IPPT resumes on Feb. 7, 2019, no penalty for those who missed it, safety is top priority

Singapore – On January 25, NSmen received text messages stating that the IPPT, IPT and RT were cancelled indefinitely, to give way for a safety timeout that was implemented by the Singapore Army in response to the death of Alosysius Pang.

More on that below:

https://theindependent.sg.sg/ippt-for-nsmen-temporarily-cancelled-by-singapore-army/

The safety timeout has now been progressively lifted starting January 31, 2019, while the IPPT (Individual Physical Proficiency Test) and small arms live firing will resume starting February 7, 2019 (Thursday). Other activities that have more risks will resume after safety reviews.

NSmen who were not able to book a schedule for their IPPT during the safety timeout will not be penalised.

Safety is the top priority

Minister of Defence Ng Eng Hen, through a Facebook post on January 31, reiterated the need for accountability across all top lines in relation to the safety of their men. He mentioned that Chief of Defence Force LG Melvyn Ong has met with 750 NS and regular commanders in order to “send the clear and unequivocal message that units can only train if they have high safety standards, with the right culture and mindset for zero tolerance against every unsafe practice.”

He also said that this emphasis on safety will be cascaded down to all units across the Singapore Army, Navy and Air Force.

As for the death of Aloysius Pang, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has appointed a judge that was nominated by the State Courts to serve as chair of the Committee of Inquiry (COI). From there, findings and recommendations will be given by the independent panel. “In the meantime, the SAF must continue to strengthen its safety systems, starting from the very top to reach the last soldier on the ground”, added the Minister of Defence.

Furthermore, a new Inspector-General’s Office has been set up which has the full authority to scrutinise and enforce safety processes in the SAF.

See the full post here:

https://www.facebook.com/ngenghen/photos/a.652163061543623/2125464147546833/?type=3