Waking super early in the morning to have breakfast and then straight to training. Also the chitchat sessions before nights off where the sergeant will share ghost stories over super.
Makes you: 1) Transit from a teenager to adult real fast 2) Significantly increase one confidence and need to self preserve at all time 3) Improved fitness to whole new level ( a different story after that) 4) A set of skills ( esp in using firearms and unarmed combat) 5) Friends for life (at least duration of NS cycle) 6) Learn new swear words and cuss 🤬, and how to use it in daily conversation seamlessly. Like a SAF ad so many years used to say "army makes you a better man" ( a pinch of salt) 😀
Artem, Thank you for serving with your heart in National Service. You qualify to be a true Singaporean, regardless of your race, language, or place of birth. You can consider Singapore your home. From another NS man.
Served with Artem in SCS (Specialist Cadet School) - nice to see him again in this interview! Now I'm the one living in the US, making the comparisons between the States and Singapore.
It's impressive that Artem committed to serving NS for the entire full-time stint. And maybe for the next 20+ years. Since he has served NS, regardless of where he was born, what his background was, what he looks like, his skill with Singlish or even English, he is one of us and I welcome him to our shores as a citizen if he isn't already one. I say this as a male Singapore citizen who served NS 40+ years ago and old enough to have retired from even the reserves 20+ years ago. We need more people like him as Singaporeans. Again, welcome. My unit was HQ 3 SIB and 2 SIR was one of our subunits.
I like Artem's story; I am an 'Others' Singaporean, my father is white and my mother is Indian. I went to secondary school in England and returned to SG to do BMT in 1991 (Camp 3 in ITD in Tekong). Even then, I knew an ang mo in the police and I knew of an ang mo in the navy. I went from BMT to OCS and whilst I look entirely Indian, my name and accent made me quite different from everyone else. I was treated entirely the same as everyone else in both places - when I did well, I got praised and when I fucked up I kena tekan. Artem is right that NS is something worth taking seriously if you're going to do it. The opportunities to learn about yourself and how to work as a team are worth their weight in gold. However, I believe NSF do not need to be patronised by ministers that what they are doing is a 'privilege'; being a politician is more of a privilege yet they insist that NSF be paid a pittance, whilst they take home golden armfuls of salary each month. Much of Singapore's international reputation as a safe place to harbour money comes from the deterrence provided by the SAF and the citizen army that is its backbone, yet there is little recognition of it apart from the odd store promotion or some token SAFRA membership.
I totally agrees with you, very littles recognition, except saraly paid monthy, That can not compares to a misiter who do not sleep frequently in the field for 8 to 10 year active an Ns. 100 dollars last year to recognised our contributions. and even asked you to donates out. Regular, they said, I paid you liao but peanut compared to an MP. I served 28 years, attended Rsnger course,, served in 3x differents Division. Till i golden handshake when mr.Teo in Defend. 2 years later i am divorced to my wife who she mentioned we have no more loves, Do you all knows how much times we missed with family? Oversea training, brunie, taiwan, thailand, not inclulding stationing in these country as trainers, instructors, Adminstrators etc.. you are given a lump some after serviced few but not enough for retirment. Not even able to rent a no room on hall flat.Now at over 60yrs have to rent room space from others. No benefit from govenment for protecting singspore while other had set very strong founation in public sectors.Ha😂 hs ha Now! We are useless to our country SINGAPORE!!! National day voming please..Enjoys...4G army soon..😭😭😭
@@lktan224more like our own local Singaporeans who down PES to PES E and F but outside can run can play football. Thats worse than foreigners who at least didn't consume our taxes since young and contribute more taxes to the country than these chao kengs
@@johnwig285 You are either in Infantry with 0 clearance(aka CPL and below) or never served NS to say something so ignorant. I have athletic PES E friends, chao kengs to PES E are actually a minority. PES E includes slip disc, degenerative spine issues, metal implants in body, cancer(can choose to serve or not), permanent physical disability(can choose to serve or not) and mental issues. Lots of these PES E actually want to up PES but aren't allowed to due to military protocol and regulations. If you want to blame, blame the people who scream at MINDEF whenever there's casualty in NS, they are the reason these laws are in place to prevent them from qualifying beyond PES E. Did you know there are SEA game medalists who are in PES C-PES E because they had surgeries and existing injury? MINDEF doesn't want people to go for further surgeries for free using military budget.
Yes, everything is about attitude. If you go in thinking its a waste of time, you WILL waste your time. If you go in thinking you might learn something, you'll learn something new. About yourself, your limitations, your peers, or management (even if it's about how not to manage people).
Dear Artem, i think you'd be more than welcome to be a part of Singaporean society, whether as a citizen or a PR. Not only because you'd served NS with us but also because you clearly understood the sort of mentality and attitude required to be a part of us.
i think he mentioned a very valid point.. NS really is life-changing in a sense.. it does benefit those who served.. it does makes you a better person. MR MAX, bring him back for part 2.. and talk about his life here in singapore
Very outstanding experience from your perspective. I'm from the US and spent 23 years in the US Army as an Airborne Infantryman or Paratrooper, regular infantry, tank commander and back to infantry. I did serve in operational combat for the Panama Invasion of 1989-90 and Iraq in 2006-08. What I am impressed from your experience that you have assimilated well into a different culture beyond from where you were born in. I was born in the Philippines and came to the US at 3 years old and grew up American. Honestly I became more American than ever.
He made an interesting point about independence and Singapore. My cousins raising kids in Singapore said they only felt like a real adult when they were in the 40s because they still depended so much on their parents for help raising their kids and with other matters.
i quite agree with his perspective regarding independence in singapore too - because it is a small country, family culture, plus due to land scarcity n prices, people tend to still live w parents or dependent on parents even after living apart, etc it basically easier to be less independent in comparison to other countries - easier to stay in a comfort zone unless u make the concerted effort to get out of that comfort zone
Thanks for the video! Respect your participation in national service bro..!!!! Agree that many Singaporean live in a bubble, we should go out to see the world
Our friend may be Russian and have lived in the USA for longer - but I think it's safe that there's a little part of his heart that is now Singaporean. We love you too, Bro.
