Wednesday, October 29, 2008

“Total Defence is best for Singapore’s defence and security.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Issue : Singapore’s defence and security

Given Factor : Total Defence

Alternative Factor 1 : Citizen Army

Alternative Factor 2 : Singapore defence Industry

Ranking: All three are equally important. If any one aspect is missing, it will compromise the security and defence of Singapore.

Singapore’s defence and security is vital to her survival as she is a small country.

One way to ensure Singapore’ defence and security is to promote Total Defence. Total Defence comprises of 5 aspects: Military, Civil, Economic, Social and Psychological Defence. It involves the entire population. Civilian population has to be prepared for its defence and security. Singaporeans deter potential aggressors by showing that all Singaporeans are prepared for defence in all areas. This will present a more united front to the outside world and deter them from wanting to attack Singapore as it would be more challenging. In this way Total Defence is good for Singapore’s defence and security.

However, it is not just Total Defence only but a citizen armed force that protected Singapore. When National Service was introduced, all able-bodied male citizens were called up for a part-time or full-time NS. These soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force. Singapore had greater security because Singaporeans learn to defend their own country and develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny. In addition, the citizen armed force of over 350 thousand soldiers which is operationally ready will help to deter potential aggressors. The armed forces is transformed into an intelligent defence force where the Air Force, Navy and Army operate together as an effective unit. In this way, maintaining an effective citizen armed force is another way to ensure Singapore’s defence and security.

However, the fighting capability of the armed forces can only be enhanced by the presence of the defence industry which helped the Armed Force to develop into an effective fighting force through the use of latest defence technologies, weapons and equipment which other countries may not have. In this way, the security of Singapore is ensured as our level of deterrence is heightened and our enemy would think twice before they plan to attack Singapore.In conclusion, Total Defence is not the best way for Singapore’s defence and security. Although Total Defence involved more people in the defence of Singapore, Singapore must also ensure that she has an effective fight force with up-to-date defence technology. Only when these three aspects are equally developed can Singapore’s defence and security be ensured. All three are equally important. If any one aspect is missing, it will compromise the security and defence of Singapore.

No comments: