Singapore - Racial harmony and heritage events were in full swing across the island on Sunday to ensure that Singaporeans understand more about one another`s culture.
Tampines Central Community Club was Harmony Pit Stop number two for MPs as they toured the North East district where non-Chinese Singaporeans like North East CDC Mayor Zainul Abidin Rasheed got the chance to practise some Chinese calligraphy.
Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean also wielded the paint brush as he took part in the Malay art of batik painting.
Mr Teo, who is also the MP for Pasir-Ris Punggol GRC, said: "The vast majority of Singaporeans support the unity, cohesion, peace and prosperity that we have enjoyed these past years. Activities like these are a good opportunity for the different communities and races to come together, to do something together and to build upon this strength that we have."
Over in Siglap, residents worked up an appetite as Deputy Prime Minister Professor S Jayakumar and other East Coast GRC MPs learned the art of frying bananas.
There was also much to celebrate at the Geylang Serai Town Carnival where 100 new wheelchairs were given to needy residents.
Source: www.channelnewsasia.com (5 Juli 2007)
