Commemorating Singapore’s 58th National Day: Unity and patriotism shine across political spectrum

SINGAPORE: As Singapore joyously marks its 58th National Day, the nation’s politicians, representing both the ruling party PAP and alternative parties, have come forward to express their unwavering love for the country.

In a display of national pride and unity, leaders from diverse political backgrounds have unanimously voiced their hopes for Singapore’s future while underscoring their profound patriotic sentiments.

Among the prominent figures participating in the festivities, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stood amidst the vibrant ambiance at Toa Payoh Stadium on Monday (7 Aug) evening.

Immersed in the sea of red that symbolizes Singaporean identity, PM Lee embraced the lively atmosphere and explored the array of activity booths at an Active SG event.

“Our country has come a long way in the last 58 years but the journey is far from over. Let us continue looking towards the future as we move Onward As One!” He said.

Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen led MINDEF and SAF personnel to commemorate National Day

Simultaneously, a poignant moment transpired on Tuesday (8 Aug) as Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen led around 900 personnel from the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) in reciting the National Pledge and joining in the chorus of the National Anthem.

Dignitaries like Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Permanent Secretary for Defence Mr Chan Heng Kee, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, and other esteemed officials graced the ceremony.

MINDEF’s press release highlighted that every SAF unit, even those stationed abroad for training, will commemorate National Day with observance ceremonies, emphasizing the deep-rooted patriotic spirit within the nation’s armed forces.

Other PAP Ministers and MPs engage in heartwarming community connections

Various PAP Ministers and MPs took to Facebook to showcase their profound connections with the community on this auspicious day for Singaporeans.

For instance, Low Yen Ling, Minister of State for Trade and Industry, extended her presence to Hillgrove Estate, where she joined nearly 200 residents and community volunteers in a heartfelt National Day celebration featuring a convivial meal and camaraderie.

The event was further enriched by the participation of Mummy Yummy, a local vegan restaurant renowned for its active service to underprivileged communities. The restaurant generously provided a delectable spread of vegetarian dishes that delighted attendees.

Ms Low who is also the mayor of South West District, commended the dedicated volunteers from Mummy Yummy, who not only curated lively dance performances that infused the atmosphere with energy but also brought forth the soothing melodies of the ukulele, touching the hearts of all present.

She shared that This National Day celebration reminded all Singaporeans of the strength and unity that lies within our diverse community.

“We are proud to be part of a nation that embraces inclusivity and cherishes its cultural heritage.”

Alternative parties demonstrate unity in celebrating Singapore’s achievements

Beyond the ruling party’s endeavors, Singapore’s alternative parties have also conveyed their heartfelt appreciation for the nation’s growth and accomplishments.

A remarkable instance of this transpired at the recent National Day Dinner hosted by the Progress Singapore Party on Saturday (5 Aug).

The event, which drew luminaries like the party’s Chairman Dr Tan Cheng Bock, Vice Chairman and Non-Constituency Member of Parliament (NCMP) Hazel Poa, Secretary General and NCMP Leong Mun Wai, exemplified unity among alternative political entities.

Prominent attendees also included Dr Chee Soon Juan, Secretary-General of the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), and Dr Paul Tambyah, the Chairman of SDP, Mr Desmond Lim, Chairman of Singapore Democratic Alliance (SDA) and Melvyn Chiu, Chairman of the Singapore People’s Party (SPP), and others alternative parties supporters.

This gathering unequivocally underscores the profound unity prevailing among alternative political parties, signifying a collective commitment to the nation’s welfare and advancement.

Pritam Singh: making Singapore the home we all cherish

Pritam Singh, Secretary General of the Workers’ Party (WP) and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, on Tuesday, issued his National Day Message, reaffirming the party’s unwavering commitment to advocating for pragmatic proposals that will bring positive outcomes for the nation.

Amid introspection and challenges, the Workers’ Party emphasizes revitalizing national policies for citizens’ well-being and progress.

“Outside of Parliament, we will continue to advocate for a fairer, more just, and kinder society, one that makes us proud to be Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion.”

He emphasised that making Singapore the home we all cherish requires a revitalised focus on improving the lives and livelihoods of Singaporeans.

Jamus Lim radiates enthusiasm over inclusion in National Day community festival

Jamus Lim, the dedicated Member of Parliament for Sengkang GRC under the Workers’ Party banner, can hardly contain his excitement over the heartfelt invitation extended by the residents of 321B Anchorvale.

This collaborative effort, in conjunction with My Community, has culminated in the vibrant launch of “Decorate My Sengkang,” a spirited National Day community festival.

The crux of this initiative revolves around the embellishment of the lift lobby and void deck area at 321B, creating a jubilant gateway that welcomes all into the estate, particularly when approached from the lively backdrop of Kopitiam Square.

Professor Lim expressed profound satisfaction in witnessing the outcomes of their collective endeavor, emphasizing that this project serves as both a prototype and an allegory for the concurrent processes of community- and nation-building.

The palpable synergy between him and the residents reflects the harmonious spirit that underpins the shared journey of nurturing both local neighborhoods and the larger Singaporean identity.

PV Chief urges Singaporeans to “reinvent” the country and advocates dismantling of “stability” narratives

On the other hand, Lim Tean, the leader of the People’s Voice party, in his 2023 National Day Message, emphasized the need for Singapore to undergo a process of reinvention. He stressed that the prevailing narratives of “stability” promoted by the PAP and the establishment should be dismantled.

He highlighted that only when Singaporeans gather the courage to embrace change can a brighter future be secured for both the current and upcoming generations.

Lim Tean said the reinvention and renewal can start with the coming Presidential Election and people can make further progress in the next General Elections.

SDP hosts forum to foster in-depth dialogue 

In a proactive stride towards fostering open dialogue on a multitude of issues shaping Singapore and its citizens, the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) orchestrated a captivating political forum named “Political Leadership & Singapore’s Future” this past Saturday.

Aligned with the commemoration of the party’s 43rd anniversary, the forum honed in on both recent and historical events that have significantly shaped Singapore’s political landscape.

The distinguished panel, composed of SPD’s secretary-general Dr Chee Soon Juan, Dr James Gomez, Mr Alfred Tan, and Ms Min Cheong-Subramaniam, was skillfully moderated by the party chairman Dr Paul Tambyah.

Throughout the session, the panelists skillfully delved into various crucial topics intertwined with the recent surge of political transformations.

The engaged audience actively fueled a thought-provoking conversation that dissected the current state of affairs and pondered the trajectory that lies ahead for our nation.

RDU’s 50 crimson-clad supporters unite to spread National Day cheer

To mark Singapore’s 58th anniversary, a group of 50 committed Red Dot United (RDU) supporters dons red outfits to spread National Day cheer across four constituencies last Saturday (6 Aug). The initiative showcased RDU’s commitment to engaging with the community and understanding their aspirations.

As a symbolic display of solidarity, Ravi Philemon, the Secretary-General of RDU, emphasized the party’s choice to temporarily set aside their party colours and instead don the national colour of Singapore, red.

The action aimed to emphasize the essence of unity and the significance of remaining united as a nation, particularly during the National Day period.