Reply to Media Query on NS60 Commemorative and Recognition Efforts

National Service (NS) is the bedrock of Singapore's defence and security. In 2027, we will commemorate 60 years of NS. A special National Day Parade will be held at the Padang to commemorate this significant milestone. Throughout the year, Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will also introduce a series of NS60 commemorative events and initiatives to recognise our NSFs, NSmen, NS alumni and their families, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting our national servicemen throughout their NS journey. This includes an NS Exhibition and Army Open House, potentially, the opening of NS Square towards the end of next year.

For our NSFs, we recognise the commitment and contributions that they and their families make during their two years of full-time National Service. We will continue to support and take care of our NSFs during their service. Beyond providing for their training and military needs, MINDEF has a professional team that regularly reviews the NS allowance to ensure that it remains relevant to the personal upkeep needs, taking into account changes in the cost of living and other relevant factors. In these reviews, we also take in feedback from our NS commanders and NSmen, who understand first-hand the needs and experiences of our national servicemen. The allowance has been reviewed four times over the past 10 years, most recently in 2025, and the allowance for a recruit in BMT has increased by 65% since 2015. Today, an Infantry NSF Corporal who has completed his vocation training receives $1,090 a month in his second year. As part of our regular reviews, MINDEF and the SAF will continue to look at how we can better support and recognise our NSFs throughout their full-time NS journey.

For our NSFs and NSmen, MINDEF and the SAF will also explore enhancements to recognition initiatives, such as the NS Housing, Medical and Education (HOME) Awards, to ensure that they remains relevant to the needs of national servicemen at different stages of life and throughout their NS journey. The NS HOME Awards currently provide CPF and Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) contributions, as well as cash credits, at key NS milestones. MINDEF is also looking at a suitable NS60 Recognition package that our national servicemen, past and present, can look forward to. (See https://www.ns.gov.sg/web/profiles/nsf/nsf-welfare-benefits#support-for-your-ns-journey↗(opens in new tab) for more info on Recognition and Support for National Servicemen)

Further details on these initiatives and broader recognition plans will be announced in 2027.