In Singapore, employers are stepping up to support their national servicemen (NSmen), as evidenced by this year’s winners of the Total Defence Award: NCS and Fisk Tech. These companies play crucial roles in fortifying the nation’s defense by investing in the health and fitness of their NSman employees.

NCS, a homegrown IT company, offers a full-time gym instructor and a 4,000 sq ft gym equipped with an AI-powered Bio-Circuit system to help NSmen maintain their fitness. This system customizes workout routines based on individual fitness levels and goals. Additionally, NCS hosts weekly fitness classes and an annual Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Day Rededication Ceremony to honor employees serving in the SAF.

“Fitness is vital for operational readiness,” states Sam Liew, managing partner at NCS’ Gov+ Strategic Business Group, emphasizing that a healthy workforce contributes effectively to national duties. The company also provides Flexi Family Leave for NSmen to attend national service milestone events, allowing for flexible work arrangements that accommodate In-Camp Training (ICT) commitments.

NCS has achieved the NS Mark (Gold) for seven consecutive years, a recognition for companies that implement supportive human resource practices for national service. This commitment culminates in the Total Defence Award, which acknowledges exemplary contributions to national defense.

In contrast, Fisk Tech, a smaller company founded in 2021, exemplifies that no effort is too small. With almost half of its 20 employees being NSmen, CEO Varun Ramdas, who serves as an auxiliary security trooper, encourages his team to fulfill their national service obligations while ensuring that their job roles remain uninterrupted during ICT. Employees are provided with ample time to rest and receive missed allowances upon returning to work.

Fisk Tech also prioritizes the health of its NSman employees and their families by offering free annual health screenings. Ramdas believes that these commitments not only support the nation but also foster a positive work environment, with SAF values of leadership, discipline, and professionalism enhancing the company’s operations.

As both NCS and Fisk Tech demonstrate, fostering a supportive environment for NSmen leads to morale boosts and contributes positively to the community and the nation’s overall stability. These initiatives highlight the essential role that employers play in strengthening national defense while nurturing the well-being of their employees.