The problem with saf is that it is an organisation build on the foundations of fear and authority. This foundation of fear and authority instills a false sense of discipline, papering over cracks in morale and cohesion. If I am an enemy planning to attack singapore, all I got to do is to create a sense of doubt in nsfs purpose. What exactly are we defending? The supposed welfare and lives of our families? Or the dreams and goals of the PAP? Theres literally nothing of value to defend on this sorry island unless we face a racially or religously motivated genocide. For that, I am willing to lay down my life to make a stand. However, the world is changing rapidly. Genocides are a thing of the past. Future conflicts will become ideological based.

Like it or not, singapore is just an economic engine. We are all mercenaries without identity who can ply our trade anywhere. One day, singapore will have to face the tough decision of abolishing ns, which is bound to come. There comes a point when the existence of ns will have to be questioned.

The smart thing to do for saf is to move on from the traditional fear and authority roots into a highly professional organisation build on principles of egalitarianism, mutual respect and trust. Nonsensical and toxic terms like chao keng needs to be punishable by death. Hierarchy, command and control should be kept but should have no relevant value beyond namesake. Everyone is intrinsically equal regardless of your position and rank. Only then will saf thrive regardless of the political situation.