MS Features: The interpreters translating more than just words at NDP

For most Singaporeans, the annual National Day Parade (NDP) is a spectacle of music, military precision, and patriotic celebration.

But for many members of Singapore’s Deaf community, the experience has become far more accessible in recent years thanks to a team working quietly behind the scenes.

While audiences cheer inside the stadium, Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) interpreters Daniel Yong and Rashidah are interpreting speeches, performances, and spontaneous moments live. 

They and their team ensure that Deaf, Deafblind and Hard-of-hearing Singaporeans can experience and enjoy the nation’s biggest celebration alongside everyone else.

More than just translating words

Although the audience only sees a small picture-in-picture box on screen, delivering live interpretation requires months of preparation and seamless teamwork.

Daniel, 26, who has supported five editions of the NDP since 2022, said the job goes far beyond just knowing sign language.

Unlike spoken-language interpreting, SgSL has its own grammar, syntax, and linguistic structure.

Facial expressions, eye movements, body posture, and signing pace all work together to communicate meaning and emotion, and not simply the words being spoken.