Happy birthday Singapore! 9 August marks the independence of Singapore. This annual affair never fails to unite Singaporeans with the impactful and heart-warming atmosphere. The elaborate celebration includes marching contingents, military bands, dance performances, choirs, the flypast of military aircrafts, fireworks and more.
One of the highlights for me would be the goodie-bag! It is always filled with delightful surprises and treats. This year, the NDP 2013 Funpack is designed by a group of 10 students from Nanyang Polytechnic. Incorporating selected ideas submitted by some 200 students, it is a simple and functional design that can easily be converted from a sling bag into a backpack. The funpack also includes a collapsible light stick that can be extended to a 75cm light sabre.
The patriotic aura is present, whether one is watching National Day Parade at the lively venue itself, or in the comforts of their own home. I had the privilege of joining the crowd at SAFRA Jurong to enjoy the live broadcast of the National Day Parade, while nibbling on the picnic treats that we prepared.
My other half prepared a sumptuous picnic feast, comprising a hearty chicken and potato stew, my favourite potato salad and some noodles to fill the belly.
Having picnic indoors is especially appealing –we get to enjoy air-conditioning in a comfortable environment at the SAFRA Jurong Atrium, sans having uninvited insects invading our picnic baskets.
The idea of a picnic party encourages family bonding, which I find an important element for the success of Singapore’s future.
To further engage the crowd, there were games and contests scheduled throughout the evening, where some lucky participants walked away with attractive prizes.
Those who signed up for the picnic party were also treated to a hearty bento box, which brims with generous portions of proteins in a few varieties.
When it was time to recite the Pledge, a still silence engulfed the atrium, which then burgeons into a united recitation of words that are deeply entrenched in our hearts.
Thank you SAFRA for organising this event and for having me over to experience it.