Every year, Total Defense Day is observed on February 15, the day that Singapore surrendered to Japan in 1942, during World War II. Total Defense marks Singapore’s national defense concept, highlighting that every aspect of society contributes to the defense of a country. Total Defense Day serves as a reminder of what could happen if everyone failed to play their role in taking the Total Defence strategy.
READ | World Cholangiocarcinoma Day
History
In 1965, Singapore became an independent state after breaking away from Malaysia. In 1967, the country implemented the mandatory enlistment of all able-bodied males 16 years and above. The leadership remembered the need to make civilians a part of the creation and awareness generation of this strategy and established the civilian-led Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (Accord).
READ | World Hippo Day
On January 22, 1984, Total Defense was officially proclaimed to be Singapore’s defense strategy including five elements: military, civil, economic, social, and psychological. The first national Total Defense Day was celebrated on February 15, 1998.
Dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | February 15 | Thursday |
2025 | February 15 | Saturday |
2026 | February 15 | Sunday |
2027 | February 15 | Monday |
2028 | February 15 | Tuesday |
READ | World Anthropology Day
FAQs
No, Total Defense Day is not a public holiday.
The theme for Total Defense Day 2024 is “Together We Keep Singapore Strong.”