Contact South East Magazine (Apr - Jul 2016)

A C O M M U N IT Y M AGA Z I N E O F T H E S O U T H E AST D I ST R I CT

www.cdc.org.sg/SouthEast facebook.com/secdc

APR-JUL 2016

Neighbourhoods

In Bloom

The colourful ways in which South East residents show their love for home 8

se buzz When friends become Neighbours

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change makers Drop in, voice out

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trail-blazing Take a stroll around Simei

24 lifestyle Bonding over Bento

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APR– JUL 2016

CAPITALAND VOUCHERS Find out how on pg32

senior editor POH HSIAO YEN editors CAEN LEE, CLAIRE KOH

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PUBLISHING AND DESIGN CONSULTANT

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change makers 16

Drop In, Voice Out

supervising senior editor

AGATHA KOH BRAZIL senior editor

RONALD RAJAN art director

DON LEE

helping hands 18

8

Making The Years Count

20 Little By Little

senior writers

FAIROZA MANSOR, WANDA TAN senior designer

CAROL CHAN assistant business relationship manager

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Mayor’s Message

centre stage

22 Strolling Around d Simei

contributors

And Proud Of It

24 Bonding Over Bento

for advertising enquiries, please email

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lifestyle

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26 Shades Of Blue ue

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Young And Inspiring

When Neighbours Leading The Pack

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From Mentees To Mentors

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fe felicianorfor@mediacorp.com.sg teodiana3333@yahoo.com.sg te PHYLLIS CHONG

making connections

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community champions Giving Back In Their Own Ways

28 Serving The People

SME 31

An Artistic Endeavour

win!

32 Sprucing Up / Spot The DiǏerence

up & coming Read more about the winners of the Youth Community Leadership Award 2016

36 What’s Happening

making waves 10

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ASH ASHUTOSH RAVIKRISHNAN, KOH YUEN LIN, WILSON PANG, TAN KAY HIAN

fEast

Become Friends

SERVING THE COMMUNITY

FELICIA NORFOR

From The South East

4 Contact South East clinched the APEX 2016 Award of Excellence in the One-of-aKind Publication (Government) category

trail blazing

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Picture-Perfect Parades

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of the Publisher.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are correct and up-to-date at the time of printing. Some details are liable to change. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions in this publication.

Printed in Singapore by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd. MCI(P) 014/09/2015 ISSN.0219-4031

7/25/16 11:47 AM

FROM PAST TO Dear Residents of the South East District

GET IN TOUCH If you have any questions or concerns that you would like to highlight to the Mayor, please write in to Contact_South_East@pa.gov.sg or mail your enquiries to Contact South East – Mayor South East Community Development Council, 10 Eunos Road 8 #12-05A Singapore Post Centre Singapore 408600

Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman Mayor, South East District Grassroots Adviser to East Coast GRC GROs and MP for East Coast GRC

We are well into the second quarter of 2016 now. How time ies!

As we go about our fastpaced lives, I hope we will be able to take a pause and step back to look at what we have in our neighbourhoods and communities. The South East District is endowed with a rich history, with many interesting historical sites that tell us stories of our past. It is by knowing the past that we will sink our roots further to this place and enable our heritage to come alive.

Over the years, we have worked with many partners and agencies to curate various heritage trails all over the South East District. We hope these trails have enabled our residents to go back in time and celebrate our unique history as we look forward for the next generation.

Each generation will have to create its own history and write its own chapter. But it is through appreciating the past that will enable each succeeding generation to write its own history. We also hope that the heritage trails will facilitate inter-generational bonds with our seniors as they share their own oral history with their grandchildren.

Indeed, to succeed we must continue to re ect on our past and be prepared to re-invent ourselves. This however does not mean that we forget the past.

On the contrary, we must remember the past and anchor

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

mayor’s message

,

KE ARAH MASA DEPAN

INDEED, TO SUCCEED, WE MUST REMEMBER OUR PAST, AND ANCHOR OUR FUTURE ON WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM IT.

PEDUDUK YANG DIHORMATI,

our future on what we can learn from it. I wish you a great time exploring the many historical sites in the South East District and being pleasantly surprised at how much you don’t know about Singapore. the South East and S

亲爱的居民们，光阴似箭，我们已步 入2016年的第二季度！ 希望大家能在快节奏的生活中找 到时间歇息，并退一步为我们所有的 一切——我们的左邻右舍，我们的社 区——感恩。东南区是一个历史悠久 的邻里社区，不少有趣的历史景点都 叙述另一个时代的故事。通过认识过 去，我们才能扎根于我们独有的地方 文化，并将其发扬光大。 过去几年来，我们与许多合作伙伴 携手在东南社区打造各种历史文化步 行路线。 我们希望居民能通过这些步 行路线回溯过去，并同时展望未来。

每一代人都在撰写属于他们的篇章， 缔造属于他们的时代。但通过回溯过 往，我们才能明白长江后浪推前浪的 道理。因此我们也希望这些文化步行 路线能鼓励上一代的老前辈们与年 轻人分享他们的故事与经历，并借此 建立长幼之间的关系。 确实，我们在创新的当儿不能够 忘记我们的过去——毕竟我们的成 功是建筑在历史的基础上。在此希望 大家都能通过东南区历史文化步行 路线享受欢愉的时光——东南区以 及新加坡一些鲜为人知的有趣知识等 待您发现！

Kini, kita telah memasuki suku ketiga tahun 2016. Begitu cepat masa berlalu! Sambil kita sibuk menjalani kehidupan, saya berharap anda dapat merenung seketika untuk melihat dan menghargai apa yang kita miliki, di sekeliling kejiranan yang kita tinggal mahu pun di dalam masyarakat kita. Daerah Tenggara kita ini menempatkan banyak tapak bersejarah yang meriwayatkan kisah sejarah lama. Dengan mengetahui serta mempelajari tentang sejarah dan susur-galur kita, ia dapat memperkukuhkan ikatan kita kepada tempat-tempat bersejarah ini dan menghidupkan warisan kita.

Sejak beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini, kami telah berusaha bersama ramai rakan usaha dan agensi-agensi yang berkenaan untuk mewartakan pelbagai jejak warisan di merata Daerah Tenggara. Kami berharap jejak-jejak warisan ini telah membolehkan para penduduk mengenang masa silam serta menghargai sejarah kita yang unik pada masa yang sama melihat ke arah masa depan demi generasi akan datang.

Setiap generasi perlu mencipta sejarah dan menulis bab mereka sendiri.

Namun, hanya dengan menghargai masa silam sahaja kita akan dapat membolehkan setiap generasi seterusnya untuk menulis sejarah yang bermakna bagi diri mereka sendiri. Kami juga berharap semoga jejak warisan ini dapat mempermudahkan jalinan ikatan antara generasi melalui perkongsian dari warga emas kita tentang kisah-kisah bersejarah mereka sendiri dengan cucu-cucu mereka.

Sememangnya, untuk berjaya kita mesti terus mengimbas masa lalu dan bersedia untuk memperbaharui diri kita sendiri. Ini tidak bermakna kita melupakan masa lalu.

