Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan reviewed a commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 197 cadets, comprising 142 from the Army, 1 from the Navy and 54 from the Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking at the parade, Dr Balakrishnan highlighted the importance of raising strong leaders to lead the SAF. He said, "It is therefore absolutely essential for us to identify and to develop strong leaders with vision and gumption. We need to raise and train leaders who can not only adapt to new systems and practices quickly, but also nurture others to do the same. Today’s commissioning parade represents our continued commitment to ensuring that we will have the right leaders, both in values and aptitude, to lead the SAF for the next generation and beyond."

Dr Balakrishnan also reminded graduands of their responsibility as leaders in the SAF and the need to lead with care, conviction, courage and compassion. "It is your responsibility to train your men and women well, to train them hard, but to also return them to their loved ones at the end of every single day. When others look to you for leadership, guidance and support, let them see a role model who exemplifies the core values of the SAF."

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 appointment in the SAF. Also present at the parade were senior Ministry of Defence officials and SAF officers, as well as families and friends of the newly commissioned officers.