Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, Chief of Defence Force
Members and participants of NDP 2023
Good morning
Watching the video earlier gave us insight into the significant work put in by the various partners and numerous volunteers who have participated in NDP. Their efforts were truly impressive. I am delighted to host today’s reception to thank and recognise the efforts of the National Day Parade (NDP) 2023 Executive Committee, participants, and volunteers for putting together an amazing parade to celebrate Singapore’s 58th birthday. Organising NDP is no easy feat, and it took about 13,000 Singaporeans coming together to work as a team to deliver the biggest celebration for our nation. The hard work from not just the performers but also the organisers and backend staff culminated in a magnificent and successful NDP this year. It was a beautiful ode to Singapore, and I would like to congratulate everyone on a job well done. On behalf of Singapore and all Singaporeans, thank you for your effort and hard work!
The past year has seen many uncertainties, ranging from strong economic headwinds, a divisive geopolitical climate and of course the aftermath of COVID-19. However, despite these uncertainties, Singaporeans yearn to look forward, and this aspiration was well encapsulated by NDP23’s theme, “Onward As One”, which calls upon Singaporeans to look towards the future with confidence and determination and to support each other in our journey forward as one nation. I cannot emphasise how crucial it is to support each other as we move forward as one nation. While sound economic and social policies, increasing our exports, attracting investments, creating jobs, and building infrastructure are essential, they alone would not suffice. If we do not remain united, we risk becoming a fragmented and divided society. It is imperative that we all come together because unity is the cornerstone of our success.
Three months ago, I launched the #GiveAsOneSG campaign to promote volunteerism and reaffirm Singaporeans’ commitment to worthy causes through meaningful activities in the community. #GiveAsOneSG aims to rally Singaporeans to a cause that is greater than themselves through volunteering. The campaign also seeks to create a sense of collective ownership and responsibility in forging the Singaporean society we all want to see, further reinforcing the theme of moving towards the future together “As One” people. I also want to acknowledge the hard work of the NDP23 Executive Committee to launch the #UniteAsOneSG campaign. I am heartened by their efforts to bring Singaporeans together to celebrate our nation. I trust that the campaigns spurred many Singaporeans to action, helping one another to make a difference in our community. We have numerous touchpoints that allow us to express our love for our country. One of the most significant touchpoints is the National Day Parade, where hundreds of thousands of Singaporeans gather in front of their TVs or at the Padang to immerse themselves in the atmosphere and share the moment with fellow citizens. Additionally, #GiveAsOneSG holds immense importance. It is not just about aiding the underserved but about fostering a sense of togetherness. Regardless of one’s wealth, education, social status, race, gender or background, everyone can contribute to building a fair, equal, and just society. It is the same rallying point, bringing together Singaporeans through the President’s Challenge and my support for numerous charities. Singaporeans who are more fortunate donate financially, while others give in other ways, such as volunteering or sharing their skills with children or the elderly. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, and this collective spirit of giving keeps us united. These diverse touchpoints serve as the foundation of our unity, and I hope we continue to tap into them for the betterment of our nation.
NDP 2023 was also extra special as it was the first time the Total Defence Parade was held at the Padang, with highlights such as the floats that represent the six pillars of Total Defence, as well as hardware and platforms from SAF, SPF and SCDF that are used to maintain the peace and security of our nation. The parade was spectacular, and it continues to inspire faith and confidence in our capabilities to protect our people from external and homeland threats. It is also a timely reminder to all of us that Total Defence has become more relevant than ever, with the increasingly complex, multifaceted threats and challenges that we face as a nation today.
The Show segment this year continues to impress and dazzle the crowd with the mesmerizing floor projections, beautifully designed costumes, and not to forget, the countless hours poured into the rehearsals to perfect each movement. There were many brilliant performances, but I heard the audience broke into loud applause for the SOKA performance - the visuals of the flower blooming represent how our nation was able to overcome adversities and blossom into what it is today. SOKA has been taking part in NDP for many years, and this is a great testament to their resilience and support for the most important day in our lives. The films that were interwoven with the performances were also touching and truly encapsulated what it means to “Shine Your Light” upon others, inspiring fellow Singaporeans to reach even greater heights.
This is the last NDP I attended as President. I am deeply honoured to have participated and to have celebrated the nation’s birthday with Singaporeans in the last six years.
The journey is as important as the outcome, and I hope that you will always remember this positive NDP experience. Congratulations once again, and thank you for making this year’s NDP another meaningful celebration for Singaporeans.
I look forward to speaking to you all during the reception. Thank you.