MINISTER for National Development Mah Bow Tan on Monday paid tribute to Singapore's past urban planners, builders and park rangers for the metamorphosis of the city-state from third to first world, even as he welcomed a future generation of scholars to the Ministry.

Just last month, the Ministry of National Development (MND) marked 50 years since its formation, when Singapore first attained self-governance, noted Mr Mah.

'Over the years, we have not only forged a successful modern city - one which has welcomed many new investors, residents and visitors from around the world. We have also fashioned an eminently liveable home for all of us, a safe, comfortable and interesting place where we work and where we play, where we raise our children, and pursue our dreams.'

All this did not happen by chance, he said, but through 'long term and proactive planning, spearheaded by MND and other key agencies'. As part of the Ministry's talent development programme, a total of 33 undergraduate scholars have been selected out of 1774 applications for MND's various undergraduate scholarships.

'We are acutely aware of the importance of harnessing and advancing the collective energies of the brightest of our population in the service of Singapore,' said Mr Mah.

'We want... the MND of tomorrow to improve upon the accomplishments we have attained yesterday and today. Those among you who will receive this award can be certain that you stood out, not just because of your results, or your CV, but also because of the commitment we have seen in you, the passion, the engagement and energy, the desire to make a difference,' added Mr Mah.

Another eight post-graduate scholars, who are existing MND officers, received their award on Monday.

Among them is Eugene Lee, executive planner at URA who will head to MIT on a URA scholarship to pursue a Master's degree in City Planning.

'It's rewarding to have a say in the land use policies, and see your vision come to live in Singapore,' he said.

Singapore's journey is a 'continuing journey', said Mr Mah, and 'it would be wrong to conclude that we have arrived. There are new paths to chart for Singapore, new areas to develop, new opportunities to be seized.'

Addressing the scholarship ceremony, which took place at the BCA Academy in Braddell, Mr Mah said to the scholars: 'Meet new people, discover new places, and find new inspirations. But return soon, and we'll look forward to your contributions to this country, this city, which you and I both call home.'