Where ever you are from does not matter. Your true being and selflessness to the land and the people you are with, to take on whatever it takes to make it safe, that is enough.
Agreed on the last point where Singapore is an anomaly compared to the rest of the world; where the real world is a lot less like Singapore. As Singaporean we need to travel more, and have a good look at the way the locals lead a life at foreign countries.
I totally agree. Singapore is an unnatural society - things that don't work else where, work here. Singaporeans are so desensitised that most think that the things they experienced in Singapore are norms overseas.
The Russian guy is really clever. Seldom one can listen to such real wisdom based on unique perceptions and life experiences. He has a balanced core and a strength that makes him the 'captain who steers the boat of life' unlike most other humans who are living a 'reactive' life, without inner strength always reacting to outer influences competing for worldly advantages.
Good attitude.👍Singapore army training is itself constantly evolving. It was intended to be for defence but now there are other objectives. One being the data base generated during drafting of all Singaporean coming of age. The other being keeping the male population healthy till at least 40 years old and hopefully inspire them to continue to stay active till old age thus reducing the country’s burden of future health cost.
As a Singaporean who has lived in Moscow for more than 6 months, I do belive that the extensiveness of Moscow metro and its frequency is far better than Singapore, especially now that Singapore has become so crowded! New stations are coming into service every few months despite already having hundreds in Moscow!
I remembered 2 guys serving who weren't born in Singapore. One from America, and the other from China. Both spoke with strong accents from their countries, and they were commissioned officers. They had their own accents and sounded pretty funny while speaking Singlish, but there was no question that they were one of us because the SAF drills that in everyone right from basic training. As Artem said, your background doesn't matter in the armed forces. Because of that, I don't think there are any "foreigners" in the SAF. I dare anyone to ever say someone who's served NS isn't Singaporean.
If they've done NS, then they're one of us regardless of anything else. It's the foreign-born "citizens" and PRs who squirm out of NS who aren't truly Singaporean.
At 4:15, I am pretty sure he meant 2 SIR (2nd Singapore Infantry Regiment) not Singapore Armoured Regiment (armoured tank regiment). You might be confused coz 2 SIR is considered as a motorized infantry unit, as they ride terrex ICV to battle, but it is still under the infantry banner. His graduation photos show that he's wearing a green beret and the infantry logo on his No.1 (parade uniform) collar seen at 0:15. If he was from the armoured regiment, he would be wearing a black beret and the armoured logo would be a gauntlet instead. Also, for overseas exercise iirc, armoured NSF regiments do not go to Brunei, they either go to Munich or Aus, but I definitely know that infantry units goes to Brunei for their summax on their end of 1st year. I was from 5 SIR, a sister regiment to 2 SIR.
@kennyzeng21 it was pretty much a family agreement. My father wanted our family to get a PR and informed me that I will have to serve in the army, and I agreed and supported his decision and started off with the positive mindset to it.
@@glorytoPAP: Whether he wants to or not is irrelevant. He is welcome to become one since he has done NS. I've seen too many foreigners who wanted the citizenship (and the powerful passport) without the responsibilities.
I went on a camping trip with my friends in Temburong (I'm Bruneian). We camped near my friend's uncle's really large estate. Uncle was a retired Major in the RBAF, basically uncle was our guide when we wanted to go hiking. It's said that one of the many tribes of Brunei is very efficient in jungle warfare, I can't remember if uncle was either iban or dusun. Uncle then claimed that he could navigate the jungle without any marks or maps, and although we went on a trail he made himself behind his estate, I still believed him. He also taught us how to spot crocs at night by placing ur flashlight right next to you eyes as the crocs eyes would reflect the light back to you.
that goes for any community who lives in their own bubble, especially when the country is too big and there's significant cultural differences between villages, city, state and nations
This Russian lad is a very wise and intellectual individual for his age he has great wisdom . It is correct , many Singaporeans rely on families as their backbone of support , especially financially or career wise , that's their safety net . Thus making them less creative I feel or in that way independent..
@@artemmor Indeed brother we all have a lot to learn as we journey to the phases of life . Keep your mind , heart and soul receptive . Peace be with you bro ! All the best !
Unfortunately as a Sporean I didn't get to served NS as my apprenticeship with a local shipyard gave us the exemption but serving the 3 months BMT was compulsory but the downside is that u need to served the shipyard 10 yrs. If u quit b4 that, u be drafted in. For my case I didn't even go for my BMT as I was drafted into the part time as a vigilante corp which fortunately was discontinued shortly after that, all to my benefit. But I do wish I have gone to the NS, afterall its part of being a Singaporean.
@@SuccessforLifester yes. In the 70s. But later the policy was changed. The newer batch have to served 2 yrs NS before continuing with their apprenticeship but of course you can leave anytime so long u complete your 6 yrs apprenticeship program.
Like the point on improvisation during NS days. People were probably told to be “thinking soldiers” but pretty much forgotten the common saying “wear green cannot think”! Kidding of course 😂
To have SING CITIZENSHIP THEY HAVE TO SERVICE 2Y FOR NATION SECURITY MILITARY. It’s not just show their “ready mindset to accept this will be their country - if anything bad happens, did they’re really fight for this country?” But also it help them have better connection & understand locals mindset & he to resolve the situation & problems in most locals way. Singapore don’t have DUAL CITIZENSHIP. So anyone want citizenships should TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY ABOUT FUTURE BEFORE WASTING 2Y IN NS. Btw, I’m recently SINGAPORE BECAUSE OF POPULATION THEYRE IS TIGH TO IMMIGRANTS & VERY PICKY SELECT TO GIVE PR. I think it’s understandable reason because they’re want protect their own ppl & their country first.
