News Releases
First Virtual National Day Istana Open House Hosted by President Halimah Attracted Close to 25,000 Viewers
2 August 2020
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President Halimah Yacob hosted a virtual Istana Open House (IOH) on Sunday, 2 August 2020 for more than 160 beneficiaries supported by the President’s Challenge and The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund. The virtual IOH was also livestreamed on President Halimah’s Facebook and Instagram for the first time, enabling all Singaporeans to participate virtually from the comforts of their home. The event attracted close to 25,000 viewers in total.
Viewers were treated to a virtual tour of the lesser known areas on the Istana grounds such as the well and bunker, as well as the beautiful green spaces around the Istana. A presentation by the National Museum gave viewers a glimpse into the meals that were served to foreign dignitaries hosted by the Istana through the years. Viewers also learnt more about the origins of intricate Southeast Asian jewellery pieces on display at the Asian Civilisations Museum. The finale of the virtual IOH saw viewers sharing their greetings for Singapore’s 55th birthday.
President Halimah said:
“This year, although we could not hold our usual Istana Open House (IOH) due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I am glad that Singaporeans could still join us in celebrating National Day through the livestreaming of our virtual IOH. In the coming week, we can look forward to an exciting line-up of activities designed to bring the National Day experience closer to Singaporeans.”
PRESIDENT’S OFFICE
2 AUGUST 2020