Read the articles on National Service. What have you to say about Melvyn Tan's action? Should the government rethink the scope of National Service in Singapore so future Singaporeans will not need to have their loyalty (and their manhood) questioned unnecessarily?
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I think that Melvyn Tan is a brave soul. He is even willing to forsake his career and thinking that he will go to jail, thereafter coming back to Singapore to receive his punishment. The government should think about Singapore and that they should give exceptions to those who have a career to pursue. I think that Melvyn did the right thing to go and surrender himself. He is a courageous person and i think that everyone should learn from the "surrender" part and just admit your mistakes when you do wrong. Lastly, i seriously hope that the government will rethink the compulsory conscription to go to NS.
ReplyDeleteI feel that Melvyn Tan has done the right thing and that is to accept and receive the punishments set for him and he also bravely admitted to his mistakes. On the other hand, Melvyn should not have escaped from National Service just because he had to pursue his dreams which was a one in a lifetime chance, as the act of not attending the National Service is illegal and not everyone is as lucky as him, having been able to just pay a fine and not go to jail. I suppose Melvyn should have considered his actions wisely before making such an unexpected and important decision. I believe that he could have returned to Singapore for National Service as there might be other better chances for him in the future if he works hard enough. I think that the law whereby "Every Singaporean should attend National Service" should be abolished. I feel that there is no need for an army in Singapore as there are no wars today and the World is in a rather peaceful situation. Not going to the National Service not necessarily mean that future Singaporeans' Loyalty and Manhood will be questioned. As a matter of fact, I believe that National Service is a form of way that Singapore make its young citizens grow up and gain experience and have the spirit to protect Singapore. Personally, I think that the Government should rethink the compulsory conscription to go to National Service as long as young Singaporeans have the sense of values stated above.
ReplyDelete@Sze Whye Keong
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with Whye Keong that Melvyn was a brave soul as not all people will do what Melvyn had did as they will think that it is a rather stupid decision, having escaped from National Service and left Singapore while still returning after many years and get charged for his actions.
I think that whether Melvyn's coming back to Singapore is not a wrong or correct choice. It is just to visit his parents who where unable to visit him aboard. If I were Melvyn, and if were parent could visit me, I would not have come back to Singapore.
ReplyDeleteI also feel that Melvyn did the right thing by skipping National Service for a once in a life time opportunity. Music is his passion. If I were in his shoes, I would have done the same as Melvyn. If Melvyn had returned to Singapore and done national service, this golden opportunity would have been wasted. He would never be that world renown pianist he wanted to be.
Lastly, I think that the Singapore government should reconsider compulsory conscription to go to NS. Singaporeans can serve the country in different ways if they are allowed to pursue their dreams
.They can later come back and serve the country when they are successful in their career. Two and a half years are very important to young man who have a bright future and going to spend that time in the army is just a waste of time. Melvin, by becoming a world famous pianist, has placed Singapore on the world map and that is much more useful than going for national service
I think that although Melvyn Tan has did the right thing in coming back to SIngapore, he should have come back way back ago. He might have already consulted his lawyer on the risk he is going to take, but eventually took the correct path and come back. The SIngapore government should have took initiative and asked him to come back from Overseas when he finished his studies. He can always put his Music career on hold if his is that good as they will still want him in 2 years time. He cannot just skip NS to go on a dream. What would have happen if everyone started doing what he did?
ReplyDelete@ Ang Xiang Jing
ReplyDeleteYes he might have come back to face his ghost from his past but what is something like 5 thousand worth to him, PEANUTS for a world class musician. So if i have a talent, i take it overseas to pursue my dream and i get the chance so i skip NS? I am sure that there a lot of young men who put their dreams on hold just to go to NS and i find what he did was utmost disgusting.
I think Melvyn Tan's had done the right thing but on the other hand, not doing the right thing. Right, what had he done right? He had the courage to own up his mistake and coming back to Singapore for his punishment, be it three years behind the bar or the $3000 fine. He was willing to sacrifice his career, his future, his fame, his glory, plainly everything. We should really admire his courageous spirit but not his act of disappearance. He should have come back Singapore at least after 5 years when he left. How long does one takes to carve out a career and fame when everything is prepared for Melvyn but only his performance? If his performance is not good, he will no be chanced in the first place! So, he had only to do what he is best in, playing the piano! That was all. 5 concerts or performance was sufficient to get him famous and his career a first-grade. After all, he was talented in piano playing. What had stopped him? Nothing but more fame and glory! Although i do agree with the masses that the fine has make a mockery out of the contributions of the many Singaporeans who have properly served their country, Melvyn did a part too! More of a Bigger part. He had given Singapore the glory, being a world renowned pianist and known as a Singaporean, he had carve out a bright future for Singapore and gained recognition on the global piano scene. Singapore was known to the world.
ReplyDeleteLike what Ong Soh Chin said : "While Singapore certainly needs its solders, there is no reason why non-soldiers cannot do their part for their country, a country that wants to be open and inclusive". I totally agree with that statement. In the 2 years, what were the chances of having a war? It is very low as the WW2 tension still arouse. Every country involved have their resources down. Why not just exclude it once for Melvyn when he is going to bring fame?
But then, it leads to the next question. If there is going to be a 1st case of skipping NS for a dream, there will be the 2nd, the 3rd, the 100th...and many more. How is the government going to deal with this?
@ William:
ReplyDeleteI stand on the same side with you on your discussion that Singapore would have to take the initiative to search for Melvyn Tan so as to complete his NS years. But was it worth the search for just one man?
Also, if he put his music career on hold, some other talented pianist would have taken up the chance/ take good advantage of the opportunity of the situation and taken up the chance. I am sure Melvyn is not only the talented ones out there.
