What Is Total Defence ?
Total Defence is about the different things that we can do everyday
in every sector of our society to strengthen our resilience as a nation.
When we take National Service seriously, participate in civil emergency
exercises, upgrade our skills, build strong bonds with different races and
religions, and feel the pride of being Singaporean, we contribute to Total Defence .
What Is the 5 pillar of Total Defence ?
The 5 pillar of Total Defence Consist of ;
"Singaporeans keeping Singapore secure"
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is a strong defence force that is
able to deter anyone from thinking of attacking the country. The SAF
draws its strength from the support of every Singaporean - national
servicemen, families, friends, colleagues and employers. National
Service is the only workable option to ensure our security. When National
Servicemen (NSmen) and full-time NSmen (NSFs) take their training
seriously, they help keep the SAF strong and operationally ready. Our
operational readiness is also maintained by ensuring that all equipment
is in good working order all the time, and keeping up with the latest
advancements in technology to meet new challenges in the battlefield.
The SAF has widened its capabilities to deal with non-conventional
threats such as terrorist bombings, hijackings, and chemical, biological
and radiological attacks. The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the SAF
will continue to work with other security agencies to deal with such threats.
"Taking care of your family, friends, and people around you in times of crisis"
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) recruits and trains civil defence
volunteers in first aid, rescue and evacuation procedures, and shelter management.
The SCDF also conducts talks and exercises to familiarise the public with basic
first aid, the nearest bomb shelters and emergency arrangements like relief supply
of critical items such as blood, water and food. Participating in such exercises helps
us to be prepared. When we know what to do, we can help to save lives and property,
and ensure that life goes on as normally as possible in times of crisis. The threat of
global terrorism will be around for some time. Much has already been done to ensure
that Singapore is well protected against terrorist attacks, but security personnel cannot
be everywhere. Singaporeans can help by looking out for, and reporting, anything suspicious.
"Working and saving to achieve a better life for everyone"
When we upgrade our skills and knowledge, it helps us to stay relevant and employable
in this rapidly changing world. Our ability to embrace lifelong learning and re-training is
vital to keeping our economy competitive. When the foundation of our economy is strong,
our economy will not break down so easily in times of war or crisis. Sound policies and
practices help us withstand external shocks. Putting in place measures to keep
businesses running and maintaining stockpiles of essential items also help to keep
our economy going. By saving electricity and water, and by adopting environment-friendly
practices as a way of daily life, we are helping to conserve energy and to protect our
environment. As a result, Singapore will continue to be livable for future generations.
"Living in harmony, looking out for one another"
Maintaining racial and religious harmony is critical to ensuring peace and stability
in Singapore. When Singaporeans understand and are sensitive to the cultures and
traditions of one another, and build strong bonds across different ethnic groups, we
help strengthen social cohesion. As one people, we have a duty to contribute to the
community by helping the less fortunate and underprivileged among us, regardless
of their race, language, religion, age or nationality. By doing so, we can further strengthen
social cohesion, and build a gracious, compassionate society.
