No doubt our military curriculum and training has evolved over time, but have our struggles remained the same as those of veterans of the past? Does the younger enlistee really have it easier today than our previous generation of soldiers? 

Far too often has the euphemism “strawberry generation” been thrown around without any merit and it is  time that we discuss it. In this edition of NSmen Share, we bring together both veteran and young soldiers to ask about their personal military struggles and their insights on other generational challenges. 

“Thinking back to the days when Singapore was less of a metropolis and more of an urban kampung, military life was fondly straightforward. We worked hard and rested harder. 

It is sad, however, that the social divide back then was more overt than it is today. I was part of the “hokkien” tribe – a group that mostly consisted of students who went to a Chinese-medium or a vocational school. Those who could afford to continue their studies overseas (we didn’t have any local universities then) were noticeably well-spoken, and in my opinion, pompous. We had to do everything we could to give ourselves an edge, even after we phased into MR (military reserve). Thankfully, I and many of my friends have done very well in life.

While the current generation has ample opportunities to better themselves academically, it has saturated the playing field to the point that everyone is distinguished by their highest educational qualifications, even in the military. Everyone is homogenous, and they must do way more to differentiate themselves from the crowd. Cynicism seems to be an increasingly popular theme amongst youths.”

– LT Yee Chong Wah, 68th Guards, NSF from 1982-1984

“My military experience is far from conventional, to say the least.

Back then, I was a regular in the Air Force who was undergoing the training needed to qualify as a Weapons System Officer. I was on a scholarship that would cover my studies at NUS and my professional pathway seemed so secure.

Until that fateful day when I failed the final test that would conclude my initiation and training. I had my scholarship revoked and was placed on administrative duty. It was bad enough that my dad had to utilise his CPF to pay off my school fees. The disappointment in myself that seeped in was almost unbearable.

Regardless, life had to go on. I paid my dad back and went headlong into the realm of finance. While technological advancements have made archaic administrative processes in the army obsolete, the problem youngsters face today is the barrage of available information. It can be especially overwhelming especially when the field is as competitive as it already is. 

My advice? You cannot control what life throws at you. Ironically, you can be your worst enemy at times. Stay strong younglings!”

– 3SG Isaac Fang, Guards Section 84, NSF from 2000-2002

“I personally struggled the most with my obesity. It reached a tipping point during my Basic Military Training (BMT) when I couldn’t keep up with my platoon mates during our training. That was made worse by the incessant pain that I felt in my right knee (later discovered to be the result of an ACL or anterior cruciate ligament tear). It was rough.

But there was nothing else to do but suck it up. Really, it was mind over matter that allowed me to push through the arduous training.

Sure, things were tough, but we weren’t encumbered by the emotional problems that are so prevalent today for our youths. It may be the environment or the fact that they are more sheltered, but these are real issues nonetheless that should be addressed properly.”

– Lee Jian Ming, Changi Defence Squadron, Sea Soldier, NSF from 2006-2008

“Digging an entire shell scrape during our field camp is probably one of the most challenging trials I have ever encountered. We had to wear our helmets and Integrated Load Bearing Vests (iLBV) while digging, which made the entire experience more dreadful. It was also deceivingly easy, and it was only after you actually started digging that you realised how exhausting it was. I was drenched in sweat just after 15 minutes of digging. 

After 35 minutes, I realised that the foundations of my shell scrape were messed up. Anxious and tired, all I wanted to do was to give up.

But my comrades would come over to cheer us on. They would chant, roar, and exclaim, “Tough times don’t last!” repeatedly, like a spontaneous rallying cry.  And miraculously, everyone, including myself, managed to complete our shell-scrapes in time! 

Honestly, there was much I didn’t enjoy, such as the unique phenomenon of “rushing to wait, waiting to rush”. But after listening to the stories told by our Enciks and Uncles, perhaps we have it a bit easier. I heard that training back then was more hazardous and tougher. 

Thankfully, the food isn’t as bad as they described it to be in the past!”

– CPL Costant Tan, SAGE, NSF from 2016-2018

There are only two types of people in Singapore: Those who enjoyed National Service (NS), and those who didn’t – but all will agree it was a memorable time. In this series, we speak with NSmen who share their most memorable experiences during National Service.

