Tragic Incident at National Day Parade Rehearsal Claims Life of Participant

SINGAPORE: A 47-year-old man tragically died after collapsing during a rehearsal for the National Day Parade (NDP) at the Padang on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The individual, a member of the Changi Airport Group (CAG) Parade and Ceremony contingent, collapsed at 11:23 AM, shortly after completing a component of the rehearsal. This information was confirmed in a joint statement by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and CAG.

Upon collapsing, the individual was promptly evacuated to an on-site medical post, arriving at 11:26 AM, where he received immediate attention from the duty medical officer. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered on-site, yet he remained unresponsive. Subsequently, he was transferred to a standby Singapore Armed Forces ambulance at 11:42 AM, where resuscitation efforts continued en route to Singapore General Hospital. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at 12:19 PM, following his arrival at the hospital.

The NDP, which is scheduled for August 9, 2025, marks Singapore's 60th birthday. It is a significant event in the nation's calendar, involving various civilian and military contingents performing in honor of the country's independence. The incident has raised concerns regarding the health and safety protocols in place during high-intensity rehearsals, especially given the physical demands placed on participants.

According to Dr. Emily Tan, a Senior Lecturer in Sports Medicine at the National University of Singapore, such incidents highlight the importance of thorough medical oversight during rehearsals. "While the rigorous training is essential for performance, it is equally crucial to ensure the health and safety of all participants," she stated in an interview on June 22, 2025.

In the wake of this tragedy, both MINDEF and CAG have extended their condolences to the family of the deceased and have assured that they are in contact to provide necessary support. A spokesperson for CAG stated, "This is a difficult time for the family and the NDP community. We are committed to providing assistance in any way possible."

Furthermore, the incident has prompted discussions about the need for enhanced health assessments and emergency response measures during such large-scale events. Professor Mark Lim, a public health expert from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, emphasized the necessity for rigorous health checks before participants engage in strenuous activities. "We must prioritize the well-being of individuals involved in such public displays, particularly in a high-stress environment like the NDP," he remarked.

The NDP 2025 will continue to proceed, albeit with heightened awareness surrounding participant safety. As the nation prepares for the celebration, the focus will not only be on the grandeur of the event but also on ensuring that the health and safety of participants are paramount.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the physical toll that such events can exert on participants, reinforcing the need for stringent safety protocols and health measures moving forward.