Migrant Workers Gather to Celebrate Singapore’s Birthday at National Day Carnival
Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre jointly organised the "Celebrating 57th National Day with Our Migrant Workers" carnival in collaboration with the Ministry of Manpower, JTC Corporation and five other non-profit organisations.
This event was held after Singapore further loosened its pandemic measures, with around 2,000 foreign workers gathering to celebrate.
Naw Hee Lar, Migrant Worker: I like mee sua and laksa.
Md. Mintu Mie, Migrant Worker: Singapore working, I’m at shipyard working. 100% safety, follow the law.
Faruk, Migrant Worker: Covid-19 also give salary, give proper food, everything take care.
Singapore holds a different meaning to everyone. In August, when the whole country was celebrating the National Day, six non-profit organizations, the Ministry of Manpower and JTC Corporation jointly organised a carnival titled "Celebrating 57th National Day with Our Migrant Workers" at the Penjuru Recreation Centre, inviting our migrant workers to participate in the grand event.
Nazmul Khan, 24asia founder: Some of them (spent) 20 years of their lives here building our national infrastructure for Singapore. They spent most of their precious time (here) when they actually missed their family back home. So during that time, they also felt that they can actually integrate into the local community. That’s why we do this Singapore National Day carnival for them to celebrate and also mingle with our local residents like Singaporeans. It’s a very special moment for them.
Sitting side by side, chatting about each other's lives, the volunteers gently spoke to them with caring words, warming the hearts of the migrants.
Faruk, Migrant Worker: The man was asking me, how is your family? How is your body? How are you feeling? That’s why inside (I’m feeling very) happy …
Naw Hee Lar, Migrant Worker: Singapore is like my second home. If I work in Singapore, I can support my family. Happy birthday, Singapore. Thank you for everything, Singapore.
Their focus on the stage now is similar to how they usually stick firmly to their posts at work. Although they are migrants, they still work hard for the homeland where you and I live.
