President Tharman Shanmugaratnam reviewed the Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 460 cadets, comprising 368 from the Singapore Army, 60 from the Republic of Singapore Navy and 32 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking at the parade, President Tharman emphasised the importance of defence and diplomacy in tackling the security challenges that Singapore faces. He said, "Singapore has been and remains deeply committed to fostering a world where the rule of law is upheld, where dialogue and negotiation are the chosen pathways to resolving conflicts and disputes… the security challenges we face today are complex and best resolved by strengthening our defence relations and collaboration, within the framework of an open and inclusive regional security architecture."

President Tharman also reminded graduands of their responsibility to lead the next generation of National Servicemen. He said, "The simple truth is that the strength of our military lies ultimately in our people… as newly commissioned officers, remember the motto that you have embraced throughout your cadet course: to Lead, to Excel, and to Overcome. As you don your officer epaulettes, the duty of caring for our soldiers, sailors, airmen and guardians now rests on your shoulders."

The parade marked the completion of 38 weeks of rigorous training at the Officer Cadet School. The realistic training conducted during the course sharpened the cadets' combat, planning and leadership skills. The newly commissioned officers will go on to assume command, instructional or staff appointments in the SAF. Also present at the parade were Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, senior Ministry of Defence and SAF officials, as well as families and friends of the newly commissioned officers.