SHAPING UP SOLDIERS

Underneath his “fierce encik” exterior lies a man with a wry sense of humour.

“I’m very strict (with my guys) when doing training, but during admin time, I will be very friendly and approachable,” says 3rd Warrant Officer (3WO) Muhammad Aliff, before turning to the recruit next to him. 

“Correct, Randy?” 

Yes Sergeant Major, exactly

Building the fundamentals

With more than 10 years of experience as a trainer in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), 3WO Aliff is motivated to shape not just good soldiers, but future leaders with strong values.

Currently a Company Sergeant Major in 1st Battalion, Singapore Guards (1 Gds), he is responsible for the development and conduct of all soldiers and junior commanders in his company.

“I’m very strict, because I have to enforce the (high) standards that the company needs to achieve,” explained 3WO Aliff.

But it’s not just soldier fundamentals – such as shooting weapons and surviving outfield – that he’s after.

For 3WO Aliff, building character through discipline is the main goal of training.

The 33-year-old finds most satisfaction in seeing the transformation of his trainees and watching them grow “not just as soldiers, but as individuals with strong values and discipline”.

Training with care

“Fierce, very fierce,” quipped Recruit (REC) Muhammad Randy Bin Mohamed Raffi when asked about his first impression of 3WO Aliff.

This view has not changed, but the 18-year-old understands his trainer’s reasons for being so.

“He wants everyone to strive for excellence, do their best in everything. So I see it (him being fierce) as a good thing.”

During Basic Military Training (BMT), recruits experience many “firsts” – from learning jungle survival to shooting blanks to moving out at night.

REC Randy recalled how 3WO Aliff kept a watchful eye over their welfare.

He constantly reminded them to maintain field discipline, whether it was triple-checking to look for expanded blank rounds, “nagging” them to wear their gear properly during shellscrape digging, or reassuring them during the night walk.

“(When he scolds us, I know) it’s for our own good,” said REC Randy.

“He makes sure everything goes on smoothly… (and that) everyone gets to bunk and goes out of bunk safely. Also, he’s always there like cheering us on. Sometimes he joins us in our training too!”

From uncertainty to surety

While high standards are important, understanding each trainee as an individual is key, explained 3WO Aliff.

He takes a balanced approach of discipline and mentorship as his training style, something which his trainees appreciate.

REC Randy, for instance, was “not the most driven recruit” when he enlisted.

“I dreaded booking in,” he admitted frankly. The 18-year-old credits 3WO Aliff for his guidance and being a great inspiration.

“Through (leading by) example, he showed me the deeper purpose behind our training and the pride that comes with wearing the uniform... We serve not just to fulfil a duty, but to protect our families, and one another.”

Seeing success beyond NS

Ask 3WO Aliff what’s his greatest joy in being a trainer? It’s seeing his trainees succeed in life – whether in the military or as civilians.

Years later and across professions, they still remember him fondly.

“There are some who are DJs, some of them play sports (and are) in the national team… When I see them grow and shine, that makes me feel very happy.”

3WO Aliff recalled when a former trainee reached out and thanked him for teaching him the importance of resilience and perseverance. These values had helped the latter overcome a difficult challenge in his personal life.

“Knowing that the professionalism and discipline we emphasise in the Army had made such a lasting impact beyond service was deeply rewarding.

“It reminded me that the true purpose of being a trainer is not only to shape capable soldiers, but also to instil the perseverance and professionalism needed to face life’s challenges with confidence and integrity.”