Sebaliknya, kita mesti mengingati masa lalu dan mengorak langkah ke arah masa depan kita berdasarkan apa yang boleh kita pelajari daripadanya. Saya berharap anda akan meluangkan masa untuk meneroka pelbagai tapak-tapak bersejarah di Daerah Tenggara dan anda pasti akan kagum melihat betapa banyak perkara yang anda tidak ketahui tentang Daerah Tenggara dan juga Singapura.

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STORY: WANDA TAN & ASHUTOSH RAVIKRISHNAN

centre stage

FROM

the

GE

th East Sou AND PROUD OF IT!

YL AN G Our Neighbourhoods: We h Geylang Serai, is part of a series by Epigram Books that uses art to celebrate Singapore’s residential estates.

the district. However, its appeal goes beyond just heritage: It also boasts some of Singapore’s best food (think Katong) and recreation options. It should come as no surprise then, that the South East’s 500,000 residents have found numerous ways to pay tribute to the district’s variety.

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esides being home to many of modern Singapore’s icons — including Changi Airport and the Sports Hub — the South East District has also seen a colourful past. Historical landmarks such as the 76m Changi tree and Tay Buan Guan Supermarket, one of the island’s rst, (now part of an NHB Heritage Trail) were both located within

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Residents have found creative ways to show their pride and love for the district.

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SHARING GEYLANG SERAI’S WONDERS

AD

MORE THAN

300 VOLUNTEERS

Geylang Serai holds special memories for me and I wanted to share these by contributing two sketches to the book: one of an aerial view of Geylang Serai and the other of the annual Hari Raya Bazaar. (Through my work), I hope to capture the festive decorations and lights, and the hustle and bustle of the area.

Ms Phyllis Chong, 49, polytechnic lecturer and Joo Chiat resident

painted the murals in 2011

PAINTING THE TOWN VAN GOGH You might do a double take the next time you’re walking along Pipit Road. The walls of Block 56 have been painted to recreate famous works by Vincent van Gogh, including The Starry Night and Almond Blossoms. The idea to bring art to the heartlands was mooted by Social Creatives, a nonpro t arts social enterprise. Residents then helped to decide on the theme of the murals, which Social Creatives hoped would bring life to the estate.

A Uniquely Singaporean Twist The Starry Night features HDB blocks in its foreground, instead of the original’s cottages.

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

DECODING DAKOTA Students from Dunman High School led tours around Dakota Crescent.

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My grandparents used to live in the estate but I knew little about it before.

I realise that it’s a place of great heritage — plus it has a vintage charm to it!

Some participants were former residents of Dakota Crescent. They were familiar with the place and would nod and smile (during the tour), as if they knew exactly what we were talking about!

TA

OK

Did you K N OW

Dakota was named after a military transport plane that was used extensively

by Allied forces during the Second World War. The plane was a common sight at the former Kallang Airport, a stone’s throw away from the neighbourhood.

Foo Toon Siang, 14, guide

BEDOK’S ROMANTIC SIDE

SECRETS OF THE

South East

Residents reminisced about a little-known side of kampong life for the Bedok Heritage Trail.

Kampong romances were common as we used to go past each other’s houses a lot. We also had many ‘candlelight dinners’ because of the frequent blackouts and power outages!

Mr Mohd Nazirin Abu Bakar, 50, former Kampong Bedok resident

By sharing such anecdotes, Mr Nazirin hopes to spread

THE ‘SPIRIT OF BEDOK’ to a new generation of Singaporeans.

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Held from 29 April to 15 May, the Singapore HeritageFest highlighted little-known facts about parts of the South East District. Residents contributed memories and knowledge about their home to the project.

A DISTRICT IN A GARDEN

The Siglap South CC gardening interest group currently boasts

45 MEMBERS

Noticing that the space behind Siglap South CC was bare, Ms Momtaz Akib and a group of fellow gardening enthusiasts decided to convert it into a community garden. Their eǏorts paid oǏ when their garden bagged the Excellence Award for the Best New Community Garden (Organisations Category) at the NParks’ Community in Bloom Awards 2016.

(Since 2014), we’ve been growing ornamental plants, fruits and herbs. Our newest section is devoted to tropical plants. Every Saturday, we hold community gardening sessions where senior members help new members who may be less experienced.

Ms Momtaz Akib, 67, Chai Chee resident

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STORY: FAIROZA MANSOR

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centre stage According to local legend, Malay chieǢain Tok Lasam rst arrived in the area during a particularly dark thunderstorm and so called the area Si-gelap (‘darkness that conceals’).

Records also show that a pirate village existed here in 1845.

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This avenue in Simei is named aǢer the hanyu pinyin name of Malaccaborn Koh Sek Lim, a rich rubber estate as well as a coconut and pineapple plantation owner who lived in the vicinity in the early 20th century. There is also a Koh Sek Lim Road nearby.

n i s ’ t a h W

A NAME

Contact South East digs up the history behind some road namess in the district. dis di istr t ic ict. t.

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Changi Road is named aǢer a very tall chengal (or ‘chengai’) tree that used to grow in the area. As early as 1845, Changi was a fashionable resort with government and privately-owned holiday bungalows. These were frequently the scene of picnic parties.

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Located near the Kallang Wave Mall, Jalan Benaan Kapal got its name from the area’s history as a former shipyard. ‘Benaan’ (from the word binaan) means ‘construction’ in Malay and kapal means ‘ship’, also in Malay.

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Translated from the Malay language, ‘Tanjong Katong’ means ‘turtle point’. Katong is an extinct species of sea turtle. It also means “the rippling eǏect of the sea mirage” — which is tting since Tanjong Katong, in the past, referred to the coastal stretch from Upper East Coast to Tanjong Rhu.

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STORY: WANDA TAN

THE SUCCESS OF NEIGHBOURS LIES IN THE COMMUNITY...

NEIGHBOURS WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE COMMUNITY COMING TOGETHER TO HELP ONE ANOTHER. Dr Maliki Osman Mayor of South East District

WHEN NEIGHBOURS BECOME

FRIENDS

Three years on, the Neighbours for Active Living programme expands to the whole of South East District.

Goal

THE

To keep the vulnerable elderly (‘clients’) healthy and reduce likelihood of hospital readmission HOW IT WORKS Healthcare providers train volunteers to oǏer medical and social support to clients.

Volunteers are paired with clients in their own neighbourhood, befriending them while giving basic advice on health matters.

1,900 SOUTH EAST CLIENTS

have benefited to date

S ˎ

everal times a week, Ms Nekmah Bte Mahadi, a 52 year-old homemaker, visits ve seniors living in the same HDB block as her to make sure they take their medication and go for medical appointments. “My neighbours are like my family,” she says. “I care for them as much as they care for me and my children during my time of need. Volunteering to look aǢer seniors in my kampong is my small gesture of showing gratitude to them and respecting them as valuable members in my community.”

200 VOLUNTEERS have trained up

Ms Nekmah was among the individuals recognised at the Neighbours for Active Living Volunteers’ Appreciation event on 12 March at ITE College East. Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong graced the luncheon and presented awards to 45 volunteers, from teens and working adults to retirees.