We Singaporeans respect those who serve and ready to defend Singapore. Even our ex defence minister/president's son got special privileges serving nation as a scientist which we didn't respect at all.
The only real respectable President is Mr Ong Teng Cheong. He dared to do the role to question, but irked the ruling party. Upon his passing, he didn't have a state funeral
When I was a kid, I remembered my class hated it so much when there's a compulsory excursion. When it has limited slots, optional and enticing, everyone gets excited and wants to participate. I guess it's similar to military service.
"Indian, Malaysian, Singaporean..." There's a difference between nationality and race. Like I wouldn't expect many "Malaysians" to be serving in our NS. I guess he really meant "Singaporean-Indian, -Malay, -Chinese". It's funny to think that he defaulted "Singaporean" to mean the Chinese lol. I'm a Singaporean-Malay; I have nothing to do with Malaysians. But anyways, thanks for serving brother!
I must ask, if Artem is still a Russian citizen, how is his NS status and his citizenship now ... and whether it is safer for him now to just stay put as PR or he is contemplating change of citizenship?
As a Malaysian who got questioned by Singaporeans when i was working in Singapore, why won't you apply for PR? It's because of National service. 😂 plus i came here to make few bucks and get back to Malaysia. Did that and im happy. Im really grateful for Singapore and the citizens in it. ✌️
@P53eud0nym05 naah, it's okay. I never really wanted to get PR. My only notion was to save money and get back to my country. After a dozen years working in Singapore, I felt it was time to go and give space others to grow. There are many people who deserve to get PR but not this soul. 😁
Some of the benefits of NS - everyone who’s been through, has learnt how to organize people and get things done. It’s sort of become a ‘signature’ of Singaporeans in problem solving. Another is an in-built fitness awareness, even if some slacken afterwards, back in their mind, they know how to get fit again if they put their mind to it.
Listen to him, If you are a PR, think carefully about your future in Singapore, because almost all of the "foreigner" i have served with went back to their country, one angmo went back to the UK, another Australia, US, Canada and even Malaysia. Don't waste your 2 years here if you don't plan on staying in SG.
Don't care they stay or leave after NS. They definitely benefited the 2 years they served. Not wasting time. There are tons of things learned from the 2 years NS and can be used in the adult world. Maybe u didn't realise but u r actually using the skills learned in NS almost in your daily live.
@@Jack-hy2ki Wow, i'm all for NS for Singaporeans, but telling a PR to serve a country they might not live in is a different story, sure you can learn things in NS, but you can learn them outside too. What can a security trooper learn? open gate ah? Working with others? you can be a intern in a company, there are many that can get by without joining the Army, especially one with low pay as ours. Sure, if that PR somehow been assigned a leadership role like Sgt and above, that's actually will be helpful, but if you are a toilet IC, you think staying for a 2 yrs NS is good for the PR? where they can continue their studies and join the workforce earlier and support themselves. Also, don't forget their foreigners, i know a Malaysian who couldn't speak English got bullied, a Chinese national with limited English got outcasted, Angmo got targeted just because his white. Like i said, almost all of the foreigners i served NS with, fucked off from SG and never returned, i have know i handful of them.
@@zCopyCatz i've got a friend who skipped NS and gave up his PR just so he could continue studying in the states, and when he got a job from a local bank with 10K salary in singapore, his employment application got rejected even after he appealed stating that his whole family is here. That was during the 2008 financial crisis when he got retrenched in the states. My point is you'll never know what will happen in the future, especially after you have kids, so its not exactly wise to burn your bridges with singapore by disregarding your responsibilities as a PR.
@@d61helix My understanding is that once a person is obligated to serve NS, he has to do it or else it would be an offence. If he leaves Singapore, he will be arrested when he enters again
@@SuccessforLifester his enlistment was in 2000 or 2001. more than 20 yrs ago. many things have probably changed. but still his record is forever tainted and no way he is getting a long term pass in sg,
Ok so here’s my view, I was Singaporean served my NS left and am no longer Singaporean. I can see the point if you make PRs serve NS if they want to take up citizenship. But I don’t see the point getting PRs who are not going to be citizens (sometimes this is the case) don’t you think this is a security issue? I think there should be one set benefits for people who serve NS and different set for others. So PRs who don’t serve NS don’t get the benefits like HDB etc there should be 2 levels of PRs, citizenship track and non citizenship track
Singapore 🇸🇬 rules,when yours got a boys child,they will follow the training of soldiers army...this rules is very mandatory..I have a friend who is a truck army driver in Bedok Singapore..he always talked about the training exercises during the military training..its very interesting story..❤..in Singapore, alls mature son must follow or must join in military training..that's all I know..😮
I think it's very hard for people who haven't experienced NS to understand what he's talking about. I think rather than talk about his experiences in army maybe there could have been more about him as a person or how the army changed him. (the ratio was a bit skewed)
why is he doing national service in Singapore and not national service in Russia? Seems a little strange being drafted in the Singapore national service when he's not familiar with Singaporean culture that even new arrivals know. Are all foreigners subject to national service?
there needs to be some context provided if he is from Greenwich on his impressions on Bridgeport. hmmmm how did he get his SIngapore PR?---seems like an obvious question that should have been asked. Might be related to the fact that lived in Greenwich and that he still "depends on his parents".
What does it matter how he got his PR or citizenship? He might have applied as an entrepreneur or has tech skills that Singapore wants and was therefore approved. He seems to have a "can do" attitude, which is impressive in and of itself.
@@AppleMacGeekHow he got his PR would be interesting to the viewers. That's why it matters. It seems like an obvious question that could have been asked. If it were asked then we'd have a resolution and wouldn't have to speculate like you did. Plenty of people have a good attitude. Are you saying that should be the primary criteria for PR? Same with "tech skills". I'm just saying that answering the question "what's special about him" would be one of the key things to making this video more interesting/impactful.
