Minister for Manpower Mr Lim Swee Say reviewed a commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 260 cadets, comprising 208 from the Army, 14 from the Navy and 38 from the Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Addressing the graduands at the parade, Mr Lim highlighted the importance of National Service against the backdrop of an evolving security environment. He said, "The terror threat to our country, the region and the world is far greater today than it was before. We must stand together in unity, and not let divisive forces break our bonds as one people, and as one nation... National Service has strengthened our unique sense of pride and cohesiveness in our society; where one learns to trust the person next to him regardless of race, language, or religion. This social capital, reinforced by a strong SAF and Home Team, is what will see us through the evolving security threats of our time." 

Mr Lim also underscored the importance of leadership. "As we look to the future and anticipate the threats that lie ahead, the importance of your roles cannot be overstated... The SAF is only as strong as its soldiers, and our soldiers are only as strong as their leaders. As Officers of the SAF, your duty will be to lead, to excel, and to overcome... You will set the benchmark of what is possible in your troop. It is critical that you have that grit within, to persevere and never give up. Always believe that you can make a positive difference, to improve the effectiveness and readiness of our SAF," he said.  

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 appointments 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.