SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
contents
Your Role as an Employer
in Total Defence
3
4
4
Importance of Employer Support
Employer's Role in Total Defence
How Employers Can Support
Their NS Employees
National Service In Action
7
11
National Service in the Three Forces
National Service and Types of Call-Ups
Important Information
21
25
28
29
36
47
50
51
52
Making It Easier For Employers
to Support National Service
Recognition and Awards
For Employers
Medical Benefits and
Compensation for NSmen
NSmen Payments
FAQs
Addresses & Telephone Numbers
Abbreviations
Appendix 1
Notes
preface
ARMY
AIRFORCE
NAVY
SPF
SCDF
This year, MINDEF and the SAF commemorate 35 years of
National Service. Our experience and the prevailing uncertainty
in the region are constant reminders that our security
environment may change suddenly. Security is the foundation
upon which Singapore’s survival and success depend.
To ensure our future peace, progress and prosperity, we have
to maintain a strong SAF backed by an equally effective Total
Defence capability that draws widespread support from all
sectors of our nation. This gives investors the confidence to
put their money and business in Singapore. National Service
and Total Defence have thus provided the vital peace and security
foundation for Singapore.
Singapore will continue to take her defence seriously. But the
defence of our nation does not solely rest on those in uniforms,
particularly our National Servicemen in the SAF, SPF or SCDF,
who constitute the bulk of our defence forces.
Their families and employers also play a crucial role in supporting
the commitment of our National Servicemen to the defence of
the nation and boosting their morale and fighting spirit.
We are fortunate that employers today understand the
importance and necessity of National Service. They have
adjusted to the disruption and inconvenience that come with
the National Servicemen’s obligations. Over the years, an
increasing number of employers go beyond simply releasing
their employees for National Service call-ups. They have, on
their own initiative, organised in-house programmes to support
Total Defence, and encouraged their employees to perform
well during their National Service training and duties. This
certainly augurs well for the defence of our nation.
This handbook is another effort by the Government to help
you, as employers, better understand our National Service
policies and training requirements which may have an impact
on your business. It also serves as a channel of communication
to foster a closer understanding between the Government
and employers of National Servicemen. We are confident
that, with this information, you will give greater support to
Total Defence and your employees’ National Service obligations.
Ultimately, it is with our collective will, support and commitment
to National Service and Total Defence that Singapore’s
continued security and success shall be assured.
Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
YOUR ROLE
AS AN EMPLOYER
IN TOTAL DEFENCE
"If you who are growing up do not understand that you've got
to defend this country, then I say in the end we will lose."
Mr Lee Kuan Yew
Prime Minister (1967)
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Importance of Employer Support
Singapore is a small island with a small population, located
in a region of the world that has had a history of turbulence
and uncer tainty. Despite these disadvantages, we have
overcome the odds to emerge as a vibrant and economically
successful nation. In the world economic front, Singapore has
been consistently ranked well by Business Environment Risk
Intelligence (BERI) and other reputable institutions for its
workforce and competitive economy. Singapore can realise
this because there is peace and stability. The deterrent effect
provided by a credible defence force enables businesses to
grow and flourish, and our society to thrive.
But we cannot take peace and stability for granted for we
remain vulnerable to external developments. This is why we
must take our defence seriously. Over the years, we have
invested heavily in building an effective Singapore Armed Forces
that is a credible deterrent to potential aggressors. However,
building up the SAF alone is not enough. For our defence
effor ts to be effective, we need Total Defence with its five
components - psychological defence, social defence, economic
defence, civil defence and military defence. Ultimately, our
guarantee for continued peace, stability, economic progress
and prosperity is a strong and formidable SAF, backed by an
equally effective Total Defence capability, drawing widespread
support from all sectors of our nation.
The 350,000 NSmen in the SAF, Singapore Police Force and
the Singapore Civil Defence Force face many demands in their
dual roles. Besides the responsibility of defending the country,
many of them are employees contributing to the economic
development of Singapore. As employers, your support is thus
crucial for these NS employees.
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AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Employer's Role in Total Defence
As an employer, you can play your role in Total Defence by
adopting an active management policy that provides a supportive
environment for your employees to carry out their NS duties.
You can:
● Encourage your employees to attend In-Camp Trainings (ICTs)
and make necessary plans to release them from their work;
● Provide psychological suppor t for your NS employees by
encouraging them to perform well in their In-Camp Trainings
(ICTs) and to keep fit;
● Take into consideration their ICT performance in the overall
assessment of your employees; and
● Discourage them from applying for deferment from ICTs.
How Employers Can Support
Their NS Employees
You may wish to show your support and commitment for NS
and Total Defence through the following schemes implemented
by the government or initiatives introduced by some employers:
a. Signing a Corporate Declaration of Support
Certificate
● Making a declaration on this cer tificate
demonstrates your commitment to national
defence.
● Upon endorsement by your company's
top management, it can be displayed
prominently within the office premises
so that employees are aware of the
company's positive stand on NS.
●
You can approach the SAF's
National Service Affairs
Depar tment (NSAD)/ Police
National Service Department/
National Ser vice Personnel
Department, HQ SCDF if you
are interested in declaring
your support.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
b. Personnel Policy
● You can consider adopting a personnel policy that recognises
the NS achievements and contributions of NS employees for
promotion or career advancement in your company. This would
certainly encourage your NS employees to take their NS duties
seriously.
● It would be very visible to your NS employees if you included
ICT performance as an assessment factor in your staff appraisal
form. Knowing that you are interested in their ICT performance
w i l l c e r t a i n l y s p u r t h e m t o g i v e t h e i r b e s t d u r i n g I C T.
c. Pay Increments for Completed Full-Time NS
● Male employees who join the Civil Service on completion of fulltime NS are given 2 salary increments in recognition of their
contributions to national defence and to ensure that they do
not lose out in terms of salary to their contemporaries who
do not have to serve NS.
● Many employers in the private sector have also given similar
tangible recognition for NS to their male employees.
d. Direct Management Involvement
Your personal interest and direct involvement in the NS affairs
of your employees will indicate to them your company's stand
on NS. You can show your interest and involvement in the
following ways:
● Discouraging application for deferment from ICTs
● Incorporating employees' ICT period in your company's work
schedule and releasing them for ICTs
● Submitting make-up pay claims to the Pay or Finance Department
on time
● Informing NS employees when mobilisation is activated during
office hours
● Keeping NS employees' units informed of your employees'
commencement of work or resignation from the company
● Encouraging NS employees to keep fit so they can pass their
Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
● Publicising NSmen's performance in your company's newsletter
● Supporting SAF/SAFRA/SPF/Singapore Police Association for
National Ser vicemen/SCDF/Civil Defence Association for
National Servicemen activities
● Inserting clauses that explicitly support Total Defence in collective
agreements with unions.
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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"The reasons for a National Service armed forces are as
relevant and valid today as 35 years ago - to defend our
nation, and to bond our people."
Mr Goh Chok Tong
Prime Minister (2002)
NATIONAL
SERVICE
IN ACTION
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NATIONAL SERVICE IN THE
THREE FORCES
National Service (NS), in the words of its founding architect,
former Deputy PM and Defence Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee,
has become an 'extraordinary feature of life' in Singapore.
It is the price for those who want to call Singapore 'home'.
As an employer in Singapore, you invariably have an NSman,
whether ser ving with the SAF, SPF or SCDF, in your work
force. In this section, we give you the historical background
on NS.
SINGAPORE ARMED FORCES (SAF)
The first batch of 900 National Servicemen was enlisted for
full-time National Service in the SAF in 1967. When this group
of National Servicemen completed their full-time service on
16 August 1969, they became the country's first reservists
- a term changed on 1 January 1994 to Operationally Ready
National Servicemen, or NSmen for short, to better reflect
their operational roles in the forefront of the nation's defence.
T h i s w a s a m i l e s t o n e f o r S i n g a p o r e a n d f o r t h e S A F.
