Speech by Senior Minister of State, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources & Ministry of Health, Dr Amy Khor, at the 33/2017 Specialist Cadet Course Graduation Parade, at Pasir Labar Camp, on 23 Nov 17

Graduands of the 33/17 Specialist Cadet Course, 
Parents and loved ones of our servicemen and women, 
Ladies and gentlemen. 

First of all, a very good evening to one and all. 

I am indeed honoured to be here with all of you on this very special evening. My heartiest congratulations to the graduands, for completing the Specialist Cadet Course. The discipline and tenacity that you have shown in the past six months of rigorous training is indeed commendable. All of you have earned the right to wear the chevron that sets you apart as leaders and Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Your leadership and combat skills will inspire the men and women under your command to give all their best in the defence of Singapore. This is a very heavy responsibility. But I have confidence that you will be able to rise to the challenge. Ladies and gentlemen, let us give the graduands a round of applause.

For 50 years, National Service (NS) has fulfilled Singapore's critical need for defence and security, and provided the peace and stability upon which we have built our country. It has also been an integral part of our nation-building efforts and has given us a unique sense of pride, identity and cohesiveness in our society; regardless of race, language, or religion, we fight alongside one another - as brothers-in-arms - to defend Singapore. 

In celebrating your hard-earned success, we must also acknowledge our legacy. This year, we pay tribute to those who came before us, the more than a million Singaporeans who have served NS over the past 50 years. Decades of hard work, sacrifice, and commitment by generations of National Servicemen have built the SAF to what it is today - advanced, effective, and capable. The baton has now been passed to you, the next generation, to serve our country with pride and honour. 

Our security environment is increasingly complex and challenging, and the terror threat to our country and the region today is even graver than before. Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorism and propaganda are key issues. The risk of a physical attack, as well as the risk of individuals becoming radicalised via the Internet, are of grave concern. Just two months ago, we learnt - via social media - that a radicalised Singaporean was likely featured in ISIS' recruitment videos. Earlier this year, we witnessed the devastating effects of Islamic extremism in Marawi where terrorists conducted a siege for months. While the situation has since stabilised in Marawi, the threat of terrorism continues to loom in our region. Indeed, it is a real and present danger. 

This is why the SAF has evolved to keep up with our security challenges. And we live without fear of war or subjugation because our servicemen and women defend our air, land and sea 24/7. You, who will become Specialists in the SAF, will now join them in defending our home and our families.  

You have come a long way from your Basic Military Training to become who you are today - leaders of the SAF. Now, as leaders and Specialists of the SAF, the task to defend Singapore from challenges and threats rests squarely upon your shoulders. The sense of camaraderie, solidarity and social unity fostered by NS is now ever more important as the security threats around usbecome increasingly complex. As we look to the future and anticipate the threats that lie ahead, we need to be adaptive and responsive, to keep the SAF nimble and relevant to tackle a myriad of threats. This includes every single one of you on parade today. 

As Specialists, you are responsible for leading and training the men and women under your charge, and to inspire them to serve. When called upon, you must be ready to respond and protect our country as well as our way of life. As leaders in the SAF, you will unify your soldiers as Singaporeans who, regardless of race, language or religion, will band together to overcome setbacks together. Lead by example with conviction and engage them sincerely, and with compassion. The demands on you will be very high, but trust the training that you have been given and always be guided by the SAF core values.

Today is a day of celebration, a celebration of the hard work that has brought you here. It is also a day of gratitude, a day to thank those who have nurtured, taught, and cheered you on. Do take time to thank those around you, especially your parents and loved ones who have stood by you throughout your tough training. 

To the families and loved ones of our graduands, I thank you for your unwavering support for our soldiers. Your love and steadfast support are important sources of motivation and encouragement for our servicemen and women.

Graduands, continue to defend Singapore and protect our loved ones. And I wish you all the best as you serve our country. And always remember this motto as you carry out your roles and responsibilities: WITH PRIDE WE LEAD!