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Clearly the lack of understanding of schizophrenia and the
poor coordination within the Singapore Armed Forces were factors in the death
of the young man for whom his father had big plans.
I fully agree with
State Coroner Imran Abdul Hamid that the 14 charges of extra duties would have
been a daunting prospect – even for a soldier without any mental issues.
It was also shocking that the supervising officer did not
even know what schizophrenia meant. I am
sure if she had bothered to learn more about it, Pte Ganesh Pillay Magindren could
have been better managed – he was responding well with medications under his
parent’s supervision.
All military officers should be equipped with a better
knowledge of brain disorders, through training by psychiatrists, experience
caregivers and recovered patients.
And perhaps those at risks should be allowed to serve
national service in non-military organisations where their skills and
creativity can be better utilised, such as in the National Arts Council.
RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO
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