Jane Sea was motivated to apply for the Defence Merit Scholarship as she was interested in foreign affairs and international politics and desired to make an impact on Singapore’s defence landscape. “I was keen on joining MINDEF as I firmly believe that a sovereign nation ought to have a strong defence to demonstrate that we, as a “Little Red Dot”, can hold our ground in a geopolitically volatile region with a tumultuous history. While international diplomacy and trade relations are important, a strong defence displays formidability to other bigger players. I wanted to play a part in shaping defence policies,” she shares passionately.
Currently in the Information Directorate in MINDEF Communications Organisation, Jane plays a role in ensuring effective communication of MINDEF’s policies to safeguard public confidence and trust in the organisation, and to sustain support for defence policies. Prior to her current appointment, she did a stint in the Defence Policy Office where she formulated Singapore’s defence relations policies and strategies to advance and safeguard our national defence interests.
Jane has been given opportunities to work directly with the senior management and collaborate with other national agencies on key national issues. “Young officers can also look forward to working alongside the political office-holders to prepare for key events such as the Shangri-La Dialogue,” she shares.
Jane Sea
Defence Merit Scholar
Manager
Information Policy & Plans Branch, Information Policy and Strategy Office, Information Directorate
What has been most fulfilling thus far was that, despite being a young officer, she was given opportunities to speak to the senior leaders of foreign defence partners and present Singapore’s defence policies to them. “As a young officer, being able to represent your country in front of foreign dignitaries gave me an immense sense of gratitude that I have been bestowed such opportunities to impact change on Singapore’s defence policies.”
For those aspiring to contribute to a different line of national defence, she highly recommends building a career and future with MINDEF. “There is never a dull day in our line of work – if you are interested in defence and foreign affairs, this is certainly the place for you to explore and develop your passions,” she advises.
