SINGAPORE - The commissioning of four Asean cadets alongside their Singaporean counterparts is a reminder of close friendships in the region, which will become even more vital in the years ahead, said President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on June 14.

Speaking at the commissioning parade for the 137th Officer Cadet Course at Safti Military Institute, he said that the graduating cohort included one cadet from Malaysia and three from Thailand.

“Their presence is a reminder of the enduring friendships we share with our Asean neighbours,” said President Tharman. “These bonds of trust and cooperation will become ever more vital in the years ahead.”

This is especially so in a world of turmoil and conflict, and more nationalistic approaches to trade, he said.

Such conflicts and economic fragmentation erode the foundation of Singapore’s growth and security.

“Our ability to survive and thrive depends on staying open, connected and relevant,” he said.

“We must continue to work closely with like-minded partners, including those in the region, to uphold a rules-based order that safeguards the rights of states large and small,” he added.

At the parade, where President Tharman was reviewing officer, a total of 444 cadets comprising 349 from the Singapore Army, 53 from the Republic of Singapore Navy and 42 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces.

Also present at the parade were Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad, and the Chief of Defence Force, Vice-Admiral Aaron Beng.

While Singapore builds strong ties with the region, it also has to continue to protect itself, President Tharman said, as the SAF plans hardware upgrades in the coming years.

This includes a new infantry fighting vehicle called the Titan, the first batch of F-35 fighter jets by 2026, two new submarines from 2034, and the first multi-role combat vessel in the later part of 2025.

The Digital and Intelligence Service has also established two new commands to address emerging digital threats.

In addition, SAF is using new technologies – including autonomous surface vessels and unmanned aerial systems – and has the new Safti City facility to help officer cadets better understand the complexity of urban terrains.