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Singapore could not afford a regular standing army as that
would have been a heavy burden on her scarce manpower
resources and hindered economic development. Conscription,
or National Service, was the only viable option to building up
a credible defence force. Over the years through National
Service, the SAF has grown to its current strength of some
350,000 men, of whom 300,000 are NSmen.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Today, Singapore's defence rests primarily on the shoulders
of these citizen soldiers. They play two important roles - as
citizens, they contribute to the economic advancement of the
nation; as soldiers, they are required to bear arms to defend
the nation should the need arise. Our NSmen are our frontline fighting men and the forefront of Singapore's defence
force. Their military skills are honed and upgraded throughout
their training cycle. They go through in-camp training stints,
physical fitness tests and mobilisation exercises to remain
operationally ready at all times.
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SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF)
The Singapore Police Force implemented full-time NS in
1975 when it received its first intake of full-time National
Servicemen. Since then, Police National Service has grown
from strength to strength. From being deployed for sentry
duties in the 1970s, the PNS has, since 1994, been
reorganised into a specialised unit within the SPF. With this
new focus in professionalism, Police NSmen soon saw
themselves taking on new and challenging roles formerly
reser ved only for regular police officers.
Today, we have a total of about 21,000 Police NSmen. In
pursuing their common vision of a safe and peaceful society,
our Police NSmen have contributed significantly in augmenting
the SPF in shouldering the responsibility of protecting life and
property.
SINGAPORE CIVIL DEFENCE FORCE (SCDF)
The Singapore Civil Defence
Force enlisted its first intake
of full-time National Servicemen
in October 1981. When they
completed their full-time
service in 1983, they became
the first SCDF NSmen,
together with other NSmen
who were absorbed from the
SAF and PNS. Today, the SCDF
has a total of more than
23,000 NSmen in their active
units. They now constitute the
backbone of Civil Defence and
are organised into NS units to
carry out civil defence
operations and to provide
leadership to the civilian
population in an emergency.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NATIONAL SERVICE AND
TYPES OF CALL-UPS
Among the policies emphasised by the government since
independence was the need for a strong and credible defence
force to safeguard our national security. To achieve this, NS
enlistment policies were enacted under the Enlistment Act.
In this section, we will provide you with a better idea of your
obligations as an employer and that of your NS employees:
LEGAL LIABILITIES
a. Overview
● Under the Enlistment Act, Chapter 93, every Singapore citizen
and permanent resident is liable for full-time NS for a period
of 2 to 2.5 years. Upon completion of full-time NS, operationallyready NSmen are liable to maintain and upgrade their skills.
b. For Employers
● Section 22 of the Enlistment Act states that no employer shall
dismiss a person on account of his call-ups for NS. Any employer
who contravenes this provision is guilty of an offence and liable
for a fine not exceeding $2000; or imprisonment for a term
not exceeding 6 months, or both fine and imprisonment.
● Section 23 of the Enlistment Act states that an employer shall
grant his NS employee leave of absence during his period of
NS. Any employer who contravenes this provision is guilty of
an offence and liable for a fine not exceeding $5000; or
imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or both fine
and imprisonment.
c. For NSmen
● Every Singapore citizen or permanent resident is liable for NS
up to age of 40 or 50 depending on the rank he holds in NS.
Warrant Officers, Specialists and Enlisted personnel in the
SAF, other ranks and men in the SCDF and Police Officers in
PNS are liable for NS till age 40, while officers in the SAF and
SCDF and Senior Officers in PNS are liable for NS till age 50.
● All NSmen are liable for call-ups for a maximum of 40 days
per workyear (computed from 1 April of the current year to
31 March of the following year).
● NSmen will not be made to serve over and above the annual
NS liability without their own and their employers' prior consent.
NS CALL-UPS
To ensure their ability to defend Singapore, our NSmen undergo
tough and realistic training, to maintain a high level of
operational readiness. This includes annual in-camp training
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and mobilisation exercises in peacetime. NSmen are called
up regularly to keep fit, to hone their military skills and to be
operationally ready.
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH SAF NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP
SAF NSmen are required to undergo a 13-year NS training
cycle, after which they remain liable for NS until the legal age
limit for NS. They may be called to perform any of the following
activities:
a. In-Camp Training
● This is the main NS training activity, normally lasting 2-3 weeks.
● Training can be conducted locally or overseas. Overseas trainings
are generally longer in duration.
● An NSman who does not meet the minimum training standards
could be called up for re-training. The re-training period is
counted towards his 40-days' annual liability.
● For the Air Force, there are 2 additional types of ICT:
i. Flexi-ICT:
Applies to NS pilots, aircrew, WSO (C3), WSO
(NAV) and WSO (UAV) who are required to
perform ICT at regular short intervals in order
to maintain operational currency.
ii. Multiple ICT: Applies to NS senior technicians, technicians
and drivers who are required to perform ICT
more than once a year.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
b. Upgrading Courses
● Such courses are conducted for NSmen to improve their skills
and the units' operational readiness.
● They also prepare selected NSmen for higher appointments.
c. Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
● Combat-fit NSmen below 45 years of age must attempt the
IPPT at least once a year.
● An NSman who wishes to improve on his IPPT result can choose
to retake his IPPT as often as he wishes.
● NSmen who are 35 years old
and above will undergo a
medical check-up before IPPT.
d. IPPT Remedial Training
● An NSman who fails his IPPT
will be required to undergo
Remedial Training (RT) - a 2
month non-residential training
programme comprising 3hourly PT sessions with 2 sessions weekly (1 weekday and 1
weekend session).
● IPPT is conducted on the 7th and 15th session. Those who
pass the IPPT will be released from RT programme immediately.
● NSmen are required to attain at least 80% attendance for the
programme; failing which, they will have to repeat the RT
programme.
e. Mobilisation Exercises
● In open mobilisation, NSmen will be activated through the mass
media in 4 official languages. In silent mobilisation, telephones,
display pagers and facsimile machines are used to recall
NSmen.
● NSmen from the activated units must report to their mobilisation
centres immediately. The exercise does not usually exceed 1
day.
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f. Civil Resource Requisition
● The Requisition of Resources Act allows the government to
mobilise civil resources during times of crisis. Some examples
of civil resources are: vehicles, vessels, aircraft, construction
equipment, workshops, shipyards, warehouses and hospitals.
g. Other NS Activities
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
Briefing for ICTs
Briefing for mobilisation
Workplan Briefing
Seminar
Medical Review
NS Commanders' Day
Basic Combat Training
Make-up Training
Rehearsals for National Day Parade/ SAF Day Parade
Any other activities deemed necessary
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH POLICE NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP
PNSmen are required to annually serve their NS until the legal
age limit for NS. They may be called-up to perform any of the
following activities:
a. National Service Key Installation Training
● A regular activity lasting from 10 to
16 days for NSmen selected to form
the Key Installation (KINS) Group.
● Residential training will be conducted
at Special Operations Command
(SOC).
● NSmen are scheduled for IPPT and
Shooting Test during their training
period.
b. NS in Division/ Unit
● A main activity lasting for 1 or 2 weeks depending on the
operational requirement of the functional group.
● NSmen are scheduled for IPPT and shooting during their NS
call-ups.
● NSmen would be deployed to any of the Land Divisions, Police
Coast Guard (PCG) or Police Units to perform policing or staff
duties.
● NSmen with technical expertise are deployed to units to perform
technical duties.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
c. Special Duties Recall
● In an event that requires large manpower resources to cover
important activities, PNSmen may be recalled up to 3 days to
perform ‘special duties’.
● At least two weeks of notification will be given to the NSmen
and his employer.
● But this recall is over and above the normal recall cycle.
d. Individual Physical Proficiency Test
● Physically fit NSmen below the age of 40 for Police Officers
and 45 for Senior Officers must attempt the IPPT once a
workyear. To ensure their fitness, NSmen above the age of 35
will undergo a medical check-up once every two years before
the IPPT and those 40 years and above will undergo a yearly
medical checkup
● An NSman who fails the IPPT or wishes to improve his result
can be re-tested. If he fails at the end of his IPPT window, he
will be recalled for RT. Being absent from IPPT and RT activities
without a valid reason is an offence punishable under Section
32 of the Enlistment Act.
e. IPPT Remedial Training
● RT is a 3-month non-residential training programme comprising
2-hourly PT sessions conducted in 2 par ts. Par t 1 is eight
weeks in duration, with two sessions weekly (weekdays only).
