Hundreds of migrant workers celebrate Deepavali at Gardens by the Bay
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
Some 600 participants gathered at the Flower Field Hall at Gardens by the Bay for an afternoon of festivities on Oct 19.
ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
Follow topic:
SINGAPORE – Migrant workers and domestic helpers were treated to an afternoon of festivities on Oct 19, joined by local volunteers, to celebrate Deepavali.
More than 500 participants gathered at the Flower Field Hall at Gardens by the Bay for activities such as cultural performances, games and a lamp-lighting ceremony.
Some workers wrote their wishes and thoughts on postcards, which would be sent to their families back home.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Manpower’s Assurance, Care and Engagement Group (ACE), and the Indian Institute of Management Alumni Singapore.
Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash joined the participants in the celebrations.
Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash (right) joined the participants in the celebrations.
ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
Mr Dinesh said 2025 holds special meaning as Singapore marks its 60th year of independence, and that inviting the migrant community to celebrate Deepavali together is a way of expressing recognition and deep appreciation for their contributions to Singapore’s continued growth and success.
“We also know being away from home isn’t easy... This is why we are here, to celebrate together and to assure you that while you may be far from home, you are not alone in Singapore,” said Mr Dinesh.
Migrant domestic workers taking pictures at the event held at Gardens by the Bay.
ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
ACE has been celebrating Deepavali with the migrant community since 2020.
This year, it reached out to several employers and invited them to bring their workers to the event.
ACE also extended invitations to migrant domestic workers through the Brahm Centre, a mental health and wellness charity, as well as non-governmental organisation Passion To Serve, which runs regular digital literacy and English enrichment classes for workers.
