Transcript of Speech by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the 131/23 Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade on 9 Dec 2023 at SAFTI Military Institute

Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Senior Minister of State for Defence,

Graduands of the 131/23 Officer Cadet Course,

Parents and Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen

A very good evening. Let me begin by extending my heartiest congratulations to all the graduands of the Officer Cadet Course. You have each passed 38 weeks of intense training, and will I am sure be looking forward to a good meal with family and friends. More importantly, you are now ready for the leadership responsibilities that lie ahead.

Defence and Diplomacy

As Officers-to-be, you would all be keenly aware of the ongoing geopolitical conflicts and insecurities. The foundations of international order are under strain, just when the need for international rule of law and global cooperation is greatest.

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. We also support strengthened international cooperation to prevent crises from occurring, and to be prepared in advance for any shocks to the system when they do occur, so as to minimise their human and economic costs.

The security challenges we face today are complex and are best resolved by strengthening our defence relations and collaboration, within the framework of an open and inclusive regional security architecture. Earlier this year, Singapore hosted the 20th edition of the Shangri-La Dialogue, which remains a useful platform for countries to engage in constructive dialogue on security matters. The SAF also participates in a range of bilateral and multilateral exercises to strengthen practical cooperation and deepen partnerships.

A Strong SAF

However, our ability to actively engage regionally and globally is anchored on the strength and capability of the SAF. This strength underwrites the security umbrella essential to us, and lays the foundations for our economic and diplomatic aspirations. The SAF continually evolves, sharpening its capabilities and adopting cutting-edge technologies to ensure it remains ever-ready to defend our sovereignty and interests.

1. In July this year, the Navy received its first Invincible-class submarine - the Impeccable - which has longer endurance, improved sensors, and a wider range of payloads.

2. In the recent Exercise Forging Sabre conducted in September, the Army and the Air Force worked in close concert with the Digital and Intelligence Service for the first time, and further honed their abilities to execute integrated senseand-strike operations.

3. Through the second edition of the Critical Infrastructure Defence Exercise held last month, SAF worked with multiple national agencies to strengthen our Whole-of-Government response to detect and tackle cyber security threats.

4. Beyond the technology and organisation structures enabling these capabilities, it is the collective will and fighting spirit of its people that truly define the SAF. Whether it is to respond to bomb threats in the commercial airliners, to defend against cyber threats that can cripple our critical infrastructure, providing humanitarian assistance to countries in need, or to support other agencies in managing a pandemic, our SAF servicepersons have always stepped forward to answer the call of duty and fulfilled their mission.

To Lead, To Excel, To Overcome

The simple truth is that the strength of our military lies ultimately in our people. And it takes good leadership to motivate our people, especially the generations of National Servicemen, and to develop and harness their abilities to the fullest potential.

As young Officers-to-be, you will have heavy responsibilities on your shoulders. You have to build a strong sense of purpose in the men and women under your charge, and inspire them to believe in our country and armed forces. You will have to build teams and units with a strong sense of camaraderie and fighting spirit to achieve collective goals that cannot be fulfilled by individuals.

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.

Conclusion

In fulfilling your duties, I urge you to draw upon what you have learnt in the past 38 weeks. Remember the tough times and challenges which you have overcome and recognise how it has shaped you into leaders. The effort and determination demonstrated by the 460 of you commissioning today, gives us confidence that our young leaders are capable and committed to giving their best to serve their country and fellowmen.

To the families and loved ones of the graduands gathered with us today, thank you for your constant encouragement. Your care and support are absolutely essential to giving them the strength to thrive and persevere, as they move on to the next phase of their military journeys.

To the graduands, congratulations once again. In these turbulent yet hopeful times, I am confident that you will all do well to Lead, to Excel, and to Overcome. Thank you.

More Resources

460 Cadets Commissioned as SAF Officers