Lessons to be learnt from Terrex incident

I refer to the commentary “Making sense of the Terrex incident” (Dec 7). It is unfortunate that this incident has happened.

It seems clear that the Hong Kong authorities have been dragging their feet over providing the reasons for impounding Singapore’s Infantry Carrier Vehicles, hence it is not difficult to relate such action to the real motive.

If it were purely because of administrative lapses by (shipping firm) APL, surely it would not need three meetings. The incident has shown that, despite our good relationships with other countries, we should never become complacent.

Through the years, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and soldiers training overseas have done us proud. Singapore should never succumb to pressure and compromise national security. Training must continue.

But there are questions to ask and lessons to learn. Should the SAF continue using private shipping companies to handle our weaponry? Can we fine-tune the process to avoid future hiccups? After all, these precious assets will safeguard our existence.