Pioneered in 2013 by the South East CDC and Eastern Health Alliance (EHA), the Neighbours programme helps seniors who live alone and are frequently admitted to hospital. They are matched with trained volunteers from the same neighbourhood.

Building long-term relationships helps them to stay healthy while they continue to live in the community.

BEYOND THE EAST

Besides encouraging more residents to volunteer for the programme, South East District Mayor Dr Maliki Osman announced at the event that the National Healthcare Group (NHG) has come on board as a partner, thus expanding the reach of the initiative to Braddell Heights, Mountbatten and MacPherson divisions.

Professor Philip Choo, Group CEO of NHG, touched on the role of volunteers as “social integrators” for the elderly. “The aim is to slow disease progression by addressing social factors that may contribute to poor health management,” he said. “We hope to rekindle the kampong spirit where neighbours are the hands, eyes and ears for one another.”

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2 OUT OF 3

HEALTHCARE STAFF

CLIENTS

have provided comprehensive training

reduce their hospitalisation rates within 6 months of entry

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

SE buzz

WHERE TO NEXT? Congrats to South East CDC and EHA! They won a Best Practice Award for Inter-Agency Collaboration at the Excellence in Public Service Awards Ceremony 2016, for their joint efforts with the programme.

IN JUNE 2015

20

VOLUNTEERS

from MacPherson began training to serve

90

ELDERLY

living in that neighbourhood

SOUTH EAST CDC IS LOOKING FOR MORE NEIGHBOURS VOLUNTEERS! I F Y O U A R E I N T E R E S T E D , D R O P U S A N E M A I L AT S O U T H E A S T _ C D C @ P A . G O V . S G

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STORY: FAIROZA MANSOR / PHOTOS: WILSON PANG

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he mood was indeed exuberant in the function room of ITE College East on 23 April. About 100 youth volunteers and past participants of the South East CDC’s youth-driven programmes had gathered for the 8th Youth Community Leadership Award, which honours outstanding contributions to the community by various youth-initiated programmes (see box).

Customarily, the previous year’s award winners are encouraged to organise the ceremony as a way of paying it

forward to the next cohort.

More than 60 Merit, Gold and Excellence Awards were presented to youths aged 14 to 26 by Guest-of-Honour, Mayor of South East District and Senior Minister of State for Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Foreign AǏairs, Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman.

Addressing the crowd, Dr Maliki commended the awardees for coming forward as “energetic youth leaders” of the

Outstanding youth volunteers were recognised at the South East Youth Community Leadership Award 2016 for being an inspiration to other young people.

LEADING THE

Mayor of South East District Dr Maliki Osman with some of the youth leaders

South East District.

“I extend to you my heartiest congratulations for being an inspiration to other young people,” he said.

“May you continue to harness your talents, achieve greater heights and be the true leaders that you are.”

AT

A Glance Youth Community Leadership Awards is a platform to promote youth cohesion, creating interyouth-initiated projects across these programmes:

COMMUNITY LABORATORY @ SOUTH EAST (COMMLAB) Youths applauding their peers

PACK

MY FIRST BREAK NEXTGEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME (NGLP) RACIAL HARMONY YOUTH AMBASSADORS (RHYA)

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

SE buzz

I keep coming back as a mentor for the My First Break programme because I realised I can make a difference and a positive impact on other youths. It is very gratifying to see someone come out of his or her shell, and be able to shed his or her trust issues, for example. I was that kid too, and the programme has helped me overcome my self-doubts.

My First Break youth leader Lim Sheng Hong, 21, Nanyang Polytechnic student, YCLA Excellence Award Winner Award winners celebrating their achievements

SERVING THE

Society

In his speech, Dr Maliki also highlighted individuals who had overcome personal obstacles in their eǏorts to give back.

One of those he mentioned was 17 year-old Primalia Pok, who attended her rst Racial Harmony Youth Ambassadors (RHYA) camp in 2013. In spite of her initial reservations, she went on to take up various leadership roles in community engagement programmes organised by RHYA. “Being a part of the RHYA has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and to interact and engage with the community at-large,” said Primalia, a Ngee Ann Polytechnic Year 2 Diploma in Mass Communications student.

“The activities I’ve spearheaded

have made me appreciate my community more and helped me to grow as person.”

Dr Maliki also thanked the parents present for their support, by allowing and encouraging their children to be actively involved in serving the community. Following this, a hearty buǏet spread was served for the guests’ enjoyment. There were also fringe activities such as Kinect Xbox games as well as

I used to be shy and reserved, but being a Racial Harmony Youth Ambassador (RHYA) has made me more outspoken.

I’ve become increasingly confident, and am more assured of what I’m capable of.

I know it sounds like a cliché to say that an experience is life-changing, but for me, being a part of the RHYA programme really has been as such!

RHYA youth leader Primalia Pok Min Er, 17, Ngee Ann Polytechnic student, YCLA Excellence Award Winner

a photo booth with props and costumes. In concluding the ceremony, South East CDC staǏ in-charge of the youth programmes performed two musical numbers to show their appreciation to the youths for their dedication and commitment.

Playing Kinect Xbox games at the ceremony

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STORY: WANDA TAN

T ˎ

ravelling abroad is not just a lot of fun; it can be educational, too. Just ask the 251 students who have taken part in the South East CDC’s My First Break (MFB) programme to date.

On 12 March, a graduation dinner was held for the 11th cohort of MFB bene ciaries at ITE College East. They received their certi cates to loud applause from guests, which included their parents, MFB alumni and South East CDC District Councillors. South East District Mayor Dr Maliki Osman and Mr Stephen Leong, BBM, founder of MFB and Mentor of South East CDC’s Adults Interactive Committee, were also at the event.

The ceremony capped oǏ a memorable journey that began in October 2015 with a series of pre-trip workshops. Students were exposed to entrepreneurial concepts rial co p such as innovation and marketing, g, and then pitched their micro-business proposals posals to District Councillors. AǢer returning ng from China, they spent several weekends selling products that had been acquired overseas, seas, at booths island-wide. Proceeds from om sales went to Willing Hearts, a charity ity that runs a soup kitchen at Kembangan– angan– Chai Chee Community Hub. ub.

Dr Maliki Osman mingling with MFB participants at their graduation ceremony

FROM MENTEES TO

MENTORS

The My y First Break Alumni Network expands yet again, with the addition of the latest cohort of programme graduates.

All smiles aǢer their pitching session

ABOUT

Established in 2005, MFB provides students from vulnerable families in the South East District with: TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES

BASIC BUSINESS SKILLS

It is funded by South East CDC DISTRICT COUNCILLORS (who form the Adults Interactive Committee) and their business associates

THE MFB ALUMNI NETWORK, launched in 2007, comprising past bene ciaries who mentor new cohorts and volunteer for the community

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

Broader Horizons

SE buzz A mix of educational and sightseeing activities was on the agenda during the MFB participants’ overseas learning trip to China: In Shanghai, they visited InnoSpace (an incubation platform for start-ups), went on company visits to app developer Mingyi Zhudao and electronics retailer Suning, and also toured Jiao Tong University and Meiji Chocolate Factory.

