Total Defence is not a plan laid out in times of war or national crisis. It is what we, Singaporeans, regardless of race or religion, do in our everyday lives to strengthen our resilience as one nation. This includes every aspect and sector of society.

Furthermore, there were two fundamental in introducing it in 1984. Singapore, having a very small population of 4.2 million and an inability to maintain regular armed forces, must involve every citizen to increase their defence capacity. Secondly, modern warfare is no longer limited to the battlefield with the typical guns and bombs. Potential antagonists can attack a country economically, socially or psychologically, which are less apparent.

Hence, every year, on February 15, Total Defence Day is held in commemoration of the landmark day that Singapore fell to the Japanese during World War II. Educational Outreach Programmes are organised by the various organizations and Government Ministries in Singapore to promote the importance of Total Defence and being united as one nation. A memorial service is also held at the War Memorial Park to remember the victims of the war.

How can we take part in Total Defence as a citizen of Singapore? Simple. When we take National Service seriously, participate in civil emergency exercise (e.g. Emergency Fire Drills, Bomb Shelter Open House etc.), constantly upgrading our skills to become adaptable to the changing market needs, participating in inter-racial activities & educational outreach programmes, we are already taking part in Total Defence. These programmes help to strengthen our unity as one nation during times of difficulty.

The five elements or aspects of Total Defence are aimed to strategize against the above threats and also to unite the people as one nation. They are:

• Military Defence

• Civil Defence

• Economic Defence

• Social Defence

• Psychological Defence

The Singapore Armed Forces ensures that Singapore secures a quick victory in the event deterrence against the aggressors fail. As National Service is the only viable option to safeguard our security, we must always take it seriously and be operationally-ready at all times. We must always keep up with the latest advancements in weapon technology to meet new threats on the battlefield. Furthermore, we must be ready to counter aggressions in other forms such as cyber warfare and terrorism.

To prepare ourselves in the event of a civil emergency, we must familiarise ourselves in emergency arrangements such as medical aid, supply of crucial supplies such as water and food. The Singapore Civil Defence Force trains civilians in various emergency exercises such as rescue work, evacuations, first aid etc. This is to ensure life goes on as normally as possible during times of war.

o withstand external shocks to protect the economy, it must be ensured that the foundations and fundamentals of the economy do not easily crumble from the impacts of a crisis. This is by building a strong foundation and putting in place contingency plans and stockpiles of resources to relief the economy during the crisis. Thus the economy (which encapsulates industries, offices, factories) would still be going strong despite a time of turmoil when the National Servicemen and civil resources are fully mobilised. We must also constantly upgrade our skills and knowledge to stay competitive, relevant and employable in the ever-changing market.

We must maintain the racial and religious harmony in Singapore and not judge anyone by their differences. We must learn to understand and tolerate these differences so as to form strong social bonds with one another regardless of their ethnic or religious groups. We must also help the less fortunate regardless of their race language or religion. Thus a stronger social cohesion and bond is formed.

When Singaporeans feel pride for their country, they will stand up to defend it to protect its independence and sovereignty. We must be confident in tackling challenges faced by Singapore.

Check out the Total Defence websites at http://www.totaldefence.org.sg and http://www.totaldefenceday.org.sg