Harmony in Diversity

Singapore’s multi-racial society is rich in its diversity with varied strengths and resources.   Our ability to live harmoniously has led to much of Singapore’s success so this cannot be taken for granted.

On 20 July 2008, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong joined fellow Ang Mo Kio GRC MPs Mr Wee Siew Kim, Dr Balaji Sadasivan, Dr Lam Pin Min and Er Lee Bee Wah and about 3,500 residents to celebrate Racial Harmony Day.

Participating in the celebrations staged at the open field next to Blk 532 Serangoon North Ave 4 were also representatives of embassies/high commissions from the Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

Appropriately, it started with prayers and blessings by religious leaders from various faiths including Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism, Baha'i Faith, Jainism, Zoroastrianism and Taoism.  

The highlight was the teamwork by all to set a new Singapore Record.   PM Mr Lee, MPs and residents simultaneously ate ice-cream and set a new Singapore record of 750 people eating ice-cream at the same time.   What a record!

PM Lee Hsien Loong called on Singaporeans not to let external events or issues disrupt inter-racial harmony in the country.   He also received a giant cheque from FairPrice chairman, Ng Ser Miang , representing $1.5 million worth of food vouchers to help needy families cope with the rising cost of living in Singapore.

The residents had a great time with multi-racial, multi-religious performances, including Taoist Orchestra music, a Malay kompang and an Indian pipe and drum performance.   Young and old played traditional games lining the carnival site and visited booths exhibiting musical instruments and cultural items of various ethnic groups in South East Asia.