National Service 

I find the enduring discourses or debates on national service (ns) rather amusing or possibly unnecessary. Why should we criticise, question or challenge the regulatory requirements; knowing evidently that failing to comply will definitely result in legal ramifications and related difficulties. Should we continously debate on the cost-benefit of ns or the distractions or diffractions of ns on character development, education, career, etc. We know very well, there is no freedom of choice with regards to ns. We may also infer the most possible outcomes if NS is made voluntary thus optional. Being rational and highly pragmatic, it is thus proper to put such a concern within range and context with regards to ns requirements and respond to them appropriately. Surely, we have been made to understand our predetermined roles vis-a-vis ns, in this tiny city state that is highly vulnerable and thus susceptable to regional and global dynamics, whatever. My three sons and i went through ns. So did my three sons in-law. We are not against the ns obligations, nor do we speak fondly of the enjoyable or beautiful moments while in service, if any. To be in full praise of NS and whatever it entails without reservations, would be juvenile sophistry. We have accepted the reality of being a citizen and fulfil the predestined requirements. To be a patriotic self righteous person with regards to ns or to grudgingly survive the obligations that is quite akin to  pseudo-slavery, will continue to be a perennial discourse.