Lastly, i agree with you on your last point
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe action of Melvyn Tan was one done by an unflinching person. Even though he has the choice of not returning to Singapore, but he chose to come back and face the dire punishment, a hefty fine and even heavier penalty, being put into jail. As the saying goes, “everyone deserve a second chance”, even though I do not agree with Melvyn Tan eluding National Service, but Melvyn Tan should have told the authorities about the difficulties he was facing then and hopefully, they can compromise and come to a agreement. I believe that Melvyn Tan had a valid reason for exempting National Service as he had a valuable chance of getting into the Royal College of Music, which is hard to come by. On top of that, he did Singapore proud by helping Singapore gain recognition on the global piano scene. As what Ong Soh Chin had said “A real man is one who admits his mistakes and is brave enough to face the music, so to speak. Melvyn Tan did both, without asking for special privileges.” Therefore, Melvyn Tan is atoning his wrongdoings by achieving accomplishment for the sake of the country. I believe that the government should compromise to the rights of the young Singaporean males, who are facing great difficulties over choosing career or attending NS. Thus, I believe that Melvyn Tan had chosen the right path of pursuing his career and going against the odds.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete@ Daniel Wen:
ReplyDeleteFor two of the points that you stated, i agree with one of it while I disagree with the other one. Firstly, Melvyn Tan should have admitted his mistakes and return to Singapore to face the punishments instead of escaping from it. For this, I don't see eye to eye with you. Secondly, instead of mandatory conscription for National Service and wasting manpower, why don't we use this manpower to do things that benefit the society in times of peace and achieving things, which can also contribute to the vast humanity of Singapore, therefore, mandatory conscription of National Service should neither be advocated nor implemented. Therefore, in a nutshell, I agree with this point of view of yours.
I think that Melvyn Tan's actions are unacceptable, even though there is a fine given onto him, i feel personally that the fine is not harsh enough to warn other Singaporeans that doing what Mr Melvyn Tan has done is wrong.
ReplyDeleteImagine if half the singapore population wanted to go overseas to study at the age of 16, By the time they actually get used to the overseas culture and studies, they would have to go back to Singapore and come back for NS.
Looking at this situation, Probably almost 90% of the Singaporeans won't want to come back. But if they do, They would most probably be fined and made to do training. This is not what Melvyn Tan received. It might be due to the fact that he helped Singapore gain international recognition that's why his punishment is so light, but if that is the case then the Singapore government is showing favoritism, which is not right for the government to do.
If Melvyn Tan wants to come back and touch Singapore soil, he should have served the army and do the fine so that there won't be any "privileges" or exceptions for any Singaporean and thus, making it fair for everyone.
I feel that the government should remove conscription for Singaporeans migrating overseas or studying or working overseas as it would cause trouble to the people. This is the 21th Century, Globalization is a very real thing now and things have changed. The people studying overseas would, in the long run, help Singapore, not only gain recognition, it would help to increase the education standard and maybe bring back some good influences to teach the fellow family members in Singapore. The fact that they are bringing people back to serve NS would anger the people serving NS and instead of showing loyalty to Singapore, They might just talk bad about it overseas, Which the government would obviously not like.
For Manhood, I feel that it is not right to say that " if You do not attend NS, You're less a man" this is not right. Serving 2 years in Ns does not mean that you become more a man when you come out. It's just misunderstood fact that army = manhood. Joining the army or not, i feel there really should not have any conscription.
Yeo Tun Zen
@ Ang Xiang Jin
ReplyDeleteI Agree with Xiang Jin on what he wrote " I feel that there is no need for an army in Singapore as there are no wars today and the World is in a rather peaceful situation." I might not agree with the fact that the world is at peace now but what agree is that there are no wars today and the wars that are actually happening between first world countries are political wars.
But i do not agree with Xiang Jin on what he said " I feel that Melvyn Tan has done the right thing and that is to accept and receive the punishments set for him and he also bravely admitted to his mistakes." as i feel that Melvyn Tan had no choice but to go back to Singapore as his parents were unable to go there. So i feel that he has no choice and was lucky that he got off easily.
if i had been as talented as melvyn i would have made the same decision as him and when my career is stable i would go back to get punished.
ReplyDeleteif melvyn really was brave he would have came back a long time ago, i believe he was influenced or convinced by his friends or other sources to return back or probably his parents stressed him to return.
rather not attending NS does not stop you from being a man its whats inside that counts
he is also probably encouraged that his is a talent and should not be dealt very harshly by Singapore as the Singapore government is on the lookout for talents
no matter how tough the sentence is if i had a chance and the same talent as melvyn i would choose his path too such a talent is very rare and if this talent is quelled it might do worse for Singapore.
his returning to Singapore shows he still has a consience and at least is willing to face the music no matter how awful the music is to hear
i believe everyone should have a second chance and ya he should be forgiven that is my stand
(how many words must we write?)
i dont agree with whye keong
ReplyDelete((I think that Melvyn Tan is a brave soul. He is even willing to forsake his career and thinking that he will go to jail, thereafter coming back to Singapore to receive his punishment))
nothing is as simple as it seems more checks are needed
Personally, I think that Melvyn was a valorous man. Yes, he skipped National Service however, he was willing to bite the bullet and come back to Singapore, ready for punishments. Melvyn was also a filial man, he could have stayed in England and never returned, why come back and get punished by the law? He came back for one reason and that is to visit and spend time with his ageing parents that are not able to visit him as age is cathcing up with them. I think that Melvyn Tan's decision was right. If I am Melvyn I will do the same thing and come back to Singapore and it does not matter if I get thrown into jail or get fined. Parents play a huge role in our lives, therefore it is only right to shower them with love just like how they used to do when we are young.
ReplyDeleteOf course I am not supportive of the fact that Melvyn Tan defaulted National Service. But he did not elude the NS for fun, instead he did something more productive, he became a famous pianist. However this does not mean that anyone who has talent can skip NS.
Lee Ming Han (13)
@ Xiang Jing
ReplyDeleteI do not agree with Xiang Jing's comment "I feel that there is no need for an army in Singapore as there are no wars today and the World is in a rather peaceful situation. "
We will never know when there will be a war, it can happen today, tomorrow, next year.etc Therefore there is a need for an army. If there is no National Service, all of us will continue to relie on others. Without the National Service, where will we be able to learn to be independent? The National Service impart skills such as surviving in the jungle, learning how to use a rifle and how to navigate in the lush forests and jungle.
As we may never know when a war may come, we MUST be prepared, if there was no National Service and a War breaks out, who will be there to protect the country and will we be able to operate the military equipments? If someday we are stranded on an island how will we survive? With the NS we can learn life skills, sure we may not need to use the skills but one day we will never know when we need to use it.
Lee Ming Han (13)
It's not a matter of whether he is right or wrong.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I believe that Melvyn Tan could not be blamed for defaulting on NS because he was simply following his dream. If one were to give up that opportunity, he might never realize his ambition of being a world-class pianist worthy of everyone's respect.
On the other hand, if the government was generous enough to allow budding talents like Mr Tan to default on NS, the country's defenses would be severely weakened indeed. Some Singaporeans might even believe that it's unfair and protest as a result. Why should some people be allowed to default on NS when it's something compulsory for everyone?