@@NasuMeji : "Plenty of people have a good attitude"??? No, I don't think so. Lots of FTs not only have no T (particularly the CECA bunch) but only look at gaining Singapore citizenship just as a stepping stone to American residency followed by citizenship later (like the PRC lot--I have heard about the games they play to get there). Or to milk us and then return to their own countries with a much lower cost of living. I've seen too many people (even locals born and bred in Singapore--I've met some of those keng kings and bullshit artists) who deliberately try to escape NS, so when I see someone willing to do their duty and do it well enough to be promoted (he mentioned being a 3rd Sergeant before he became ORD), I find it a refreshing change. So yeah, a good attitude should be a criteria for PR and citizenship. Even if he got PR through his parents, that he served NS instead of staying in/returning to America is a good thing because it shows his personal commitment to Singapore, rather than his parent's commitment. He already at least has American residency since he grew up and went to a local school in Connecticut, if not citizenship. So he didn't *NEED* Singapore citizenship as a stepping stone. And if you think American cost of living is lower than Singapore, unless you're willing to live somewhere super ulu, dream on.
@@artemmor you know what I meant. If you lived in Greenwich and have strong opinions about Bridgeport. Daddy is a capitalist exploiter of some sort? Can't wait for the Bridgeport masses to descend with their torches of justice.
Thank You for serving NS in Sg for our country. It would be interesting to know more how / why you came to Sg and would you stay here permenantly? Learn any Mandarin? Recommend any Russian food to viewers? Whats yr fav local food? Sorry, asking too many Qs. Thank You. May i request Part 2 fr Arten to share abt his life here. Tk u.
Western or non asia has difficulty yo follow instructions. I think it is the upbringing from different culture and background. It's the same in the workplace, Singaporean more compliance and respectful to authority in general.
While serving the NS: @**#$^&YY*YGTC#%^^^&^& What a bloody waste my time! After finishing NS: I'm really glad for the experience. It has really helped me to mature as a person.
What’s your best memories from the Army?
ORD
Waking super early in the morning to have breakfast and then straight to training. Also the chitchat sessions before nights off where the sergeant will share ghost stories over super.
Makes you:
1) Transit from a teenager to adult real fast
2) Significantly increase one confidence and need to self preserve at all time
3) Improved fitness to whole new level ( a different story after that)
4) A set of skills ( esp in using firearms and unarmed combat)
5) Friends for life (at least duration of NS cycle)
6) Learn new swear words and cuss 🤬, and how to use it in daily conversation seamlessly.
Like a SAF ad so many years used to say "army makes you a better man" ( a pinch of salt) 😀
Nasi Briyani lunch with President Wee at Istana, tour the building and each one of us received a can of condensed milk as gift.❤
Running up Peng Kang hill. And firing my M16 with live rounds!
Artem, Thank you for serving with your heart in National Service. You qualify to be a true Singaporean, regardless of your race, language, or place of birth. You can consider Singapore your home. From another NS man.
Served with Artem in SCS (Specialist Cadet School) - nice to see him again in this interview! Now I'm the one living in the US, making the comparisons between the States and Singapore.
It's impressive that Artem committed to serving NS for the entire full-time stint. And maybe for the next 20+ years. Since he has served NS, regardless of where he was born, what his background was, what he looks like, his skill with Singlish or even English, he is one of us and I welcome him to our shores as a citizen if he isn't already one. I say this as a male Singapore citizen who served NS 40+ years ago and old enough to have retired from even the reserves 20+ years ago. We need more people like him as Singaporeans. Again, welcome. My unit was HQ 3 SIB and 2 SIR was one of our subunits.
I like Artem's story; I am an 'Others' Singaporean, my father is white and my mother is Indian. I went to secondary school in England and returned to SG to do BMT in 1991 (Camp 3 in ITD in Tekong). Even then, I knew an ang mo in the police and I knew of an ang mo in the navy. I went from BMT to OCS and whilst I look entirely Indian, my name and accent made me quite different from everyone else. I was treated entirely the same as everyone else in both places - when I did well, I got praised and when I fucked up I kena tekan.
Artem is right that NS is something worth taking seriously if you're going to do it. The opportunities to learn about yourself and how to work as a team are worth their weight in gold.
However, I believe NSF do not need to be patronised by ministers that what they are doing is a 'privilege'; being a politician is more of a privilege yet they insist that NSF be paid a pittance, whilst they take home golden armfuls of salary each month. Much of Singapore's international reputation as a safe place to harbour money comes from the deterrence provided by the SAF and the citizen army that is its backbone, yet there is little recognition of it apart from the odd store promotion or some token SAFRA membership.
I totally agrees with you, very littles recognition, except saraly paid monthy, That can not compares to a misiter who do not sleep frequently in the field for 8 to 10 year active an Ns. 100 dollars last year to recognised our contributions. and even asked you to donates out. Regular, they said, I paid you liao but peanut compared to an MP. I served 28 years, attended Rsnger course,, served in 3x differents Division. Till i golden handshake when mr.Teo in Defend. 2 years later i am divorced to my wife who she mentioned we have no more loves, Do you all knows how much times we missed with family? Oversea training, brunie, taiwan, thailand, not inclulding stationing in these country as trainers, instructors, Adminstrators etc.. you are given a lump some after serviced few but not enough for retirment. Not even able to rent a no room on hall flat.Now at over 60yrs have to rent room space from others. No benefit from govenment for protecting singspore while other had set very strong founation in public sectors.Ha😂 hs ha Now! We are useless to our country SINGAPORE!!! National day voming please..Enjoys...4G army soon..😭😭😭
This is a thinking solider ! Sometimes is easier to work on each individual level strengths rather than weakness.
He shag wear helmet still can think.
If you served ns, you are part of us.
