President Halimah Yacob reviewed a commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 384 cadets, comprising 300 from the Army, 34 from the Navy and 50 from the Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking at the parade, President Halimah highlighted the SAF's role in upholding the sovereignty of Singapore. She said, "We have only ourselves to depend upon in the defence of our home, which is why your service to the nation is important. A strong and credible SAF has laid the foundations for Singapore to enjoy more than 50 years of peace and stability, as well as to thrive, progress, and prosper. The SAF provides us with the ballast to stand firm and respond to intimidation, and its strength lies in the generations of servicemen and women who have toiled over the years, to fight for their home and their loved ones. Our servicemen and women are at the frontline every day to uphold Singapore's sovereignty and ensure the security of Singapore and Singaporeans."

President Halimah also reminded the graduands of their responsibility as SAF officers to lead and train their men with excellence, care and concern. She said, "Stay humble and true to your soldiers, sailors, and airmen and they will in turn grow to trust and respect you. Train them well and above all, keep them safe...Be alert and keep an eye out for our men and women as they train realistically and rigorously to hone their skills and competencies."

The parade marked the completion of 38 weeks of rigorous training at the Officer Cadet School. The realistic training conducted during the course sharpened the cadets' combat, planning and leadership skills. The newly commissioned officers will go on to assume command, instructional or staff appointments in the SAF. Also present at the parade were Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, senior Ministry of Defence officials and SAF officers, as well as families and friends of the newly commissioned officers.