Majulah Singapura

On 9 August 1965, a new nation was born.

On 9 August 1965, the people of Singapore decided that they should be the masters of their own destiny. They decided that time had come to build a Singapore for Singaporeans. On that day, Singaporeans chose the road of independence, a road so rarely traveled, yet traveled so well.

After 42 years, Singapore, which was once a small fishing village, has transformed itself from a former British trading outpost to a global cosmopolitan city, a world-class aviation hub, shipping port, financial centre, and manufacturing hub.

Today, Singapore is a vibrant multicultural city, a home to people of different races and religions living harmoniously side by side.

The Singapore of today is not simply a dream come true or a wish fulfilled. Singapore's achievements are the results of diligence, dedication and sacrifices every man and woman of the nation had made and committed.

As Singapore celebrates its 42nd birthday, I wish Singapore many more good years to come.