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National Day Parade (NDP) 2024: Key Highlights

GeneralAugust 10, 2024 09:00

Singapore celebrated its 59th birthday on August 9, 2024, with a vibrant and emotionally charged National Day Parade (NDP) at the Padang. Despite an unexpected downpour, the event was a resounding success, showcasing the nation's unity, resilience, and diverse culture. Here are the key highlights of NDP 2024.

1. A Tribute to Singapore’s Pioneers

The NDP 2024 theme, "Together, As One United People," set the tone for a celebration of unity and collective strength. One of the most poignant moments came in Chapter Three of the parade, where the show began with a heartfelt tribute to Singapore’s pioneers. A 20-metre-long ship was brought on stage, symbolising the journey of Singapore's early settlers. The ship opened to reveal labourers, construction workers, and samsui women, honouring the hardworking individuals who laid the foundation for modern Singapore.

2. Musical Performances and Cultural Showcases

The parade featured performances from 12 artists and more than 3,000 performers, bringing Singapore’s rich cultural heritage to life. Chapter Four highlighted Singapore's beloved food culture, with a nostalgic portrayal of a 1960s pasar malam (night market). Performers, including 588 students from various schools, danced around giant props of iconic Singaporean dishes like nasi lemak, thosai, and fishball noodles. This colourful segment reminded everyone of the flavours that unite the nation.

3. Total Defence Display: Marking 40 Years

This year’s NDP also marked the 40th anniversary of Total Defence, Singapore’s national defence strategy. The dynamic Total Defence display captivated the audience with simulations of various threats, from air and sea intrusions to cyber-security breaches. Military hardware, including F-16 fighter jets, Apache helicopters, and Leopard 2SG tanks, demonstrated the Singapore Armed Forces' readiness to defend the nation. The segment emphasised Singapore’s capability to respond to both external and internal threats, reinforcing the importance of collective security.

4. Touching Tributes and Heartfelt Moments

Throughout the parade, there were numerous tributes to individuals who have made significant contributions to Singapore. Chapter Five featured a film highlighting everyday heroes like Geraldine Lee and Ronita Paul, who run a day-care centre for children with critical illnesses, and Devanantthan Tamilselvii, co-founder of a non-profit organisation supporting mental health. The chapter ended with a powerful performance of Coldplay’s "Fix You," sung by the audience alongside a choir, creating a moment of unity and reflection.

5. Debut Performances and New Faces

NDP 2024 was marked by several firsts. It was the first National Day Parade for Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in their new roles. Their presence was met with warm welcomes from the crowd, with a special tribute video honouring SM Lee’s contribution as Prime Minister.

Musician Weish made her NDP debut with an original song, "Horizon," in Chapter Six, which celebrated the everyday Singaporeans who are shaping the nation’s future. This segment, which featured 22 Singaporeans, envisioned a brighter future together, resonating with the parade's theme of unity.

6. The Red Lions and Aerial Displays

No NDP is complete without the thrilling aerial displays, and this year was no exception. The Red Lions, Singapore’s military free-fall parachutists, delivered a flawless performance, landing smoothly to the cheers of the crowd. The F-16 fighter jets’ bomb-burst manoeuvre over the Padang and the state flag flypast by a CH-47SD/F Heavy Lift Helicopter were among the highlights that left spectators in awe.

7. The Grand Finale: Not Alone

The parade concluded with a grand finale that brought back all the performers from previous chapters. Led by Silver Generation ambassadors from the Agency for Integrated Care, the audience recited the National Pledge, followed by a rousing rendition of this year’s NDP theme song, "Not Alone," performed by Benjamin Kheng. The night sky lit up with a dazzling fireworks display, a fitting end to a day filled with pride, unity, and celebration.

Conclusion

NDP 2024 was a powerful celebration of Singapore’s past, present, and future. It paid tribute to the nation’s pioneers, celebrated its rich cultural heritage, and highlighted the importance of unity in facing future challenges. Despite the rain, the spirit of the Singaporean people shone brightly, proving once again that, together, Singapore can overcome any obstacle.

 

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