National Service is Suitable for Singapore

National Service, aimed to defend the country, was implemented in 1967. Recently, there is a public debate about whether National Service still works for Singapore. In my opinion, National Service is still suitable for Singapore. In proving my point, I would like to discuss and compare the advantages and disadvantages of National Service.

The advantages of National Service are very manifest. National Service is fair to everyone since it requires every able-bodied man to serve regardless of race, religion or background, which can eliminate the recruitment bias. Through the training, the Singaporeans can learn to defend their country. The training can also help the Singaporeans to bond together since they share a common adventure, experience and objective during the training.

In addition, it is less expensive as compared to recruiting mercenaries, and can help to de-glorify war since the citizens will realize the consequences of taking like. This will also help Singaporeans to develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny, which is very essential and vital for Singapore currently. To sum up, National Service is an investment in citizens’ loyalty to home which achieves twin goals of defence and economic development.

However, due to the compulsory nature of National Service, motivation among the enlisted would be lacking among many, especially at the beginning of the conscription. This could bring about resentments and disgruntlements among many people since they believe that they are coerced to be trained in a harsh environment where their life may ends.

According to Art.3 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states, ”everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” In Singapore, where conscientious objection is not an option, the compulsory nature of National Service can be viewed as violation of individual rights. In addition, the government can be accused of sexism, since females are not compulsory to serve but males are.

Some people claim that quite a large sum of money is spent in National Service. In terms of economic and social development, the government can actually use the money spent in National Service to invest in other areas such as education, transportation system. This will definitely benefit the citizens as well as further promoting the economy.

Nevertheless, National Service makes Singapore stronger and tougher. Without National Service, other countries like Malaysia may deem Singapore as vulnerable and may launch an invasion at any time. History of Japanese invasion has proven to us that only Singaporeans are reliable to protect their own country.

Furthermore, the population in Singapore is rather smaller compared to other countries like China. National Service ensures that there will be a trained armed force ready at any time. If National Service is abolished, the number of soldiers ready at emergency cannot be guaranteed.

Hence, I believe that National Service is suitable for Singapore.