Good and thanks this ang Moh doing NS, unlike some other nation parachuted in and become citizens with out serve the country.
Yes unlike those “ free riders “ afraid to serve NS , “ Gu Niang “ mentally 😂😂
@@lktan224more like our own local Singaporeans who down PES to PES E and F but outside can run can play football. Thats worse than foreigners who at least didn't consume our taxes since young and contribute more taxes to the country than these chao kengs
@@zakiromeo-od6zx
You have a chance to serve but you didn’t….so you are not one of us 🤣🤣🤣
@@johnwig285 You are either in Infantry with 0 clearance(aka CPL and below) or never served NS to say something so ignorant. I have athletic PES E friends, chao kengs to PES E are actually a minority. PES E includes slip disc, degenerative spine issues, metal implants in body, cancer(can choose to serve or not), permanent physical disability(can choose to serve or not) and mental issues. Lots of these PES E actually want to up PES but aren't allowed to due to military protocol and regulations. If you want to blame, blame the people who scream at MINDEF whenever there's casualty in NS, they are the reason these laws are in place to prevent them from qualifying beyond PES E. Did you know there are SEA game medalists who are in PES C-PES E because they had surgeries and existing injury? MINDEF doesn't want people to go for further surgeries for free using military budget.
Thank you for your service alongside the rest of us ! ❤️❤️❤️
Not easy to pull through as a Singaporean , I think much more tougher as a foreigner.. proud of you!
Wow, he could deep dive into the details on military exercises. He has become one of us.
Yes, everything is about attitude. If you go in thinking its a waste of time, you WILL waste your time. If you go in thinking you might learn something, you'll learn something new. About yourself, your limitations, your peers, or management (even if it's about how not to manage people).
Dear Artem, i think you'd be more than welcome to be a part of Singaporean society, whether as a citizen or a PR. Not only because you'd served NS with us but also because you clearly understood the sort of mentality and attitude required to be a part of us.
i think he mentioned a very valid point.. NS really is life-changing in a sense.. it does benefit those who served.. it does makes you a better person. MR MAX, bring him back for part 2.. and talk about his life here in singapore
Yes, we all like a part 2 of Artern. Tk you Max
Very outstanding experience from your perspective. I'm from the US and spent 23 years in the US Army as an Airborne Infantryman or Paratrooper, regular infantry, tank commander and back to infantry. I did serve in operational combat for the Panama Invasion of 1989-90 and Iraq in 2006-08. What I am impressed from your experience that you have assimilated well into a different culture beyond from where you were born in. I was born in the Philippines and came to the US at 3 years old and grew up American. Honestly I became more American than ever.
We are glad to have you here Artem.
Thank you for serving, from a local Singaporean. Majulah singapura!
He made an interesting point about independence and Singapore. My cousins raising kids in Singapore said they only felt like a real adult when they were in the 40s because they still depended so much on their parents for help raising their kids and with other matters.
i quite agree with his perspective regarding independence in singapore too - because it is a small country, family culture, plus due to land scarcity n prices, people tend to still live w parents or dependent on parents even after living apart, etc
it basically easier to be less independent in comparison to other countries - easier to stay in a comfort zone unless u make the concerted effort to get out of that comfort zone
Thanks for the video!
Respect your participation in national service bro..!!!! Agree that many Singaporean live in a bubble, we should go out to see the world
Our friend may be Russian and have lived in the USA for longer - but I think it's safe that there's a little part of his heart that is now Singaporean. We love you too, Bro.
All the way!! He is definitely one of our bros ..
Where ever you are from does not matter. Your true being and selflessness to the land and the people you are with, to take on whatever it takes to make it safe, that is enough.
Agreed on the last point where Singapore is an anomaly compared to the rest of the world; where the real world is a lot less like Singapore. As Singaporean we need to travel more, and have a good look at the way the locals lead a life at foreign countries.
I totally agree. Singapore is an unnatural society - things that don't work else where, work here. Singaporeans are so desensitised that most think that the things they experienced in Singapore are norms overseas.
The Russian guy is really clever. Seldom one can listen to such real wisdom based on unique perceptions and life experiences. He has a balanced core and a strength that makes him the 'captain who steers the boat of life' unlike most other humans who are living a 'reactive' life, without inner strength always reacting to outer influences competing for worldly advantages.
You served with us… you’re my brother❤
Good attitude.👍Singapore army training is itself constantly evolving. It was intended to be for defence but now there are other objectives. One being the data base generated during drafting of all Singaporean coming of age. The other being keeping the male population healthy till at least 40 years old and hopefully inspire them to continue to stay active till old age thus reducing the country’s burden of future health cost.
As a Singaporean who has lived in Moscow for more than 6 months, I do belive that the extensiveness of Moscow metro and its frequency is far better than Singapore, especially now that Singapore has become so crowded! New stations are coming into service every few months despite already having hundreds in Moscow!
As long as you served, you are one of us now, bro.
Yup if you serve NS you are one of us. Respect
I remembered 2 guys serving who weren't born in Singapore. One from America, and the other from China. Both spoke with strong accents from their countries, and they were commissioned officers. They had their own accents and sounded pretty funny while speaking Singlish, but there was no question that they were one of us because the SAF drills that in everyone right from basic training. As Artem said, your background doesn't matter in the armed forces. Because of that, I don't think there are any "foreigners" in the SAF. I dare anyone to ever say someone who's served NS isn't Singaporean.
If they've done NS, then they're one of us regardless of anything else. It's the foreign-born "citizens" and PRs who squirm out of NS who aren't truly Singaporean.
Well said. These are the guys that need watch our back when we fight.
At 4:15, I am pretty sure he meant 2 SIR (2nd Singapore Infantry Regiment) not Singapore Armoured Regiment (armoured tank regiment). You might be confused coz 2 SIR is considered as a motorized infantry unit, as they ride terrex ICV to battle, but it is still under the infantry banner.