Participants toured Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Students played an ‘Amazing Race’ game at The Bund

MFB HAS OFFERED OPPORTUNITIES TO ACQUIRE SKILL SETS THAT I HOPE THE PARTICIPANTS CAN CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AS THEY PROGRESS IN LIFE. I ALSO HOPE THEY WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. Dr Maliki Osman Mayor of South East District

ABOUT

Cohort Eleven COMPRISED

VISITED

MADE

23

SHANGHAI & YIWU, CHINA

$522.96

STUDENTS AGED 14 TO 21 FROM NINE SCHOOLS

FROM 14 TO 21 DECEMBER 2015

IN PROFIT FROM THEIR MICROBUSINESSES AND DONATED IT TO CHARITY

APR-JUL 2016

In Yiwu, they learned about e-commerce at Yiwu Industrial and Commercial College, and bought products at Yiwu International Trade City for their microbusinesses.

Cultural sights in Shanghai included the 468m-high Oriental Pearl Tower, waterfront area The Bund, and the ancient City God Temple and Yuyuan Garden.

HARNESSING

VoluntŮrism Ms Nur Zakiah Binte Rashid, 18, was among the MFB participants making their maiden trip to China.

While in Yiwu, she and her groupmates bought water bottles with compartments big enough to hold an iPhone 6, and later sold these at various locations around Singapore. “Besides obtaining knowledge and skills, I have also become more extroverted,” says the Nitec in Business Services student at ITE College East. “I have gained new friends through the programme, and bonding with them made it more enjoyable.”

Cohort 8 alum Ms Vanessa Yong, 23, is Vice President of the MFB Alumni Executive Committee and was the programme coordinator for Cohort 11.

Being a mentor has motivated her to do more volunteer work. Now in her nal year at Nanyang Technological University, she is the Marketing Secretary of Siglap South CC Youth Executive Committee. “As a Siglap resident, I feel a responsibility to help the needy and to keep our community green,” says the Sociology major. “These experiences have also honed my leadership and communication skills, which will be useful when I enter the workforce.”

T H I N K I N G O F A P P LY I N G F O R T H E M F B P R O G R A M M E ? C O N TA C T M S R A I N E O N G AT 6 3 1 9 8 7 2 8 O R R A I N E _ O N G @ P A . G O V . S G F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N .

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STORY: KOH YUEN LIN / PHOTOS: TAN KAY HIAN

community champions

ONE BIG

y l i m Fa

When you dedicate decades to linking the hearts and minds of residents — as these two South East District community service veterans have — “home” goes beyond the confines of four walls.

KEEPING THE KAMPONG SPIRIT ALIVE SHE IS Ms Veronica Er, 69

I have moved house ve times since 1983, but always within this neighbourhood. I love this place so much! My at is open for all to come – be it for coǏee and eggs in the morning or even a nap in the aǢernoon. I speak English, Malay, Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin and many dialects, so I can communicate with just about anyone, and have friends from all races. We are really like a big family.

Her STORY

She started volunteering her services in 1983 — and 33 years on, Mdm Veronica Er is still a tireless force in her estate. The spritely ViceChairman of the Dakota Residents Committee commits almost all of her free time to building relationships between residents. “I grew up in a kampong and would like for everyone to be part of a big family, participating in everything together,” says the chatty senior, who’s known as “Kampong Leader” by her peers.

For his work as Vice Chairman of Mountbatten Community Club Committee, Chairman of Mountbatten Integration and Naturalisation Champions and Member of the Tanjong Katong Neighbourhood Committee, Mr Chew Siong Huat was awarded the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (PBM) at the 2014 National Day Awards. When asked why he does it, he says it’s all about “meeting the residents, making new friends… this is what motivates me”. Known for his knack for bringing people together, he is also a strong promoter of racial harmony.

His

I used to get my children involved when they were young – that way I got to spend time with them while doing community work. You could say

T H E R E L AT I O N S H I P B U I L D E R HE IS Mr Chew Siong Huat, PBM, 62

When did you rst start volunteering?

I grew up in this neighbourhood. The Open Sea swimming pool at Katong Park, the Tanjong Rhu shipyard, Kampong Amber, the road-side hawker stalls along Dunman Road, Katong News Agency, East Coast Red House… these were places I frequented. When

the NC was formed in 2000, I joined it because I wanted to do something for this community I call home.

How much time do you spend on doing community work?

The amount of time spent is not what matters – what does is whether or not the time spent is meaningful and helpful to the community. [Having

STORY

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

WHEN I ORGANISE EVENTS, I ALWAYS REFERENCE HOW WE USED TO DO THINGS BACK IN THE KAMPONG – IT HELPS ME THINK ABOUT HOW TO ENGAGE EVERYONE, REGARDLESS OF AGE AND RACE! Ms Veronica Er that they were brought up by the entire kampong!

Seniors can be a closed group. But times are changing so I think we should open ourselves to the world around us and enjoy it. So I engage them at the void deck about thrice a day, and we talk about everything. I also started a potluck group with about 15 ladies. We gather at the void deck of Block 60 once a week, and we welcome anybody – from HDB residents and the expats living in nearby condos to foreign workers – to join

done community work for so long] it has become second nature for me to be aware of what is happening within the estate, and I’m always ready to provide feedback to agencies on how to make it a better place to live in.

You have a special interest in promoting racial harmony – why is this important?

Singapore is a multi-racial society [and the stability that

us. I am also trying to start a gardening programme for the elderly.

Some people think that I’m paid to do community work, so they can be very demanding. It takes a lot of patience and you need to listen to everybody with sincerity, and bear with their grievances and frustrations.

I do not take sides when settling disputes, and I think that if everyone just interacted more, they’d be able to understand their diǏerences better and have less con icts.

I take the rst step and try to get them to talk to each other.

APR-JUL 2016

DO YOUR PART

If you are a South East resident who is interested in becoming a volunteer for our community, please log on to HTTP://CDC.ORG.SG/SOUTHEAST and ll in the volunteer form and we will get in touch with you! Do your part to build our community. Join us now!

Doing community work for me is not about memorable achievements. I am a bulldozer and just do whatever I can, and need to, at that point.

And then I move on.

I LOOK TO THE DAY WHEN EVERYONE WILL TREAT PUBLIC AREAS AS THEY WOULD THEIR OWN HOMES, MAKING THE ESTATE A CLEAN, SAFE AND BEAUTIFUL PLACE FOR ALL TO ENJOY. Mr Chew Siong Huat

we enjoy] did not happen overnight. Awareness and education is needed, as is the sensitivity to diǏerences between diǏerent cultures.

How do you help to foster racial harmony?

The key is to know your neighbours. We do this by organising activities for smaller-sized groups so that everybody gets to interact and know one another better.

Any memorable incidents through the course of your community work?

I’m satis ed as long as everybody enjoys the activity or event that has been organised – by this I refer to not just the participating residents, but also the grassroots members and People’s Association staǏ. It makes me happy to see the building of camaraderie among team members.

