Ng Eng Hen’s video on new SAF shoes makes ex-NSmen ‘eng-vious’

SINGAPORE – Give people an inch and they will take a yard; give National Servicemen new Adidas and New Balance shoes and they ask for Nike Jordans and Adidas Yeezys.

At least that’s what is happening after the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) unveiled two new physical training (PT) shoes on Tues (Dec 27).

Envious Facebook users were clamouring for more after Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen posted a video of himself working out in his new kicks, with former NSmen hoping to join the change parade.

“Old NS men can get it with discounts or not ?” asked a Ng Kiat Kuan *Photo: Facebook*

Another Facebook user, Chen You Wei, asked: “Sir, is it possible to issue all ex NSMen these new shoes? Hope to get a reply from you soon on this.” *Photo: Facebook*

Other netizens were full of praise for Dr Ng who sweat it out on the rowing machine, modelling his pair of New Balance shoes.

“My defence minister is now also an influencer,” Ching Kai wrote, while Andy Feng labelled Dr Ng an ‘influ-eng-cer’.

However, not all shared the excitement about the new physical training (PT) shoes for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

“Why does it look exactly like my own Adidas now? Can’t they produce a unique design, colour and tone for SAF?” a Belinda Tan lamented. *Photo: Facebook*

Pre-enlistees and fashionistas also offered suggestions for future PT shoe models.

“Hope SAF brings in Jordans when I enrol into the Army,” wrote Yen Hao Tan. *Photo: Facebook*

Wong Chia Wee wrote: “Can SAF provide Adidas Yeezy 350? I heard it will improve running speed by at least 20 per cent due to the Boost technology.”*Photo: Facebook*

SAF personnel are limited to one pair of PT shoes each. The New Balance NB 565 costs $44, while the Adidas Duramo costs $39.50, according to SAF eMart at Mount Faber Safra.

grongloh@sph.com.sg