The only way for Singapore to maintain her national security is having military cooperation with other countries.

How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. Introduction National Security refers to Singapore ability to protect and defence herself from being attacked by other countries. (P.E.E.L. Given factor) One of the way for Singapore to maintain her national security is having militray cooperation with other countries.(Point) Singapore participated in bilateral exercises conducted with other ASEAN countries, Australia, India, New Zealand, Taiwan and the USA. Singapore also participated in multilateral exercises such as the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FDPA) exercises. The FPDA was formed in 1971 to preserve peace in the region. In the event of an external threat to Singapore and Malaysia, the members are to consult one another on the appropriate measures to be taken. Potential aggressors will think twice before attacking Singapore when there is military cooperation with other countries, as military help can be expected from other countries. (Explanaion and Examples) These exercises, in increasing cooperation and strengthening ties among the participating countries help to maintain Singapore national security. By maintaining friendly relationship with these countries, other countries will think twice before they attack Singapore. In this way, Singapore national security is maintained. (Link) (P.E.E.L. Alternative factor) However, cooperation with other countries alone cannot help Singapore maintain national security. (Point) This is because even though Singapore wants to maintain good relationship with as many countries as possible, we cannot determine nor control other countries action.If they decide to attack us, we need to have another deterrence which is to have Singapores own citizen armed force. This is because a citizen armed force will stand ready to defend Singapore at all times. In 1967, National Service (NS) was introduced. All 18 years old able-bodied male citizens were called up for or full time NS. These citizen soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force. (Explanation) NS played a significant role in nation building as the men undergoing military training bond and share common experiences. This produces a citizen armed force with a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny, which stands ready to defend Singapore from any potential aggressors. Upon completion of full time NS, the men undergo training for 13 years. They attend refresher training to maintain their competence in handling new weapons and equipment, and to learn new tactics of war. This ensures that male Singaporeans are ready to defend Singapore at all times. In spite of Singapores small size and population, it has an effective defence force which will cause any potential aggressors to think twice before attacking Singapore.(Example) Conclusion In this way, National Service is a better way to maintain Singapore national security then having military cooperation with other countries.(Link) Ultimately, Singapore national security is too important to leave it in the hands of other countries. Having military cooperation with other countries will ensure that there is less reasons for other countries to attack Singapore. However, we must also show the world that we have an effective fight force so that our national security is not compromised.