More Pro-NS Companies to be Recognised with New NS Mark

Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen launched the new National Service (NS) Mark at the annual Total Defence Awards (TDA) dinner held at Pan Pacific Hotel this evening. The NS Mark is a national accreditation scheme to recognise businesses and employers who have been supportive of NS and Total Defence (TD). With this accreditation scheme, more pro-NS businesses and organisations can pledge their support for NS, and be recognised for their efforts in promoting an NS-friendly workplace culture and adopting human resource practices that support operationally-ready national servicemen (NSmen) in fulfilling their NS duties.

Speaking at the event, Dr Ng reiterated the importance of the wider community playing an integral role in supporting NS and strengthening Total Defence. He said, "Businesses, organisations and individuals make a difference too…When you support your NSmen in your company or provide civil resources during mobilisation, you directly contribute to Singapore's security." Highlighting that Total Defence is vital in responding to security challenges such as the terrorism threat, Dr Ng said, "The battle against extremist terrorism is a long term challenge… This fight against extremism cannot be fought by the Singapore Armed Forces or the Home Team alone. We will need Total Defence to survive and keep Singapore safe, prosperous and harmonious."

Co-chairperson of the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD)'s Employer and Business Council, Mr Tony Chew, said, "The growth of our businesses and economy hinges on the peace and stability of Singapore, which in turn rests on having a strong defence and capable security forces. The business community can contribute through their support for NS. We are heartened that so many companies have already done so. We hope that the newly introduced NS Mark will be a catalyst for even more to step forward, and to expand this support for NS by rallying others to join in the movement."

During the dinner, Dr Ng presented the NS Advocate Award for Organisations. Also present at the dinner was Senior Minister of State for Defence and Foreign Affairs, Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, who presented the NS Advocate Award for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Large Companies. Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, Mr Desmond Lee, presented the NS Advocate Award for Individuals.

In total, 126 pinnacle awards were presented to 52 SMEs, 34 large companies, 28 organisations and 12 individuals.