NSmen who are unable to pass their IPPT by the end of Part
1 will have to continue with part 2; which is 4 weeks in duration,
three sessions a week (weekdays only).
● Attendance at all sessions is compulsory. Those who are absent
without a valid reason will be charged with an offence under
the Enlistment Act. In addition, NSmen are required to attain
at least 80% attendance for both parts of the programme;
failing which, they will have to repeat the RT programme.
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f. Upgrading Courses Recall
● In instances where special training is deemed necessary to
upgrade the NSmen’s skill and professionalism, they will be
recalled for the duration for a course of less than 40 days.
● At least one month of advance notification will be given to the
NSmen and his employer.
● This is over and above the normal recall cycle.
g. Mobilisation Exercise
● Activation of NSmen through telephone calls and display pagers.
● NSmen who are activated must report to their Division/ Unit
immediately. The exercise usually does not exceed 1 day.
● In an open mobilisation, NSmen would be activated through
the mass media. Activated NSmen must report to the Division/
Unit immediately in full uniform.
● In a silent mobilisation, NSmen are activated through a usual
plan of mobilisation. Activated NSmen must repor t to the
Division/ Unit immediately in full uniform.
h. Other NS activities
●
●
●
●
●
●
Briefing for Annual Exercise or Mobilisation
Pre-course Briefing
Medical Review
Workplan Briefing
Seminar
Any other activity deemed necessary
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH SCDF NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP
SCDF NSmen are required to perform NS duties until the legal
age limit for NS. They may be called up to perform any of the
following activities:
a. In-Camp Training
● This is the main NS training activity, usually lasting 1-2 weeks.
● An NSman who does not meet the minimum training standards
can be called up for re-training. The re-training period is counted
towards his 40-days' annual liability.
b. Vocational Courses
● Such courses are to train and vocationalise the NS officers and
men who are transferred from SAF/ Police.
● Upon successful completion of the courses, they will be posted
to NS units according to their vocations.
c. Upgrading Courses
● Such courses are conducted for officers and non-officers to
improve their skills and the units' operational readiness.
● They also prepare selected NSmen for higher appointments.
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d. Individual Physical Proficiency Test
and Remedial Training
● NSmen below 45 years of age must attempt the IPPT during
his ICT. NSmen above 35 years of age will undergo a medical
checkup before each IPPT.
● All eligible NSmen must take their IPPT during ICT. The IPPT
requirement will be stated clearly in the SCDF 100. NSmen
who have valid reasons for not attempting their IPPT such as
those who are medically excused, granted deferment from the
ICT or the ICT IPPT is cancelled due to inclement weather will
be scheduled for Make-up IPPT. NSmen who did not take (with
or without valid reasons), or failed the Make-up IPPT, will then
be scheduled for the Retest. If they did not take (with or without
valid reasons), or failed the Retest again, they will then be
scheduled for Remedial Retests.
● NSmen who did not attempt the IPPT during ICT without any
valid reason, or failed the IPPT during ICT, will be scheduled
for Retest. If they fail or did not attempt the Retest (with or
without valid reasons), they will be scheduled for Remedial
Retests. The Remedial Retests comprise a maximum of 5
consecutive weekends.
● NSmen who fail to turn up for IPPT without any valid reasons
will be disciplined by their respective Parent Units. NSmen who
claim to be unwell during the Retest and Remedial Retests will
be sent home and advised to see their own doctor. They will
have to produce a medical certificate on the following weekend
to their Parent Unit.
● The SCDF 100 will be issued to NSmen if they are required to
be called up for Make-up IPPT, Retest and Remedial Retests.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
e. Mobilisation Exercise
● In silent mobilisation, telephones, handphones, display pagers
and facsimile machines are used to recall NSmen.
● NSmen from the activated units must then repor t to their
mobilisation centre immediately. The exercise does not usually
exceed 1 day.
f. Civil Resource Requisition
● The Requisition of Resources Act allows the government to
mobilise civil resources during times of crisis. Some examples
of civil resources are: vehicles, construction equipment,
workshops and warehouses.
● Payment for the use of these resources and for any damage
done to them will be made.
g. Other NS Activities
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
Briefing for ICT
Briefing for Mobilisation Exercises
Workplan Briefing
Seminar
Medical Review
Make-up Training
Rehearsals for National Day Parade
Any other activity deemed necessary
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
“National Service has been the bedrock of Singapore's peace
and prosperity for the last 30 years. We cannot afford to be
lax about our nation's defence. It is important that Singaporeans
continue to wholeheartedly support National Service.”
Dr Tony Tan
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence (1997)
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
MAKING IT EASIER FOR EMPLOYERS
TO SUPPORT NATIONAL SERVICE
EMPLOYER’S BULLETIN BOARD
MINDEF has always recognised that employers of NSmen play
a crucial role in supporting the commitment of our NSmen to
the defence of Singapore. Over the years, numerous measures
have been introduced to strengthen their suppor t for NS.
MINDEF now provides an online platform for employers to
interact with MINDEF through the e-Bulletin for Employers, at
miw.com.sg. It equips employees with essential knowledge on
NS policies and programmes relevant to them. Transactions
can be made between MINDEF and employers in the
administration of NSmen employees eg. E-Make Up Pay Claim.
Employers now have easy access to information such as NS
call-ups and MINDEF’s deferment guidelines to assist them in
planning and organising their organisational requirements to
accommodate their NSmen employees’ training schedules.
The URL of the Bulletin Board is:
http://content.miw.com.sg/Mindef/Static/Employers/
BulletinBoard/empl_bulletin_generalinfo.asp
EXIT CONTROL
a. Notification of Overseas Trips
NSmen are given 10-year passport validity like other citizens
without NS liability. If they go overseas for more than 24 hours
but less than 6 months, they only need to notify their respective
Notification Centres at the corresponding numbers:
Telephone
Fax
SMS
E-mail
SAF
1800-364 6333
6364 6333
9764 6333
cmpb@starnet.gov.sg
SPF
1800-533 6012/3 6223 5650
SCDF 1800-287 4091
6283 3486
-
spf_exit_permit@spf.gov.sg
-
scdf_ns@scdf.gov.sg
Today, our NSmen are travelling abroad more frequently for
work, study or leisure and such notification lets the SAF, SPF
and SCDF know the whereabouts of their men at all times.
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b. Exit Permit
Should you require your NS employee to travel overseas for
6 months or more in a single trip, he is required to apply for
an exit permit (EP). An SAF NSman can apply for an exit permit
through the Internet at:
http://www.miw.com.sg
Alternatively, he may apply for the EP through the Self-Help
Terminals located at:
> > >
EXIT PERMIT OFFICE
Central Manpower Base (CMPB)
Depot Road
Singapore 109680
Tel: 6373 3139
E-mail: cmpb@starnet.gov.sg
* Operating hours:8am-9pm (Weekdays)
8am-5pm (Saturdays)
* Subject to change
Once his application is approved, he will be given an Electronic
EP (eEP) number for reference. No hardcopy EP will be issued.
No documentar y proof is required to suppor t the eEP
a p p l i c a t i o n . H o w e v e r, t h e s y s t e m w i l l r a n d o m l y s e l e c t
applications to submit documentary proof for verification.
For SPF NSmen, he may wish to apply for EP through Internet at:
http://www.spinet.gov.sg
Alternatively, he may apply at the following address:
> > >
EXIT PERMIT OFFICE
Police National Service Department
391 New Bridge Road
#02-707 Blk D
Police Cantonment Complex
Singapore 088762
Tel: 6557 5841
Fax: 6223 5650
E-mail: spf_exit_permit@spf.gov.sg
Operating Hours: 8.30am - 5.30pm (Weekdays)
8.30am - 3pm (Saturdays)
Documentary proof is required to support the exit permit
application.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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For SCDF NSmen, he may wish to apply for EP through Internet at:
http://www.scdf.gov.sg
Alternatively, he may apply at the following address:
> > >
CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4
Singapore 408827
Tel: 6848 3463/ 64
Fax: 6283 3486
E-mail: scdf_ns@scdf.gov.sg
Operating Hours: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm
(Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)
8.30 am - 8.30 pm (Wednesday)
8.30 am - 1.00 pm (Saturday)
Documentary proof is required to suppor t the exit permit
application.
c. Disruption from NS
Should you intend to station or post your NS employee overseas
for a year or longer, he has to apply for an EP and disruption
from NS. An NSman who is disrupted does not have to report
for any NS duty or training. But the period of disruption is not
counted towards his NS training cycle.