His graduation photos show that he's wearing a green beret and the infantry logo on his No.1 (parade uniform) collar seen at 0:15. If he was from the armoured regiment, he would be wearing a black beret and the armoured logo would be a gauntlet instead. Also, for overseas exercise iirc, armoured NSF regiments do not go to Brunei, they either go to Munich or Aus, but I definitely know that infantry units goes to Brunei for their summax on their end of 1st year.
I was from 5 SIR, a sister regiment to 2 SIR.
You are correct, maybe a miscomm on my part due to an accent. But yes, I'm from 2 SIR
I’m guessing it’s the transcript error rather than miscommunication. It’s the accent. 😊
@@artemmoraccent or not, you are one of us. With Pride We Lead.
Respect. Different culture and yet able to be a commander in our Army. Did u choose to serve? 2nd generation PR?
@kennyzeng21 it was pretty much a family agreement. My father wanted our family to get a PR and informed me that I will have to serve in the army, and I agreed and supported his decision and started off with the positive mindset to it.
Artem is real af for this
Thank you for your service. You are a true blue Singaporean and forever being part of us!
@@glorytoPAP: Whether he wants to or not is irrelevant. He is welcome to become one since he has done NS. I've seen too many foreigners who wanted the citizenship (and the powerful passport) without the responsibilities.
@allahuackbera actually, I do 😉
Artem, all the best to your future!
Thank you for your service, Sergeant Artem!
👍👏💪🇸🇬
This guy went through Ah-Boy-to-Man in NS.
Jack Neo will have a new movie.. Ah Moh to NS
The funniest part of being in the SAF is seeing everyone get larger in size when they come back for reservist every year. (Including me 😅)
One too many Lionscope 😂
reservist means going for beer after lights off
I went to Brunei with my then unit 1 SIR. The terrain really no joke
As a combat engineer once told me: "Brunei: Where even tracker dogs get lost...". 😆
Mt biang and the 7 knolls 😂
I went on a camping trip with my friends in Temburong (I'm Bruneian). We camped near my friend's uncle's really large estate. Uncle was a retired Major in the RBAF, basically uncle was our guide when we wanted to go hiking. It's said that one of the many tribes of Brunei is very efficient in jungle warfare, I can't remember if uncle was either iban or dusun. Uncle then claimed that he could navigate the jungle without any marks or maps, and although we went on a trail he made himself behind his estate, I still believed him. He also taught us how to spot crocs at night by placing ur flashlight right next to you eyes as the crocs eyes would reflect the light back to you.
I am living in Greenwich while planning to move to Singapore in the future. Wow, what a coincidence.
Hit me up :)
Unless if you went to Brunswik High 🤣
Keep up the good content btw!
Think US also has a lot of people who doesn’t know the world. That’s why they have wrong perceptions about China and Asia
that goes for any community who lives in their own bubble, especially when the country is too big and there's significant cultural differences between villages, city, state and nations
You earn my respect , thank you for your service 👍
This Russian lad is a very wise and intellectual individual for his age he has great wisdom . It is correct , many Singaporeans rely on families as their backbone of support , especially financially or career wise , that's their safety net . Thus making them less creative I feel or in that way independent..
Thank you for your words. I wouldn't consider myself wise as I have a lot to learn, but hopefully, I'm on the right path:)
@RonBluePrintStudiosOrg It is life I agree 💯 percent . A strong family foundation builds better communities and society as a whole .
@@artemmor Indeed brother we all have a lot to learn as we journey to the phases of life . Keep your mind , heart and soul receptive . Peace be with you bro ! All the best !
He's one of us now
Unfortunately as a Sporean I didn't get to served NS as my apprenticeship with a local shipyard gave us the exemption but serving the 3 months BMT was compulsory but the downside is that u need to served the shipyard 10 yrs. If u quit b4 that, u be drafted in.
For my case I didn't even go for my BMT as I was drafted into the part time as a vigilante corp which fortunately was discontinued shortly after that, all to my benefit. But I do wish I have gone to the NS, afterall its part of being a Singaporean.
Unique story. Was it pretty long ago?
@@SuccessforLifester yes. In the 70s. But later the policy was changed. The newer batch have to served 2 yrs NS before continuing with their apprenticeship but of course you can leave anytime so long u complete your 6 yrs apprenticeship program.
@@CrosbyStill Thanks for sharing
I also got exempted and am proud that I didn't serve ns
Singapore has big respect for foreigners who service military service .
Like the point on improvisation during NS days. People were probably told to be “thinking soldiers” but pretty much forgotten the common saying “wear green cannot think”! Kidding of course 😂
I do know all Singapore born boys to served NS. I don't know about foreigners serving NS. It's new to me. I been NS for 2 Years on 1999 to 2001.
To have SING CITIZENSHIP THEY HAVE TO SERVICE 2Y FOR NATION SECURITY MILITARY. It’s not just show their “ready mindset to accept this will be their country - if anything bad happens, did they’re really fight for this country?” But also it help them have better connection & understand locals mindset & he to resolve the situation & problems in most locals way.
Singapore don’t have DUAL CITIZENSHIP. So anyone want citizenships should TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY ABOUT FUTURE BEFORE WASTING 2Y IN NS.
Btw, I’m recently SINGAPORE BECAUSE OF POPULATION THEYRE IS TIGH TO IMMIGRANTS & VERY PICKY SELECT TO GIVE PR. I think it’s understandable reason because they’re want protect their own ppl & their country first.
I recall seeing a video of a Ukrainian family's two sons serving NS with one of them going through SAF OCS.
We Singaporeans respect those who serve and ready to defend Singapore. Even our ex defence minister/president's son got special privileges serving nation as a scientist which we didn't respect at all.
Precisely! That cost him my vote.
Who?
The only real respectable President is Mr Ong Teng Cheong. He dared to do the role to question, but irked the ruling party. Upon his passing, he didn't have a state funeral
Yeah who ?