Share your favourite NS memories with us at magnsman@sph.com.sg!

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

Main photo: SPH Media Trust

The post NSmen Share: Generational Military Struggles – Then VS Now appeared first on eNSMAN.

Mr Tang Chay Wee,  Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hitachi Asia Ltd empathises and understands the struggles of National Servicemen all too well. 

“Modern developments in our society demand that men take up extra responsibilities, such as domestic obligations and childcare, and even caregiver duties for their aging parents,” he remarked as he pondered over what it meant to be a National Serviceman in 2023. 

This rings especially true for many including two of Hitachi’s own employees. Mr Ray Yip, who has worked in its sales department for over four years, acknowledges that National Service becomes a full-time job when he is called up to participate in his annual In Camp Training (ICT). A military medic serving under the Medical Response Force (MRF), Ray notices his fellow servicemen fretting over their work and family responsibilities during his ICTs. 

He shared, “Those who have not served may not understand the anxiety and pressure faced by NSmen”.

Hitachi Asia understands these challenges all too well, having incorporated the pillars of the Konsei culture into its workplace. Referring to a diverse mix of voices, the Konsei way expands on the purest of human connections as it seeks to empower, lead, and support. It is this focal theme of diversity, inclusivity, and equality that accredited Hitachi Asia with NS Mark Gold, and awarded the prestigious NS Advocate Award in 2016 and 2020.

Unconditional support for a worthy cause

To Hitachi Asia, National Service is indisputably a national duty and responsibility. As such, they strongly believe that servicemen should be able to give their very best during training without having to worry about any professional backlash. This ethos is trickled down from its management team all the way to Hitachi’s bottom-line, driving a firm respect and understanding of one’s patriotic contributions to his or her nation. 

While managers are empowered to make decisions that accommodate the needs of their employees, there is nothing more valuable to a national serviceman than a supportive team. Mr Wong Thin Wen was only six months into his new role as an IT strategist when Covid-19 struck the nation. Given that he was a medic at SAF’s Military Medicine Institute, his call-up was inevitable. Stationed at the improvised Community Care Facility at Singapore Expo during the peak of an unprecedented health crisis, he was concerned about the impact his call-ups had on both his job and his family.

“I am so grateful to my team, as well as the Human Resource personnel, for being so patient and transparent with the whole process, especially when this ICT call-up was incredibly abrupt,” he said, praising his team’s willingness to cover his duties as he served at the forefront of Singapore’s medical counterforce during the Circuit Breaker.

This understanding extends to all of Hitachi Asia’s NS employees, having embraced flexible and hybrid working arrangements that are adaptive to ICT call-ups. For servicemen who carry multiple mantles like Thin Wen and Ray, this arrangement allows them to still chase their professional ambitions while fulfilling their duties as a soldier, and as a father. 

From the perspective of a National Servicemen himself

Mr Tang didn’t exactly have the most conventional of military experiences. During his time as an infantry soldier, he encountered an incident that affected his mobility. This did not dampen his attitude, however, as he recalled fondly great memories of the comradery he shared with his military mates. True to his adventurous spirit, he later successfully appealed to be classified as a combat fit soldier once more, and eventually joined his platoon mates in a once-in-a-lifetime parachuting experience. 

“Tomorrow will never be exactly how it is today,” prefaced Mr Tang as he emphasised the importance of preparedness. He believes in a proactive approach to people management, hoping to give his employees the best, but also challenge them so they do not remain complacent. Ultimately, his philosophy stems from a strong belief in putting people first.

When asked about the secret ingredient to cultivating a supportive workplace, he said, “Our secret ingredient is more ingredients. Just like a delicious meal, we believe that the key to our success is having a concoction of ingredients.” 

Of course, Mr Tang is referring to the many people-first policies that are already in place which include routine chats with management and interestingly enough, Hitachi Asia’s Recreational Club.