If your employee has been scheduled for NS duty within 6
months from the date of eEP application, his application must
be recommended by his NS unit before applying for the eEP.
Otherwise, he can apply for EP through the Internet directly.
Upon approval of his eEP, he will be disrupted from NS.
ADVANCE NOTIFICATION FOR NS CALL-UP
NSmen are informed of their NS call-up through the issue of
an official call-up notice known as the SAF 100 for SAF NSmen,
NP76 for Police NSmen and SCDF 100 for SCDF NSmen.
The SAF, SPF and SCDF give about 2 to 6 months of advance
notice for NS call-ups.
On receipt of the call-up notice, NSmen are required to inform
their employers of their impending call-up by forwarding the
relevant copy of the call-up notice to their employers and
returning the acknowledgement copy to their NS units. The
advance notice is given to help NSmen and their employers
plan work schedules, make adjustments and alternative
arrangements in the workplace.
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DEFERMENT
a. Call-up patterns
NSmen are liable to serve 40 days of NS in a workyear which
commences from 1 April of a calendar year to 31 March of
the following year. On average, they are usually called up for
an ICT of 2 to 3 weeks and another 2 to 3 shorter activities
ranging from 1 to 6 days depending on their units' annual
training programme. In some years, NSmen are not called up
for ICT because their units go through low-key years i.e. lull
period with no significant training activities.
b. Importance of Unit Cohesion
Generally, NSmen are required to report for duties and train
as a cohesive unit according to the unit's training schedule.
But we understand that there are occasions when an NSman
needs to be excused from a par ticular call-up. Deferment
excuses the NSman from a scheduled call-up to train with his
unit. But he has to perform make-up training, usually with
another unit, within the same workyear.
c. Considerations for Deferment
Deferment from NS training is strongly discouraged because
it affects unit training and cohesion. Being a citizen's army,
almost all our NSmen have work commitments in their civilian
capacity. While we understand the concerns and needs of
employers and companies, we cannot compromise our training
and operational requirements. Thus deferments may be granted
only under exceptional circumstances such as:
a. On compassionate grounds; for example - marriage, wife's
delivery, next-of-kin is seriously ill etc.;
b. New employment
c. Examination for part-time studies (but only one such deferment
is allowed in a workyear);
d. Simultaneous call-ups of two or more NSmen within the same
department and who are employed in the same capacity.
Should you have problems releasing your NS employee for ICT,
you or your employee can apply to the NS unit with the relevant
supporting documents at least 10 weeks before his scheduled
ICT. For MINDEF/ SAF, the application forms are available at
units and SAFRA clubs, for SPF and SCDF, the forms are
available at the respective Divisions/ Units. Alternatively,
NSmen can write to their NS units stating the following details:
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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●
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Name/ NRIC No./ NS unit
Duration of ICT
Type of ICT
Reasons for deferment application
Personal contact numbers
a. SAF
●
●
●
●
NS units
SAFRA Clubs
NSAD for Army NSmen
Air Force Manpower Operations & National Servicemen Branch
for Air Force NSmen (AFNSB)
● Naval National Servicemen Branch for Navy NSmen (NNSB)
b. SPF
● Divisions/ Units
● PNS Department
c. SCDF
● Division HQ/ Camps
● HQ SCDF
RECOGNITION AND AWARDS
FOR EMPLOYERS
The government recognises that support and commitment of
employers of NSmen is vital. MINDEF and MHA have
implemented programmes to reach out to employers and to
garner their support for Total Defence. We have also introduced
awards to honour employers who make significant contributions
to NS and Total Defence.
SAF PROGRAMMES FOR EMPLOYERS
a. Employers’ Visit and Dialogue Sessions
● One visit is organised each year for about 100 employers to
witness their employees’ training during ICT. Such visits give
you first-hand knowledge of what NS training entails. The
programme usually lasts half a day; and employers are also
given the opportunity to seek clarification or give feedback on
NS issues.
● A dialogue session is also organised each year to communicate
with the employers on the importance of NS and the changes
in NS polices. Similarly, it is another channel for employers to
air their concern and clarify doubts about NSmen issues, e.g.
pay matters.
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
b. The SAF Award for Employers
● This award was introduced in 1986
for the SAF to show its appreciation
to employers who have contributed
towards national defence activities.
● NSmen are encouraged to nominate
their employers who have been
supportive towards NS.
● Nominations can be made in writing
to NSAD, or through pre-designed
nomination cards which are available at all NS units/ training
centres and National Ser vice Resor t & Country Club.
Nominations can also be made through the Internet:
h t t p : / / w w w . m i n d e f . g o v. s g / f o r m s / e m p l o y e r. h t m l
● The awards will be presented to the winners at an annual
presentation ceremony and dinner hosted by the Minister for
Defence in honour of supportive employers.
● Award winners will enjoy exclusive NS Resort & Country Club,
and SAFRA Clubs, Temasek Club and the SAF Yacht Club
corporate privileges and will be invited to attend various SAF/
MINDEF functions.
c. Rededication Ceremony
● This programme was introduced in 1987 to give employers an
opportunity to publicly pledge their support for national defence.
● Employers can volunteer to conduct the ceremony either on
an individual or combined basis for their NS employees to
rededicate themselves to the SAF and to the Total Defence of
Singapore.
● Such ceremonies are held in conjunction with SAF Day
celebrations on 1 July every year.
● You may approach NSAD for assistance if you wish to participate
in or organise such a ceremony.
>
NATIONAL SERVICE AFFAIRS
DEPARTMENT
5 Depot Road
#11-01
Singapore 109681
Tel: 6373 3208
Fax: 6277 3215
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
SPF AND SCDF PROGRAMMES FOR EMPLOYERS
a. Employers’ Visit
● The visit was introduced in 1997 to enable employers of
PNSmen and CDNSmen to better understand and witness their
employees’ training during National Service.
● The annual event also serves to foster a stronger and sustained
relationship between employers and the two uniformed Forces
within the Home Team.
b. The MHA Award For Employers
● The Award was introduced in 1997 to show MHA’s appreciation
to employers of PNSmen and CDNSmen who have contributed
towards NS activities.
● Nominations can be made by the PNSmen and CDNSmen
through nomination forms which are available at their respective
Divisions/ Units.
● The awards will be presented to the winners at an annual
presentation ceremony hosted by the Minister or Minister of
State for Home Affairs.
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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MEDICAL BENEFITS AND
COMPENSATION FOR NSMEN
During NS training, stringent safety precautions are taken to
prevent and minimise the risk of accidents for the safety of
our NSmen. At the same time, we have comprehensive medical
benefits and compensation for NSmen should they injure
themselves as a result of NS duties.
MEDICAL BENEFITS
For any injuries received in and which are attributable to
service, the government will provide free medical benefits in
government and re-structured hospitals to the NSmen, up to
their ward eligibility. Employers will not be burdened with the
cost of medical treatment for any service injury of their NS
employees.
EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS
When a service injury results in medical and hospitalisation
leave beyond the ICT, the government will consider paying the
NSman an ex-gratia payment (based on civilian pay or regular's
pay, whichever is higher) if his employer is not prepared to
pay him during his period of incapacity. The government will
also consider reimbursement of the CPF contributions made
by his employer during the period.
When an NSman is unable to continue with the ICT due to
non-service injuries and his ICT is disrupted, MINDEF, SPF and
SCDF will continue to pay him service pay and make-up pay
(where applicable ) for the period of medical leave, till the end
of the medical leave or original ICT period, whichever is earlier.
This payment is made on an ex-gratia basis.
DISABILITY COMPENSATION/ PENSION
If a service injury results in permanent disability, the government
will compensate the NSman according to his degree of
permanent disability, endorsed by the appropriate medical
authority.
