Ground-up initiatives to promote community singing, including in the lead-up to National Day celebrations

*2734. Assoc Prof Terence Ho: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether the Ministry will consider reviving the Sing Singapore music festival for community groups and schools to build community spirit in the run-up to future National Day celebrations; and (b) if not, why not.

Response:

1. We agree with the Member that singing together can strengthen Singaporeans’ sense of national identity.

2. Sing Singapore was introduced in 1988 to promote national bonding through group singing of national and community songs. While the programme is no longer active, community singing has become more widespread and has taken root through various initiatives, including community-led ones by organisations ranging from the People’s Association to Voices of Singapore and ArtsEverywhere@CDC programmes.

3. The Ministry will continue to support efforts that bring Singaporeans together through songs. Citizens, ground-ups, schools, and Singapore-registered organisations can tap on the SG Partnerships Fund to organise initiatives that build community spirit. They can also approach the Singapore Government Partnerships Office for advice and implementation support.