Graduands of the 112/18 Officer Cadet Course,
Parents,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

A very good evening to all. I am honoured to join you on this special day. To all of you on parade today, congratulations on successfully completing the Officer Cadet Course. You have demonstrated the core values of tenacity, integrity and discipline over the last 38 weeks. While today's parade marks the end of a key phase of your training, it signifies a new beginning in your life as leaders of the SAF, serving your fellow soldiers, your unit, and Singapore.

STAYING RELEVANT IN A CHANGING SECURITY LANDSCAPE

Your role as an Officer is an important one. We live in a world that is volatile, uncertain and filled with political and economic instability. As the threats evolve, our military forces must remain operationally-ready to adapt to any challenges and threats. The SAF has broadened and deepened its capabilities over the years to tackle a wide range of security challenges – from terrorism, border incursions to cyberattacks. As recent events pertaining to territorial disputes have shown, and as we are reminded time and again, without a strong SAF we run the risk of being trampled upon and brushed aside. The strength of the SAF has allowed us to protect our sovereignty, shape our own future and steer a steady course, in a world where the interests of many powers converge and diverge at the same time.

A STRONG SAF AND DEFENDING OUR SOVEREIGNTY

As we mark the Bicentennial anniversary of the founding of Singapore, we shall remember that we can only depend on ourselves to defend our homeland and our family. Our collective experience first as a British trading port and later as a colony, suffering the Japanese Occupation, and the withdrawal of the British military, gave us the resolution to be the master of our own security and defence. The SAF is vital in making sure our country is safe and secure. The SAF enables us to protect our territorial waters, maintain freedom of navigation and assert our sovereign rights. Your operational capabilities, professionalism, and readiness give Singaporeans assurance that we remain ever vigilant and steadfast in our defence. It is only with security that we can achieve social and economic progress.

The strength of the SAF lies not only in its military hardware, but more importantly, in its people. Generations of servicemen and women have toiled to build this into an effective force. National Service (NS) is the basic building block of this force, and has geared many Singaporeans with the skills and knowledge to protect our country.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF SAF OFFICERS

As leaders, you will be responsible for the men and women under your command. It will be your duty as you assume positions to ensure that the men and women under your charge train well and safely. Training safety is crucial in securing the confidence and support of our people towards NS. As the SAF strengthens training standards, you will be expected to lead by example and drive a culture of safety on the ground. Your men will come from all walks of life, and will look to you for leadership and guidance. As their role models, mentors and guides, take it upon yourselves to serve with pride, honour and integrity at all times so that the honoured values of the SAF are passed on from one generation to the next.

As a mother of three sons, I recall feeling immense pride as I sat in the audience, watching our men and women progress to the next stage of their journey. I am sure this is how family members, friends and loved ones are feeling at this moment. Thank you for your unwavering love, support and encouragement. The support rendered by the families of our servicemen and women, as well as the community at large, cannot be overstated. Our SAF is strong because of the sacrifices and continued support from generations of NSmen and their families.

To our graduands, I have full confidence that you will discharge your duties without fear or favour, and be anchored by the Officer's Creed: To Lead, to Excel and to Overcome. Once again, congratulations and we are so proud of you. Thank you.