I believe that conscription has to be compulsory if we want our country to be strong enough to compete with the world. Without National Service, our country would be an easy target for aggressors. We should let Mr Melvyn Tan be the only exception to the rule. Budding talents would have to go for NS, but they would be relegated to less hectic jobs to preserve their talents. We should not let the desire and passion of one person to get in the way of the entire country, which obviously is of greater importance.
Jan-Michal Ong Jun (10)
@ William
ReplyDeleteThing is, he came back because he did not have a choice in the matter. He did not come back because he wanted to atone for having defaulted on NS. He came back for his parents, and "correct path" in itself is subjective.
I agree with your opinion that the Singapore government should have done something to call Mr Tan back for conscription, but even if they did, do you think he would have complied? Probably not, since he has already defaulted on NS once before. Becoming a world-class pianist isn't a matter of ability. You have to be spotted, and if he didn't go with them, he could have been forgotten and his ideals shattered.
It has occurred to me that it would have been disastrous if everyone followed him, but Mr Melvyn Tan had his reasons. It's not such a black and white affair.
I do not agree with Melvyn Tan's actions and find that he is absolutely at fault. First of all, I find that it is very irresponsible of him to have not fulfilled his duty as a Singaporean by not going for his National Service. The worst thing is that he had already been granted a deferment for a period of three years since his music course would have taken him beyond the enlistment age of 18 years old. However, after the deferment period was over, he did not return , instead, he applied for further deferment as he wanted to pursue his Masters degree in music. Secondly, I find that he is a very unappreciative person towards his own country, Singapore. The reason for saying that he is an unappreciative person is due to the fact that his scholarship was jointly funded by the Straits Times Press, Nanyang Siang Pau and Lee foundation to further his studies at the Royal College of music, and yet after all the money that was pumped into his studies, he is not even willing to offer a helping hand by just serving National Service for just 2 years of his entire life. After all, it is because of Singapore's help that he managed to get to the position which he is at right now. I think that the government does not need to rethink the scope of National Service in Singapore as I find that they are already being very lenient to those who do not serve their National Service as it is their fault for not wanting to play a part in defending their own country and being selfish by only thinking about themselves. The government is already being understanding by giving a deferment of about 3 years as any longer and people who act like Melvyn Tan may not be able to cope with the training which would only make it harder for them, therefore in a way , the government is actually trying to make life easier for its people.
ReplyDeleteJoey Choa
I think that Melvyn Tan is a really dedicated,faithful and brave person.
ReplyDeletehe is dedicated as he really puts in his all in his talent for music. and even made a tough decision to leave singapore and never ever being able to return. It had to be heart wrenching choice as he had to leave his parents far behind.
I think he was brave as he decided to return to Singapore even though he knew he had to pay his dues and even had a risk of being jailed and his future ruined.
He was faithful as he risked it all just so that he could make his parents life easier.
I think that the government should make NS compulsory for everyone.Even those with budding talents such as Melvyn as it would not be fair to those who are not very talented.the country's defense would be weaker, giving any country a chance to launch an attack. The government should also pay those who are serving NS more money as they are doing a huge service for the country. All in all, vaulting NS is a very irresponsible thing to do. Let us hope that Melvyn Tan is the only exception and no other cases such as this would happen again in the future.
@ Marcus Yew:
ReplyDeleteI do not agree with your part about singaporeans given a choice of serving NS or choosing their career. this would really weaken our countries defense power as less people would be attending NS. And we must always be ready. we cannot let this era of peace get into our heads as no one knows when this era might end, and a new reign of terror might start again. We have to be prepared for the worst. hence, i do not agree with you.
It could be understandable why he did not come back to Singapore to fulfil his National Service because his future was at stake then. If he had given up his dream and went for National Service, he probably would never have achieved what he has today. Given that, I can understand the dilemma he felt at that time and I think that in a way, his actions are forgivable. The government should show more understanding towards people like Melvyn Tan by allowing them to fulfil their National Service duties only when they have completed their overseas tertiary education and such.
ReplyDelete@ Tun Zen
ReplyDeleteI can understand why Melvyn Tan did not come back for National Service so I do not agree with Tun Zen because Melvyn Tan's career was at stake. If you were in Melvyn Tan's shoes, would you choose your career or give your career up and go back to serve National Service? Most people would rather choose their career and not serve National Service. However, I believe that Melvyn Tan would come back for National Service If he did not have the chance to become a great pianist,
I think Melvin Tan’s decision was a very courageous one, as he didn’t have to choose to come back to Singapore and risk being thrown into jail for defaulting on his NS service. I feel he was also a very filial person as he was willing to accept the punishments for skipping his National Service just to be able to see his parents in Singapore. The government should make exceptions like Melvin Tan’s case as this people are talented and we need such people. However, completely evading NS isn’t a good idea as its thanks to Singapore that we have what we have now. Instead of evading NS, the government could make some arrangements to have this people serve their NS after completing their studies overseas. This way, no one can accuse these talented people of their loyalty and manhood as they have served their NS, only later then most people.
ReplyDelete@ I agree with Shao Wei as Melvin Tan only had that single opportunity to realize his dream of becoming a world class pianist. Not everyone is truly that patriotic as to choose NS over a successful career. There are some risks and sacrifices to be made when you want to achieve something great. Therefore, I believe Melvin Tan made the right choice to leave behind everything in Singapore to pursue a career as a world class pianist in Britain
ReplyDelete@Jane
ReplyDeleteIf the Singapore government actually took the 1st step and called him to come back, a lot of unnecessary events would have not have took place. They should have called him and then told him the consequences that might take place if he did not come back. This will cause him to rethink and get his mind on the right track. He could have put his music career on a hold and could have written to the government for a year and half of NS followed by a testimonial from his teachers at the college telling how talented he is. This is what Han yu also said in his last part of his writing.
william yeoh(39)
I mean @Jan-Michal Ong Jun
ReplyDeleteI think Melvyn Tan have done both right and wrong things. The right one is he had that courage to return to Singapore to visit his parents due to their old age. Melvyn Tan even informed the authorities about his return to Singapore and then willing to go the court for hearing without asking for any special privilege. Hence, I don't think his a coward in any way.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, he had chosen to miss National Service to losing that one in a life time opportunity for his music career. I know skipping NS is wrong and people will often condemn toward this action but if I put into his shoe, I will face a great dilemma. If I went for NS, not only will I unable to further my music career, other musicians would definitely grab that opportunity. If I went for that opportunity, neither can I can return to Singapore soil anymore nor visit my parents who have difficulty to visit me in London. In fact, been away from his parents for a long time is a living torture. Hence, we can't really blame him for what he did.
