Speech by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong, at the 134/23 Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade

Graduands of the 134/23 Officer Cadet Course,

Parents,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Introduction

Today, we are here to mark the completion of a 38-week journey for all the cadets of the 134/23 Officer Cadet Course. My heartfelt congratulations to each one of you. Your hard work, perseverance and determination have brought you to this moment on the parade square, where you and your parents will be proud.

The Need for a Strong and Capable SAF

 I too, like you, attended the Officer Cadet School many years ago. The uniforms may be different now; the training has evolved; and the weapons a lot more sophisticated today; but the need for a strong and capable SAF has not changed. 

The world today is fraught with geopolitical tensions and strife, with profound implications for international peace and security.

The ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine in Europe, and Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, as well as the lurking threat of terrorism in our region, are sobering reminders that we cannot take our peace for granted.

Against this backdrop, the SAF remains the cornerstone of our nation’s defence in safeguarding our sovereignty and our way of life.

The threats we face today are complex and multi-faceted. The SAF must therefore continue to adapt and leverage cutting-edge technologies to remain effective in responding to evolving security challenges. 

Just this year, the SAF operationalised the H225M medium-lift helicopters and CH-47F heavy lift helicopters, and will continue to integrate new platforms, such as the Invincible-class submarines and the Next Generation Howitzer. These advancements will bolster the SAF’s capabilities and allow her to undertake a broader range of operations.

The upcoming SAF Digital Range will also enable our frontline cyber defenders to have realistic training by simulating a wider range of scenarios

The SAF has recently introduced the Light Machine Gun (LMG) with enhanced lethality and improved ergonomics to allow our soldiers to operate more effectively.

Some of you here today, as newly commissioned officers, will play a vital role in training and operating these modern and sophisticated platforms and weapon systems.

People at the Core

Beyond technology and hardware, the SAF is unique because we are a citizen-armed forces whose strength comes from National Service.

It brings people from all walks of life with diverse racial, religious and educational backgrounds, to serve the country together.

National Service has become a rite of passage that fosters not only greater unity but also a stronger national identity among our people.

Therefore, the key tenet to the SAF’s continued success remains firmly in our people. As the SAF transforms to meet new security challenges, our servicemen and women remain the core enablers for operational excellence, leading our units and making critical decisions that can mean the difference between success and failure.

To prepare them, our people must undergo robust and realistic training to develop the necessary skills in their respective fields. They need to have the mental fortitude to tackle new challenges, while keeping a learning attitude to acquire new skills and capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what the SAF can achieve.

Indeed, I have heard inspiring stories from the 134/23 cohort that highlight the strength of our people in the SAF.

Take for example, Officer Cadet Solai Viswanath. He came back to Singapore alone to serve National Service while his parents were working overseas. Having been raised in Dubai, Singapore was an unfamiliar environment for him. With the encouragement and support from his family, and the camaraderie forged with his platoon mates, Officer Cadet Solai has adapted quickly, and gone on to excel in his course. He was awarded the Sword of Merit.

Another inspiring story is that of Officer Cadet Yap Zhen Yu. He was initially classified as unfit for combat duties and assigned to an administrative role. Feeling that he could contribute more to National Service, he upgraded his medical status, redid his Basic Military Training, and successfully entered the Officer Cadet School. Midway through the course, he had the opportunity to disrupt and pursue undergraduate medical studies first. Yet, he chose to finish the course together with his platoon mates.

These stories are not just anecdotes. They are testament to the professionalism, fighting spirit and exemplary character that define this cohort. 

Leaders of Character and Values

 To our newly commissioned officers, you will become the front line leaders of the SAF. Your actions will directly impact the lives of those under your charge. Your learning journey does not end with your commissioning today. Instead, it is only just the beginning. Continue to hone your leadership skills, sharpen your vocational knowledge, and take good care of those under your command. As Officers of the SAF, you must uphold the SAF Core Values and the Officer’s Creed. By doing so, the SAF will continue to instil public confidence and strengthen support for National Service, ensuring that the SAF remains a reliable and respected pillar of national defence.

Conclusion

To the family members and loved ones with us here today, I thank you for your unwavering support for our soldiers. Your sacrifices and encouragement have been crucial in allowing them to thrive and successfully complete their training to commission today. 

To all the graduands, congratulations once again. As you embark on the next phase of your military journey, remember the values, experiences and lessons learnt that have brought you here on this parade square. Let them empower you with the conviction to Lead, the courage to Excel, and the determination to Overcome.

Whether in the SAF, or in your own lives, I have no doubt that every one of you possess the strength, resilience, and tenacity to overcome any obstacles you may face. Thank you for serving the SAF and our nation, and I wish all of you all the best!

Thank you.

196 Cadets Commissioned as SAF Officers