Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Mr Baey Yam Keng reviewed the 37th Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade at Pasir Laba Camp this evening. A total of 926 Specialist Cadets comprising 889 from the Singapore Army and 37 from the Republic of Singapore Navy graduated as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Addressing the graduands at the parade, Mr Baey underscored the need for a strong and committed SAF, and the responsibility of successive generations in strengthening Singapore's peace and security amidst a complex and evolving security landscape. He said, "While our pioneers laid the foundations, each successive generation built upon the efforts of their predecessors. Now, it is your turn to take on the mantle of leadership and build on their legacy."

Mr Baey further highlighted the important role that Specialists play as leaders in the SAF. He added, "You must also win the hearts and minds of your soldiers, inspiring them to work towards a common mission despite their diverse backgrounds, beliefs and personalities. Be strong role models of the SAF Core Values. Distinguish yourself not by your rank, but through your values and actions. Earn their trust by first showing them respect through the proper and safe conduct of activities so that they will have faith in their leaders… Your role as leaders requires you to look after those under your charge, even as they serve this nation with loyalty, commitment and pride."

The graduation parade marked the completion of the 22-week Specialist Cadet Course, where the graduands trained under rigorous and realistic conditions to develop leadership and combat skills, and deepen their understanding of the vocations in the SAF. Present at the parade were families and friends of the graduands and senior SAF officers.