If the NSman suffers incapacity resulting in his discharge from
national service, he may be eligible for a disability pension.
DEATH COMPENSATION/ DEPENDENT'S PENSION
If a service injury is fatal, the NSman's dependents will receive
a death compensation. His dependents are also eligible for
consideration of a dependent's pension.
DEATH GRATUITY
If an NSman dies during ICT due to other causes not related
to ser vice, his dependants shall be paid a death gratuity.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NSMEN PAYMENTS
TYPES OF PAY COMPONENTS
As an NSman, your employee will receive:
● Ser vice Pay - This is based on the NSman’s rank and
vocation for the NS training.
Service Pay = Rank Allowance + Combat Allowance
● Make-up Pay - If the NSman suffers a loss in his civilian
income as a result of attending NS training, he is eligible to
claim make-up pay from MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
Make-up Pay = Loss in Civilian Income - Service Pay
HOW TO CLAIM MAKE-UP PAY
There are 2 options for employed NSmen to claim make-up
pay:
Option 1:
Payment Through Employers (Optional Scheme for Employers)
● The employer will continue to pay the NSman as per the
company’s pay schedule when the NSman attends NS
training.
● Thereafter, the employer will claim reimbursement (service
pay and make-up pay) directly from MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF.
● Employers can file their claims online via our e-MUPclaim
service (only applicable to MINDEF/ SAF NSmen) or manually
by using the Employer Claim Statement, which can be
obtained from the following sources:
● Download from miw.com.sg
● MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
How To Join The Scheme
To enrol in this scheme, employers must submit the Employer's
Option Form (download from miw.com.sg).
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Option 2:
NSman Claims Reimbursement Directly From MINDEF/ SPF/
SCDF
● The employer will certify NSman’s make-up pay claim and
submit to MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF.
● NSman will be reimbursed directly by MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
thereafter.
● Make-up pay claims can be submitted using hardcopy claim
forms or online via e-MUPclaim (only applicable to NSmen
from SAF-MINDEF).
For NSmen employed in Ministries or Statutory Boards
● The NSman will continue to receive his civilian pay from
the respective Ministry or Statutory Board during the period
of his NS training.
● The Ministry or Statutory Board should submit a claim only
if the NSman’s service pay exceeds his civilian pay.
For NSmen who are employed by more than one employer
or who are employed as well as self-employed
● The NSman should submit an individual claim form for each
employer or type of employment.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
TYPES OF CLAIMABLE/ NON CLAIMABLE ALLOWANCES
(FOR EMPLOYED NSMEN)
Claimable
● The allowance must be received on a regular basis for at
least 4 months out of the last 6 months preceding the NS
training
● The allowance must be taxable and subject to CPF
contribution
● It must be included in the NSman’s employment or service
contract
● It must not be of a reimbursement nature
Non Claimable
● If allowance is not received for at least 4 months out of
the past 6 months and no reason is provided, this will be
disapproved
● Examples of allowances of a reimbursement nature which
are not claimable:
>
>
>
>
Meal Allowance
Travelling Allowance
Laundry Allowance
Entertainment Expenses
COMPUTING LOSS OF CIVILIAN INCOME DURING NS
TRAINING
The formula used to compute the loss of income:
● The employer should use the same formula used in the
company for pro-rated pay computation.
E.g. In-Camp Training (ICT) from 1 March to 20 March 2002
(20 days) and company is on a 5-day work week.
=
Total Salary x Number of working days during the ICT period
Number of working days in the month
=
$800 x 14 (less Sat & Sun during the ICT period)
21 (less Sat & Sun in Mar 2002)
=
$533.33
● Public holidays should be considered as paid working days
and should not be excluded from the computation of loss
of income.
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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HOW SHOULD THE EMPLOYER ADJUST THE NSMAN’S
CIVILIAN INCOME IN THE MONTH OF NS TRAINING?
● The employer should compute the actual amount due to
NSman for the remaining days that he works in the company
in the month of NS training instead of simply deducting off
the amount paid by MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF from his salary
if the NSman is receiving allowances which are not of a
fixed quantum.
E.g. In-Camp Training (ICT) from 1 March to 20 March 2002
(20 days) and company is on a 5-day work week.
Basic Salary: $800.00 (fixed)
Overtime Allowance: $215.20 p.m. (average)
> Loss in Civilian Income (to be compensated by MINDEF/
SPF/ SCDF in terms of ser vice pay and make-up pay):
$1,015.20 x 14 (20 ICT days less Sat & Sun in March 02)
21 (less Sat & Sun in March 02)
= $676.80
> Amount to be paid by employer in March 02:
$800 x 7 (11 remaining days less Sat & Sun in March 02)
21 (less Sat & Sun in March 02)
= $266.67 + $50*
* (actual overtime clocked from 21 March to 31 March 2002)
The total amount to be paid to the NSman in the month of
training would be:
+ [$266.67 + $50]
$676.80
(MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF)
(Employer)
= $993.47
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NOTIFICATION OF NSMAN’S RESIGNATION OR
CHANGES IN SALARY
The employer must notify MINDEF (NSmen Payments, Payroll &
Allowances Division)/ SPF (PNSmen Personnel Officers)/ HQ
SCDF (Salaries & Allowances Branch, Finance Department)
immediately if there are any changes to the NSman’s salary
after the submission of the claim as a result of:
● Resignation
● Pay Revision
● Salary Adjustment before or during the NS training
CPF CONTRIBUTION
In accordance with CPF regulations, both the employer and
NSman must continue to contribute their share of CPF at the
same rate throughout the NSman's NS training.
VERIFICATION OF MAKE-UP PAY CLAIM
In accordance with Regulation 9 of the Enlistment (Loss of
Salaries & Wages - Reimbursement) Regulations 1978,
authorised personnel of MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF may conduct
visits to companies in order to verify the claims. An
Authorisation Card will be used to identify such personnel and
employers are requested to give access to all documents
related to the claims.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE FOR NS ACTIVITIES AND ALLOWANCES
For SAF NSmen
● Payments to NSmen and employers (who are on the Payment
Through Employers Scheme) are scheduled thrice weekly
on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and are credited
into the NSmen/ employers’ bank accounts registered with
MINDEF.
The payment schedule for local & overseas training is as
follows:
Local Training
Within 14 days from the start of training.
Overseas Training
Within 2 to 3 days before the date of departure (if advance
payment is arranged)
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For SPF NSmen
● Payments to NSmen and employers (who are on the Payment
Through Employers Scheme) are scheduled on Fridays and
are credited into the NSmen/ employers’ bank accounts
registered with SPF.
For SCDF NSmen
● Within 11 days from the start of training
SUBMISSION OF CLAIMS
For SAF NSmen
Make-up Pay claims can be submitted online via our e-MUP
claim service or manually using the designated claim forms.
To reduce processing time, employers are strongly encouraged
to use e-MUPclaim.
To file an e-MUPclaim, either the NSmen or the employers
can initiate the claim. However, employers must first register
for the service. The employer will receive a PIN via post after
registering.
If you opt for the manual mode, the claim forms can be
obtained from the following sources:
●
●
●
●
Download from miw.com.sg
Community Clubs
SAFRA Clubhouses
NS Units
For SPF NSmen
Make-up Pay claims can be submitted using the designated
claim forms. The claim forms can be obtained from the
following sources:
● NSmen’s Police Divisions or units
For SCDF NSmen
Make-up Pay claims can be submitted using the designated
claim forms (Form A). SCDF will mail the Form A to the NSmen
together with the ICT order. The claim forms can also be
obtained from the following sources:
● Download from scdf.gov.sg
● Division HQ/ Camps
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING CLAIM
For prompt payment, the NSman and the employer are advised:
● To submit the e-claim 7 days before the training commences.
(only applicable to NSmen from SAF-MINDEF)
● To submit the hardcopy claim to reach MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
3 weeks before the training commences.
● Not to submit the claim too early before NS training as
NSman’s pay information may not be accurate and current.
