Speeches
Speech by Minister of State for Defence, Mr Desmond Choo for the 30/26 SAF Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony on 21 January 2026
21 January 2026
Chief of Defence Force,
Service Chiefs,
Senior Commanders,
Graduands of the 30/26 SAF Senior Military Expert Course,
Families and loved ones,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good evening.
Introduction
Today marks an important milestone. For our graduands, it is the transition from training to responsibility. For your families, it reflects years of support, patience, and understanding. And for our newly appointed Senior Military Experts, my warmest congratulations!
This is the largest cohort of Senior Military Experts since the Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) was introduced in 2010 — 234 of you. This did not happen by chance. It reflects how the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has evolved — and must continue to evolve — in a world where defence increasingly depends on deep expertise, adaptability, and sound judgment.
A Complex and Uncertain Security Environment
In today’s security environment, expertise is a real and enduring advantage for the SAF. You take on this responsibility at a time when the security environment is becoming more complex and uncertain. Conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East continue to change the way wars are fought. In Ukraine for example, you have seen on the video clip earlier, we have seen technologies emerge, mature, and become obsolete within a very short period of time. The lesson is clear: We must keep learning, or we will fail and fall behind.
Closer to home, the terrorism threat remains real. The bomb hoax at St Joseph’s Church during the festive season was a reminder of why vigilance and readiness matter, even when incidents do not necessarily escalate. At the same time, threats today go beyond the physical. Cyber intrusions, misinformation, and AI-enabled scams are already being used to undermine trust and disrupt societies.
In response, the SAF has invested in new capabilities, including the C4 & Digitalisation Command and the Defence Cyber Command under the Digital and Intelligence Service. But capabilities alone are not enough. People remain our decisive advantage. Technology and hardware matter, but people remain the SAF’s decisive edge.
MDES as a Strategic Human Resource
The MDES exists to build and deploy deep expertise — in engineering, medicine, intelligence, and cyber defence — where it matters most. As a Senior Military Expert, together with our Officers and Warrant Officers and Specialists (WOSpecs), you form a SAF that is integrated, professional, and credible.
This year, we also welcome the largest group of NSmen graduating under the Enhanced Expertise Deployment Scheme. These are individuals who chose to continue serving — not because they had to, but because they believe their skills make a difference.
ME4(NS) Mohamed Najid - I think he is here somewhere today - with a background in strategic communications across government, chose to extend his service and will now contribute his expertise with the Republic of Singapore Navy. ME4(NS) Glenn Low, a former Guards Specialist with civilian expertise in trust-and-safety at global technology companies, now brings those very skills to the Digital and Intelligence Service.
When our NSmen choose to serve beyond obligation, it reflects a strong sense of responsibility to Singapore and the ultimate deterrence to any aggressor. MDES also allows us to recognise and develop talent from within our ranks. ME4 Chris Thian began his career working on the Aerostat platform. While serving, he pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and is now appointed as an Air Force Engineer.
The scheme also enables mid-career professionals to return to service. ME4 Sanjeev Kapoor, after serving nearly a decade in the RSAF and upgrading himself in cybersecurity, chose to rejoin the SAF with the DIS as a C4 Expert.
All different paths, but always a shared commitment to national defence.
Strength From Our Families and Friends
For all the emphasis we place on technology and expertise, the SAF’s strength has always rested on its people, as I have talked about earlier. And behind every serviceman and servicewoman is a family that provides steady, quiet support. ME4 Sheryl Kyi Yu, who moved to Singapore from Myanmar as a child, chose to serve as a Military Medical Expert after becoming a Singapore citizen — inspired by her husband’s service and a belief in shared responsibility. It is also heartening to see families of service amongst our graduands, including ME4 Jun Lee, Judah Tan, and Alexis Yeo, who follow in the footsteps of loved ones who served before them.
There are also many, many more incredible stories, but that is all the time that we have here today. To the families here this evening — thank you. Families play a quiet but critical role in national defence.
Conclusion
Graduands, today marks the start of a new phase. As Senior Military Experts, you will be expected to lead through your own expertise. To stay current in your domains. To mentor others.
And to ensure that innovation is anchored in sound judgment and strong values. The challenges ahead will not be simple. But the SAF has confidence in you — because you have already demonstrated commitment, discipline, and professionalism.
Once again, congratulations on your appointment. I wish you every success in your continued service to Singapore and Singaporeans.
Thank you and have a pleasant evening.
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