SINGAPORE - Singapore's Paralympians will leave for Rio backed by the support of the entire nation, said Mr Baey Yam Keng, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth's Parliamentary Secretary.

Speaking at the Rio Paralympics Team Singapore send-off reception hosted by BP Singapore on Thursday (Aug 11), he said: "It is indeed an extraordinary achievement for you to compete with the best from around the world.

"I am sure the experienced athletes will have a lot to share with the debutants - how to prepare physically and mentally, how to stay calm and focused under pressure, and how to out-do yourselves on a significant stage like the Paralympics."

The Paralympic Games take place from Sept 7 to 18, and the Republic will be represented by 12 athletes across six sports - the largest contingent Singapore will be sending to the Games.

Emphasising that the athletes' safety and well-being remain the "top concerns", Mr Baey added: "We want all of you to know that, no matter where you are, you will have our strongest support.

"We will be cheering you on as One Team Singapore."

Also present at the event were chef de mission Ho Cheng Kwee, BP chief executive Andy Milnes, Brazil's Ambassador to Singapore Flavio Soares Damico and British High Commissioner to Singapore Scott Wightman.