In addition, Singapore is a small country with small population compared to neighborhood countries like Malaysia and Philippines. If we should doubt with the compulsory conscription for National Service, then we will have smaller defense force than usual and will be extremely vulnerable to other countries. Therefore, I don't think there should be any changes with it.
Willie Seah (33)
@Sze Whye Keong
ReplyDeleteI agree with your first point where you think Melvyn Tan is a courageous person when he returned to Singapore to face his music. However, I disagree with your other point, I know it will be great if you can further your music career instead of joining the NS. However, Singapore is a small country with small population and therefore we need a compulsory conscription for NS. If Singapore has a large population with high birth rate then I suggest the government should rethink about it. Should the government be lenient towards people who are remarkably talented, lesser people will join the NS and therefore, smaller defense force which Singapore will turn out to be vulnerable and likely to be attacked.
Willie Seah (33)
I think that Melvyn Tan is a courageous man because he was blod enough to return back to Singapore after failing to commit himself to the National service. He chose not to give up his music career, after earning such a great opportunity that musicians would definitely take up. We all know that passing by the NS, would be a great disadvantage to those who had serve NS with their blood and soul, but why don't we think about it too? If you would in his shoes what would you do? Some of you would do the same actions as him, therefore we cannot all blame him. Doing the wrong actions but being able to face the music, is the right thing.
ReplyDeleteI think that the government need not rethink the scope of NS in Singapore. The NS helps Singaporeans train and prepare for the future, in times of difficulty and crisis. This also assist them to be independent and make them protect our nation, which they had grew up in. Therefore the compulsoriness of conscription for NS should bot be rethought.
Teo Chee Kiat (28) 3C
@ Willie Seah
ReplyDeleteI agree with your second point about whether the government should reconsider the compulsory conscription. Without the compulsory conscription, SIngaporeans would not want to join National Service, and when this happens, we would not have any defense and Singapore would be fragile when we are defending from other countries attack. We would then be controlled by others, which is surely not everyone wants.
Teo Chee Kiat (28) 3C
I too think Melvin Tan was a very brave,courageous and daring to return to Singapore. He knew he would face either 5 years in jail,be fined $5000 or both. Although he should have been in Singapore to face his national service.
ReplyDeleteWhy did he have an advantage of 'avoiding' national service? He did not face neither the 5 years in jail or the $5000 charge. Other people who had 'avoided' national service were all given fines or were asked to go back to national service after they came back. Why was he not charged with either? Was it because he had a higher social status. If that is so, then it is very biased. The system in Singapore should be fair. If not everyone that escapes national service would came back to Singapore a few years later just to get fined $1000 dollars. Does national service equals to $1000? National service is for the protecting of Singapore, to prove that Singapore has its own army. If everyone would escape national service ten years down the road the army would reduced 3 folds. Therefore the strategy that was given to Melvin should be rethought.
Yeo Chong Han(Ivan)
3C
(35)
@Teo Chee Kiat
ReplyDeleteI disagree. Its not true. Singapore needs to rethink the punishment she gave to Melvin. I thought it was Singapore's policy to be fair to everyone.(correct me if i was wrong) Melvin should be treated just like everyone. Although he was brave i still think that is a reason to be treated differently. I am not communist but i believe in fairness. So the sentence give to Melvin should be rethought.
I think that Melvyn Tan is a courageous person as he is willing to forgo National Service, which might land him in jail, for his music career. However, I disagree with his actions of eluding National Service and getting fined after coming back to Singapore. If he had his difficulties, he could have requested to attend National Service only when he has built up his career. Not going to National Service does not show how loyal a person is to his country, or even question his manhood. There are still various ways one can show devotion to the country, and National Service is only one of the many choices.
ReplyDeleteTay Yu Xuan Glen (27) 3C
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ReplyDelete@ Chong Han
ReplyDeleteI agree to your point that Melvyn Tan only had to pay a fine for skipping National Service. I too think it is biased and unfair to a few others who did not go for National Service and had to pay both a fine and go to jail. By giving leniency to people of higher status to skip National Service, it would be equivalent to abolishing the law of needing to go to NS. Everyone who wants to skip NS can just accomplish high goals in life, have a higher social status and just pay a fine for not going to NS.
Tay Yu Xuan Glen (27) 3C
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAs Singapore is a small nation with a small population compared to other countries which are bigger in size as well as manforce, i feel that it is necessary for the Singapore Government to force all healthy young men to enter the National Service if we want to continue being such a successful country. Without the National Service made compulsory, i am sure many Singaporeans would not want to join the Singapore Army and there would not be many people defending Singapore when the need arises, and our country would fall easily under an invasion. What Melvyn Tan did was completely irresponsible as he could have informed the Singapore authorities that he needs some time to let his career take off before coming back to complete National Service. However, he did not do that and instead, he did not even bother to come back to Singapore, and i believed that he returned to Singapore only when he was desperate to see his parents. I think that what he did was a very cowardly thing to do.
ReplyDeleteTan Wen Da (26) 3C
@ Tong Shao Wei
ReplyDeleteI disagree as i believe that if Melvyn Tan were to request to postpone his National Service enlistment until after his career has taken off, i believe the Government would have allowed him to do so. However i think that he did not want to join the National Service at all, and did the cowardly thing by running away.
Tan Wen Da (26) 3C
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI think the Melvyn tan is a brave and courageous man. He may appears to be a coward when he went to england for nearly 30 years and defaulted his national service. However, he was brave enough to return back to Singapore and accept his punishment. He did not know what exactly his punishment was, but he knows that it is either a fine, jail term or both. To know the consequences and still face it, that's brave. It may be unfair to just pay a fine, but it was not him who chose the punishment. He got nothing to do with the punishment.
ReplyDeleteDaniel Chia (7) 3C
@ SZE whye keong
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you have said about Melvyn tan, about him being brave, courageous and not a coward, but I have to disagree with you about if government should reconsider the compulsory conscription of National Service. I think the National Service is needed in a small country like Singapore. We need a strong army to defend ourselves and to give security to the citizens. If national service is not compulsory, who is there to protect us? Not many will apply to go for National Service. When that happens, countries will invade us.
