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Like fellow Singaporeans, they braved the odds and worked tirelessly to lay the foundations for today's successes.
As mentioned by DPM Tharman, the best tribute
we can give to our pioneers is to do better than them.
Hence we must build on their achievements and push on to greater heights.
I am confident that our community is on this right track.
And key to this is encouraging and empowering our youths, many of whom are actively seizing
the opportunities and contributing back to the community and nation.
Strengthening partnerships among various stakeholders - community organisations, agencies, families
and individuals - will also put us in a good stead in overcoming the challenges before us.
At the same time, it is crucial that our institutions
go "back to basics" and ensure that their foundations remain firm - MUIS must focus
on its primary mission of enhancing and facilitating our community's socio-religious life,
while MENDAKI must continue prioritising the educational and developmental needs of our youth.
We must remain united as a community that is committed to the principles of meritocracy and multiracialism.
These principles, Madam, have served us well.
Going forward, we must also lend our voices to the discussion of how these principles
can serve a Singapore that is facing new and complex challenges.
We must remain true to our faith. We should guard against divisive forces taking
root to preserve racial and religious harmony, within our own community and with other communities too.
Our future, Madam, is full of hope and optimism.
All of us can do our part to strengthen our community and build a home for all.
Together, we can realise our vision of a Community of Excellence, and build a vibrant Singapore.