The Appreciation and Appointment Function for the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) took place this afternoon. During the virtual ceremony, ACCORD Co-Chairmen Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How and Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad expressed their appreciation to 23 members who stepped down on 24 August 2020 and welcomed 22 new members who were appointed for a new two-year term.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Heng highlighted the commitment of members to continue efforts to appreciate National Servicemen and engage the community through virtual means. He said, "Many members of ACCORD are continuing their efforts to increase advocacy for National Service (NS) and defence in spite of the ongoing COVID-19 situation. The continuous efforts of our ACCORD members despite these trying circumstances shows that we have strong support for Defence and NS."

Mr Zaqy also emphasised the importance of women in support for defence, "In the new term, we have 23 female members." He added, "It is important that we engage our women community to engender greater support for NS and defence, as they play a very important role in supporting our national servicemen whether it is as an employer, a wife, a mother, a colleague, or a friend."

In the past two years, ACCORD has built on existing initiatives to deepen engagement with stakeholders. This includes bringing together two campaigns - the 'SAF Day Recognition Campaign' and 'We Support YOU in NS' campaign - to create the 'We Support NS' campaign to galvanise greater community support for NS. These ACCORD initiatives have enhanced support and appreciation from businesses, families and schools for NS.