SAF suspends physical training after two deaths in two days
By Valarie Tan, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 12 June 2008 1715 hrs

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	Related News • RSAF serviceman dies after collapsing during training • NS recruit dies after fainting during training activity • Officers undergo enhanced physical checks prior to jungle training in Brunei

SINGAPORE: In an unprecedented move, the Defence Ministry declared a three-day halt to all physical and endurance training activities in the army, navy and air force.

The 'time-out' from 12-14 June follows the death of two servicemen in training within two days.

20-year-old Officer Cadet (OCT) Clifton Lam Jia Hao, a pilot trainee with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), died on Wednesday, one-and-a-half hours after he collapsed while he was undergoing jungle orientation training in Brunei.

A day earlier, 20-year-old army recruit Andrew Cheah Wei Siong died after he fainted while taking part in a two-kilometre walk training activity on Pulau Tekong.

Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean said the suspension will allow the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to review and re-focus on training activities to ensure that proper procedures are in place before training resumes.

"While the SAF needs to carry out realistic training, this will be done without compromise to safety," added Mr Teo.

The minister also extended his condolences to the families of Mr Cheah and OCT Lam. "I am saddened by the loss of two young and precious sons of Singapore," Mr Teo said in a statement. - CNA/ir