Speeches
Speech by Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Ms Grace Fu, at the 141/25 Officer Cadet Course Commissioning Parade on 13 Jun 2026 at SAFTI MI
13 June 2026
A very good evening to all the Officer Cadets on parade, and to their families and loved ones who are here to celebrate this important occasion with them.
Cadets, over the past 38 weeks, you were stretched physically, mentally and emotionally. You have demonstrated resilience, discipline and leadership. Today, you earn a well-deserved rank and embark on a new chapter. You will be entrusted to lead others and make difficult decisions under pressure as an Officer of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
You step up into leadership at a time when the world is highly unpredictable. From the War in Ukraine, to the War in Gaza, and the conflict in Iran and the Middle East, we are reminded time and again that peace is not guaranteed, and conflicts can erupt any time. For a small country like Singapore, we should never take our peace and stability for granted.
The SAF and National Service are what give us the confidence and assurance that our peace and sovereignty will be protected. Since last year, the Digital and Intelligence Service has been part of a Whole-of-Government effort to defend our telecommunications networks against cyber-attacks. In an increasingly digital world, our ability to deter cyber threats is vital to prevent disruptions to essential services and our daily lives. Earlier this year, our Republic of Singapore Air Force conducted repatriation flights to bring Singaporeans home safely from the Middle East. Amidst the heightened tensions and uncertainty, many of us here were deeply moved knowing that the SAF stood ready to protect them, even in far-flung places. Just a month ago, our Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team carried out the controlled detonation of a 250-kilogram World War II bomb found near Changi Airport, one of the heaviest bombs discovered in recent times.
These are not abstract missions. These are real operations that protect Singapore and Singaporeans, and in each and every one of these missions, our soldiers risk their lives to keep us safe.
Today’s threats, such as misinformation campaigns, supply chain disruptions and hybrid warfare, affect not just the military, but the whole society. Singapore will require a whole-of-nation, and multi-generational effort to defend. Everyone in Singapore must play a role in strengthening our resilience.
This multi-generational commitment is illustrated by the family of twin brothers, Officer Cadets Shane Yap and Shaun Yap. Shane and Shaun will soon follow in the footsteps of their father, to serve in the Guards Formation. Their story reminds us that the defence of Singapore was built by successive generations. Generations of Singaporeans answered the call to serve and pass on that commitment and responsibility to the next. Thank you: Shane, Shaun and Tai Chuan.
The Officers we commission today matter more than ever. The SAF does not simply need more Officers — we need the right kind of Officers. First, we need you to be adaptable yet decisive. In a fast-changing world, you will not have the luxury of complete information. You must continuously adapt to and learn new ways of operating. Yet when the time comes, you must be ready to decide. Second, we need you to lead with empathy. Your soldiers are your greatest responsibility, and each of them brings different strengths and experiences. You must strive to understand and develop them, bring them together, and bring out the best in them. Finally, we need you to serve with purpose. At its core, your responsibility is to serve Singapore, and all Singaporeans. Whether you are supporting day-to-day operations or training your troops, you are guided by this responsibility to serve.
Officer Cadet Timothy Chua’s journey reflects this spirit of service. After serving as an Inspector in the Singapore Police Force during his National Service, he felt a calling to serve in a different way. He joined the SAF as an Officer, and trained with determination and purpose, earning the Sword of Merit. Congratulations to Timothy!
This evening, I would also like to acknowledge the families and loved ones of our soon-to-be commissioned Officers. Your support, encouragement and sacrifices have given them the strength to reach this important milestone.
Officer Cadet Marquis Lye and Military Expert 4 Maurice Lye were inspired by their father, who served as a Military Expert for more than three decades. The brothers went through this batch of training together, pushing and supporting one another every step of the way. Marquis, Maurice: your father must be so proud of both of you!
Indeed, behind every one of you are your parents, spouses, siblings and loved ones that have stood by you throughout this demanding period of training. As a mother of 3 military officers (one active and 2 NS), I understand what you are going through. To all the families and loved ones here, today’s event is also held in your honour – to recognise the sacrifice that you have endured and the support you have given to the cadets and to National Service.
Lastly, to the Commanders and Instructors, thank you for your dedication and commitment in shaping the latest batch of Officers. Your guidance, mentorship, and leadership have laid a strong foundation for their future service.
To our soon-to-be commissioned Officers, the journey ahead will be full of challenges, but also a meaningful one. You are now part of a proud tradition and carry the responsibility of defending Singapore and safeguarding our way of life.
Lead with courage, excel in your service, and overcome adversity, stand ready to defend Singapore and Singaporeans.
Congratulations once again to all of you, and I wish you all the very best in your journey ahead. Thank you.
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