Graduands of the 56/2023 Specialist Cadet Course,

Parents and loved ones of all our Graduands,

Men and women of the Singapore Armed Forces,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

INTRODUCTION

Good evening, and congratulations to all of you who have successfully completed these 22 weeks of intensive military training. It is my privilege to witness this important milestone, where you will not only take on the roles of Specialists and Military Experts in the SAF, but also be entrusted with the important responsibility of leading our servicemen and women in safeguarding Singapore's peace and security.

TODAY'S SECURITY LANDSCAPE

As we look at the global security environment today, many of us have become acutely aware that peace should never be taken for granted. Uncertainty ensues as tensions between the US and China continue, and the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine has had far-reaching consequences – on the lives and livelihoods of people on both sides, as well as the disruption to supply chains, food production and financial markets for the rest of the world. The sheer speed of technological change and innovation should also warrant our attention, as new challenges emerge in the digital domain.

TOTAL DEFENCE AND THE NEXT GEN SAF

Last week, we celebrated the 58th year of Singapore's independence and it was fitting that the theme, "Onward as One", was a call for Singaporeans to move forward together and build a shared future in unity. In the face of uncertainty and complex challenges, we must come together to ensure that our way of life is protected and defended well. Our soldiers here have very much demonstrated their commitment and their resolve to do so, and their families and loved ones have also contributed to our defence - the defence of our nation - by providing the support, love and care that is very much needed in our soldiers' journey.

This is a glimpse of the spirit of Total Defence. At the National Day Parade, we saw the six large floats representing each pillar, of military, civil, economic, social, digital and psychological defence. The message was clear and it continues to be clear, that each one of us here in Singapore, no matter who we are or what we do, each one of us has an important part to play in our collective defence against the threats and challenges that lie ahead.

MINDEF and the SAF has very much demonstrated foresight in this area – at NDP, we have seen some of our next generation assets from the Air Force, as well as the inaugural appearance of the Digital and Intelligence Service's Guard of Honour contingent. DIS, our fourth service was established last year, and today, we are already witnessing the graduation of our fourth batch of DIS specialists and military experts. The SAF's strategy to transform into a next generation defence force, and its consistent building of defence capabilities and technologies are all a testament to our commitment to stay ahead of the curve.

Beyond these efforts, we must also remember the people behind our capabilities. No matter how advanced our platforms are, it is the competence, dedication, and leadership of our servicemen and women that will lead to the future-ready, credible and professional force that we strive to have, and it is with these principles that you will continue to train and inspire the next generation under your care.

LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS

Graduands, you stand at the forefront of change. We live in increasingly challenging times, and we navigate together a world that is uncertain and rapidly evolving. But challenges bring new opportunities, so we urge you to innovate, to think outside the box, and to adapt your leadership styles to suit the evolving needs of your units, so that all of you can be best-positioned to reach your full potential as leaders and soldiers.

This moment unique one for you. Your time as Cadets has passed, and your responsibilities as Specialists and Military Experts have begun. Take a moment to recall your time and your journey as Cadets – the early mornings, the late nights, the rigorous trainings, the challenges that you have faced and overcome, the sweat, tears, and the days when you were on the verge of giving up.

Now, remember also the encouragements and lessons learnt from your Commanders, your Trainers, and the strength you drew from fellow Cadets during this journey. Following that inspiration, lead by example, demonstrating the good qualities that you have gleaned from this experience from the people you have walked the journey with. Treat your soldiers that you will lead with the highest standard of excellence, respect and support. Build the next generation of servicemen and women, and help them stand on your shoulders to see farther, and build an even stronger force that will stand ready for the challenges of today and for the future.

CONCLUSION

To the families, loved ones and friends that are here today, thank you all for your unwavering support to our graduands. You have been a critical source of motivation and inspiration to them, and in return they have done you very proud here tonight. Once again, I extend my warmest congratulations to all of you.

With Pride We Lead!

Thank you.