Graduands of the 118/19 Officer Cadet Course,

It is my pleasure to address you on this special occasion.

You have trained rigorously for the last nine months in the Officer Cadet School, culminating in your commissioning today. Soon, you will become officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). It is a solemn duty and a calling of the highest order. Congratulations to all of you. I also thank and congratulate your families and loved ones, for their unwavering support behind you.

UNPRECEDENTED CHALLENGES

2020 has been an extremely challenging year. Marked by the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, our nation has faced unprecedented challenges. We would have to keep our people safe and healthy, and manage the impact on livelihoods and the economy. Many others behind the scenes held the fort, with critical operations to protect our borders 24/7, safeguarding Singapore's peace and security.

I am heartened by the SAF's strong support in our fight against COVID-19. The SAF, together with the Ministry of Manpower and Singapore Police Force, formed Forward Assurance and Support Teams, to support migrant workers staying in the dormitories. Other SAF units and the wider defence community distributed masks, provided medical and testing support, and Command and Control systems. Many went beyond the call of duty — Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) extended their ORD dates to pitch in; Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) stepped up to lend their expertise; and members of the SAF Volunteer Corps took part in contact-tracing efforts. More than 6,000 men and women of the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), SAF and the defence technology community, including NSmen and ex-regulars, contributed to our fight against COVID-19.

The SAF took charge and took the challenges in their stride. The SAF also organised the National Day Parade, honouring our frontliners and celebrating the resilience of ordinary Singaporeans. Graduands, you are joining an organisation that has continuously given strength and support to Singaporeans during difficult times.

LEADING AMIDST UNCERTAINTY

Our security environment is becoming more complex and volatile. Established challenges like terrorism and maritime security continue to persist. New domains of conflict are emerging, in cyberspace and in the information space. I am glad to see that the SAF continues to look ahead and develop new capabilities and concepts to keep Singapore secure.

Even as the nature of threats continue to evolve, the SAF's mission remains constant – to defend Singapore and our way of life. Crucial to this is the SAF's continued strength – and not just in our modern weaponry and technology but more importantly, the professionalism and dedication of our people, including our national servicemen who are the backbone of the SAF.

To the commissioning class of the 118/19 Officer Cadet Course, today is an important milestone for you. It marks the end of your cadet training, but it also marks a new beginning. You will face newer and heavier responsibilities, and hard knocks that test your mettle and character. You must lead with an officer's values: be humble, care for your people, and serve with purpose. I am confident that you will be able to Lead, Excel and Overcome.

Congratulations once again!