Daniel Chia(7) 3C
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI think that Melvyn Tan is a brave but irresponsible guy. His bravery is shown as he was willing to give up National Service for his music career. Even though he knew that he would land up in jail by doing so, he was still courageous enough to do so. I can feel his passion towards music and that he was willing to go against the law just for his goal and passion. Therefore, I admire him for that. However, I do not agree on his actions as a music passion does not give him the right to break the law. He could have waited till he completed his National Service before pursuing his career.
ReplyDeleteTan Jing Han(25) 3C
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete@ Marcus yew
ReplyDeleteI agree with you saying that everyone deserve a second chance and i also feel Mr. Melvyn Tan did the right thing to come back to Singapore knowing that he would "face the dire punishment, a hefty fine and even heavier penalty, being put into jail." However, i do not agree that " Melvyn Tan had a valid reason for exempting National Service as he had a valuable chance of getting into the Royal College of Music, which is hard to come by." I feel that every Singaporean male should do their part in helping the country by joining National Service. Who know when a war would start??? Thus, i feel that we always be on our guard. Skipping National Service may also weaken the country's defense.
Tan Jia Hao (24) 3C
I think that Mr. Melvyn Tan is a very courageous person. Even though he knew that coming back to Singapore would be a very hard and challenging ordeal, he still came back to face the punishment and a heavy fine. He is willing to give up his career as a world-class pianist and own up for his mistake. "A real man is one who admits his mistakes and is brave enough to face the music, so to speak. Melvyn Tan did both, without asking for special privileges.” I admire his courage. If I were Mr. Melvyn Tan, I would also own up for my own mistake but I would not run away from National Service like what Mr. Melvyn Tan did.
ReplyDeleteAlthough it is not wrong to pursue his own dreams, I feel that joining National Service is what every Singaporean male should do to help the country. No one can predict when a war would start, but we must also be on our guards. Thus, I feel that even though 2 and half years of National Service is long and tedious, Mr. Melvyn Tan should serve them and pursue his career after that. The punishment given to Mr. Melvyn Tan is too light. Boys in the future would also skip national service and expect the same punishment as Mr. Melvyn Tan had received. Thus, it is not fair for those who serve the 2 years and half years of hardship.
In conclusion, I feel that Mr. Melvyn Tan bought glory to our country in the musical world, but not serving National service and got away with a small punishment is not right. However, he is very courageous to come back to Singapore knowing that he may be sent to jail for his wrongdoings. His courageous spirit should be something everyone should learn from. People might say that he is not a real man, as he did not help the country in serving National Service. But to me, the definition of a real man is one who is willing to admit his wrongdoings and face the consequences. Mr. Melvyn Tan is one of them.
Tan Jia Hao (24) 3C
@ Glen Tay
ReplyDeleteI agree with what Glen had said about Melvyn Tan. If Melvyn Tan really wanted to pursue his music career, he could have requested to attend National Service after he had built up his career. It is very unfair to others who did not go for National Service and had to pay both a fine and go to jail, but Melvyn Tan only paid a $3000 fine. I also believed that National Service is one of the ways for men to show devotion to the country.
Tan Jing Han (25) 3C
Mr Melvyn Tan skipped National Service and could potentially get jailed for it but he still came back to Singapore. It shows that Mr Melvyn Tan has guts and is willing to accept the punishment he has caused for himself. Although he skipped National Service, which is a irresponsible thing to do, I feel that Mr Melvyn Tan has chosen correctly to pursue his passion for music instead of going back for National Service. Several people feel that with Mr Melvin Tan as an example, many youngsters ma try to skip National Service as well but I feel otherwise. If I was Mr Melvyn Tan, I would have taken that once in a lifetime chance and would then have went back to Singapore and gladly accept my punishment for Skipping National Service
ReplyDeleteBryan Ong Zheng Han (2) 3C
I agree with Sze Whye Keong in the part that Mr Melvyn Tan was a brave person and that Mr Melvyn Tan did the right thing by surrendering himself, receiving his punishment but I disagree that one should be excused if one has a valid reason as then many teenagers may try many different ways and means to slip out of National Service unless of course one has a valid medical reason. I also disagree with him in that National Service is non- compulsory as Singapore is a small nation and it would need all the manpower it has. If compulsory National Service is canceled, the Singapore army would almost definitely be cut by at least half. Another reason is that National Service is what turns a boy into a man.
ReplyDeleteI feel that what Mr Melvyn Tan had done was extremely foolish and would surely make one question his manhood. First of all, he is defying the laws and regulations that are with regards to National Service. This would then be classified as a crime, and severe consequences should be distributed. However, he had only received a fine. I believe that the authorities were being too lenient, by letting Mr Tan off with just a fine. If every Singaporean male were to take the easy way out and have the mindset of Mr Tan, neglecting National Service, surely the authorities would
ReplyDeleteapprehend the whole lot of them. This 'punishment' that was issued to Mr Tan was just not fair.
Cameron (3)
@ Chong Han
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, in that Melvyn Tan was a courageous and bold man. I also strongly agree that the authorities are extremely biased and prejudiced towards a high profile person like Mr Tan. Your also mentioned about Singapore's defense force. I feel that if everyone were to be like Mr Tan, the defense sector will be greatly affected, causing our vulnerable country to become even more prone to unsuspecting attacks. Defense is of a high significance to our small country and should be taken very seriously, therefore we cannot afford to have men like Mr Tan
I think Melvyn Tan did the right thing by coming back to Singapore. Although I think him skipping his National Service to pursue his career was not the best decision he could have made but he was still brave and courageous enough to come back to Singapore and face the consequences. Most people would have taken advantage of the situation and avoided the punishments and consequences for skipping NS. However, Melvyn Tan came back despite knowing there was a chance he would be going to jail for his actions, and this incident itself shows us that he is a man who dares to admit his mistakes and accept the punishments. However, i think NS is still an extremely important service that all Singaporean males must go through.
ReplyDeleteYik Sin Kang (38) 3C
@ Chong Han
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the punishment given to Melvyn Tan was a little unfair and biased. Melvyn Tan could have only paid a small fine while another person could have served the jail time and paid a larger fine. The Singapore law system should make a standard punishment or jail time for all who skip their NS, and not base their punishment on what they have achieved over the time they disappeared.
