Speech by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at the 2009 NDP Appreciation Dinner

Introduction

This year we celebrated our nation's 44th birthday amidst challenging circumstances. Singapore was in our deepest recession since independence and the local spread of the Influenza A(H1N1) virus was peaking. Like the optimism brought forth by this year's parade, the economy and the local H1N1 situation now appear to have turned the corner. Like what was felt by all of those who attended the parade, we know that if we stand united and stay cohesive as a nation, we can always overcome our challenges and continue to grow and prosper. It is therefore most befitting that the theme for this year's NDP is "Come together - Reaching Out, Reaching Up".A National Day for AllWith this theme of unity and engagement, this year's NDP Organising Committee was determined to reach out and connect to all Singaporeans. Bold, creative and novel steps were taken. The extensive use of new media platforms including YouTube and social-networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter proved very successful. The NDPeeps Facebook fan page amassed over 15,400 members since April this year, providing Singaporeans with a platform to post and share text messages, photos and videos relating to their National Day experiences. The one-stop portal - NDPeeps.com - was also abuzz with activity with some 30,000 posts on the Reflections page since May.

A lot of hard work also went into making the 8.22 pm Pledge Moment a reality. I would like to commend the NDP Organising Committee for undertaking such an ambitious goal to draw our people together and reaffirm their commitment to Singapore. You have managed to bring out many shy and self-inhibited Singaporeans to come together to share a brief moment together, whether publicly or privately, to demonstrate their aspiration for the ideals and values of our pledge. This is a very special, historic and meaningful moment to connect the hearts of all Singaporeans as one, to strengthen the bonds of our nation.

There were also other firsts. The stage at the Marina Bay floating platform was elevated and extended to the promenade bringing the participants even closer to the audience. Two towering performance grids, each nine storeys high, each a stunning spectacle that transformed the visual effects of various performances, were added to complement the main stage. The Presidential Gun Salute was executed from barges in the Bay, in full view of the spectators all around. Against the backdrop of the Merlion and One Fullerton, the firing provided a new sensory experience for all. Another new element was the city march-pass which saw the contingents marching out of the floating platform and around the City Hall and Marina Bay area.

TributeNDP 2009 would not have been a success without the many thousands of participants who helped in one way or another. The performers put on spirited and vibrant performances that contributed to an entertaining, fast paced and upbeat show. Credit is also due to the many thousands of helpers, volunteers and backstage crew who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that everything ran like clockwork.

Last year, I told the organisers of NDP 08 that the organising committee for this year's Parade would have big boots to fill. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from all sources indicates that you have not only met the challenge but also raised the bar for future NDPs. I commend you for your passion, enthusiasm and creativity in finding new possibilities, having the courage to experiment, and taking pains in your meticulous planning and seamless execution of the event to rally Singaporeans together for this special occasion.

ConclusionOn behalf of the people of Singapore, I thank you for your hard work and dedication over the past months, which have made NDP 2009 a resounding success. I hope that the experience has brought you great satisfaction and fond memories which you can share with your friends and loved ones. I would also like to express my appreciation to the corporate and individual sponsors who have stepped forward with your generous contributions despite the difficult economic climate.

I wish each and everyone of you an enjoyable evening and look forward to your continued support for our future NDPs.

Thank you.