Singapore will be represented by an all-female trio of flag bearers at the SEA Games and inaugural Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games next month, as well as the Asean Para Games in January.

National hurdler Dipna Lim-Prasad, Special Olympic bowler Kimiki Sin Zaau Yung and boccia athlete Nurulasyiqah Mohd Taha received the national flag at a flag presentation ceremony held at ITE College Central on Monday evening.

More than 400 athletes gathered for the event, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, Acting Minister for Manpower Tan Chuan-Jin and Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong. This is the first time a combined ceremony has been held for athletes across three major Games.

Addressing the athletes, Mr Wong said: "All of you have, in your own ways, inspired and motivated Singaporeans to live better through sports... I hope you will continue to be a source of pride and hope for the nation, and for all Singaporeans."

About 335 athletes from 25 sports will compete at the Dec 11-22 SEA Games in Myanmar, while 60 will fly the Republic's flag at the Jan 14-20 Asean Para Games. Singapore will have 21 athletes competing at the Special Olympics event in Newcastle, Australia frm Dec 1-7.