Graduands of the 21/2014 Specialist Cadet Course,
Parents,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

A very good eveningand may I also say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.To the graduands on parade, let me congratulate all of you on successfully completing the Specialist Cadet Course. You are here today because you have shown the ability, drive and determination to pass the physically and mentally demanding course.This is also an occasion for us to recognise your parents and loved ones who have stood behind you throughout this journey. I am sure their strong support and encouragement have significantly contributed to your achievements.

The graduation today marks the end of a key phase of your training. It also signifies a new beginning of your service to the nation as a Specialist of the Singapore Armed Forces. You are now entrusted with the heavy responsibility of defending our nation and our people.We have come a long way since our independence, braving many challenges to achieve the peace and prosperity we enjoy today. All this has been possible because our pioneer generation of soldiers and leaders recognised early on that a small country like Singapore needs a strong and credible defence and a strong network of friends and supporters to chart a steady course in this uncertain world. The generations before you have also done their duty to keep Singapore safe and secure, and it is now your turn to step up and take responsibility to defend our home, to protect our loved ones, and to secure our future and our way of life.

Singapore will be celebrating our 50th Anniversary next year. While we have enjoyed many years of peace and security, let us not forget that as a small nation, we could easily be affected by any turmoil that takes place in the world or in the region. An example would be the recent threats posed by the terrorist organisation of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria also known as ISIS. The commander of Indonesian National Armed Forces has warned recently that approximately 350 Southeast Asians are reportedly in Iraq and Syria. Many of them have joined ISIS, and some Malaysians and Indonesians are fighting for ISIS and have formed militant groups. Like many of our neighbours, Singapore is deeply concerned about the implications for regional security should these individuals return.

To protect Singapore, the SAF has been continuously enhancing its capabilities over the years by leveraging on new technologies, weaponry and platforms. Today, the SAF is a modern armed force with sophisticated systems and equipment, capable of carrying out all operations, in peacetime and when called upon. However, the strength of the SAF lies not in its advanced military hardware but in its people.

Close to 1 million people have served National Service since it started 45 years ago. We have built a strong and credible defence that we can be proud of because of their commitment. To create a more positive experience that further empowers and motivates individuals to serve, the Government has accepted the 30 recommendations by the Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) in June this year. MINDEF and MHA are working to implement these recommendations over the next few years, which include enhancing the Individual Physical Proficiency Test management and training system, and strengthening the National Service training system. We will also be deploying more Regular trainers to improve our servicemen's training. These Regular trainers will be able to provide our servicemen a better appreciation of why they train and what they are defending.While we seek to further strengthen National Service, your role as Specialists and leaders in the SAF remains critical.

As a Specialist and leader, you are asked to give nothing short of your very best. Your soldiers will be looking to you to uphold the specialists' creed of leadership by example, excellence, fighting spirit, and dedication to Singapore. You will be in a position not only to train them, but also to guide, to befriend and to mentor. How you do so will determine whether they can maximise their strengths, unlock their potential and give their best during National Service. And I am sure all of you will find this a fulfilling and rewarding role.

Today's Graduation Parade represents a significant milestone in your journey in National Service and the SAF. I am confident that the Specialist Cadet Course has equipped you with a strong foundation of leadership and combat skills. The rank that you are about to wear is an affirmation of the nation's trust and confidence in you. I welcome all of you as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces, and wish you all the best as you serve our country to the best of your abilities. Singapore and our people depend on you to keep our country safe, secure, and strong for the years ahead. WITH PRIDE WE LEAD