Why was the default period just under the two-year jail threshold?

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You Jiahao's National Service Default Period Fell Just Short of Two Years Due to PR Status Revocation

You Jiahao, a Chinese national, was fined S$9,000 for defaulting on his national service obligations. The default period for his national service obligations concluded just under the two-year threshold that could have led to a jail term, primarily because his permanent resident (PR) status in Singapore was revoked. The prosecution highlighted that this revocation was the sole reason the period of default did not exceed the two-year mark.
Default Period Before PR Status Revocation

You Jiahao spent a total of one year, 11 months, and six days overseas without obtaining a valid exit permit. He left Singapore in August 2020 and failed to register for national service after receiving a notice in 2021. His permanent resident status was subsequently revoked on August 1, 2022, which, according to the Enlistment Act, ended his liability to serve national service.
Prosecution's Argument on Default Duration

The prosecution contended that the duration of You Jiahao's default was narrowly kept below the two-year limit for potential imprisonment due to the revocation of his PR status. This suggests that had his PR status remained intact, his period of non-compliance could have reached a level warranting more severe penalties, including jail time.
Legal Framework and Offences

Under Singapore's Enlistment Act, individuals found guilty of defaulting on national service can face significant penalties, including up to three years in jail, a fine of up to S$10,000, or both. You Jiahao pleaded guilty to two charges under this act, with two other charges considered during his sentencing. The court found him liable for offences committed prior to the revocation of his PR status.
Return to Singapore and Sentencing

You Jiahao returned to Singapore on March 27, 2025, where he was apprehended at Changi Airport. He had previously contacted the Central Manpower Base (CMPB) in 2022, acknowledging his NS obligation but seeking deferment to complete university studies in China. CMPB informed him of his existing offences for failing to register and remaining overseas without a valid exit permit, instructing his return, which ultimately led to his PR status revocation.

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Why was the default period just under the two-year jail threshold?

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