Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Mr Masagos Zulkifli Bin Masagos Mohamad reviewed a commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 335 cadets, comprising 280 from the Army and 55 from the Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking at the parade, Mr Masagos highlighted that the threat of terrorism is clear and present to Singapore, and a strong SAF is a key pillar in our fight against the scourge of terrorism. He reminded the graduands that as leaders in the SAF, they have a direct and important role to play in deterring the threats that face our nation today. He said, "Generations of national servicemen have stepped forward to respond to the call of duty, honour, country. Henceforth, you will bear the same responsibility of defending our country." He added that "above all, it is the quality of leadership in the SAF that will decide whether a mission is won or lost", and exhorted the graduands to "inspire nothing less than the highest standards of professionalism and discipline in the men and women under (their) charge."

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.