More than 3,000 people across Singapore were involved in celebrations to round off SG50 yesterday, in activities engaging both young and old.
The range of events organised by the People's Association Grassroots Organisations (GRO) included soccer competitions for children and youth, and a movie screening for more than 1,000 people at the Singapore Botanic Gardens' Eco Lake.
Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong visited 11 centenarians in Marine Parade and presented them with hampers and red packets. The MP for Marine Parade GRC said: "It's an amazing experience for me, very enriching, to see so many older people being looked after very well by their families."
In total, some 200,000 residents are expected to take part in the events this month to round off the nation's jubilee year.
Mr Melvin Yong, MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC, said a series of smaller events were planned instead of one big year-end party. "This allows for closer interaction. Our activities are designed to bring residents together, to strengthen family ties as well as for our residents to know more friends and neighbours."
Carolyn Khew and Seow Bei Yi