Celebration of athletic excellence and human resilience, and power of sport to unite communities

Mr Craig Nicholson, Head of World Para Swimming,

Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, and President of Singapore National Olympic Council,

Ms Ho Ching, Patron of Singapore Disability Sports Council,

Dr Teo-Koh Sock Miang, President of Singapore Disability Sports Council and Singapore National Paralympic Council,

Athletes, coaches, officials and friends from all over the world,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Introduction

1. Good evening and a warm welcome to Singapore. It is a great honour for Singapore to host the 2025 Toyota World Para Swimming Championships.

2. Tonight is a first – the World Para Swimming Championships are held in Asia for the first time.

   1. It is also the first time both the World Para Swimming Championships and the World Aquatics Championships, are hosted by the same country in the same year.

   2. These milestones embody a very simple belief. That sport is for everyone, regardless of abilities.

3. As we gather here in Singapore’s 60th year of independence, we are not just hosting a Championship, we are celebrating inclusivity and progress.

Growth of Para Swimming in Asia and the World

4. This Championships comes to Asia at exactly the right moment, with more Para Swimming athletes from Asia eligible to compete this year than ever before.

   1. With almost 600 athletes, this will be one of the largest Championships in history.

5. This is a testament to the growth and momentum of the sport across Asia and beyond. We are seeing more nations supporting the development of para sports and para-athletes,

   1. More athletes are stepping up to compete,

   2. And more societies are embracing sport for all.

Celebration of athletic excellence and human resilience

6. At the heart of this growth are athletes who constantly redefine what is possible.

   1. These Championships bring their stories to the world stage, serving not only as a showcase of athletic excellence,

   2. But also as a powerful celebration of human inspiration.

7. We all face challenges in our own way. Some visible, some hidden.

8. What matters is how we rise above. And how we inspire others to rise above as well.

   1. Take Brazil’s Gabriel Araujo, a World and Paralympic swimming champion,

   2. Or Singapore’s very own Yip Pin Xiu, our most decorated Paralympian.

9. Both their stories show us that limits are not fixed. They can be challenged, redefined, and turned into achievements.

10. When we celebrate these diverse abilities, we build a culture of respect. One that empowers all of us to dream bigger.

The Power of Sport to Unite Communities

11. These Championships remind us that sport transcends language, culture and ability. It brings us together, lifts communities, and inspires us all.

12. When para-athletes compete, they are not just chasing medals but changing mindsets.

    1. This is the power of sport. It unites us, inspires us, and drives change.

13. To Team Singapore, our nation stands proudly behind you. And to every athlete here this week – your dedication and hard work has brought you here. We look forward to cheering you on.

Recognition of the Collective Effort

14. At this juncture, I would also like to thank the team behind the scenes. From World Para Swimming, World Para Swimming Championships Steering Committee, Singapore Disability Sports Council, Sport Singapore, Singapore agencies and their partners and sponsors.

15. And especially to our coaches, officials, families and more than 800 volunteers, including our para-athletes amongst them. Thank you to all of you.

    1. Your work makes this possible.

    2. Tonight, we celebrate not just the athletes but also the community that supports them.

16. Finally, to our athletes, we wish you all the very best, as you give of your best.

    1. Both in and out of the pool, may your friendships grow, and the memories created be unforgettable.

17. Over the next few days, let us cheer every race, every personal best, and every act of sportsmanship.

18. Let us also remember that this is more than a competition. It is a glimpse of the future that we want to build. Inclusive, respectful and celebrating every individual.

19. Let us carry this spirit beyond the Championships, and build a better, brighter and more inclusive world together.

20. Thank you.