The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) announced a significant allowance increment for full-time national servicemen (NSFs) across the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Singapore Police Force (SPF), and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) starting from July 1. The allowance increase ranges from S$35 to S$75 monthly, translating to about 4% to 5% raise for most servicemen.
According to Senior Minister of State Heng Chee How, the allowance adjustment aims to support NSFs’ personal upkeep and acknowledges their service to the nation. Heng emphasized, “This will be the fourth adjustment to allowances over the last 10 years,” reflecting a continuous effort to ensure the adequacy of the allowance.
Specific examples of the increased allowances were highlighted, such as NSF recruits or trainees seeing an increase to S$790 from the current S$755. Similarly, an SAF NSF naval diver, SPF NSF police tactical trooper, or SCDF NSF firefighter holding the rank of corporal, will now receive S$1,290 per month, up from S$1,250.
Moreover, MINDEF has been implementing strategic changes within the SAF to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. Mr. Heng revealed that the SAF has been reviewing its medical classification system to match servicemen with roles that align with their medical fitness and functional capacity more accurately. He highlighted the success of this approach, stating, “Since 2022, about 300 pre-enlistees have undergone selected functional assessments, with two-thirds of them able to contribute more effectively over a wider range of roles.”
To further improve the national servicemen’s experience, the Central Manpower Base (CMPB) will be revamped to offer a more integrated and efficient service center. The new CMPB, set to open progressively from May 2025, will streamline processes such as medical screenings and specialist reviews, ensuring prompt and comprehensive healthcare support throughout the NS journey.
In a bid to enhance sustainability and meet national targets under the Singapore Green Plan 2030, MINDEF will construct a solar farm within Sembawang Air Base to help offset energy demands. Mr. Heng emphasized, “The solar farm within Sembawang Air Base will generate energy equivalent to the electricity consumed by 4,700 four-room HDB flats in a year, leading to cost savings of approximately S$1.9 million annually.” The careful selection of the location for solar panels ensures that the SAF’s operational effectiveness will not be compromised.
The developments in increased allowances, operational role redesign, and sustainability efforts exemplify significant strides in enhancing the national service experience and promoting a more efficient and environmentally friendly defense system in Singapore.
