Singapore's Defence is a Shared Responsibility — And More are Answering the Call

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing hosted the inaugural SG Defence Volunteer Appreciation Function^[1] today, bringing together volunteers from SG Defence and the MINDEF Boards and Committees, to recognise their contributions to Singapore's defence.

Defence is a Whole-of-Society Effort

Speaking at the function, Mr Chan noted that the security environment has become increasingly complex and unpredictable. Threats to Singapore today extend beyond conventional military challenges - from cyber-attacks that can cripple critical infrastructure and disinformation campaigns that erode social cohesion, to terrorism and disruptions to supply chains and daily life.

Mr Chan affirmed that while National Service remains the bedrock of Singapore's defence, it must be supported by a society that is prepared, united and resilient. Mr Chan said, "It is with your effort that we have such a strong and credible defence force… The fact that you are not conscripted, and the fact that you do not have to do it but you choose to do it is the most powerful signal that we can have of how Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, and various other people can help to contribute to the defence of Singapore."

Mr Chan noted that MINDEF is broadening its approach beyond operationally ready NSmen by strengthening the "rings of support", encompassing former NSmen, families, employers, new citizens, and the wider community. The goal is to cultivate a culture in which contributing to defence becomes a shared societal responsibility - expanding opportunities to serve through initiatives such as SG Defence and strengthening support from employers and the wider community.

Recognising Volunteers Serving on MINDEF/SAF Boards and Committees

Mr Chan took the occasion to recognise the contributions of the volunteers serving on the MINDEF Boards and Committees. These individuals contribute deep expertise and independent perspectives across critical areas including training safety, medical advice, legal counsel, strategic communications, technology, sustainability, and organisational governance. Their work behind the scenes plays a vital role in ensuring that Singapore's defence system remains robust, fair and trusted.

Strong Response to SG Defence

Since the launch of SG Defence in May 2026, the response from the public has been encouraging. MINDEF has received more than 300 applications within the first two months. This strong early momentum across both civilian and military volunteer roles reflects the growing commitment of Singaporeans and residents to contribute to national defence. Mr Chan expressed confidence that this positive momentum would continue to grow.

Volunteers are making a difference in tangible and meaningful ways. The Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps (SAFVC) volunteers serve alongside full-time National Servicemen, NSmen, and SAF regulars in peacetime operations and training, contributing their diverse professional expertise and experiences to strengthen the SAF's operational readiness. At the Defence Collective Singapore's (DCS) museums, volunteers help bring Singapore's defence story to life - from contributing specialist expertise for the recent refresh of the Singapore Air Force Museum, to leading guided tours at the Singapore Discovery Centre and Singapore Navy Museum. DCS has also welcomed a new group of education resource development volunteers, who will co-create curriculum-aligned learning resources to enhance students' understanding of defence beyond the classroom. Meanwhile, volunteers from SAFRA play a vital role in supporting NSmen and their families through mentoring, community programmes, and engagement activities, helping to sustain a strong and connected NS community.

SG Defence brings together these varied volunteer schemes under one common identity, creating more pathways for people with different skills, backgrounds, and life stages to contribute meaningfully to national defence.

New Volunteer Pathways Through So Drama! Entertainment

For those with a passion for the performing arts and live events, there are now new ways to contribute. At the function, Mr Chan announced three new volunteer roles through MINDEF's partnership with So Drama! Entertainment, opening pathways for Singaporeans with creative and technical talents to serve national defence in new ways. These include Volunteer Performers - such as dancers, musicians, singers and emcees who will contribute to MINDEF and the SAF's productions and events; Live Show Production Support volunteers who will bring professional expertise in sound engineering, live video, multi-camera operations, stage management and live-stream support; and Event Support Volunteers who will support and ensure events run smoothly.

A Stronger Defence, Built Together

Singapore's defence is built on more than the strength of the SAF alone - it rests on the collective will and commitment of the whole-of-society. The SG Defence Volunteer Appreciation Function today is a celebration of that collective spirit and a reminder that every individual who steps forward makes Singapore's defence stronger. As the SG Defence Volunteer Network continues to grow, MINDEF looks forward to welcoming more individuals who are ready to answer the call and contribute their skills and expertise.

Singaporeans and residents interested in joining the SG Defence Volunteer Network or finding out more about the new volunteer roles can visit go.gov.sg/sgdefence.

^[1] Building on the annual MINDEF Volunteers' Dinner held since 1998, the new SG Defence Volunteer Appreciation Function marks a significant milestone in recognising Singapore's growing and increasingly diverse defence volunteer community. The change in format reflects the growing breadth and many different ways the public are stepping forward to contribute and support national defence.