Ivan’s just a shit stirrer throwing crap withiyt being able to back himself up
When I was a kid, I remembered my class hated it so much when there's a compulsory excursion. When it has limited slots, optional and enticing, everyone gets excited and wants to participate. I guess it's similar to military service.
Mad respect for this sergeant !!! Salute 🫡🫡🫡
The fact that he is in our military, he is a local. Not foreigner.
If that's the case, I'm illegal for being exempted from ns
Very interesting video. Good watch.
Artem used 'irregardless'. That's quite Singaporean. Nice.
@@glorytoPAP No.
@@glorytoPAP That's what sour people like you believe.
- - becomes +
"Indian, Malaysian, Singaporean..."
There's a difference between nationality and race. Like I wouldn't expect many "Malaysians" to be serving in our NS.
I guess he really meant "Singaporean-Indian, -Malay, -Chinese". It's funny to think that he defaulted "Singaporean" to mean the Chinese lol.
I'm a Singaporean-Malay; I have nothing to do with Malaysians.
But anyways, thanks for serving brother!
One of my abang bomba (nsf) is from jb, every shift he have to cross the causeway to get to the fire stn here😂😂
Nicely said..go in with a mentality to make the best out of it..and 2 years will pass by fast..tq for Ur service bro!
"irregardless" - daym, this guy really is Singaporean!
🤪 polluted by us..
Hey, at least it isn't "needful", or "revert"...
good interview
I must ask, if Artem is still a Russian citizen, how is his NS status and his citizenship now ... and whether it is safer for him now to just stay put as PR or he is contemplating change of citizenship?
as someone who been through brunei, i must say. i never stop cursing that hill while i climbed it..
Did you have to get permanent residency first so that you can do NS?
Yes I believe so
As a Malaysian who got questioned by Singaporeans when i was working in Singapore, why won't you apply for PR? It's because of National service. 😂 plus i came here to make few bucks and get back to Malaysia. Did that and im happy. Im really grateful for Singapore and the citizens in it. ✌️
I thought first generation PR no need to serve? Even if you are male.
@@silverchairsgSsshhh he doesn’t know what he missed 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
@@P53eud0nym05money can’t buy
@P53eud0nym05 naah, it's okay. I never really wanted to get PR. My only notion was to save money and get back to my country. After a dozen years working in Singapore, I felt it was time to go and give space others to grow. There are many people who deserve to get PR but not this soul. 😁
Thank You for serving sir 🫡
But ermmm pretty sure you misspoke when you said Malaysian serves NS here
Yeah, he probably meant Malay (ethnic group) rather than Malaysian (nationality).
This boy be giving STAR responses (iykyk)
You got me 🤣
Some of the benefits of NS - everyone who’s been through, has learnt how to organize people and get things done. It’s sort of become a ‘signature’ of Singaporeans in problem solving. Another is an in-built fitness awareness, even if some slacken afterwards, back in their mind, they know how to get fit again if they put their mind to it.
Not to forget punctuality 😂 every trained soldier knows the meaning of being on time....the best lesson learnt from NS...
More for those in a command role. The bulk of the people become better Yes man
@@SuccessforLifester even those not in command, would have seen and learnt.
@@eatdriveplay It really depends on the individual. Men generally became better Yes man
@@eatdriveplay
I would say the army makes men more compliant to rules and laws....
Listen to him, If you are a PR, think carefully about your future in Singapore, because almost all of the "foreigner" i have served with went back to their country, one angmo went back to the UK, another Australia, US, Canada and even Malaysia. Don't waste your 2 years here if you don't plan on staying in SG.
Don't care they stay or leave after NS. They definitely benefited the 2 years they served. Not wasting time. There are tons of things learned from the 2 years NS and can be used in the adult world. Maybe u didn't realise but u r actually using the skills learned in NS almost in your daily live.
@@Jack-hy2ki Wow, i'm all for NS for Singaporeans, but telling a PR to serve a country they might not live in is a different story, sure you can learn things in NS, but you can learn them outside too.
What can a security trooper learn? open gate ah? Working with others? you can be a intern in a company, there are many that can get by without joining the Army, especially one with low pay as ours.
Sure, if that PR somehow been assigned a leadership role like Sgt and above, that's actually will be helpful, but if you are a toilet IC, you think staying for a 2 yrs NS is good for the PR? where they can continue their studies and join the workforce earlier and support themselves.
Also, don't forget their foreigners, i know a Malaysian who couldn't speak English got bullied, a Chinese national with limited English got outcasted, Angmo got targeted just because his white.
Like i said, almost all of the foreigners i served NS with, fucked off from SG and never returned, i have know i handful of them.
@@zCopyCatz i've got a friend who skipped NS and gave up his PR just so he could continue studying in the states, and when he got a job from a local bank with 10K salary in singapore, his employment application got rejected even after he appealed stating that his whole family is here. That was during the 2008 financial crisis when he got retrenched in the states. My point is you'll never know what will happen in the future, especially after you have kids, so its not exactly wise to burn your bridges with singapore by disregarding your responsibilities as a PR.
@@d61helix My understanding is that once a person is obligated to serve NS, he has to do it or else it would be an offence. If he leaves Singapore, he will be arrested when he enters again
@@SuccessforLifester his enlistment was in 2000 or 2001. more than 20 yrs ago. many things have probably changed. but still his record is forever tainted and no way he is getting a long term pass in sg,
Anyone who served in the army, Air Force or Navy, it's our brother!