A club by the people, for the people

One of Hitachi Asia’s greatest strides in community building is its employee-initiated Recreational Club (RC). Incepted and managed by its own employees, the club is a collaborative effort by most, if not all of Hitachi’s stakeholders, including NSman employees. They would organise a multitude of welfare-related activities based on feedback given by their members. Past initiatives included care packages and Zumba classes. It’s very much a self-governed committee that at its heart, operates through a foundation of trust.

“We do not impose nor regulate, instead merely contributing consultation and advice to the RC. It is important that they are given the freedom to decide what our employees want, and that they know we trust them in this endeavour” said Mr Tang. 

He, and to an extent, Hitachi Asia, understands that there is no one-size-fits-all policy. A supportive and inclusive workplace demands a relationship of trust that values well-being and happiness. 

The virtue of National Duty

Above all, Hitachi Asia is a staunch proponent of national duty. It champions the notion of ‘powering good from within’, acknowledging that companies like theirs have to play a vital role in supporting our NSmen, so they may continue their peacekeeping efforts for the betterment of us all.  

We salute Hitachi Asia for its commitment to our National Servicemen and applaud them for their well-deserved NS Gold Mark!

Read about another NS Mark Gold employer at safra.sg/how-this-major-singapore-retailer-supports-employees-in-their-national-service-duties/

The NS Mark is a national-level accolade under the NS Mark Accreditation scheme that recognises companies and organisations for exemplary HR policies and practices that have improved the lives of NS employees.

For more information on how your company can support NS and be accredited with the NS Mark accreditation scheme, please visit go.gov.sg/supportns

If you’re looking for a job with a company accredited for supporting its NSmen, click here: safra.sg/jobs-for-nsmen

NSmen, sign up for your complimentary 1-year SAFRA membership and enjoy discounts on dining and shopping purchases at over 2,000 merchant outlets islandwide, as well as members’ rates at more than 45 sports facilities at SAFRA clubs! What’s more, your family can enjoy the privileges too – your 1st dependent pays $10/year, and it’s free for your 2^nd dependent onwards. Click here for more details. 

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post Hitachi’s Secret To Supporting NSmen? Trust. appeared first on eNSMAN.

Every Singaporean male knows that eventually, he will have to serve his patriotic duty in reinforcing the defence of our nation. However, that knowledge and mental preparation alone can never prepare him enough for his first day. National servicemen are often intimidated by this sudden transition, especially while being so far away from home.

While the assimilation may be an overwhelming process, it is also a reminder for many of the importance of family and home. Here, we ask NSmen to recall and share their experiences from their first day of enlistment – and for many, the first time they are away from their family. 

“I recall being part of the leadership batch upon my first day of enlistment. Despite the abrupt detachment from my parents (who were there as well), I relished the notion of true independence. I embraced the challenge of adapting to a new environment. It goes without saying that I loved my parents tremendously, but the concepts of self-reliance and self-support were refreshing. 

Admittedly, I did miss my mother occasionally, as I spent a lot of time with her prior to my enlistment. We would cook together, go about our household chores and even at times, catch a movie at the cinema together. Being in camp made me appreciate these moments even more.” – 2SG (NS) Mohammed Ramlee Samsudin, Infantry

More of our NSmen share about their mums and other female heroes in their lives who inspired them on their NS journey.

“Like any enlistee, I was filled with a strange mix of worry and excitement. 

No one can prepare you for the realities of National Service, no matter the number of stories you hear. Life took a different turn for me, as I was not sent to basic military training. Instead, I was posted to a unit directly as a result of my medical condition. While I did get to book out every day, that did not necessarily mean that I did not miss my family members. The experience was new and daunting, and there is comfort to just being around a familiar environment.

Ironically, it made going home even more exciting than it used to be. Every day I would look forward to a hot meal made with love.” – CPL Jacki Tan, Guards  

NSmen share about their funniest experiences on outfield training.

“My first day was incredibly overwhelming.

I remembered being on a 5-ton truck on its way to CMPB, as clueless and anxious as the next recruit. At CMPB were my parents and my brother, and while they toured the area, I was tossed from one station to another in quick succession. It did not help that none of the officers and sergeants told us exactly what was going on. We collected our barang barang (Malay slang for military equipment) and were immediately sent to the barber. 