● That make-up pay claims must be submitted to reach
MINDEF (NSmen Payments, Payroll & Allowances Division)/
SPF (PNSmen Personnel Officer)/ HQ SCDF (Salaries &
Allowances Branch, Finance Department) not later than 3
months after the payment of ser vice pay. Suppor ting
documents can be submitted later if they are not available
at the time of submission of the claim form.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING APPEAL
When there is a dispute in the quantum approved, NSmen or
their employers may appeal in writing to MINDEF (NSmen
Payments, Payroll & Allowances Division)/ SPF (Finance Officer
EOM/ PNS Section)/ HQ SCDF (Salaries & Allowances Branch,
Finance Department) not later than 3 weeks from the date
on which the Make-up Pay is paid. The following details have
to be given:
● the amount of Make-up Pay claimed
● grounds for dispute
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FAQs
NATIONAL SERVICE LIABILITIES
Q1:
How often will my NS employee be called up for
National Service (NS)?
A:
He may be called up for a maximum of 40 days of
service each workyear. The workyear begins on 1 April
of a calendar year and ends on 31 March of the following
year. He may be called up for various activities such as:
• In-Camp Training (ICT)
• Mobilisation
• Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
Q2:
After being phased into MINDEF RESERVE (MR), is
the MR personnel still liable for NS?
A:
MR personnel are still liable for NS. Although they have
completed their NS training cycle, their NS liability will
cease when they reach their statutory age (50 years
old for NS Officers and 40 years old for NS WOSEs).
Q3:
What is the difference between Annual ICT and FlexiICT?
A:
Annual ICT applies to NSmen who are called up once
every year. For Flexi-ICT, NSmen are called-up more than
once a year and at shorter intervals.
DEFERMENT
Q1:
What is deferment?
A:
Deferment from NS allows an NSman to postpone his
NS call-up to a later date within the same workyear.
The workyear commences from 1 April of the current
year to 31 March of the following year. He will have to
undergo make-up training for the deferred call-up within
the same workyear. Deferment is not encouraged as it
affects unit cohesiveness and operational readiness.
Q2:
Under what circumstances can an NSman apply for
deferment?
A:
Deferment may be granted for the following reasons:
• Compassionate grounds e.g. marriage, wife's delivery, nextof-kin is seriously ill etc.
• New employment
• Newly established business
• Examination for part-time studies
• Simultaneous call-up of 2 or more NSmen who are employed
in the same capacity in the same department.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q3:
How does an NSman apply for deferment?
A:
Applications can be made to his unit with the relevant
suppor ting documents at least 10 weeks before his
scheduled ICT. For MINDEF/ SAF, the application forms
are available at the units and SAFRA clubs. For SPF and
SCDF, the forms are available at the respective Divisions/
Units. Alternatively, NSmen can write to their NS units
stating the following details:
•
•
•
•
•
Name/ NRIC No./ NS unit
Duration of ICT
Type of ICT i.e. Upgrading Course, BCTC
Reasons for deferment application
Personal contact numbers
Q4:
When will he be informed of the outcome of his
deferment applications?
A:
NSmen whose applications meet approved guidelines
will be informed of the decision within 2 weeks. The
remaining cases will be considered under the competitive
priority system based on past attendance records and
likelihood to complete the NS training. All applicants will
be given a decision at least 1 month before the ICT.
Q5:
If my NS employee has notified the respective
notification centres of his overseas trip that coincides
with his in-camp training, does he still need to apply
for deferment?
A:
Yes. Notifying the respective notification centre does
not give him automatic deferment. He still has to apply
to his unit for deferment.
Q6:
I wish to postpone my employee's in-camp training to
a later date. What do I have to do?
A:
Deferment from in-camp training due to work commitment
is discouraged as it affects unit cohesiveness and
operational readiness. NSmen are given at least 2 to
6 months’ advance notice of their call-ups so that
employers can adjust their workplans to enable their
employees to attend the scheduled ICT. However, if there
are exceptional circumstances, NSmen should write to
their unit, with their employer's supporting documents,
at least 10 weeks before the ICT.
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AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q7:
My employee's NS unit informed him that his application
for deferment has not been approved. How do I make
an appeal against this decision?
A:
You may submit an appeal to his unit for reconsideration.
His unit will review your request. If they still do not
agree to defer the NSman, the appeal will be forwarded
to the Formation, thereby ensuring that your appeal on
his behalf is being considered by a higher authority.
Q8:
I would like my employee to be granted time-off on
certain days or evenings during his in-camp training
but I do not wish for him to be deferred from the
entire training. Is there any way to accommodate my
request?
A:
Time-off during training would depend on the unit's
training schedule, e.g. whether there is night training
or regimental duties. You could submit your request for
his time-off to his unit and this would be accommodated
if the training schedule permits.
DISRUPTION
Q1:
What is disruption?
A:
Disruption allows an NSman to postpone his National
Service for 1 year or longer. There are two types of
disruption:
• Local
• Overseas
Local
• An NSman can be considered for disruption if he is pursuing
full-time non-tertiary studies in an approved local institution.
NSmen pursuing full-time tertiary studies in local institutions
such as the universities and polytechnics are not disrupted
and may be called up for ICT during their vacations. They
may also be called up for IPPT and are liable for mobilisation.
Overseas
• Overseas NSmen going abroad for work, study or training
for 1 year or more are eligible to apply for disruption from
national service.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q2:
How does an NSman apply for disruption? What
supporting documents are required?
A:
For local disruption, he can apply directly to:
a) i. MINDEF/ SAF - His NS unit,
ii. SPF - Exit Permit Office
iii. SCDF - Divisons/ Units
b) His respective NS Personnel Management Centre at the
following address:
MINDEF/ SAF Army NSmen
National Service Affairs Department (NSAD)
5 Depot Road #11-01
Singapore 109681
Tel: 62773245 Fax: 6277 3215
Air Force NSmen
Air Force Manpower Operations &
National Servicemen Branch (AFNSB)
303 Gombak Drive
#B1-09
Singapore 669645
Tel: 6768 3040 Fax: 6768 2576
Navy NSmen
Naval National Servicemen Branch (NNSB)
5 Depot Road #08-01
Singapore 109681
Tel: 63731238 Fax: 6373 1245
SPF NSmen
Police National Service Department
Exit Permit Office
391 New Bridge Road
#02-707 Blk D
Police Cantonment Complex
Singapore 088762
Tel: 6557 8541
Fax: 6223 5650
SCDF NSmen
National Service Personnel Department
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4
Singapore 408827
Tel: 6848 3463/ 64
Fax: 6283 3486
At the point of application, he must furnish the necessary
supporting documents such as proof of enrolment at a
local institution.
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SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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REQUIREMENT FOR NSMEN TO REPORT WHEN GOING
OVERSEAS
Q1:
Why do NSmen have to furnish the MINDEF eServices
Centre (MeSC)/ SPF and SCDF notification centres
with information of their overseas trips?
A:
NSmen have a specific operational role to play in an
emergency. It is crucial for them to remain contactable
when they are abroad. Keeping their respective NS
agencies informed of their whereabouts would allow
them to know exactly how many NSmen are in Singapore
and where to reach those who are overseas quickly in
an emergency.
Q2:
Who should give notification of their overseas trips?
A:
All NSmen below the age of 50 years for officers and
40 years for Warrant Officers, Specialists and Enlisted
Personnel who are leaving Singapore for more than 24
hours and less than 6 months are required to give
notification of their overseas trips. Upon reaching the
age of 50 years (for Officers) and 40 years (for other
ranks), NSmen are no longer required to give notification.
Those who are disrupted from National Ser vice for
overseas trips or have an Exit Permit need not give
notification.
Q3:
How should an NSman go about providing information
of his whereabouts overseas?
A:
They can do so through:
MINDEF/ SAF
- Tel: 1800-364 6333
- SMS: 9764 6333
- Fax: 1800-364 6333
- Internet at: http://www.miw.com.sg
- Email: ecs@miw.com.sg
- Mail to: MINDEF eServices Centre
7 Bedok South Rd
Singapore 469272
SPF
- Tel: 1800-533 6012/ 3
- Fax: 6223 5650
- E-mail: spf_exit_permit@spf.gov.sg
- Internet at: http://www.spinet.gov.sg
SCDF
- Tel: 1800-287 4091
- Fax: 6283 3486
- E-mail: scdf_ns@scdf.gov.sg
- Internet at: http://www.scdf.gov.sg
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q4:
What will happen if an NSman goes overseas without
informing his respective agency?