I feel that Melvyn Tan’s decision in coming back to Singapore was right thing to do however I suspect his intention was not so genuine. He made the decision to surrender himself so that he could see his parents again as they were getting too old to make regular trips to London to visit him. His family fondness was probably the real reason for him to willing return and take the “risk” of receiving punishment for evading National Service.
ReplyDeleteI can rationalize why he did it; the call up was at the time when his career was about to take off and its natural for a young person to put his career before nation or family. Being a pianist was his aspiration so if he came back for National Service he would have let the golden opportunity slip by. I believe that everybody have their dreams and would surpass any obstacle in order to fulfill it. While in this case, the obstacle was National Service. Nevertheless, I think that Melvyn was a valiant man. He could have stay back in England and avoided the unpleasant confrontation with the Government of Singapore, regarding him defaulting National Service.
I do not think the scope of National Service should be changed but the training and discipline with National Service should be revisited. National Service is necessary if Singapore is to be able to defend herself and with our declining birth rate it will become more difficult to build our Army, Navy and Air Force. However the penalty in Melvyn’s case is too light. Did he get away with it so lightly because he has international celebrity status and has helped put Singapore on the world map? I am sure that the many young men who had served their full two years National Service would feel that he got away easy and feel that there is a prejudice in the system. It would seem that people who are of a higher utility value that is, “the more you bring to the table, the more valuable you are” to the Nation, will not be penalized too strictly. If this is allowed to happen then the episode with Melvyn Tan could haul down the significance of this sacred National Service.
Timothy Tan You Da (29) 3C
@Sze Wye Keong
ReplyDeleteI do not agree with him that the government should think about Singaporeans and that they should give exceptions to those who have a career to pursue. This is because of the fact that practically everyone has a career to pursue. So in actual fact, he is suggesting that everyone can just defer National Service for a self-centered and individual reason of pursuing their own career rather than defending their home; Singapore.
However I do agree with Wye Keong that Melvyn was indeed courageous as he came back prepared to receive whatever punishment will be melted out to him. That also included a possible jail term.
Timothy Tan You Da (29) 3C
I do not agree with what Michael has said about Melvyn Tan not being at fault by defaulting NS as he was just simply trying to achieve his dreams of being a world class musician. In my point of view, I still find that his reason of defaulting NS so as to achieve his Masters degree in music is not acceptable. Besides, he was already given a deferment period of 3 years and I find that it would not be fair if the government continues to grant him a deferment period as both parties should give and take. It would not be fair if Melvyn Tan keeps getting to postpone his NS while the country that he should be protecting keeps on waiting for him. Furthermore, if his reason for not going for NS is because of him wanting to achieve his dream, then to me, he is just setting a bad example for others to follow. I believe that every man who enters NS has his own personal dreams, yet they are willing to let it wait as they know that their priority is to protect their country first. Thus, I find that Melvyn Tan does not have a very valid reason and the fault lies in him.
ReplyDeleteI think that Melvyn Tan is a brave and filial person. He did the right thing by returning back to Singapore to see his parents. He could have been arrested and thrown into the jail for not fulfilling his National Service duties. He is not a coward but a real man that admits his mistakes and courageous enough to face the music.
ReplyDeleteHowever, Melvyn Tan should not default his national service. This will create a commotion among those men who have served the National Service and this would question Melvyn Tan’s loyalty to the country. The country cannot afford to compromise national security by changing the nature of our national service to accommodate the aspirations of individual. Instead, Melvyn Tan could have sought for special permissions from the country to serve his National Service some time later.
In conclusion, I think that all men should serve their National Service, as Singapore is a small country with limited resources. If we do not build up or maintain our defenses, the country will face many threats and we could be easily attack at anytime.
Alan Chan (05)
@ Xiang Jing
ReplyDeleteI do not agree with Xiang Jing’s comment “I feel that there is no need for an army in Singapore as there are no wars today and the World is in a rather peaceful situation.”
I think that the purpose of National Service is to bring young Singapore from diverse backgrounds together to forge unity and cohesion among Singaporeans. If we do not have a strong army, we could face threats from other countries and we could be attack easily. Although there are no wars today, we should not overlook the importance of National Service. We should not take the current peaceful situation for granted but instead, treat this matter seriously as it concerns about our country’s security.
Alan Chan (05)
I totally think that Melvyn Tan's actions is unacceptable. Firstly, as he is born as a singaporean, he should abide by the rules of Singapore. That is to attend the National Service as it is compulsory for him. The reason for his decision to come back to singapore after 37 years may not how courageous he is, or rather,to visit his two aged parents.
ReplyDeleteThe world may seems extremely peaceful now, but who knows, Singapore may be attacked anytime! Let us imagine, if every Singaporean emulate Melvyn Tan to default on their national service, then, who is there to protect Singapore? I also felt that a $3000 fine on his is too merciful. Although he had made Singapore proud in the global piano scene, that does not mean that he can get privilege when he did something wrong. He should be fine up to $5,000 or sent to jail for up to three years, or both under the Enlistment Act, or even more. That is to warn the younger generations not to escape the National Service.
I think the Singapore should continue with the National Service policy as Singapore is a small country and needs people to defend and also to develop men in Singapore. I felt that the government should contemplate on Melvyn Tan's "too light" punishment so as to be fair to everyone.
Guo Ze Chuan(10) 3C
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete@ Cameron
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the punishment for Melvyn Tan's actions is too lenient. I think that even the president commits a crime, he also must be punished according to the country's law. That is to be fair to everyone in the country, if not, there will be no need for any law to be implement. If we are lenient to Melvyn Tan,then, others may feel that they just had to pay $3000 to escape the National Service, which is very wrong. Furthermore, we had to make sure there is a strong amy to protect Singapore,so, Melvyn Tan should receive the same punishment as any other people to warn against people who wanted to escape the NS.
I do not agree with Melvyn Tan’s actions to “skip” National Service to pursuit his dreams as I think this is a very irresponsible act. As a Singaporean or a permanent resident of Singapore, it is a basic knowledge and responsibility to serve the army or the police force for 2 years when you turned 18. I think that there should be no excuse to default from NS, no matter how precious the opportunity can be during that time. Everyone has dreams; we all have goals, if we all put our aspirations above the country’s security and well being, if everyone default from NS, then there will not be the sense of sacrifice for our country. There will not be the need to defence for our own country; our country will become vulnerable to other countries. If our country is being torn by war, no amount of personal achievement can bring you happiness and peace.