Ok so here’s my view, I was Singaporean served my NS left and am no longer Singaporean. I can see the point if you make PRs serve NS if they want to take up citizenship. But I don’t see the point getting PRs who are not going to be citizens (sometimes this is the case) don’t you think this is a security issue? I think there should be one set benefits for people who serve NS and different set for others. So PRs who don’t serve NS don’t get the benefits like HDB etc there should be 2 levels of PRs, citizenship track and non citizenship track
Saw an angmo co during bmt then angmo pilot in rsaf.
are you sitting next to botanic garden mrt?
fantastic vid thanks, its true there are more opportunities in the US
Was in Guards and went for Brunei too 😮
Singapore 🇸🇬 rules,when yours got a boys child,they will follow the training of soldiers army...this rules is very mandatory..I have a friend who is a truck army driver in Bedok Singapore..he always talked about the training exercises during the military training..its very interesting story..❤..in Singapore, alls mature son must follow or must join in military training..that's all I know..😮
Being a driver is a good vocation. At least got use as a civilian. Though they are also stressful and could easily get charged for traffic offences.
@RonBluePrintStudiosOrg good one!
Still blows my mind that in some countries, non-citizens are allowed to join the military.
Very few
95% requirement #1
Be a citizen
Thank you for your service..Brunei was a c***..i was there in 1993..up and down and rain early in the morning and just before you pitch your tents..
I think it's very hard for people who haven't experienced NS to understand what he's talking about. I think rather than talk about his experiences in army maybe there could have been more about him as a person or how the army changed him. (the ratio was a bit skewed)
fking respect to him
why is he doing national service in Singapore and not national service in Russia? Seems a little strange being drafted in the Singapore national service when he's not familiar with Singaporean culture that even new arrivals know. Are all foreigners subject to national service?
PRs of certain age
🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬singapore,Singaporean.👍👍👍👍👍💪💪💪💪🙏🙏🙏👊👏👏👏👏👍
I had a Japanese SGT in my battalion last time
Did he scream Bar Gay Rules at you ppl?
@@SuccessforLifester He not my direct commander, but its the nametag japanese name
@@MrTakoyaki1992 By the way I am so amazed at myself for inventing this term as I do not know the exact spelling of that Japanese scolding word
@@SuccessforLifester As reward for your Amazingness, I shall bestow upon you the gracious Balls of SAF...
BALLs TO YOU 🎊
@@MrTakoyaki1992 knn 🤪
there needs to be some context provided if he is from Greenwich on his impressions on Bridgeport. hmmmm how did he get his SIngapore PR?---seems like an obvious question that should have been asked. Might be related to the fact that lived in Greenwich and that he still "depends on his parents".
What does it matter how he got his PR or citizenship? He might have applied as an entrepreneur or has tech skills that Singapore wants and was therefore approved. He seems to have a "can do" attitude, which is impressive in and of itself.
@@AppleMacGeekHow he got his PR would be interesting to the viewers. That's why it matters. It seems like an obvious question that could have been asked. If it were asked then we'd have a resolution and wouldn't have to speculate like you did. Plenty of people have a good attitude. Are you saying that should be the primary criteria for PR? Same with "tech skills". I'm just saying that answering the question "what's special about him" would be one of the key things to making this video more interesting/impactful.
@@NasuMeji : "Plenty of people have a good attitude"??? No, I don't think so. Lots of FTs not only have no T (particularly the CECA bunch) but only look at gaining Singapore citizenship just as a stepping stone to American residency followed by citizenship later (like the PRC lot--I have heard about the games they play to get there). Or to milk us and then return to their own countries with a much lower cost of living. I've seen too many people (even locals born and bred in Singapore--I've met some of those keng kings and bullshit artists) who deliberately try to escape NS, so when I see someone willing to do their duty and do it well enough to be promoted (he mentioned being a 3rd Sergeant before he became ORD), I find it a refreshing change. So yeah, a good attitude should be a criteria for PR and citizenship. Even if he got PR through his parents, that he served NS instead of staying in/returning to America is a good thing because it shows his personal commitment to Singapore, rather than his parent's commitment.
He already at least has American residency since he grew up and went to a local school in Connecticut, if not citizenship. So he didn't *NEED* Singapore citizenship as a stepping stone. And if you think American cost of living is lower than Singapore, unless you're willing to live somewhere super ulu, dream on.
@AppleMacGeek thanks for the support. I mainly lived in US on my father's visa thus no PR there :)
@@artemmor you know what I meant. If you lived in Greenwich and have strong opinions about Bridgeport. Daddy is a capitalist exploiter of some sort? Can't wait for the Bridgeport masses to descend with their torches of justice.
Thank You for serving NS in Sg for our country. It would be interesting to know more how / why you came to Sg and would you stay here permenantly? Learn any Mandarin? Recommend any Russian food to viewers? Whats yr fav local food? Sorry, asking too many Qs. Thank You. May i request Part 2 fr Arten to share abt his life here. Tk u.
Western or non asia has difficulty yo follow instructions. I think it is the upbringing from different culture and background.
It's the same in the workplace, Singaporean more compliance and respectful to authority in general.
If you did NS, enough said bro.
With Pride We Lead.
There was a Swiss guy in my batch. He awol.
How did he join
7:58 As an American. The way states have allowed its residents to be unsafe. Soft methods have failed.
Is there any chance who has no experience in NS.
Are the footages provided by the army and is this sponsored?
No, my editor found them on video stocks
@@MaxChernov Cool. Nice episode👍
While serving the NS: @**#$^&YY*YGTC#%^^^&^& What a bloody waste my time!
After finishing NS: I'm really glad for the experience. It has really helped me to mature as a person.
Irregardless!! Very Singaporean.
NS -wether if it's a complete waste of your time , is completely up to you,
Welcome to SG don't let anyone tell you you can't keep SG papers!
How can a USA join
Not truth..all army combat units are required 2 overseas exercises. Thailand, brunei and Taiwan. Thailand for artillery and combat engineer units
Absolute chad
I think its safe to say us Singaporeans all accept him and consider him just as Singaporean as the rest of us, ang mo or not.
2SIR - 2nd to none
Owadio🎉
Why is this ang moh interviewing our SAF Sergeant?
Why shouldnt he then?