Singapore is replacing the Physical Employment Standard also known as PES with a new medical classification framework for National Service. The goal: more precise assessments and more roles for servicemen. Around 1,200 more servicemen each year could be deployed to vocations they were previously ineligible for. But even in the current system, many pre-enlistees who appeal their PES grading are actually seeking to be assessed as more fit, not less.

On Viewpoint, Lynlee Foo speaks to Samuel Devaraj, Correspondent from The Straits Times to find out whether removing the PES labels changes how people value and pursue certain roles.