ReplyDelete@ Alan Chan
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the security and well-being of Singapore cannot be neglected even if the there is no conflicts between Singapore and any countries. I also think that the National Service should remain as what it is now as our soldiers will rise to the occasion if there is any emergency. Our soldiers will also go to the aid of other countries in the case of any natural disasters. I think that the punishments of Melvyn Tan is lenient and he should at least go to jail for a week. The reason to come back after a long 37 years, may not be as simple as it seems, as it is thought that he came back only because his parents is too old to visit him in Britain. Nevertheless, his reputation is tarnished among fellow Singaporeans due to his default from NS, and will not be someone that youths will look up to despite his status.
@Jun Kai,
ReplyDeleteI think what he agrees about not agreeing with melvyn tan's actions are right. Everyone has a part to play in attending National Service. Since we are Singaporeans we should also serve our country by helping NS. Running away is not a problem. It is the problem with us. In this case, it is the problem with Melvyn Tan. So what if you have dreams to pursue. If war comes to Singapore what dreams do you still want to pursue? Everything is gone. So are your dreams. Looking at the long term plan is what everyone wants to look forward too. However, even if you have important dreams to pursue, what is most important is that you have loyalty to your country, in this case obviously Singapore. One important thing i agree with Jun Kai is that what happens if everyone behaves like Melvyn Tan. Would not then be no more NS in Singapore? Even if there are special dreams to look forward too, shouldn't you go for NS then consider your dreams? We say the Marist Creed every Monday. What does the Marist Creed say? God first then country right? That main purpose is that you should obey your country by serving NS, then go on to pursue your dreams. In that way, you would be serving your country and pursuing your dreams too.
I believe that what Melvyn Tan was right. Although it was irresponsible for him to not go through what other men in Singapore here went through, he had a valid reason, that is to pursue his dreams as a pianist and besides, he was a rising bud. Given the situation, I too would have done the same thing. Melvyn did, however, come back to face the consequences of not attending National Service.
ReplyDeleteWhile the rest of the Nation would debate over this topic, I take my stand that what he did was both right and wrong. Wrong whereby he did not attend National Service and placed his passion as a priority, and right whereby he came back to Singapore to face the music (lol @ irony).
Par Mian Yang (20)
@Ze Chuan
ReplyDeleteYes, he is irresponsible for not attending Nation Service.
But put yourself in his shoes, would you have done the same thing?
It's the matter of how your life would turn out.
You, as a rising star, suddenly fading due to your 2 year absence in the music scene.
Or, choosing to return for National Service AFTER you've established yourself as a maestro.
It's a decision that many would have difficulty choosing upon.
What would you do?
I think Melvyn Tan is a brave and responsible man as he took a great step of courage to come back to singapore. Although he knew that he faces the prospect of being jailed , fined or even both, he was still willing to face the consequences of his actions. However, I do not condone his action of skipping National Service in the past as i believe that we should be loyal to our country. The country has brought us many opportunities, a clean place, a good government and many more. Being Singapore citizens, i believe that it is our right to take ownership of this country and serve it to the best we can. Adding to that, i think that he should not be let off lightly, as more and more similar cases will happen in the near future. People will think that as long as they would like to pursue their dreams, their country to them is secondary and they would not think twice about skipping National Service. I would have to say that his actions were both right and wrong.
ReplyDelete@ Parmy
ReplyDeleteI disagree with you that what melvyn tan gave was a valid reason. I believe that the country comes first for every citizen and we should not neglect our responsibility as a Singapore citizen. Being a man, we must attend the compulsory national service like every other man in Singapore does. We cannot skip it and say that it is because we have talents to pursue. I think many of them have talents that they want to pursue but they have to give it up to serve the country. Thus i think that it does not make his a special case.
However, i will agree with you that he is right to come back to Singapore to face the music. I think he is being a real man by doing that.
I find that Melvyn Tan was wrong for not attending National Service as he wanted to pursue his dreams. Although it's right for someone to pursue their own dreams but I think that he should either serve NS before or after he pursue his dreams.
ReplyDeleteIt is not fair for the other men who suffered through this period of time in NS while he just pay a fine for not attending it.
Through this incident, many men will go pursuing their dreams, skipped NS and pay a fine, thats all. So, I find it wrongful for Melvyn Tan to do that.
But I agree that he is a courageous man to return back to Singapore but the fact still remained that he did not attend NS and just pay a fine and got away with it.
So, I think that he should serve NS first and pursue his dreams in his later life. :)
Goh Kuan Hwee (08) 3C
Sorry for my name on my previous comment.
ReplyDelete@Ming Han
Ming Han, if he was thrown into jail, he will not be able to take care of his parents as well! Why go through all these troubles if he had simply attended National Service a few years ago and get over with it?
But I do agree with you that he is a filial son and his love for his parents. So, I think that Mr Melvyn Tan should think carefully before he decide something. (:
Goh Kuan Hwee (08) 3C
I find that Melvyn Tan was wrong for not serving National Service. Although i personally feel that pursuing one's dream is not wrong, but there is always a right time and place to do personal matters. It is not fair for others that suffered in the National Service, while he just pays a fine.
ReplyDeleteI feel that not serving National Service is a serious offence and the offender should be dealt with severely. I believe this is to teach others a lesson so that it would not be repeated in the future. If this carries on without any action taken, more people would be likely to skip National Service thinking all they have to do is to pay a fine. This would result in a weaker defence force in Singapore and we would be vulnerable to attacks.
As such, i believe that all Singaporeans should serve their National Service proudly and not "pay a fine" just to avoid the suffering.
Jeremy Png (11) 3C
I would like to quote Whye Keong. I disagree with him. Melvin only came back to Singapore because he wanted to see his parents who could not visit him. He did not do any right 'thing' nor did he 'come back to receive his punishment'.
ReplyDeleteBut I think he his very brave and confident by not going to NS to his pursue lifelong dream. I would have done the same
@Parmy
ReplyDeleteI disagree with you that Melvyn Tan gave a valid reason just to skip National Service. If this kind of wonderland thinking could be accepted as an excuse, more people would be likely to skip National Service and come up with all kinds of excuse. Although he came back to face reality, i do not believe it is a kind of bravery, as one should atone for one's mistake.
I think that Melvyn Tan was wrong to have skipped NS as NS is the fulfillment of our debt to Singapore.
ReplyDeleteGrowing up in such a safe and condusive enviroment, we have to give thanks to our country for being able to allow us to grow up in relative peace and stable conditions. Looking at some other countries who are in turmoil, perhaps it is time we looked back and thanked Singapore for giving us such a good home.