A:
Offenders may be fined up to $2,000 upon conviction
and may also have their Exit Permit privileges restricted.
For recalcitrant offenders, their privilege of not being
required to apply for an Exit Permit may be withdrawn
when they travel overseas for less than 6 months. Their
full passpor t facilities will be withdrawn. This means
that they will have to apply for an Exit Permit every time
they go overseas.
Q5:
My NS employee is going overseas for business. Does
he need to apply for an exit permit?
A:
An NSman need not apply for an exit permit (EP) if his
overseas trip is less than 6 months. However, he has
to inform the respective notification centre if his trip
exceeds 24 hours. He may notify MeSC by phone at
1800-3646333(toll-free) or by fax to 1800-3646333,
SPF Exit Permit Office at Tel:1800-533 6012/ 3 or fax
at 6223 5650 and SCDF Overseas Notification Centre
at Tel: 1800-287 4091 or fax at 6283 3486. If the
duration of his overseas trip is more than 6 months but
less than 1 year, he will need to have his unit's
recommendation before applying for an EP. On the other
hand, if the duration of his overseas trip is 1 year or
longer, he will need to apply for an EP and disruption
from NS.
Q6:
What will happen if an NSman goes overseas without
applying for an Exit Permit?
A:
An NSman needs to apply for an Exit Permit (EP) if his
overseas trip is 6 months or more. NSmen who remain
overseas for more than 6 months without a valid EP will
become EP defaulters. Upon conviction, EP defaulters
may be fined up to $5000 or 3 years’ imprisonment or
both.
Q7.
If an NSman is required to travel in and out of
Singapor e a few times per month to the same
destination, must he notify his respective agency each
time he travels overseas?
A:
He may make a one-time notification to cover a maximum
period of one month for the overseas trips to the same
destination.
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Q8:
If an NSman is required to leave the country
immediately, how can he inform his respective agency
of his overseas trip?
A:
He can inform the agency when he is overseas or request
a proxy (above 16 years old), e.g. a family member or
his company, to do so on his behalf.
Q9:
After notifying the respective agency, does that mean
that NSmen do not need an Exit Permit?
A:
The requirement for an Exit Permit remains the same
i.e. an NSman will be required to apply for an Exit Permit
if he is staying overseas for 6 months or more. However,
once a person has been granted an Exit Permit, he is
deemed to have notified his agency of his overseas trip.
Q10: What should NSmen do if they notify their agencies
and do not leave the country?
A:
They should call to cancel the previous notification.
Q11: Will an NSman be excused from mobilisation after he
has notified his agency and is issued with an
acknowledgement code?
A:
NSmen are excused from mobilisation only if they are
overseas and have documentary proof (e.g. passport).
Notification of overseas trip is not a form of documentary
p r o o f f o r e x e m p t i o n f r o m m o b i l i s a t i o n a n d I P P T.
ELIGIBILITY FOR SERVICE INJURY COMPENSATION FOR
NSMEN
Q1:
How do I know whether my NS employee is eligible for
compensation?
A:
The SAF (Pensions) Regulations provides for
compensation awards for injuries that are received in
and attributable to ser vice. This includes injuries
sustained under the following circumstances:
a. Whilst on a journey necessary to report for service or on
the way home after service; e.g. travelling a normal route
from home to report for in-camp training or from unit to
home after training.
Or
b. In consequence of some act lawfully performed in the
discharge of the member's duties. e.g. while performing
training scheduled in the unit training programme. However,
injuries which are sustained within a ser viceman's own
personal sphere cannot be considered as received in, and
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
attributable to, service; e.g. while on in-camp training, your
NS employee books out of camp to run a personal errand
and meets with a traffic accident either on the way out or
back to camp, resulting in injuries.
Q2:
What should my NS employee do when he sustains
an injury during NS training?
A:
In the event of an injury during NS training, he needs
to:
MINDEF/ SAF
a. Report immediately to his unit Medical Officer and S1 or
Conducting Officer (for non-ICT IPPT) so the unit can arrange
to attend to his injury(ies) and document his injury sustained
in the medical docket.
b. Complete the injury report which covers his personal details
and details of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury.
c. Submit witness(es) statement and medical reports on his
injury sustained (if applicable) to substantiate his request
for injury compensation. A traffic police report and a map
detailing the route taken are also required where the
circumstances involve a traffic accident.
His unit will submit the completed repor t and suppor ting
documents to his NS Personnel Management Centre for review.
SPF
In the event of an injur y during NS training, he needs to:
a. Report immediately to his supervisor of his injury so that
he can be conveyed to the nearest government/ restructured
hospital for medical attention.
b. He must obtain from his employer his salary information for
the 12 months immediately preceding the date of the
accident.
His unit shall put up an Incident Report, which will cover the
information of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury,
and submit the completed report and supporting documents
to PNSD.
SCDF
In the event of an injur y during NS training,he needs to:
a. Report immediately to his Conducting Officer or Division/
Unit Personnel Officer so that he can be conveyed to the
nearest government/ restructured hospital for medical
attention.
b. He must obtain from his employer his salary information for
the 12 months immediately preceding the date of the
accident.
His unit shall put up an Incident Report, which will cover the
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information of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury,
and submit the completed report and supporting documents
to NS Personnel Department.
Q3:
Is my NS employee eligible for free follow-up treatment
and compensation if he is injured during NS training?
A:
Yes, he will be eligible for free medical benefits once
h i s i n j u r y i s r e c o g n i s e d a s a s e r v i c e i n j u r y. A n
identification document will be issued to him for free
follow-up medical treatment at government/ re-structured
hospitals. The hospitals are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Alexandra Hospital
Changi General Hospital
Kandang Kerbau Women's and Children's Hospital
National Skin Centre
National University Hospital
Singapore General Hospital
Singapore National Eye Centre
Tan Tock Seng Hospital
Institute of Mental Health
Should he suffer permanent disablility as a result of the
service injury, his unit will arrange to convene a medical
board for him. He will be eligible for compensation based
on the percentage of permanent disability endorsed by
the SAF Medical Board. We take a serious view of
servicemen who do not take medical advice seriously to
attend follow-up medical treatment for their ser vice
injury. NSmen who disregard medical advice to attend
follow-up treatment for their service injury may receive
a reduced compensation award.
Q4:
Before MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF can determine that his
injury is due to service, who will bear the cost of his
medical expenses?
A:
While his NS agency is processing his case, he will have
to bear all medical expenses. However, once his injury
is certified to be attributable to service, all the medical
expenses that he has incurred at government/
restructured hospitals will be reimbursed to him. He
will be asked to submit to his Unit Manpower/ NSmen
Personnel Officer the original medical bills, together
with cer tification from the hospital doctor that the
medical expenses are incurred for the treatment of that
service injury(ies).
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q5:
Will MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF reimburse medical expenses
incurred in private hospitals?
A:
No, if he goes to a private hospital, he will bear all the
medical expenses.
Q6:
What should my NS employee do if he sustains an
injury during NS training and is given
hospitalisation/medical leave that extends beyond the
period of his in-camp training?
A:
He has to immediately notify his superior (MINDEF/ SAF
- unit Medical Officer and S1, SPF/ SCDF- Div/ Unit
NSmen Personnel Officer) of his hospitalisation/medical
leave. The procedures as spelt out at Q2 must then be
observed. If his injury is assessed as a service injury,
he will be eligible for ex-gratia payment if he suffers loss
of income during his hospitalisation/ medical leave. He
is required to submit to his unit the certification from
you (the employer) that he is not paid during the period
of medical leave. Arrangements will be made with
Payment & Allowance Dept for the ex-gratia payment to
him.
Q7:
If an NSman sustains a non-service injury during his
in-camp training, will he still be paid for loss of income?
