LAUDED FOR MAKING NDP 09 A SUCCESS

The National Day Parade 2009 (NDP 09) would not have been the resounding success that it was without the involvement and commitment of its organisers, sponsors and participants.

This was a sentiment echoed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at a dinner he hosted on 26 Aug at Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre, where he presented certificates of appreciation and mementos to thank more than 300 participating organisations and sponsors.

In his speech, Mr Teo expressed his gratitude and praised them for their unwavering support which he said was key to the excellent show this year.

"I commend you for your passion, enthusiasm and creativity and for taking pains in your meticulous planning and seamless execution of the event to rally Singaporeans together for this special occasion," said Mr Teo.

This year's NDP was inspired by the Pledge and centres around the theme of "Come Together - Reaching Out, Reaching Up". One of the highlights of the parade was no doubt the Pledge Moment at 8.22pm on 9 Aug, which united Singaporeans across the country and abroad as they recited the Pledge as one voice.

Noting the success of the Pledge Moment in his speech, Mr Teo said: "This was a very special, historic and meaningful moment to connect the hearts of all Singaporeans as one, and strengthen the bonds of our nation."

Mr Teo added that the Pledge Moment was an "ambitious goal to draw the people together and reaffirm their commitment to Singapore".

He also gave credit to the many thousands of helpers, volunteers and backstage crew who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that everything ran like clockwork .

This year's NDP organising committee garnered special mention for the creative and novel steps taken to connect with all Singaporeans. In particular, Mr Teo said, the extensive use of new media platforms such as YouTube and social networking sites like Facebook were a great initiative to engage Singaporeans better.

He said: "These efforts allowed Singaporeans, in particular, those who did not manage to get the NDP tickets, to feel the NDP vibe and be emotionally connected and involved."