Graduands of the 54/2022 Specialist Cadet Course,

Parents and loved ones of our Graduands,

Men and women of the Singapore Armed Forces,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

INTRODUCTION

Good evening.

I would like to take this opportunity to express how delighted I am to join you and your loved ones on this special occasion. To the graduands, congratulations on successfully completing 22 weeks of intensive training. You have come a long way since your journey first began, and have earned the right to assume the role of Specialists and Military Experts of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). After today, you will be entrusted with the responsibility and honour of leading the men and women under your charge to protect Singapore's sovereignty and our way of life.

THE NEED FOR A STRONG AND NIMBLE SAF

The world we live in today is a complex and volatile one, with a multitude of rapidly evolving security challenges that countries must grapple with. It has been almost a year since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the outcome of the conflict remains uncertain. Needless to say, the vision of an integrated Europe and Russia has disintegrated. Outside of Europe, countries must also cope with the supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures brought on by the invasion. Beyond the physical realm, potential threats in the digital space continue to grow in scale and sophistication, with digital attacks having the potential to cripple essential services and the economic activities of whole cities and countries.

As a small city-state, Singapore will always be susceptible to external threats. These developments demonstrate the need for us to have a strong and nimble defence force that is able to respond quickly and effectively to the evolving external environment. The Ministry of Defence and SAF have actively adapted to these changes by taking steps to strengthen our capabilities. For example, the establishment of the fourth SAF Service last year, the Digital and Intelligence Service, puts us in a good position to harness the potential of digital technologies and safeguard our digital domain. We have also continued to upgrade our conventional capabilities, such as through enhancing our Formidable-class frigates, operationalising the HUNTER Armoured Battle Group, and building up the Next Generation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. These efforts will enable the Next Generation SAF to strike faster and harder, and provide Singapore with greater confidence in navigating the increasingly complex geopolitical situation.

THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP

Even as we upgrade our hardware, we must remember the "heartware" of the SAF -- our people. It is imperative that we have capable and committed individuals serving at every level in the SAF to keep our country safe and secure. As a leader, you will be influencing and guiding the men and women under you. Your words and actions will carry more weight than ever. In light of this, I urge you to lead by example, and to anchor your decisions firmly on the SAF Core Values. As you command and lead, it is just as vital that you show empathy and attend to the well-being of your people. By taking care of both mission and your people, I am confident that the positive impact you leave on the men and women under your charge will be a highlight in your journey in the SAF.

CONCLUSION

Before I close, I would like to thank those who have played a key role in the training of the graduands standing before me today. To the trainers at the Specialist Cadet School, thank you for your dedication and commitment to ensuring that our Specialists Cadets and Military Expert trainees are well-equipped for the journey ahead. The many lessons you have imparted will enable the graduands to go on to excel in their respective fields and lead with confidence. To the families and loved ones who are gathered here today, I thank you for the unwavering support you have shown our graduands. Your love and care have been paramount in motivating our graduands to strive for excellence and demonstrate resilience through tough times.

To all the graduands, congratulations once again, and I wish you all the best.

With Pride We Lead!

Thank you.