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SAF defers in-camp training, suspends IPPT for NSmen

A soldier asks the public to exit the Merlion park due to the closure of the place for the Singapore National Day celebration last year.Singapore celebrated its 55th National Day on the 9th of August 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo by Maverick Asio/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
A soldier asks the public to exit the Merlion park due to the closure of the place for the Singapore National Day celebration last year.Singapore celebrated its 55th National Day on the 9th of August 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo by Maverick Asio/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

SINGAPORE — The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has deferred in-camp training except for essential operations due to the COVID-19 situation.

Fitness Conditioning Centres (FCCs) are now closed, while the conduct of Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) and NS Fitness Improvement Training (FIT) at FCCs, SAFRA gyms and public locations are also suspended.

In a news release on Tuesday (18 May), the SAF said large-scale events will also be cancelled, deferred or reduced in size.

The safe management measures will take effect immediately and last till the end of the Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) on 13 June.

"Activities critical for build-up of operational units will continue with stringent safe management measures (SMMs) in place," it said.

Examples of these measures include safe distancing and frequent disinfection of common areas. Servicemen have also been split into smaller functional groups for activities, and meal times have been staggered to avoid cross-interaction between groups.

"As with other essential personnel, the vaccination programme for SAF personnel is making steady progress, with the majority of active forces expected to be vaccinated by the middle of the year. As an added precaution, the SAF had also introduced swab tests for servicemen who enlist in May, as well as their trainers, to ensure that Basic Military Training (BMT) can be conducted safely. These measures will continue," it added.

The SAF said it will continue to monitor the situation and review measures to keep servicemen safe.

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