Whether it be cooking, folk dancing or even Russian martial arts, Singaporeans and permanent residents now have the opportunity to take on some of 2,000 free courses offered by the People's Association (PA).

About 50,000 are expected to benefit from the offer, which was launched yesterday as part of PA's Community Day and SG50 celebrations. The courses usually cost around $35 per person but the fees will be waived until the end of September. They will be held at all Community Clubs (CCs) and Water Venture outlets.

Among the new courses being offered are dog grooming and piloxing - a keep-fit mixture of pilates, boxing and dance .

There will also be popular existing ones like cooking and zumba.

Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said on Saturday that the courses help residents to learn new skills, pursue their interests, get to know their neighbours and make new friends as well.

"We hope to encourage more Singaporeans to lead a socially active lifestyle and enable all to immerse in the celebratory mood of the nation's 50th birthday," Dr Yaacob told a PA roadshow at Bugis+ mall.

Office administrator Anna Ho, 49, plans to sign up for cooking and make-up classes at her CC.

"I usually don't wear make-up, but I want to learn," said the Jalan Besar resident, who enjoys baking cookies and cakes in her free time.

"I would want to go with my family and friends, but if not, I can always make more friends there."

Temasek Polytechnic student Jonathan Lee, 20, is keen to try out the free muay thai class that Pasir Ris East CC is offering this month.

"I'm a sporty person, so this should be fun," said the football and rugby enthusiast.

Those who sign up for courses will also be offered a free SG50 commemorative PAssion Card, if they are not already members.

Anyone interested in a free course must sign up in person with their identity card at the respective CC or Water Venture Outlet.

The full catalogue of courses is available at www.pa.gov.sg