Meet 3SG Jagrnjeet Singh, a regular Infantry specialist who just graduated from the 15/13 Specialist Cadet Course. As a junior commander, he is looking forward to leading his men and giving them a positive time in the SAF. He elaborated, “I am in this not for the money but for my passion. I want to give a different experience to my men and show them that there is much more to National Service than the two years. Having been a trooper before in 4 SIR, I understand how troopers feel and want to make a positive impact on their time in NS”. Very inspiring words, 3SG Singh! — with Jagrnjeet Singh Sidhu.
During my 4th ICT, I have a corporal posted into my unit. He’s a Muslim with facial hair just like our Sikh friend in this picture. Not trying to stir any racial/religion issue here. But upon in pro, he was asked to rid of his facial hair without any second chances.
In Islam, Muslim men are encouraged to keep beards. But how is it that our dear Sikh brothers are allowed to keep facial hairs but our Muslim brothers are not allowed. This shows that the SAF is cultivating double standards.
The organization is being biased towards Muslim practising their rights in the SAF. As a Muslim, I am upset that after 40years of developing Asia’s best army, this MAJOR issue has yet to be ironed out.
Also, the serviceman has a letter from MUIS to allow him to wear track pants instead of the standard issue PT shorts. Sadly, he was not allowed to perform his IPPT due to his attire. Reasons were compromise of safety/possible heat injuries etc. We all know that it can be done but they just want to suppress our rights.
Harap maaf kerana mengguna bahasa english. Serviceman tersebut adalah FCruz. Saya adalah CSM beliau.
Authored by Izzat
EDITOR’S NOTE
Followers of the Sikh religion are allowed to keep beard, and wear a turban while still donning military uniform. They do not need special permission in the SAF.
MINDEF explained the allowance for Sikhs was passed down from British colonial times.
What is your view on this beard issue and what do you think is the best way to resolve this matter?