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STORY: KOH YUEN LIN / MAIN PHOTO: KELVIN CHIA

Voice

DROP IN, Ms Amanda Zee (in white) chatting with youths and patrons during an event at VOX

Teenagers are given a voice of their own at community-based youth drop-in centre VOX @ Singapore Children’s Society.

T ˎ

he void deck of Block 44 on Chai Chee Street is diǏerent from any other. Unlike the usual chess table, there’s a reading corner with retro-chic chairs, benches and coǏee tables, as well as wooden crates for growing herbs. Given the whitewashed exposed brick walls and honey-hued wood details, you might mistake it for the alfresco area of a hipster café.

Yet this is really the shared community space of VOX @ Singapore Children’s Society – the society’s latest service centre, oǓcially launched in December 2015.

“Traditionally, a lot of the

A SPACE FOR

programmes at the service centres are fed to the youths.

Here, we do the reverse,” shares Ms Amanda Zee, the 31 year-old Assistant Director and Head of VOX, who the teenagers aǏectionately call “cher”. So when some of VOX’s 100-members wanted a skating rail, they were tasked to source for materials and eventually built it on their own. The cooking ingredients at the pantry are also purchased by the teenagers, who are given a budget each month. While the centre is staǏed with three social workers and one programme assistant, the programmes —

TŮnagers

OU T

THE LOUNGE

Not your ordinary HDB void deck

COMMON AREA

The name VOX (Latin for “voice”) was picked through a poll among over 300 youths from schools around the area The design of the 273 sq m space is shaped by the opinion of youths surveyed It boasts: 1 well-equipped pantry 1 lounge 1 common area 1 screening area 1 workout corner, as well as cosy loǢ spaces

VOX @ SINGAPORE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY B LO C K 4 4 C H A I C H E E S T R E E T, # 0 1 - 1 0 8 S I N G A P O R E 4 6 1 0 4 4 , T E L : 6 4 4 3 4 1 3 9 / I G / S N A P C H AT : @ V O X . 4 4 C C / F A C E B O O K @ V O X 4 4 C C

The loǢs are spaces for youths to hang out and relax

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

change makers

T

Grassroots Adviser Mr Tan Chuan-Jin gives the centre’s eǏorts a thumbs-up

MORE THAN

For Julia Chan Huiling, 15, joining VOX changed her life – and she’s passing on the goodwill.

Julia Chan

such as community fundraising events and special interest groups — are initiated by the youths. “Each youth-initiated group is allocated social workers to guide them along at diǏerent stages, but it doesn’t matter even if an initiative doesn’t take oǏ — it is the learning process that is more important,” says Ms Zee. An average of 25 members drop in daily during the centre’s opening hours which are from

Just

Hanging Out

IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE FACILITIES AND WHAT WE HAVE, BUT ALSO THE PEOPLE HERE AND HOW WE ALL GET ALONG.

2 to 6pm from Mondays to Fridays. It might sound like a small group, but anybody who steps in for the rst time will be overwhelmed by the high-octane energy within.

From youths whizzing by on skateboards, groups belting out the latest pop songs and duelling friends engrossed in a LAN game on the centre’s laptops to those busy cooking and chit-chatting, the vibe here is positively exuberant.

“What would I be doing if I wasn’t here?

Slacking at a friend’s house!” says Julia Chan Huiling frankly. But instead she is at VOX, playing sepak takraw, trying her hand at photography with the centre’s DSLR and even putting her Red Cross training to use, rendering rst-aid to a member who had accidentally cut himself.

The Ping Yi Secondary School student was “dragged down” to VOX a few months back by a friend – who had learned about it via social media platforms that VOX is on – and she has been an active member ever since. During Chinese New Year, Julia baked pineapple tarts at the neighbourhood’s Children Service Centre.

And with two other members, she organised a concert in March, raising more than $200 from donations and ticket sales. Most recently, she helped out at VOX’s rst carnival.

Julia has since introduced VOX to ve of her friends. Though she lives in Bukit Batok with her father, a trailer driver, she likes to spend her time at VOX, which is just a short walk from her school. “The counsellors are very nice. [Senior counsellor] Mr Chee Thow Wei Liat was the rst to approach me. Why do I like him? He scolded me for not eating healthily when he saw I was cooking instant noodles every day!” she says laughingly of her favourite counsellor’s ‘tough love’.

Indeed, VOX has become a second home of sorts for Julia. “If you ask me how this place can be better, I’d say just let it stay the same!” she says.

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STORY: WANDA TAN

helping hands

MAKING THE YEARS

COUNT

By leveraging on his wealth of experience, this mature job-seeker was able to find a career that taps on his expertise.

A ˎ

Ǣer 23 years working for a multinational corporation, Mr Wong (not his real name), 52, was retrenched in early 2015 when the company underwent restructuring. For six months, he was actively job-hunting but did not get any oǏers. So in October last year, he decided to approach the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) to enhance his job search eǏorts.

“I realised I needed some pointers to give me a leg-up when I wasn’t getting any positive response from the job fairs and networking events that I attended,” says the father of two. “One of the biggest challenges was making sure my resume was up-to-date and would stand out from all the others out there — not just traditional hard-copy résumés, but also those posted on social media platforms such as LinkedIn.” Mr Andrew Er, the Career Coach at WDA handling Mr Wong’s case, was impressed by his positive attitude and willingness to

take ownership of the job search.

“He had hoped for a similar job in business development at another multinational, but I advised him to consider working at a small- or medium-sized company instead,” says Mr Er. “Although that would likely mean taking a pay cut, he accepted it because he knew it would open up more career options.”

NEW RULES OF THE GAME In addition to a résumé-writing and interview workshop, Mr Wong was also introduced to a new WDA initiative — the Career Support Programme (CSP) — which provides wage support of up to $25,200, for up to one year, to employers who oǏer suitable jobs to mid-career and experienced Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians (PMETs) who are unemployed for more than six months and/or made redundant.

Under the CSP, Mr Wong successfully secured a job as a

WDA GIVES CURRENT INFORMATION ABOUT THE LABOUR MARKET AND OFFER OPPORTUNITIES TO UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS. Andrew Er , Career Coach Business Development Director at a local SME lighting company.

He started work in January.

“WDA is a good resource for mature job-seekers like myself, who are unfamiliar with the hiring situation,” says Mr Wong. “They give current information about the labour market and oǏer advice and opportunities to upgrade your skills.”

90 PMETs

HAVE BEEN PLACED IN JOBS THROUGH THE CSP SINCE ITS LAUNCH IN OCTOBER 2015

Source: TODAYonline.com (9 April 2016)

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N O N C S P, C O N TA C T W D A C A R E E R C E N T R E S AT 6 8 8 3 5 8 8 5 O R E 2 I AT 6 4 7 4 0 6 0 6 O R A C C E S S W D A ’ S W E B S I T E AT W W W . W D A . G O V . S G / A D A P TA N D G R O W , A N D E 2 I ’ S W E B S I T E AT W W W . E 2 I . C O M . S G

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

TIPS FOR

Mature JOB-SEEKERS

HAVING BEEN IN THEIR POSITION, MR WONG’S ADVICE IS TO:

Keep An Open Mind Be receptive to careers in new industries.

