Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen hosted a reception today to thank participating organisations, sponsors, and key appointment holders of the National Day Parade (NDP) 2024 Executive Committee. The NDP Appreciation Function was held at Surbana Jurong Campus, where Dr Ng presented awards to 12 Gold Award recipients and 89 Principal Partners to express gratitude for their hard work and dedication towards this year’s NDP.

In his speech, Dr Ng said that through each NDP, “we declare to the rest of the world our fierce determination and ability as citizens to decide for ourselves, Singapore’s way of life.” He added, “we do so as one people, regardless of race and religion with unity of spirit and purpose to progress as one nation, to protect what we feel is precious in Singapore, our harmony on our island home, an inclusive oasis for all to pursue their ambitions.”

This year’s NDP theme, “Together, As One United People”, highlights the collective strength of our people and underscores the importance of every citizen rallying together to shape our future and uplift those around us. NDP 2024 also commemorated 40 years of Total Defence. Dr Ng thanked the invaluable support and contributions from the NDP 2024 Executive Committee, organisations and participants, who came together to make NDP 2024 a success. He said, “Ultimately, NDP was a show by Singaporeans for Singaporeans. Community groups, students, and performers from various backgrounds came together to put up a celebration for our country’s independence. All of us could celebrate exuberantly because the Home Team and SAF troopers were out there making sure that we were safe… I also want to thank sponsors from businesses and organisations who helped to make NDP 2024 a success.”

Additionally, at the Appreciation Function, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng presented awards to 52 Major Partners and 180 Co-partners of NDP 2024. VADM Beng will also be presenting awards to 436 Silver Award recipients next week.