Juliana Juma'in

I have always believed in contributing back because I have gained a lot from the society and I understand that “no man is an island”. The announcement of the launch of the Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps (SAFVC) triggered me to give back to this nation through Military Defence, which is one of the five pillars of Singapore’s Total Defence. As an educator, I have always promoted National Education to my students and this was an opportunity for me to walk the talk. It is truly an authentic experience that I get to share with my students.

Stepping into Maju Camp, enlisted as an SAFVC Volunteer (SV) trainee, my mind was set – I was doing this for my family and my nation. Being a mother of three, I told myself that nothing should stop me from protecting and fighting for my children and the future of my country.

The Basic Training required me to internalise the eight core values of the SAF: Loyalty to Country, Leadership, Discipline, Professionalism, Fighting Spirit, Ethics, Care for Soldiers, and Safety. My fighting spirit was tested. It was quite a hefty task trying to overcome obstacles our young men undergo during their National Service, such as a familiarisation of the Standard Obstacle Course and the Battle Inoculation Course. The experience provided an insight and helped me to understand better what it takes to prepare our soldiers to defend Singapore. Trainers from different SAF vocations and schools shared with us their personal perspectives on what it takes to be a soldier.

As I observed my platoon mates and other SVs, I admired that everyone displayed a spirit of camaraderie. We were able to put aside our differences, language or culture, for a common goal. In fact, we were learning new things from one another, deepening our understanding and tolerance towards others, while building new relationships. Care and support for one another was pervasive as we transitioned from civilian to military life.

After Basic Training, a more specialised Qualification and Advanced Training awaited. Training to be a Bridge Watchkeeper in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) opened my eyes to see what our sailors had to go through. It was not simply being on board a ship and fighting a battle. A strong foundation had to be laid to prepare the SVs before an actual deployment. The learning curve was steep but it never deterred us from working even harder. Our experienced trainers helped us to understand our training by rationalising the application of the skills we learned, and our motivation was boosted further after listening to their personal experiences they have had while serving in the RSN to guard our precious waters. I am also proud of my former students, who are currently serving in the RSN, some of whom I met at Changi Naval Base.

My deployment on board RSS Endurance gave me the opportunity to experience a sailor’s life. Everyone on board was part of a family who played multiple roles to complete the operational function of the Landing Ship Tank. Application of skills from the Qualification and Advanced Training came into play, guided by experienced Naval officers. We observed how different units in RSN operate together, and even in cooperation with the Air Force. This provided the SVs a greater understanding of aspects in our nation’s defence, which might not be visible to the public eye.

It is a great honour for me to be part of the SAFVC and the RSN family, serving alongside regulars and Full-time National Servicemen, supporting Singapore’s military defence. Singapore’s peace and security should not be taken for granted. I hope more will be convinced and come on board the journey to safekeep what we have today. After all, Singapore is our Home.

Background information

Juliana Juma'in
Subject Head
Ministry of Education
Singapore Citizen
SAFVC role: Bridge Watchkeeper