Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Ms Grace Fu reviewed the Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 211 cadets, comprising 124 from the Singapore Army, 23 from the Republic of Singapore Navy and 64 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking at the parade, Ms Fu emphasised the need for a strong SAF amidst current global realities. She said, "Indeed, the global environment is an increasingly challenging one … while diplomatic solutions remain the primary way to resolving conflicts and disputes, we need a strong and capable SAF to underwrite our defence and provide our people with the peace of mind to go about their daily lives."

Ms Fu also reminded graduands of the important roles newly commissioned officers play as future leaders of the SAF. She said, "As you carry out your duties as commissioned officers of the SAF, you will be assigned responsibilities that will test your ability to lead. You will face situations that will require you to overcome your fears, your hesitations, and your limitations. You will have to learn to inspire others. You will have to take care of your men, so that they can complete the mission."

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 appointment in the SAF. Also present at the parade were Chief of Army Major-General David Neo, senior Ministry of Defence and SAF officials, as well as families and friends of newly commissioned officers.