EXCITEMENT buzzed at the launch of the "thank you" SG50 Seniors package last night as groups of friends and family started to plan the discounts and freebies they intended to enjoy.
And their interests were as varied as the offers they will be getting.
Mr Lim Meng Seng, 62, a karang guni (rag-and-bone) dealer, will take up the free entry to the conservatories at the Gardens by the Bay, which he said were too expensive for him to visit - till now.
Madam Betty Loo, 53, has already signed up for two of the the more than 400 free courses, at a booth set up on site last night. Her choices: flower arrangement and plumbing.
As for Mr Chong Han Sing, 66, he was pleased with the Kopitiam card, which gives seniors 30 per cent off items, including desserts, from its drink stall at its various foodcourts.
At Changi Airport's Terminal 3, however, it is a discount off all stalls, and for him, that's the main draw, as that is where he works.
Each card comes with 500 credits entitling the user to a 30 per cent discount on 500 items.
Kopitiam spokesman Vincent Cheong said seniors aged 60 years and older do not need to apply for the card as it will be mailed to them. And there is more good news. Card holders will enjoy that same deal every year in the month of August, as the nation celebrates National Day.
The five-year free PAssion card offer was equally popular, with more than 500 people signing up for it last night. The card, which comes with a free umbrella, can accumulate points for users at supermarkets like Cold Storage and Giant. Points can be used to offset purchases.
For neighbours Alice Wong, 78, and Priscilla Nazareth, 53, it is the dining and activity offers they found most enticing.
Madam Wong said she will join the dancing courses with her group of friends.
Mrs Penny Low, 68, said: "All the offers are fantastic."