Be Proactive and Take Charge Jobs roles are evolving, so go for training to adapt to the changing job demands and to be market-relevant.

Adjust Your Expectations Switching from a big multinational corporation to a smaller company may involve a pay cut.

Stay Positive Send out as many job applications as possible, and don’t be disheartened when you don’t hear back. Tap on your social networks or attend networking sessions to expand your job search.

CSP

WWW.WDA.GOV.SG/ADAPTANDGROW, WWW.E21.COM.SG

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STORY: ASHUTOSH RAVIKRISHNAN

helping hands

W ˎ

hen Mr and Mrs Salleh (not their real names) found out that their special needs three year-old daughter had trouble swallowing rice, they were concerned what implications this could have on her development. The couple decided to give her formula milk, but its high cost added to the family’s alreadychallenging nancial situation. As a pizza deliveryman, Mr Salleh, 30, earns around $1,100 a month while his wife, 31, is a homemaker. “We would spend nearly $150 a month on formula,” said Mrs Salleh, who lives in a two-room HDB rental at in Marine Parade with her family. The couple have two other children, now aged three and one.

GIVING KIDS A LEG-UP This needy family tapped on the South East Grow Up Milk Fund to ensure their children get the nutrition they require.

LIGHTENING THE LOAD

Though the family had already been receiving other forms of assistance from the Marine Parade Family Service Centre (FSC), the family’s social worker Ms Annie Lee immediately introduced them to the South East Grow Up Milk Fund upon hearing their concerns.

Launched in February 2015, the initiative helps needy families in the South East District defray the cost of formula milk for children below the age of three. The fund comprises donations worth $150,000 from corporate partners Serial System Limited and Zhi Zhen Tan Dao Xue Hui (Singapore) as well as a

1

IS FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OLD

2

THE SOUTH EAST GROW UP MILK FUND

HELPS FAMILIES WITH A GROSS MONTHLY INCOME BELOW $2,400 OR PER CAPITA INCOME OF $800

3

ASSISTS FAMILIES FOR AT LEAST 6 MONTHS

NutritiI NoA n MINUTE

TIPS

NOT SURE HOW MUCH YOUR CHILD SHOULD BE EATING? USE THIS SIMPLE CHART AS A GUIDE TO THE RECOMMENDED DAILY SERVINGS FOR DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS: Source: Health Promotion Board

6 – 12 MONTHS

1 – 2 YEARS

3 – 6 YEARS

Brown rice and wholemeal bread

1-2

2-3

3-4

Fruit

½

½

1

Vegetables

½

½

1

(Servings)

Meat and others

2

2

2

including 1½ servings of dairy or other calciumcontaining foods

including 1½ servings of dairy or other calciumcontaining foods

including 1 serving of dairy or other calciumcontaining foods

I F Y O U A R E A R E S I D E N T W H O N E E D S F I N A N C I A L A S S I S TA N C E , O R K N O W O F S O M E O N E W H O D O E S , P L E A S E C A L L T H E C O M C A R E H O T L I N E AT 1 8 0 0 - 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 .

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

MY DAUGHTER DOESN’T LIKE EATING RICE AND PREFERS FORMULA MILK, SO THE FUND HAS REALLY HELPED US A LOT. Mrs Salleh, speaking about her oldest child $150,000 grant from the South East Community Development Council. The scheme came about aǢer it was observed that some children were being fed diluted condensed milk, due to the high cost of formula milk. The fund is administered by the district’s six FSCs, and the 60 or so bene ciaries are reviewed every six months.

The Salleh’s two older children are currently bene ciaries of the scheme. Bene ciary families receive varying amounts of formula milk every month, depending on their needs. “The Salleh family currently gets six packets of milk a month,” said Ms Lee. Said Mrs Salleh about the programme: “It really has liǢed a burden oǏ my family’s shoulders.”

She now feels con dent that her children’s nutritional needs are being met.

WHAT GOES INTO

1 SERVING ¾ MUG COOKED VEGETABLES

1 PALM-SIZED PIECE OF FISH, MEAT OR SKINLESS POULTRY

1 SMALL APPLE

2 SLICES OF BREAD

给孩子健康的开始 东南社理会的Grow Up Milk基金 让一个需助家庭确保孩子们得到 营养所需。 Salleh夫妇（匿名）发现3岁大的女 儿有特殊需要因此吃饭时有困难， 因而担心她摄取的营养不足，所 以给她喝配方奶粉。但作为披萨 外卖送货员的Salleh先生月薪大 约$1,100，而Salleh女士则是一名 家庭主妇，家庭收入有限。购买配 方奶粉加重了他们家庭的经济负 担。 “我们每个月花将近$150在奶 粉上，”与家人居住在马林百列2方 式HDB出租单位的Salleh女士说。 夫妇俩还育有另外两名3岁和1岁大 的孩子 。 虽然Salleh一家人已经通过马林 百列家庭服务中心（Marine Parade Family Service Centre)获得其他资 助，但他们的社工Annie Lee女士在 听说他们的困难时仍立即给他们介 绍东南区的Grow Up Milk Fund。 该项目于2015年2月正式展开， 旨在帮助东南社区需助家庭支付 3岁以下孩童的配方奶粉。”该基 金当中，$150，000由私人机构伙伴 新晔科技有限公司 (Serial System Limited) 及旨真坛道学会捐献， 另外$150，000则由东南社理会 拨给。 社理会在发现一些家庭因为负 担不起买配方奶粉的费用而让孩 子喝掺水炼乳而发起这个项目。目 前，该项目由区内6所家庭服务中 心管理，并负责每半年对项目下约 60个收益家庭进行审核。 Salleh 夫妇两名最大的孩子目 前收益于该项目。收益家庭每月 收到的配方奶粉根据需要而定， 而据Lee女士所说，Salleh一家目前 每个月获得6包配方奶粉。 “这个项 目真的为我们家庭承担了一个重 负，”Salleh女士说道，并进一步表 示她现在对于满足孩子们的营养需 求信心满满。

APR-JUL 2016

MEMBERI BANTUAN AWAL KEPADA KANAK-KANAK Keluarga susah ini memanfaatkan Dana South East Grow Up Milk untuk memastikan anak-anak mereka mendapat khasiat yang diperlukan.

Apabila Encik Salleh (bukan nama sebenar) dan isteri mendapat tahu anak perempuan mereka yang kurang upaya dan berusia tiga tahun mengalami masalah untuk menelan nasi, mereka mula merasa bimbang tentang perkembangannya.

Pasangan ini memberi anak mereka susu formula tetapi kosnya yang tinggi telah memberatkan lagi bebanan mereka. Sebagai pekerja penghantar piza, Encik Salleh, 30 tahun memperoleh gaji lebih kurang $1,100 sebulan. Isterinya pula, 31 tahun adalah seorang suri rumah. “Biasanya, kami membelanjakan hampir $150 sebulan untuk membeli susu formula,” menurut isteri Encik Salleh yang tinggal di at sewa dua-bilik HDB di kawasan Marine Parade bersama keluarganya. Pasangan ini mempunyai dua lagi orang anak yang kini berusia tiga dan satu tahun.

