Distinguished Guests
Parents and Scholars
Good afternoon to all
Introduction
1. I am very happy to join you today for the 4th FIREfly Scholarship Awards Ceremony. First, let me congratulate the 18 scholars and their families.
2. Today is major milestone for each of you as you embark on a new exciting chapter of your life. And as Kheng Hwa has mentioned, for your families sharing this special day with you – today must stand as one of your proudest.
3. I want to welcome you into the MTI family. When u return you will join an excellent team that has the responsibility for economic development. You will continue the work of the forefathers of economic development, who had the vision and commitment to bring Singapore to where it is today. Let me share with you how far Singapore has come.
Overview of Singapore’s Economic Development
4. In the 1960s, Singapore was a third world country with a GNP per capita of less than US$320. Infrastructure was poor, there was little capital, and the handful of industries then produced only for domestic consumption. There was massive unemployment, at 14 %. Job creation was our main concern.
5. EDB, set up in 1961, transformed Jurong into Singapore's first industrial estate. They were tasked with the challenge of convincing foreign investors that Singapore was a good place for business. We have come a long way from those times when we just manufactured soya sauce and mosquito coils.
6. Today, Singapore’s economic landscape is very different. We produce 80% of the worlds oil rigs, are #1 in aerospace and repair services, as well as have the top 3 semiconductor foundries and 6 of the top 10 pharma coys here. We are ranked as one of the leading locations for business and investment. Our GDP per capita has increased by more than 50 times.
The Vision for the Future
7. There are many challenges ahead for us. Although we want Singapore to be a key node in the global economic network, many other countries also aspire to be this. Although we are today, within Asia, a major hub for multinationals, serving the region with links to Asian countries, China and India are taking a fair share of attention from potential investors.
8. We want to be a diversified economy powered by both manufacturing and services. Having a strong manufacturing and services sector ensures Singapore remains resilient against business cycles as they mutually reinforce each other. Manufacturing will continue to move up the value chain, supported by our strong capabilities and we will continue to build on our world-class services, whether in traditional areas like trading and logistics, or newer areas like education, healthcare services and the creative industries.
9. Each of you will play an important role to make this vision a reality. Our next generation, such as yourselves, must have the capacity to think, learn and operate as global citizens. Be open-minded, curious and creative individuals passionate about exploring untapped and unknown fields as a seemingly obscure area today may some day become the hottest emerging field down the road. This next generation must also have the “dare to dream, dare to do” attitude to champion new ideas and have the passion to make things happen. Be resilient and innovative and be prepared to work in a fast changing environment. And just as important, learn from mistakes and be open to feedback.
Economic Development – A Concerted Effort by all FIREfly Officers
10. When you return, you will find yourselves with significant roles, formulating and executing innovative strategies so that Singapore can continue to prosper. Economic development is a concerted effort requiring the full commitment of officers across all the FIREfly agencies. You could be involved in creating new engines of growth as part of EDB’s Manufacturing 2015 plan or negotiating FTAs. You could be at JTC overseeing the development of infrastructure that not only meets the industrial requirements of investors and their businesses but is “green” and environmentally sustainable. You could be working at SPRING on the SME 21 masterplan to build up capabilities of SMEs or at STB ensuring the implementation of the Integrated Resorts.
Expectations of Scholars
11. Amidst the ongoing lively debate on scholars, it is also timely that we stop and reflect on what is expected by ordinary Singaporeans of our scholars. Our society has always held scholars in high regard since you all hold the potential of becoming Singapore’s future leaders. Singaporeans therefore expect our scholars to be more than just bright and successful individuals, but people with depth of character, integrity and a strong sense of duty - to serve the greater good of our nation. We believe that each of you have this extra capacity.
- Because our scholarships are primarily funded by the people of Singapore, by choosing to accept a FIREfly scholarship, you have committed to serve Singapore and its people for a period of time. When I was your age, I made the same choice when I was awarded a Singapore Police Force Scholarship although my ambition was to be a doctor. My family circumstances, at that point, made it impractical for me to pursue this. But the scholarship gave me the opportunity to study overseas at one of the best institutions and from there I built a meaningful career. And as a fellow government scholar, let me share the lessons I learnt. I learnt that even as I am valued, I have to add value. I learnt that even as I am cared for by my mentors, I have to also support others around me and I learnt perseverance and patience. As you embark on this personal journey, remember who you are, what it means to be a scholar and above all, a Singaporean. Whilst it is important to pursue our own dreams, it is just as important to think about how you will contribute to building up a Singapore that you can be proud to belong to.
Closing
- In closing, I would like to once again congratulate you, your families and teachers for a job well done! Enjoy yourself during your time abroad and take the opportunity to travel and gain new experiences. I wish you all the very best in your journey of learning and discovery and look forward to your return to serve Singapore with passion and pride, so as to make a true difference in Singapore’s future.
- Thank you.
