Speech by Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance, Mr Chee Hong Tat, at the 133/23 Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade on 8 Jun 2024 at SAFTI Military Institute

Graduands of the 133/23 Officer Cadet Course,

Parents, Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

INTRODUCTION

A very good evening to all of you! I am happy to join you this evening for this momentous occasion.

Let me start by extending my heartfelt congratulations to all the graduands of the 133/23 Officer Cadet Course. You have gone through 38 weeks of rigorous training that stretched you to your limits and developed you as leaders. This parade marks a significant milestone in your journey with the SAF, and you can be very proud of all that you have accomplished so far.

THE NEED FOR A STRONG SAF

Graduands, you are joining the ranks of the SAF Officer Corps at a time marked by heightened geopolitical uncertainties. Close to home, the recent attack on the police station in Ulu Tiram, Johor Bahru, is a grave reminder that the threat of terrorism remains high.

Against such a volatile and uncertain setting, Singapore must continue to build an open and inclusive regional security architecture, where countries can resolve differences and disputes through constructive dialogue. For example, we hosted the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue just a week ago, continuing to provide a platform for Defence Ministers and senior officials to meet and exchange views on pressing regional security concerns.

But beyond diplomacy, we need a strong and capable SAF to defend our national interests and preserve our sovereignty. Our steadfast investment in defence over the years has enabled the SAF to become a credible and highly-respected armed forces, capable of responding to a whole spectrum of security challenges. Today, the SAF boasts a modern arsenal of sophisticated platforms, which will be further bolstered as the SAF brings in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, next-generation howitzers and Type 218SG submarines. The SAF also established the new Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) two years ago, to strengthen its capabilities to defend Singapore against security threats in the digital domain.    

PEOPLE AT THE CORE

Hardware aside, the strength of the SAF ultimately lies in the capabilities and resolve of our people. We must ensure that our people continue to remain committed to defend Singapore, and are well trained to fulfil their mission. And we must continue to raise capable and dedicated leaders who have the skills and mettle to tackle the challenges that lie ahead of us.

OFFICERS AND LEADERS OF THE FUTURE

As future officers of the SAF, you will lead your soldiers, sailors, airmen and guardians in safeguarding the peace and stability of Singapore. You will be responsible for grooming the next generation of servicemen and women who will protect Singapore. To lead well, you will need to lead by example, be firm yet compassionate, and have the moral courage to do what is right. Take care of the people under your charge, engage them to win their hearts and minds, and imbue in them a strong sense of conviction and commitment to serve Singapore. I am confident that each and every one of you will grow to be effective and impactful leaders, supporting your men and women with empathy, and serving the SAF and our nation with dedication.

CONCLUSION

To the parents, family members and loved ones who are here today, thank you very much for your unwavering support for our graduands throughout their journey in Officer Cadet School. It was with your strong support and encouragement that our graduands were able to successfully go through their demanding training and stand here to receive their commissions today. I trust that with your continued support, the newly commissioned officers today will go on to discharge their duties in their upcoming roles well.

Graduands, today the torch is passed on to all of you as you join the ranks of the Officer Corps. I wish you all the best in your leadership journey, and thank you for your service to the SAF and to our nation. I am confident you will rise to the challenge.

To Lead, To Excel, To Overcome! Congratulations once again!

More Resources

402 Cadets Commissioned as SAF Officers