Professor Lui Pao Chuen, Chairman, Singapore Space & Technology Limited Advisory Council,
Mr Jonathan Hung, Executive Chairman, Singapore Space & Technology Limited
Students,
Mentors,
Ladies and gentlemen,
1. About 50 years ago, we witnessed the first man landing on the moon — this milestone in human history captured the imagination of many generations. For many young people like the participants in the Singapore Space Challenge, I can imagine it must be exciting discovering the vast, unknown, other worlds, which exist beyond this planet we live in.
2. I am heartened to know we have over 550 participants from 16 countries for this annual challenge, which is a new record, since it was first launched in 2008.
3. In recent years, we have seen a renewed interest in missions to the moon. So it's apt that this year's Singapore Space Challenge theme is Lunar Robotics. Lunar robots are able to scout out the moon on behalf of humans. They help to pave the way ahead for future missions to the moon.
4. A successful mission requires many hands on deck — scientists, engineers, software developers from multiple disciplines are crucial. In the same way, the Singapore Space Challenge is a platform that's open to youths from various disciplines and education backgrounds. In teams of four, tapping different skills of each member, the participants work together to develop creative engineering solutions.
5. Such experiences allow our students to apply what they learn in their classrooms to tackle real-world problems. Through industry sharing and meet-the-expert sessions, they are exposed to what the space sector is like, so they can consider if this is an area they would like to pursue further.
6. The Singapore Space Challenge has grown steadily over the years. To reflect the internationalisation of the competition, the Singapore Space Challenge will be renamed the International Space Challenge.
7. I'd like to thank Singapore Space and Technology Limited for organising this meaningful programme year after year. I would also like to recognise the mentors attached to each team, guiding them on this journey. You have helped to fuel the dreams of our youths, and show them that they can reach for the stars.
8. To all the participants, my heartiest congratulations. You have shown tenacity and a thirst to innovate throughout the course of the challenge. While this may be the end of the competition, it's only the beginning of your journey – so continue to carry that sense of wonder and curiosity as you explore the world around you, and things that lie beyond this world. The small steps you take today can help pave the way to greater discoveries, and inspire others to uncover the next frontier in space exploration.
9. All the best!