Also as SIngaporeans, we should do our part to protect our country as we have nobody but ourselves to rely on. Being such a small nation, we might get bullied by other nations if we seem weak. Thus we have to get as many men ready to fight for our country lest we perish without a fight.
A good example is Israel. There, both men AND women have to serve NS. They like us, are a small country surrounded by other nations who might attack at any moment. They have to make sure they stand strong and to do that they have to do NS.
I am not saying that talents like Melvyn Tan should not be nurtured but I believe it is fair to say that 2 years of one's life is not a long time considering how long one will live in Singapore's relative peace and comfort. Besides, after Melvyn finished NS he could have still pursued his musical studies.
Sometimes one has to disregard oneself and put country before self.
Chan kah Hon
Replying to Jeremy:
ReplyDeleteI think that perhaps dealing too harsh a punishment might be a bad thing as it would make other people think that Singapore FORCES it's people to serve for the country, instead of doing it voluntarily.
Think about it. Even if Melvyn Tan was forced to do NS, he probably would not have done it willingly and enthusiastically, thereby affecting his squadmates.
Those who skip NS should be given a fine but I don't think jail is the answer. Perhaps the suspension of their citizenship would be a better deterent and punishment. That way the offenders will not be able to enjoy the benefits of Singaporean citizenship.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I want to say that Melvyn Tan still is a true Chinese who possesses the traditional virtue of being a filial son to his parents after stayed in the UK for over 30 years. Despite the fear of being jailed and fined, he came back to singapore to see them neverthless as they really missed each other.
ReplyDeleteI have seriously looked up for the word, 'man', on the web. Among a good many definitions, I like this the most: A real man makes decisions and lives with the consequences. A real man accepts responsibility for his actions and his words. to me, Melvyn Tan is a true man. Right or wrong, he made his choice to pursue his dream. He escaped the NS and lived with a name that I am sure he calls himself deep down at times, defaulter, for 30 years. Just imagine the mental burden! However, he finally decided to live with the consequences and delivered himself up to justice, ready to accept whatever the punishment the government might give.
Having been fined only $5000, of course it is not fair to say that talented people should be privileged, however, it is also not only his talent helped him to become a world-renown pianist today but his hardworking attitude and passion for music. In the other word, he did not spent the 2 years enjoying his life in glamor and luxury but putting thousands of hours of practice in front of the piano!
Lastly, I think that people should not be too narrow-minded to say that he is a total failed man. in fact, isn't it a good time to practice the meritocracy or/and elitism ?
I feel that he is filial as he would risk getting into trouble with the law just to see his parents. Although I feel that skipping national service is rather irresponsible as although he got away with it, other people might think that just with money they too can escape national service. Ns men should be proud that they are serving the country in such a brave way. I think another way the government can reduce the amount of people skipping ns is to create more punishments and to also increase the fine. Singapoe is such a small country, so we have to make national service compulsory for male singaporeans. If it was optional, then many people would choose not to go and then who would be left protect Singapore?
ReplyDeleteI think that he is very brave to go back into Singapore to visit his parents but at the same time, he was also some what of a coward by skipping national service. Although he got away with it, I think that he has rightfully faced the music by actually appearing in court and know that he has done wrong. I think that everyone should be given a second chance. I do not think that the country should change its scope on national service as a test of loyalty is just what everybody needs every once in awhile. I feel that youths serving in national service should be sincere about what they are doing and not just take it as "another job".
ReplyDeleteChai Jia Hao Bryan 3C (4)
Replying to Jun Heng:
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jun Heng about our responsibility to protect our country. However, I do not think it is necessary to make the punishments more harsh as it would not be very helpful. People who skip national service usually migrates to another country. In that case, they would never want to come back as they know the punishments are really harsh. It is something like banishing people from our country. I also believe that Singaporeans know the responsibility to protect our country. Hence, we should all be sensible enough to fulfill our responsibilities as a Singaporean.
Chai Jia Hao Bryan 3C (4)
@ Xiang Jing 'I suppose Melvyn should have considered his actions wisely before making such an unexpected and important decision.'
ReplyDeleteHe was only 12 years old then, how wise could his consideration be?
@ Wen Daniel 'If I were in his shoes, I would have done the same as Melvyn.
That's honest of you!
@ William 'He can always put his Music career on hold if his is that good as they will still want him in 2 years time. He cannot just skip NS to go on a dream.'
No, you can never put opportunities on hold and opportunity like that definitely does not come by easily.
@ Wong Chee Wee 'If there is going to be a 1st case of skipping NS for a dream, there will be the 2nd, the 3rd, the 100th...and many more.'
Surely Melvyn Tan is not the first and when there is a 100th, the law has to be rewritten.
@ Tun Zen 1. 'Imagine if half the singapore population wanted to go overseas to study at the age of 16'
2. 'As I feel that Melvyn Tan had no choice but to go back to Singapore as his parents were unable to go there. So i feel that he has no choice and was lucky that he got off easily’
1. That will not be happening, and if it happened the flaw of this law must be huge.
2. He had a choice: to not return, visit his parents and be a filial son.
@ Xin Kai 1.‘if Melvyn really was brave he would have came back a long time ago’
2. ‘he is also probably encouraged that his is a talent and should not be dealt very harshly by Singapore as the Singapore government is on the lookout for talents’
1. True, but it is never too late to write the wrong, right? And do not forget, the longer the harder.
2. So that is you own assumption?
@ Titus ‘The government should also pay those who are serving NS more money as they are doing a huge service for the country.’
Agree, though I will not get it.
@ Jun Heng ‘I think another way the government can reduce the amount of people skipping ns is to create more punishments and to also increase the fine.’
This is about protecting your own motherland, not being forced to be slaved!
I think that Melvyn is a very brave soul. This is because he could have just stayed overseas and continued with his career instead of coming back and facing the music.
ReplyDeleteThe Singapore government should keep NS compulsory. This is because, firstly, Singapore is a small country and if NS was to be an optional affair, many would choose not to join the NS and who woulb be left to protect Singapore? Secondly, if there was no NS, many young people may not experience hardship and suffering and they may not be able to accept it when they grow older.
Raphael Ng (18) (3C)
Replying to Jun Heng:
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jun Heng that Melvyn is a filial person as he was prepared to come back to Singapore and face the music just so that he could visit his parents.
Raphael Ng (18) (3C)