least)! I am so close to completing my ICT cycles that I can feel it! 

That said, I am going to miss the ‘good ole days’ for sure – the comradery shared by brothers in arms, novel insights learnt from our vocational exercises. Heck, I might even miss the food from the cookhouse! National Service, with all its quirks, does make life more interesting, a nice contrast to our everyday metropolitan lifestyle.

2024 is definitely far from a peaceful one, though I mean it in the most positive way possible. The chaos is essentially a result of the spontaneity of my job as a videographer, where so often we work with so many different artistic directions, scripts and expectations that the work is never the same! I’m really excited about the opportunities that present themselves next year, whether it’s a new project or new people to work together with.”

– 2SG (NS) Lim Zhi Wei, Infantry , 2PDF

“New Year, new opportunities!

It just so happened that my unit organised a surprise cohesion celebration at SAFRA just recently. It was almost our way of commemorating the end of the year with our platoon mates in a get-together that reminds us of the earlier periods of our military service, where we enjoyed and experienced everything as a team. In a way, it reminds us how moments like these fade away so quickly. Until now, it’s hard to believe that it has been close to 9 years since I was that fresh recruit filled with trepidation as I stepped foot onto Pulau Tekong for the very first time. No matter my misgivings, National Service is undoubtedly an out-of-this-world experience that money cannot buy.

There are still so many things on my to-do list! 2025 will be the year I dedicate more time to my personal pursuits – whether it’s my hobbies, my wanderlust and perhaps, even new opportunities to grow. Basically, it will be a year that is focused on the pursuit of personal happiness. I mean, isn’t that why we work so hard?”

– CPL (NS) Tan Jia Wei, Transport, MCSSB

“Having just concluded another In-Camp Training (ICT) exercise, I realised how quickly time passes. We are all so occupied with our personal and professional lives that we in many ways, forget to look back at all we have managed to overcome. I’m glad that I at least had the opportunity to celebrate my first Christmas with my other half this year! 

Another piece of good news to share – I just got a military promotion! I really couldn’t have done it without my friends in camp. In 2025, I hope that I can better improve the ICT experience for my batchmates. After all, what’s training without a bit of fun?”

– 1SG (NS) Shannon Yeo, MT Warrant, MCSSB

Main photo: SPH Media Trust 

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