It was difficult to think about anything else during my first day; I was constantly trying to make sense of the situation and assimilating to the unusual environment as best I could. Only later at night did the feeling of absence set in, as I realised I was all alone here. The army is really where boys become men.

While I was in camp, I definitely missed my mother’s fried chicken the most! No one can make chicken as crispy but juicy as my mother can.” – CPT Max Lee, Armour 

Read more about some of our NSmen’s most memorable in-camp meals.

“My first day was in 1995 and it was at Bukit Merah, at Depot Road. Unfortunately, my parents could not accompany me on my first day, so it was really demoralising. It didn’t help that the training was incredibly gruelling, and I wasn’t the most athletic. I just remembered being tired all the time, but as a result, time passed incredibly quickly. Every day was just a continuous flurry of activities, and I did not have much time to ponder or contemplate on the moment. 

I do recall the infamous 10 cent pay phones installed in camp, and a seemingly endless queue that would form right after our days’ events had concluded. We yearned to speak to our loved ones, to hear a familiar voice after a strenuous day.” – CPL Anthony Tan, Signal, HQ Signals

Share your favourite NS memories with us at magnsman@sph.com.sg!

NSmen, sign up for your complimentary 1-year SAFRA membership and enjoy discounts on dining and shopping purchases at over 2,000 merchant outlets islandwide, as well as members’ rates at more than 45 sports facilities at SAFRA clubs! 

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

Photos: SPH Media Trust

The post NSmen Share: Their First Day of Enlistment appeared first on eNSMAN.

I really don’t understand why anyone would say that there’s nothing left to discover in Singapore.

Yes, we live in a tiny country, but how many of us have explored every nook and cranny this island has to offer?

I reckon not many. I know I haven’t. You see, I spent most of my life living in the West, and you know as well as I do that travelling all the way from one end of Singapore to another is no small feat.

Such feats are only performed because of three reasons:

1. You need to go to Changi Airport to catch a flight
2. You need to catch that ferry to Pulau Tekong
3. Your girlfriend/boyfriend lives in Pasir Ris and the parents are not home

Honestly, I wish I had more time to just wander around the other parts of Singapore and discover new things. My first stop would be Yishun. I know this sounds crazy, but I don’t think I’ve ever stepped foot into this town more than three times in my entire life. 

Here’s something I recently learned about Yishun – it is home to the housing estate called Chong Pang. 

Did you know that? I didn’t. And this was why I was waiting at the nasi lemak stall on Sembawang Road like a goondu while my friends waited for me in the actual Chong Pang.

I’d also like to explore the surrounding islands. The last time I went to Pulau Ubin was probably two decades ago. Come think of it, I have not even been to the likes of St John’s Island and Kusu Island. 

I don’t think most people are inclined to take a trip to these islands, but you can’t really blame them. Because there just doesn’t seem to be much to do. I think this is something we can learn from South Korea, which I find has done an amazing job at showcasing their seaside destinations such as Pohang and Jeju through the shows Hometown Cha Cha Cha and Our Blues respectively. 

That’s right, we need to create television series and films that immerse audiences in the charm of these rustic places. Throw the spotlight on the food and scenery. Seriously, it works. Humans are highly visual creatures. We tend to develop a craving for nice things we see on the screen.

Every time I watch a K-drama, I end up snacking on instant ramen and Korean beer.

Here’s an idea. Let’s get Jack Neo to direct this movie. Let’s call it Ah Balling in Tekong. That’s right. Let’s open Tekong up to the public on certain days. Take my word for it – this place simply takes your breath away. 

Really, just look at the BMT recruits – they’re always breathless. Because “shag”.

I really hope we get another round of SingapoRediscover vouchers. Because there’s definitely much of this country still left to explore. And I’m sure if the vouchers could be redeemed for tickets to the National Day Parade, they’d be snapped up faster than you can say “flypast”.

You know, I really don’t understand why people would use the vouchers for a staycation. I’d never go on one because I find my home to be the most comfortable place on this planet. 

Look, I didn’t get my CPF savings wiped out just to buy a flat that I don’t want to be in. 

But a friend of mine apparently loves staycations because of one thing – room service.

“That’s quite possibly the silliest thing I have ever heard! Room service? What on earth is so appealing about room service?” I said.

