Committee of Supply 2026 debate, Day 2: Alex Yam on strengthening defence in the community

Defence in the community should be visible in small but telling ways and if the government is intentional in leveraging the reach and influence of institutions like SAFRA, it can ensure that Total Defence can remain a lived national commitment, said MP Alex Yam. Speaking in parliament on Friday (Feb 27), he wanted to know how the Ministry of Defence will track and assess if Total Defence is truly anchored in the community, and what more can be done to strengthen this vital pillar of national resilience.