Speech by Second Minister for Education Dr Maliki Osman at the 13th Asean Schools Games Send-Off Ceremony 2024 at St. Joseph's Institution

Mr Chua Lek Hong
Chef-de-Mission, Singapore Schools Sports Team
Principal, Kranji Secondary School

Mdm Rasidah Bte Rahim,
Deputy Chef-de Mission, Singapore Schools Sports Team
Principal, Clementi Town Secondary School

Parents, Guests, and Student Athletes,

1.Good afternoon. I am delighted to be here with all of you today, as we prepare to set off as representatives of the Singapore Schools contingent for the 13th ASEAN Schools Games (ASG), which will be hosted by Vietnam, in Da Nang this year.

2.Every year, the 10 member countries of the ASEAN Schools Sports Council (ASSC) take turns hosting the Games, with the host nation making significant efforts to organise this multi-sport event. Amid global geopolitical tensions, the ASSC's collective effort and collaboration in organising these Games underscores the strong unity among ASEAN countries.

ASEAN Schools Sports Council

3.In a world where international relations are often strained, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) exemplifies a commitment to regional solidarity through the ASSC. The seamless coordination and mutual support displayed in these Games highlight how ASEAN countries can work together towards common goals, fostering a sense of community and shared identity. This unity is particularly significant as it showcases the ability of these nations to rise above external pressures and internal differences, focusing instead on collective prosperity and cultural exchange.

4.Furthermore, the successful execution of these Games serves as a testament to ASEAN's resilience and strategic cooperation. By bringing together athletes, officials, and spectators from across the region, the ASSC not only promotes sportsmanship and healthy competition but also strengthens diplomatic ties and people-to-people connections. This event becomes a platform for showcasing the diverse cultures and talents within ASEAN, fostering mutual respect and understanding among member states. In a broader context, such collaborative initiatives enhance the region's stability and influence on the global stage, demonstrating that unity and cooperation can thrive even in challenging geopolitical landscapes.

Acknowledgment for the Holistic Support of Student-Athletes

5.I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all who have made this possible for our student-athletes. MOE is thankful for the strong support from everyone involved in preparing this Singapore Schools Sports Team for the ASG.

1. First I would like to thank all parents for supporting your child's holistic development, and journeying with them in their sports pursuits.
2. Next, I would like to extend my appreciation to Chef-de-Mission - Mr Chua Lek Hong, Deputy Chef-de-Mission - Mdm Rasidah Binte Rahim, and the Secretariat Team for your immense effort in coordinating and looking into the well-being of all our students so that they have an opportunity to take part in this regional sports competition.
3. The next group I would like to thank are the team managers and coaches, for your commitment and sacrifices to make this ASG an enriching and meaningful experience for our youth athletes.
4. And of course, our partners, the National Youth Sports Institute for the strong partnership to nurture the next generation of Singapore athletes.

6.With a team of 35 officials, I am confident of the care and support that will be provided for all our student athletes at the Games.

Sporting Spirit - Excellence Through Grit and Adaptability

7.Athletes, your journey to this moment has been marked by unwavering determination and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience. In the pursuit of sporting excellence, every athlete must embody the qualities of grit and adaptability.

8.Grit and Adaptability are qualities that our schools have ingrained in students from an early age. Schools foster this spirit by encouraging students to push their limits, face challenges head-on, and learn from both successes and failures. Through various sports programs, competitions, and physical education curricula, students develop a mindset geared towards continuous improvement and overcoming adversity. This not only enhances their athletic performance but also equips them with essential life skills, such as problem-solving and determination, which are invaluable in all areas of life. By embodying the sporting spirit of excellence through grit and adaptability, students are prepared to excel both on and off the field.

9.The players on our ASG Basketball Girls' team truly exemplify this spirit. Despite previously being rivals in competitions, such as the recent National School Games (NSG), the team, made up of 12 players from 6 different schools, has united, setting aside their differences to learn to play as a cohesive and unified team.

10.This transition from competitors to teammates showcases not only their grit and adaptability in overcoming any past rivalries but also their adaptability to embrace a new dynamic. The team captain, Callista, shared that her team harnesses the strengths of every teammate. Instead of feeling intimidated about working with new teammates, they embrace the opportunity to train with like-minded talented athletes to push themselves. With this mindset and determination, I am confident the team will make us proud in Da Nang. All the very best to the Basketball Girls' team and to all our student athletes.

Sporting Spirit - Meaningful Friendships and True Sportsmanship

11.The theme envisaged by Vietnam for this year's ASG is, "Connect to Shine Bright". Beyond the competitive arena, the ASG provides a platform for fostering friendships with our neighbours. Students, build friendships and keep in touch with athletes from other ASEAN countries. I encourage you to build friendships, go beyond competing with them and make friends with them after the competition. There is so much you can learn from each other. Seize the opportunity, allow yourself to be inspired by their spirit. Enrich your experience at the Games with meaningful friendships, and may it leave a lasting impact on you.

12.True sportsmanship is not about being better than someone else, but about achieving our personal best and breaking through our own limitations. This ethos is vividly illustrated by athletes at the pinnacle of competition such as the Olympics, demonstrating not only their exceptional sportsmanship, but also their camaraderie, humility and respect for one another. Similarly, it is important to show respect to your opponents for the challenge they bring, abide by all the rules of the Games, and treat the officials and their decisions with respect. I am confident you will carry the Singapore flag with pride and honour and be the exemplary athlete for all your peers.

Conclusion

13.As you compete on the international stage, remember that your journey is a testament to your indomitable spirit that has seen you this far. The spirit that can overcome obstacles that come your way in your pursuit of excellence. The spirit of grit and adaptability.

14.I wish you the most memorable and enriching experience at the 13th ASEAN Schools Games! Go forth and do your best; most importantly enjoy the Games!

15.Thank you!

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