President Halimah Yacob hosted the first virtual Istana Open House (IOH) on Sunday, 24 May 2020 in celebration of Hari Raya. The Hari Raya IOH was presented virtually this year due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Beneficiaries from New Life Stories, Ain Society, Jamiyah Halfway House, Muhammadiyah Welfare Home and Pertapis Halfway House were invited to join a virtual tour of the Istana.

During the virtual IOH, President Halimah sent Hari Raya greetings to more than 120 beneficiaries and their families via a video conference call. The beneficiaries were also brought on a 360-degree virtual tour of the Istana, as well as watched videos of the Changing of Guards Ceremony and the Istana 150 Lightshow.

President Halimah said:

“I am delighted to host several beneficiaries at our first virtual Istana Open House today. The beneficiaries found the virtual tour an interesting and creative way to learn more about the Istana and its history.

This year, we could not have our usual Istana Open House in celebration of Hari Raya due to COVID-19. But I am glad that technology has made it possible for us to present our Open House in a different manner.

As we celebrate a different Hari Raya this year, let us not forget the less fortunate groups in our community. I hope this experience will add some festive cheer to the beneficiaries’ first visit to the Istana.”

PRESIDENT’S OFFICE

24 MAY 2020