Opening Remarks by President Tony Tan at Tea Reception for NDP 2013 Key Organisers and Participants

Dr Ng Eng Hen
Minister for Defence

Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman
Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

        Good Afternoon. My wife and I are indeed very happy to host this reception to thank and congratulate the National Day Parade (NDP) 2013 Organising Committee and participants for putting up a very successful parade this year.

        Every NDP is a massive exercise involving extensive coordination and cooperation among numerous organisations and people. I understand that there were some 10,000 participants and support staff involved in the NDP this year. They had put in a great amount of time, effort and sacrifice, including many burnt weekends to prepare for the parade. In particular, our Muslim participants had joined in actively during the rehearsals and the many preview and National Education Shows, notwithstanding the fasting month. I would like to thank all of you for your passion and dedication.

        New concepts were introduced in this year’s NDP. For example, the national day song was sung by a 68-member choir comprising everyday Singaporeans from all walks of life instead of professional musical celebrities. The show was also presented in a variety show format to effectively bring across the theme of “Many Stories…One Singapore” to audiences present at the parade and in front of the TV. I was also glad that our Olympians and Paralympians were featured at the parade in recognition of our achievements in sports. Although the Red Lions could not participate in the parade this year due to inclement weather - this year was supposed to feature our first female Red Lion - the team nonetheless thrilled the crowds during the preview and National Education shows. I would like to commend the organisers and the creative team for daring to break away from traditional concepts to make this year’s show an interesting and successful one.

        We held our first NDP in 1966 to mark the first anniversary of our independence. The parade brought together Singaporeans from various ethnic and religious backgrounds to celebrate the nation’s independence, showcase our defence capabilities, and create positive memories among our people during the early years of our nation building.

        Over the years, the NDP has become one of the most important events in Singapore’s calendar and an integral part of our lives. Though the format of the NDP has evolved, the spirit and fundamentals of the parade remain the same. When Singaporeans from all walks of life and people of different cultural and religious backgrounds come together at the parade to celebrate Singapore’s achievements, we are reminded of what it means to be a Singaporean, to treasure the cohesive society that we have, and to build on the legacy our forefathers have left us to make Singapore an even stronger nation.

        Once again, congratulations and a big thank you to every one of you who has contributed to NDP 2013 in one way or another, no matter how big or small the tasks might be.

        My wife and I look forward to meeting you later at the reception. Thank you.