Mindef cancels some IPPT sessions for NSmen in May amid stricter Covid-19 curbs

SINGAPORE — Some operationally ready national servicemen (NSmen) will have their individual physical proficiency tests (IPPT) cancelled this month as the authorities step up precautions to contain the spread of Covid-19. 

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) told TODAY on Saturday (May 8) that in line with stricter nationwide precautions, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will conduct outdoor IPPT sessions in smaller groups of up to 30 people from May 8 to 30. 

IPPT sessions at indoor Safra gyms have been suspended since April last year.

“As a result of the reduction in capacity, the scheduled IPPT sessions in May for some NSmen will have to be deferred,” Mindef said.

“Affected NSmen will be notified by SMS (short message service). They will be able to book another IPPT session scheduled for a later date.” 

When asked, Mindef did not state the number of servicemen who will have their IPPT sessions postponed. 

In a notification to units seen by TODAY, the ministry’s national service affairs department said that servicemen with cancelled sessions would be informed in batches in the next few weeks. 

These servicemen do not have IPPT windows expiring this month and can book another session later. 

NSmen must pass their yearly IPPT within a 12-month window.

The department said: “All IPPT slots in May are currently full in view of the reduced capacity.” 

Earlier this week, the Government announced more stringent rules to curb the spread of Covid-19, including limiting gatherings to up to five people and the closure of indoor gyms and fitness studios, except for low-intensity physical activities. These measures kicked in on Saturday. 

This is to clamp down on rising coronavirus infections and clusters in the community.

Mr Joseph Yap, 27, a digital marketing executive, said he was told on Friday that his IPPT on Saturday morning had to be postponed.

His IPPT window lapses in November.

He expected his session to be postponed, given the Government’s move to reduce gathering sizes. 

“It does give me more time to train for a more optimal result, since my window is further away.

“There wasn’t any inconvenience to me." ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY DARYL CHOO