MERINGANKAN BEBAN Meskipun keluarga ini mendapat lain-lain bantuan dari Pusat Perkhidmatan Keluarga Marine Parade (FSC), Puan Annie Lee selaku pekerja sosial keluarga tersebut turut memperkenalkan mereka kepada Dana South East Grow Up Milk apabila mendengar keluhan mereka.

Dilancarkan pada bulan Februari 2015, inisiatif ini bertujuan untuk membantu keluarga susah di Daerah Tenggara membiayai kos susu formula bagi kanak-kanak di bawah umur tiga tahun. Dana ini merangkumi derma bernilai $150,000 daripada rakan-rakan korporat Serial System Limited dan Zhi Zhen Tan Dao Xue Hui (Singapura) serta geran bernilai $150,000 daripada Majlis Pembangunan Masyarakat Tenggara.

Skim ini diwujudkan setelah mendapati adanya segolongan kanak-kanak yang diberi susu pekat yang dicairkan kerana kos susu formula yang tinggi.

Program ini diselenggarakan oleh enam FSC di daerah tenggara dan senarai 60 penerima di bawah skim ini disemak setiap enam minggu.

Kedua-dua anak Encik Salleh yang lebih tua turut disertakan di dalam skim ini. Bergantung kepada keperluan mereka, keluarga penerima mendapat jumlah susu formula yang berbeza setiap bulan. “Buat masa ini, keluarga Salleh mendapat enam paket susu dalam sebulan,” kata Puan Lee. Menurut isteri Encik Salleh pula: “Program ini benar-benar membantu meringankan beban keluarga saya,” dan beliau menambah bahawa beliau yakin keperluan pemakanan anak-anak mereka kini telah dipenuhi sepenuhnya.

如果您是需要经济援助的居民，或认识有需要的人， 请致电 1800- 2 2 2 0000 到社区关怀热线。 Jika anda seorang penduduk yang memerlukan bantuan kewangan, atau mengenali seseorang yang memerlukannya, sila hubungi talian khas ComCare di 1800-222 0000.

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STORY: FAIROZA MANSOR / PHOTOS: HONG CHEE YAN

226

107

trail blazing

HEALTHCARE IN THE HEARTLAND Changi General Hospital was oǓcially opened on 28 March 1998. It is Singapore’s rst purposebuilt general hospital, serving communities in the eastern and northeastern regions.

STROLLING THROUGH Simei is pinyin for “Four Beauties”.

This has led many to assume that the name originates from four beautiful women — Xishi, Guifei, Zhaojun and Diaochan — from diǏerent periods in Chinese history.

They were believed to have exercised d great in uence over emperors and all suǏered a tragic end. For a short period, roads in the estate were even n named aǢer these beauties.

But in reality, the name Simei wass derived from Jalan Soo Bee, its dialect ct translation. This was discarded at the peak of Singapore’s Speak Mandarin campaign.

Zhaojun (Block 226, Street 4)

1.3 MILLION

ated bourhood loc h ig e n is th ore. s in store in dge of Singap e Explore what’ rn e st a e e at th Diaochan (Block 146, Street 2)

A Slice of

History

Xishi (Block 116 & 123, Street 1) Guifei (Block 107, Street 1)

FIND THEM The four maidens have been immortalised in paintings that can be found at these void decks.

The area on which Simei stands today used to be a Malay kampong.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SINGAPORE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

LEGEND HAS IT

BY 2010, THE HOSPITAL WAS SERVING A POPULATION OF

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1

146

116

C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

123

AWARD-WINNING VENUE The Singapore EXPO Convention and Exhibition Centre, the country’s largest such venue, is also located in Simei.

In April this year, Singapore EXPO clinched the Best International Venue award at the 10th Exhibition News (EN) Awards 2016 held in London.

OPENED IN 1999, THE EXPO CAN HOLD MORE THAN

600

EVENTS EVERY YEAR

DID YOU KNOW FLATS IN THIS ESTATE ARE

NO HIGHER THAN 11 STOREYS BECAUSE OF THE FLIGHT PATHS OF PLANES TAKING OFF FROM, AND TOUCHING DOWN AT, THE NEARBY CHANGI AIRPORT.

It was cleared to make way for a housing estate February 11982

PHOTO COURTESY OF SINGAPORE EXPO

The construction of Simei town was completed with 8,000 four- and ve-roomed units.

1988

SIMEI IS A PEACEFUL AND MODERN NEIGHBOURHOOD. IT MIGHT NOT HAVE THE OLD-SCHOOL CHARM OF SOME OTHER EASTERN ESTATES, BUT IT IS SELF-SUFFICIENT, AND HAS EVERYTHING MY FAMILY AND I NEED AT OUR DOORSTEP. Lucas Tan, 30, Sales Manager Simei Resident

SINGAPORE’S 4 TH UNIVERSITY The Singapore University of Technology and Design was oǓcially inaugurated in 2012, and moved to its current location at Somapah Road in 2015. The university aims to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs with the potential to make breakthroughs in Singapore’s architecture, engineering, technology, design and soǢware industries.

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STORY: KOH YUEN LIN / PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE LI MING

BONDING OVER

Bento

What’s better than a homemade bento?

One which the child makes together with you!

Ms Lee Li Ming shares her recipe.

A ˎ

mother of two sons aged 12 and 9, Ms Lee Li Ming is also the deǢ hands behind the too-cute-to-eat lunch boxes featured on her blog Bento Monsters. Here, the 39 year-old shows us how make a charaben (the Japanese name for bentos made in the likeness of cartoon characters).

It might take some practicing before yours can look as perfect as hers, but the fun process of putting it together with your children will make the eǏort worthwhile!

Make a thin omelette by cooking whisked egg on a pan over low heat. The whisked egg can be seasoned with a pinch of salt.

INGREDIENTS 1 egg, whisked Salt to taste 1 bowl cooked rice Ketchup to ttaste a OrangeO r sliced ccoloured o ccheese h (s (such as red ccheddar h ) Creamcoloured sliced cheese (such as cheddar)

1 2

Mix rice with a suitable amount of ketchup (or teriyaki sauce for a brownish colour) to achieve the colour desired.

3

Scoop rice onto cling wrap and mould the head, ears, hand and body as shown in the picture.

1 sheet Japanese seaweed

4

Fill the base of your bento box with a layer of rice loosely, before placing on the “head” and “body” pieces.

You can also arrange lettuce or other vegetables at the base in place of rice.

5

Slice omelette into quarters.

SLEEPING RILAKKUMA BENTO

6 Fold each omelette quarter and arrange the pieces around the rice.

Place the hand and ears. You can use bits of pasta to secure the parts.

7 8

Using a round cutter or a pair of scissors, cut out the ears from a piece of orange-coloured sliced cheese, and the mouth from a piece o of cream-coloured s sliced cheese. Using a nori punch (a puncher used for cutting Japanese dried seaweed) or a pair of scissors, cut out the details for Rilakkuma’s face.

Dab on some ketchup to colour the bear’s cheek – and you are done!

