SINGAPORE - Some 4,200 grassroots leaders, including 500 from the pioneer generation, attended the Chinese New Year Garden Party at the Istana Lawn on Sunday afternoon.
The Istana party is an annual tradition to thank grassroots leaders for their community service. This year's event, hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and other Cabinet Ministers, also marks Singapore's 50th anniversary.
Quotes penned by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and cabinet ministers were projected onto screens at the party.
Mr Lee wrote: "Thank you for serving our community, and building a stronger and happier nation for us all!"
DPM Teo, who is also Minister for Home Affairs, said: "Many thanks for your hard work to build a stronger community and make Singapore a better home for all of us. To 50 more good years - and beyond!"
Meanwhile, DPM Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who is also Finance Minister, wrote: "As we celebrate Singapore's 50th year, let's value the contributions of every Singaporean, strengthen our multiracial society and make this country of ours even better. Warmest wishes for the Lunar New Year!"
At the party, guests were treated to music performances and a calligraphy demonstration, among other activities.