A:
When he is unable to continue his in-camp training due
to non-service injuries and his ICT is disrupted, he will
continue to be paid service pay and make-up pay (where
applicable) for the period of medical leave, till the end
of the medical leave or original ICT period, whichever
is earlier. However, this will not be counted towards the
fulfilment of an ICT liability and he may be required to
do make-up training subsequently.
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NSMEN PAYMENTS
Q1:
If there is a change in my NS employee’s training
period, do I need to inform MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF?
A:
MINDEF/ SAF
If the NS training has been shortened or lengthened,
we will be able to re-compute the change in NS training
and pay your NS employee accordingly. Therefore, your
company does not need to inform MINDEF.
E.g. Original NS training
: 1 March to 20 March 2002
Amended NS training : 1 March to 15 March 2002
However, in the event that the NS training has been
changed to an entirely new period, your company would
need to inform MINDEF of the change.
E.g. Original NS training
: 1 March to 20 March 2002
Amended NS training : 1 June to 20 June 2002
SPF/ SCDF
The requirements are the same as SAF.
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
ADDRESSES & TELEPHONE NUMBERS
In this final section of the handbook, we provide you the contact
information of all agencies in the SAF, SPF and SCDF that deal
with NSmen. We welcome your enquiries, suggestions and
feedback on areas of particular interest to you.
SAF
MINDEF eServices Centre
One stop, “round the clock” operations to service MINDEF personnel,
NS liables and general public on all MINDEF matters.
Tel/ Fax: 1-800-eMINDEF (1-800-364-6333)
MINDEF Portal: http://www.miw.com.sg
MINDEF Feedback Line
Tel: 1800-760 8844
E-mail: mfu@starnet.gov.sg
National Service Affairs Department
Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Army National Servicemen
5 Depot Road, #11-01 Singapore 109681
Tel: 6373 3245 Fax: 6277 3215
E-mail: nsad@starnet.gov.sg
Naval National Servicemen Branch
Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Navy National Servicemen
5 Depot Road, #08-01 Singapore 109681
Tel: 6373 1238 Fax: 6373 1245
E-mail: nnsb@starnet.gov.sg
Air Force Manpower Operations &
National Servicemen Branch
Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Air Force National Servicemen
303 Gombak Drive #B1-09, Singapore 669645
Tel: 6768 3040 Fax: 6768 2576
National Service Payment Branch
Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters
5 Depot Road #13-01 Singapore 109681
Website: www.miw.com.sg (Check your NSmen employees’ payment
details and status online)
24-hr voice response system at eMINDEF(1800-364 6333).
MINDEF Public Affairs
General enquiries on defence and SAF matters
303 Gombak Drive #1-26 Singapore 669645
Tel: 6768 2307/ 3059 Fax: 6764 6119
E-mail: mfu@starnet.gov.sg
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EXIT PERMIT OFFICE
Extension of Passports and Exit Permit Applications
Central Manpower Base (CMPB)
3 Depot Road Singapore 109680
Tel: 6373 3139 Fax: 6373 3173
Email: cmpb@starnet.gov.sg
*Operating hours: 8am-9pm (Weekdays) 8am-5pm (Saturdays)
*Subject to change
SPF
Police National Service Department
Enquiries on NS policies and matters of SPF
NSmen Personnel Centre
391 New Bridge Road #03-501
Blk C Police Cantonment Complex Singapore 088762
Tel: 6557 5953/ 6557 5970 Fax: 6226 8446
PNSmen Personnel Officers
of respective Divisions/ Units
(please refer to Appendix I)
General enquiries on NSmen matters
Singapore Police Force Service Improvement Unit
General enquiries on Police matters
Police Headquarters New Phoenix Park
28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560
Tel: 1800-253 5525 Fax: 6256 1296
Email: SPF_Service_Improvement_Unit@spf.gov.sg
Exit Permit Office
Notification of Overseas trips that are more than 24 hours but less
than 6 months, Extension of Passports and Exit Permit Application
391 New Bridge Road #02-707 Blk D
Police Cantonment Complex
Singapore 088762
Tel: 6557 5841 Fax: 6223 5650
Overseas Notification Tel: 1800-533 6012/ 3
E-mail: spf_exit_permit@spf.gov.sg
Website: www.spinet.gov.sg
Force Sports Office
Enquiries on IPPT matters
Police Academy Blk 4
Thomson Road Singapore 298333
Tel: 6359 4239 Fax: 6256 5197
EOM/ PNS Section
Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters
New Phoenix Park
28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560
Tel: 6478 2385/ 2358 Fax: 6252 3570
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Police Career Centre
Enquiries on Police Recruitment matters
Police Headquarters New Phoenix Park
28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560
Tel: 6478 2324/ 6478 2325 Fax: 6253 7754
Website: www.spinet.gov.sg/career
SCDF
National Service Personnel Department
Enquiries on NS policies and matters of SCDF
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827
Tel: 6848 3455/ 6 Fax: 6283 3486
Salaries & Allowances Branch,
Finance Department
Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827
Tel: 1800-287 4569 Fax: 6848 1628
Public Affairs Department
General enquires on Civil Defence Matters
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827
Tel: 6848 1503/ 18 Fax: 6289 4401
SCDF Overseas Notification Centre
Notification of Overseas trips that are more than 24 hours but less
than 6 months
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827
Tel: 1800-287 4091 Fax: 6283 3486
E-mail: scdf_ns@scdf.gov.sg
Website: www.scdf.gov.sg
Customer Service Centre
Renewal of Passports, Application for Exit Permit and Disruption
HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827
Tel: 6848 3463/ 4 Fax: 6283 3486
SCDF Emergency Hotline
Tel: 1800-286 5555
SCDF Enquiry/ Main Line
Tel: 6280 0000/ 6367 7233
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ABBREVIATIONS
AFNSB -
Air Force Manpower Operations &
National Servicemen Branch
CDANS -
Civil Defence Association for
National Servicemen
CMPB
-
Central Manpower Base
EOM
-
Expenditure of Manpower
EPO
-
Exit Permit Office
ICT
-
In-camp training
IPPT
-
Individual Physical Proficiency Test
KINs
-
Key Installation
MHA
-
Ministry of Home Affairs
MINDEF -
Ministry of Defence
NNSB
-
Naval National Servicemen Branch
NS
-
National Service
NSmen -
National Servicemen
NSAD
-
National Service Affairs Department
PCG
-
Police Coast Guard
PNS
-
Police National Service
PT
-
Physical Training
RT
-
Remedial Training
SAF
-
Singapore Armed Forces
SCDF
-
Singapore Civil Defence Force
SPANS -
Singapore Police Association For
National Servicemen
SPF
Singapore Police Force
-
SUPPORTING OUR NSmen
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APPENDIX I
Police Divisions and Units
Phone
Fax
Central Police Division
6557 5288
6223 9156
Clementi Police Division
6872 7958
6777 6020
Tanglin Police Division
6391 3481
6391 8450
Ang Mo Kio Police Division
6218 1040
6218 1011
Bedok Police Division
6244 7176
6244 7178
Jurong Police Division
6896 6859
6896 5643
Police Coast Guard
6447 1529
6447 3277
Traffic Police
6547 6345
6547 4900
Criminal Investigation
Department
6435 8278
6225 4209
Airport Police
6546 3129
6542 8214
Training Command
(TRACOM)
6359 4210
6255 5600
SPANS-JOM Clubhouse
6353 3131
6256 7137
SPANS Town Club
6738 6578
6235 7209
Civil Defence Establishments
Phone
Fax
HQ NS Personnel
Admin Centre
6848 1727
6284 2048
HQ 1st CD Division
6355 7815
6253 1692
HQ 2nd CD Division
6342 4512
6440 2257
HQ 3rd CD Division
6488 2013
6282 1185
HQ 4th CD Division
6267 4017
6268 2212
Basic Rescue
Training Centre
6267 4080
6267 4078
Civil Defence Academy
6794 5509
6794 5561
CDANS Country Club
(Bukit Batok)
6569 7702
6569 4453
CDANS Sembawang Resort
6754 0922
6754 0211
CDANS Home Team
Town Club (Smith Street)
6536 9986
6536 6056
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NOTES
AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
Published by Mindef Public Affairs