“I think it’s really shiok to have someone prepare a nice meal and bring it right to your doorstep in a trolley!” he quipped.

“Dude, you know you can have the same thing at home, right?”

“Huh? What are you talking about?”

“Just order GrabFood lah!”

LOL Mondays is an ongoing series of slice-of-life stories from freelance writer and NSman Alywin Chew. Look out for the humorous tales which will be posted every first Monday of the month, to help you drive away your Monday blues!

Want more fun articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Sign up for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story! 

The post Nothing Left To Explore? Don’t Bluff, Lah appeared first on eNSMAN.

Young families tackled NS- inspired obstacles at the Sprint Kids race held at SAFRA Jurong from 22 to 23 June during the school holidays. In its 10th year since it was incepted as SAFRA Jurong Sprint Kids in 2009, this children’s race has evolved from a simple sprint to a race incorporating obstacles and hurdles emulating the Standard Obstacle Course of the Singapore Armed Forces.

Close to 1,000 participants took part in the event, jointly organised by SAFRA and Families for Life, with over 400 participants in the Parent and Child Category.

This year’s obstacle course features various hurdles – Air Leap, Over and Through, Target Board, a 45-degree rope and rock climb, as well as a horizontal course.

Notably, a brand new aerial obstacle has been introduced this year: the Zipline challenge. Besides the obstacle course, there were the $1 deals on snacks and ice cream, as well as other exciting activities on the basketball court.

Nine-year-old Xin Ying, who was accompanied by her parents, said: “It’s a very fun event for those who like to climb around and experience Army life!”

The post To the Finish Line appeared first on eNSMAN.

A record number of family participants as the 26th SAFRA Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon featured the largest mass run with masks. It was a memorable Sunday for the more than 41,000 runners who converged on the picturesque Marina Bay precinct to bond and pursue fitness goals together. SAF active servicemen, operationally ready national servicemen (NSmen) and their families participated in the 26th edition of the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run and Army Half Marathon (SSBR and AHM).

The event brought runners past iconic landmarks such as the financial district, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sports Hub and the Singapore Flyer. Fresh records were set as the race, returning on 26 Aug with the theme of “Together We Run”, saw a new, all-time high of over 7,400 family members of NSmen joining in the fun this year, representing a 40 per cent increase from that of 2017. There was also a “super” element to this year’s event, as a record number of NSmen, together with their spouses and children, donned specially designed superhero-themed T-shirts and face masks to break the Singapore record for the “largest mass run wearing masks”.

1,379 “super dads, mums and kids” eclipsed the 2014 record set by 1,191 participants, also at the SSBR and AHM. The non-competitive Families for Life 800m Challenge continued to be the most popular category among families, attracting a new record of 3,600 NSmen and their families. Many more families also took part in the competitive 21km AHM and SAFRA 10km Run, with participation in the two categories doubling this year.

The SSBR & AHM 2018 also featured two more non-competitive categories: the SAFRA 5km Fun Run and the NS Team Run. Soh Rui Yong, Singapore’s 2017 SEA Games marathon gold medallist, finished first in the 21km men’s category, enthusing that the race had “added significance” for him. “It is the first time in six years that I ran alongside my Army buddies in the Armour formation during preparations for this race.” Jointly organised by SAFRA and the Army, the event was graced by Minister for Defence and Chairman of SAFRA Board of Governors Dr Ng Eng Hen, and Senior Minister of State for Defence and President of SAFRA Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman.

National servicemen were also able to share a part of their NS experience with their families, with the introduction of a series of training activities, such as the Soldier Strong Coaching Programme. Fitness workshops were also introduced at this year’s edition. The carnival at the Padang after the race finish line was abuzz with action, as families tried out various exercises used by the Army to train their soldiers at the Soldier Strong booth, including the agility ladder, sled, tyre flip and battle rope. “This is the first year that my whole family has participated in the Families For Life 800m Challenge,” said a happy Umeer Hyder. “We enjoyed the superhero theme, and the organisers did a great job of bringing up the atmosphere with festivities at the end-point carnival.”

The post Super Turn Out appeared first on eNSMAN.