An appreciation night for volunteers of the Singapore SEA Games was held on Tuesday with Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and guest of honour Lawrence Wong paying tribute to their contributions and commitment ahead of the 28th Games in June.
More than 17,000 Singaporeans and residents have signed up as volunteers and will be involved in the June 5-16 in a variety of roles, ranging corporate support services and media relations to medical services, sports and venue operations and information technology and logistics.
The Republic is hosting the biennial Games for the first time since 1993.
Over 7,000 athletes and officials from the 11 South-east Asian nations will be involved in 36 sports that will be organised across the island.
Said Mr Wong, who is also chairman of the Games steering committee: "I'm very encouraged by the overwhelming response of Singaporeans across all walks of life to volunteer at the SEA Games. Volunteers are crucial to the success of every sporting event.
"They give their time and expertise to a range of critical tasks, often carried out behind the scenes, so that athletes can focus on their events, and spectators can have a good experience.
"I hope this spirit of sports volunteerism will energise and inspire more Singaporeans to step forward and volunteer in other areas too."
Displaying such qualities were volunteers like Lee Seow Ser, 42. The mother of two recently completed her treatment for breast cancer and will be assisting as a digital content producer.
She said: "I have always looked back with fond memories on my experience, having volunteered at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. This will be a great opportunity for me to share and hone my skills while giving back to my country."
The youngest volunteer is eight-year-old Charlotte Ng, who will be accompanied by her father Ng Chee Wei, 39. They will work together as sports specialist volunteers for the equestrian events.
He said: "Charlotte has always had a passion and a special interest in horse riding. I took this opportunity to sign up with her so that we can not only bond as a family, but also accompany her on this learning journey. I hope that through her experience, Charlotte will be inspired to continue giving back where she can and embrace the spirit of sports volunteerism."
The appreciation event at Waterworld at Universal Studios was organised by Sport Singapore (SportSG).
Noted its chief executive Lim Teck Yin: "It shows that Singaporeans understand the significance of our nation's 50th anniversary and the importance of being great hosts. I am confident that our volunteers as Singapore's ambassadors will provide an extraordinary experience to the athletes, officials and guests. They are also raring to go create an extraordinary celebration for our people."
