SINGAPORE — The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has extended full-time National Service deferment for swimmers Joseph Schooling and Quah Zheng Wen so that they may continue to train for the upcoming Olympic Games.

Both swimmers have qualified for the upcoming Olympic Games which was supposed to take place this year but have been postponed to 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, said Mindef. 

However, should the Games be cancelled, both athletes will be scheduled for enlistment.

At the 2021 Olympics, Mr Schooling, 25, will compete in the 100m butterfly event while Mr Quah, 23, will compete in the 100m butterfly and backstroke events.

“Deferment may be granted to exceptional sportsmen who are assessed to be potential medal winners for Singapore at top-tier international competitions like the Olympic Games,” said Mindef.

“Applicants will have to show why deferment is necessary for them to compete successfully at these competitions and bring national pride to Singapore.”

It added that Mr Schooling and Mr Quah have met the criteria for deferment to be extended and the pair are committed to be fully focused in their preparations for the Olympic Games.

“In order to reach their peak form, (they) will not undertake any additional activities such as commercial sponsorships,” said Mindef.

“Mindef extends its best wishes to Mr Schooling and Mr Quah as they pursue national pride for Singapore in the Olympic Games in 2021.”

In a Facebook post, Culture, Community and Youth Minister Edwin Tong said that he was happy that Mr Schooling and Mr Quah’s applications for deferment have been approved.

“The Government is fully supporting their training and preparation in their bid for Olympic success,” he said. 

“I wish them the very best in their campaigns, and hope that they will continue to inspire national pride among Singaporeans.”