New heritage trail commemorates social service sector, documents its evolution
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Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli speaking at the launch of the Social Services Heritage Trail on April 12.
PHOTO: MSF
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SINGAPORE – The social service sector rose to the challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic, and must be prepared to step up again amid tensions in geopolitics and trade relations.
Such tensions could cause panic and uncertainty around the world, and result in job losses here, with some needing the help of social service professionals, said Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli on April 12.
“But our social service professionals do not work alone. The Government has long been working alongside our social service sector, and is committed to supporting and strengthening the sector,” he said in his speech at the launch of the Social Services Heritage Trail at 64 Club Street.
The launch was held at the former premises of the Pondok Peranakan Gelam Club, set up in the early 20th century to provide communal lodging and social support for Boyanese migrants.
Mr Masagos said: “We understand that the emotional demands of the work can be tremendous, and we will continue to strengthen partnerships to enable our social service professionals to have access to better resources in order to serve the community.”
He noted that the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and the National Council of Social Service inked an agreement in 2023 to deepen the competencies of social service professionals and explore opportunities in education and research.
In March, SUSS announced that it will launch its School of Social Work and Social Development, he said.
Also, MSF has designated 2025 as a year to spotlight the contributions of professionals in the social service sector.
The new heritage trail also recognises the historical contributions of social work pioneers, community leaders and philanthropists.
Developed jointly by MSF and SUSS, the 3km trail covers 14 historical sites in the Civic District and Chinatown. These include the Old Arts House, People’s Park Complex and Ann Siang Hill, where communities have stepped forward to support those in need.
The heritage trail covers 14 historical sites in the Civic District and Chinatown.
PHOTO: MSF
Members of the public can sign up for complimentary English-language guided tours during the trail’s roll-out, with plans for tours in Mandarin, Malay and Tamil.
Those who want to explore the sites on their own can also use the dynamic map on the trail’s website, and explore audio clips of interviews that highlight the significance of each site.
“The Social Services Heritage Trail is a powerful reminder of how far Singapore has come in building a caring and inclusive society,” said SUSS president Tan Tai Yong.
“We hope this trail will inspire more people to step forward and be part of this important journey of nation-building.”
In his speech, Mr Masagos said: “Social service has played – and continues to play – an indispensable role in Singapore’s progress.
“It reminds us that the success of a country lies not only in the economic prosperity of the nation, but in ensuring that the society is a compassionate one where no one is left behind.”
For more information on the trail, visit this microsite
