Senior Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman reviewed a commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 250 cadets, comprising 184 from the Army, 34 from the Navy and 32 from the Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). 

Addressing the graduands at the parade, Dr Maliki emphasised the importance of the SAF in safeguarding Singapore against evolving threats such as terrorism. He said, "The SAF is keenly aware of this security threat to Singapore and will continue to hone our capabilities in urban operations, build our competence in homeland security operations, and work closely with our partners in the Home Team on joint operations." He added that, "Our deployments to the defeat-ISIS coalition in the Middle East since 2014 are a testament to our commitment to protecting Singaporeans against this grave security threat at its source." On the SAF's contributions to the DPRK-USA Singapore Summit, Dr Maliki said, "Singapore's ability to provide a safe and secure environment was one of the key reasons why it was chosen as a venue", and that "The successful completion of the mission shows us that the SAF can always be counted on to defend and protect the sovereignty and independence of our nation."

Dr Maliki also reminded graduands of their responsibility as leaders and the need to lead with care, conviction, courage and compassion. He said, "Regardless of whether you are in or out of uniform, you never cease being an officer. Demonstrate your fortitude and resilience, trust the training that you have been given and use the SAF core values as your guiding light." 

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 senior Ministry of Defence officials and SAF officers, as well as families and friends of the newly commissioned officers.