Ong: An independent nation must have the ability to defend itself

The prerequisite of an independent country is the ability to defend itself, a conviction that Singapore must renew against changes to the existing global order.

- Mike Yeo

Correspondent The prerequisite of an independent country is the ability to defend itself, a conviction that Singapore must renew against changes to the existing global order.

Speaking on March 15 at the commissioning of Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) officer cadets, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said that the security backdrop that saw trade flourish, businesses internationalised and economies becoming more integrated has changed.

"We have witnessed a rise in nationalism and protectionism, and the new US administration is taking a different approach to foreign policies.

"More than ever, we must renew the conviction we had when Singapore first became independent — Singapore must be successful in order to be secure, we must make as many friends around the world as possible, and only we can defend ourselves," he said.

Mr Ong noted that the commissioning of officers at the Safti Military Institute was taking place amid uncertainties in the world.