Speech by President Halimah Yacob at the Chingay 2021 Appreciation Function for Major Contributors

Mr Lim Hock Yu, Chief Executive Director of the People’s Association

Partners of Chingay 2021

Ladies and Gentlemen

A very good morning to all and let me begin by wishing everyone Xin Nian Kuai Le!

I am pleased to host today’s Appreciation Function to thank the support of everyone here - partners, donors and volunteers for making Chingay 2021 a success. Chingay 2021 is the first-ever Digital Chingay. With the Covid-19 pandemic, all of us need to adjust to a new normal. I am happy that People’s Association has turned the challenge into an opportunity and refreshed the Chingay experience by turning it into a digital one. I am also heartened that the enthusiasm of our community and corporate stakeholders is not doused by the current situation. With the strong support from different partners, donors and volunteers, the show definitely brought hope and cheer to fellow Singaporeans all around the island.

My husband and I were happy to join four children in a segment titled “The Voices of Solidarity”. With technology, we were joined virtually by more than 500 community singers in the song “As I Believe” to bring home this year’s theme “Light of Hope”, which aptly reflects Singapore’s spirit of unity, positivity and resilience amidst this challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Watching the live stream of Chingay 2021 last Saturday was an entirely different experience. Even though we were not able to be present physically with tens of thousands of spectators like past Chingay Parades, it was still possible to feel the vibrant atmosphere through the live stream, with the digital effects such as CGI further enhancing the viewing experience. I am heartened to note that Chingay 2021 has garnered some 1 million views on TV and various online channels.

Going virtual provided the opportunity to expand our cultural partnerships, making it possible for all 10 ASEAN nations to participate in Chingay, which is a first in 49 years. This year’s Chingay also provided a platform for Singaporeans to share their talents beyond our shores. Many unique talents in the community have answered the call to showcase their creativity and spread cheer to others. It is particularly uplifting to see our young local talents coming forward to share their interests, passion and dreams.

Chingay 2021 is an example of how we as a nation can work together to innovate and reinvent, so that we remain relevant and continue to thrive in any challenging situation. I would like to thank the People’s Association, the Tote Board Group, Singapore Tourism Board, and all the community and corporate contributors for making Chingay 2021 possible. I look forward to your continued support for next year’s Chingay, which is also its 50th Anniversary. Thank you.