More than 80 per cent of Singaporeans polled in a survey said they felt that the celebration of Singapore's 50th year of independence had brought people closer, said Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat.

Speaking at an interview earlier this month, he said the SG50 Programme Office had been doing monthly surveys since November last year to gauge people's feelings towards SG50.

People were asked if they knew about SG50 and whether they were excited about it, among other things. The polls showed growing interest and participation in the activities organised for the occasion.

"I'm very happy to say that, quarter after quarter, the numbers kept going up. So by now, everybody knows about SG50. They were excited about the events and they felt that the SG50 celebration brought us closer together as one people," said Mr Heng.

More than 500 initiatives were organised to celebrate Singapore's 50th year of independence, including the biggest National Day Parade and the Future Of Us exhibition.

About 400 of the initiatives were started by ordinary Singaporeans. A celebration fund disbursed about $10 million to organisers of these ground-up projects.

"When we started (the fund), we weren't sure whether there would be many Singaporeans coming up with ideas. (In the end) we had an overwhelming response," said Mr Heng.

The celebration, he added, also led Singaporeans to appreciate the pioneer generation and the country's past, and to reflect on how Singapore overcame the odds.

Singaporeans were also inspired to take the country forward, he said as he wished for the energy to last.

"I hope that we will build on the Singapore spirit, stay united and... build an even more endearing home for every Singaporean."