Nation

Shock and Laughter as Singaporean Woman Deems Male Colleague's In-Camp Training a "2-Week Holiday"

2024-12-18

Author: Arjun

Introduction

A recent debate has erupted on Reddit after a Singaporean man vented his frustrations about a comment made by his female colleague regarding his mandatory two-week In-Camp Training (ICT). According to him, she jokingly referred to the training as a '2-week holiday,' prompting him to ask, 'Can I report to HR? I legitimately feel discriminated.'

National Service Obligations

The man further elaborated that in Singapore, male citizens are required to complete a total of 10 cycles of reservist training over the years. For those who excel in the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT), there are financial incentives, with a silver score earning $300 and a gold score rewarding $500. This system is part of Singapore’s national service obligations, which many citizens take pride in, despite the challenges it may pose.

Humorous Reactions from Netizens

In a humorous twist, he expressed resentment that 'any ah lian or XMM (xiao mei mei)' could potentially earn more at their full-time jobs without having to undergo the same reservist commitments. His comments ignited a wave of laughter among fellow netizens who flooded the thread with witty responses aimed at the female colleague's remarks.

Context of ICT Experience

Interestingly, some commenters acknowledged that depending on the unit, their ICT can indeed feel more like a vacation camp, with opportunities to reconnect with old comrades and forge new friendships. It is a mixed bag of sentiments where camaraderie often outweighs the demanding physical training.

Gender Dynamics and Perspectives

In a curious observation, the thread lacked responses from women, leading to speculation about their views on the matter. As the debate continues to unfold online, it raises questions about gender dynamics in Singapore's national service and the perceptions surrounding it.

Conclusion and Invitation for Participation

Women in Singapore, what do you think? Is In-Camp Training truly a holiday, or is it a crucial responsibility that should be valued? Join the conversation!