Second Minister for Defence Mr Ong Ye Kung officiated at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) PRIDE (PRoductivity and Innovation in Daily Efforts) Day 2017 awards presentation ceremony held at the Singapore University of Technology and Design this afternoon. A total of 128 awards were presented to individuals, groups and units from MINDEF and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) in recognition of their outstanding and innovative projects. Their innovations and work improvement ideas achieved savings exceeding $197 million in the last financial year.
 
Speaking at the awards presentation ceremony, Mr Ong noted that with budgetary pressures due to moderating economic growth and falling cohort sizes with low fertility rates, productivity and innovation are key to helping MINDEF/SAF achieve mission success.  He said, "We recognised very long ago, those were the days with the productivity bee, that productivity and innovation are critical enablers for us to stretch each defence dollar, optimise manpower and become more effective in whatever we set do." Mr Ong also stressed the importance of ensuring that MINDEF and SAF personnel continue to find ways to improve and innovate. He said, "What we do here in MINDEF/SAF can be an important reference point for our whole nation, within and outside of the public service. It starts with recognising the strategic importance of innovation and productivity, it happens when leaders take a personal interest to drive it, and it proliferates with the right organisational processes and culture that empowers every individual."
 
The MINDEF PRIDE Movement, established in 1981, promotes a culture of organisational excellence, innovation and productivity across MINDEF and the SAF. MINDEF PRIDE Day is held annually to recognise the outstanding efforts and contributions of units and personnel to the MINDEF PRIDE Movement. This year's theme "Smart Innovation, Extraordinary Results", highlights the proactive and collaborative efforts of our people working together to transform innovative ideas towards improving productivity and achieving extraordinary results for MINDEF and the SAF.
 
The public is invited to visit the MINDEF PRIDE Day 2017 Exhibition, which is held at the Campus Centre, Building 2 of the Singapore University of Technology and Design on 30 and 31 Aug 2017, from 9am to 5pm on 30 Aug, and 9am to 1pm on 31 Aug. The exhibition showcases a range of innovative projects and Smart Defence initiatives.