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

fEast

H E A LT H Y M E A L S

Healthy KIDS

Ms Lee serves this rice bowl with a side of mixed vegetables and meat, but you can also place the other ingredients at the base, as suggested in step 4.

EASY TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE TASTY, TY, HEALTHY LUNCH NCH BOXES FOR YOUR OUR CHILDREN.

Keep it colourfull Bell peppers, corn, orn peas peas, carrots and an assortment of vegetables not only add nutrition and dietary bre to yyour child’s meal, they also add loads ds of fun colours that make the lunch box ox look even more appetising.

Sweet surprise Rather than sugary confectionary, incorporate te your child’s favourite fruits into their meals as a sweet treat.

Mix it up Anybody would get tired of eating sandwiches everyday, so keep your child excited by varying ying the lunchbox content – such as with ith a roasted vegetable g pita ta pocket or a tuna na pasta. Varietyy also deliver so helps to delive er a more balanced di diet. iet.

Size ize matters Choose hoose a lunch box of a right capacity to ensure that your child has the right quantity uantity of food per er serving.

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STORY: WANDA TAN/ ASHUTOSH RAVIKRISHNAN

lifestyle

SHADES OF

BLUE

Depression is a condition that can affect the elderly — and it is more than just a case of the blues. What can we do to help them?

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hether caused by deteriorating health, diǓculty adjusting to retirement or the death of a spouse, sadness is a normal — and not uncommon — emotion among the elderly.

But how can we distinguish between someone who is feeling sad and someone who is suǏering from depression?

DEPRESSION SADNESS

vs

DEPRESSION De ned as a mental health disorder that aǏects all aspects of one’s life

COMMON CAUSES OF DEPRESSION IN SENIORS

SADNESS Sadness is only one symptom of depression

LoneliAnSeI Lŷ ENT

According to Dr Liew Tau Ming, an associate consultant at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH)’s Department of Geriatric Psychiatry

Medical conditions such as diabetes Chronic pain Grief Stressful life events such as nancial diǓculties

1 KILLER

A person suǏering from depression may not always be aware of the condition. Dr Liew suggests that family members pay attention to changes of behaviour in their older relatives.

Become more negative in their thoughts — feeling hopeless, worthless or guilt-ridden

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Show reduced interest in their regular activities

LIVING ALONE FEELING LONELY RISK FACTORS OF DEPRESSION

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

someone Know IN DISTRESSED?

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Call the Institute of Mental Health at 6389 2222. The 24-hour helpline is manned by the institute’s trained counsellors.

Unfortunately, people with severe depression occasionally resort to taking their own lives. As Singapore’s population ages, the threat of suicide is all too real among the elderly.

To treat depression, doctors typically prescribe a mix of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy (talking to a trained counsellor or therapist). But you don’t have to be a medical professional to help seniors feel less lonely.

time 1 Spend with them.

Without meaning to, you may be ignoring your elderly parent or grandparent — even when living under the same roof — due to your busy schedule. Going for outings together is a good way to take their mind oǏ their problems and promotes family bonding.

2

Encourage them to exercise.

Besides being bene cial for physical health, light exercises such as brisk walking also release endorphins (moodboosting brain chemicals).

HAVING AN EMOTIONAL CONNECTION WITH ANOTHER PERSON IS A BASIC HUMAN NEED. Dr Liew Tau Ming

APR-JUL 2016

Offer a listening ear.

Sometimes having someone to talk to about their problems is enough to liǢ their spirits.

“Allowing (elderly family members) the time and space to talk about their diǓculties… helps them feel supported emotionally,” notes Dr Liew.

their 4 Widen social support system.

Bring them to a Senior Activity Centre near your home so they can make friends with fellow seniors, or suggest that they adopt a pet for companionship.

ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO LIVE BY THEMSELVES ARE DEPRESSED AND THOSE WHO LIVE IN MULTI-GENERATIONAL HOUSEHOLDS AREN’T.

FA L S E

Visit your nearest Family Service Centre to nd out what help resources are available in the community.

Speak to a trained volunteer at 1800 221 4444, a 24-hour hotline run by suicideprevention centre Samaritans of Singapore OTHER HELPLINES: Care Corner Counselling Centre 1800 3535 800 (for Mandarin speakers) Singapore Association for Mental Health 1800 283 7019 Seniors Helpline 1800 555 5555

Understanding depression in the elderly

Detailing Dementia The IMH Research Division has completed its Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study. Launched in 2013, the study examines the prevalence and factors associated with dementia and depression among Singaporeans older than 60 years old. The results of the study will be announced soon, giving healthcare providers a clearer picture of the state of the elderly’s mental wellness.

FEWER LIVING WITH CHILDREN

61.3%

of seniors 65 or older lived with their children in 2015. This is down from 2010, when that figure was 66.7%.

Source: Singapore Department of Statistics.

According to Dr Liew, it is not the number of social contacts a person has that guards against depression.

IT IS THE STRENGTH OF RELATIONSHIPS. “A person who lives alone could still take steps to connect with others and maintain close and fulfilling relationships,” he says.

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Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, Adviser to Marine Parade GRC GROs, giving a thumbs-up to the dishes made by residents at the opening of the Goodlife Makan communal kitchen at the Blk 52 Marine Terrace void deck on 30 January.

Grassroots Adviser Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, Adviser to Marine Parade GRC GROs, learning about water conservation initiatives at the Singapore World Water Day event on 13 March at the Geylang Lorong 40 playground.

Marine Parade

SERVING THE

The many ways in which our District’s Grassroots Advisers have been going about bonding the community in recent months.

Mountbatten

Braddell Heights

Grassroots Adviser Lim Biow Chuan, Adviser to Mountbatten GROs, admiring the creative eÇ?orts of young residents at the annual Mountbatten Spring Concert on 12 March .

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

making connections

Geylang Serai

Kembangan Chai Chee

Grassroots Adviser Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development and Adviser to Marine Parade GRC GROs, interacting with participants of the Rang De Holi Festival at an open eld in Kembangan on 26 March.

Grassroots Adviser Seah Kian Peng, Adviser to Marine Parade GRC GROs, celebrating with the seniors who helped set the Singapore Record for “Largest Rummy-O Tournament” at Braddell Heights CC at the 2nd National Active Agers’ Rummy-O Meet 2016 on 28 February.

Grassroots Adviser Edwin Tong, Adviser to Marine Parade GRC GROs, mingling with residents at the Xinyao By the Sea event at East Coast Park on 9 April.

Joo Chiat

Grassroots Adviser Cheryl Chan, Adviser to Fengshan GROs, giving out goodie boxes to wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day at the Family Life Champion Mother’s Day Family Tour on 8 May at the Art Science Museum & Restaurant.

Fengshan

Grassroots Adviser Tin Pei Ling, Adviser to MacPherson GROs, giving an angpao to an elderly resident at the MacPherson Welfare Day organised by MacPherson CCC on 24 January.

Macpherson

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Grassroots Adviser Lim Swee Say, Minister for Manpower and Adviser to East Coast GRC GROs, getting into the spirit of Halloween with residents in the “ghostly tunnel” set up at the Bedok Community Centre on 31 October 2015.

Bedok

Kampong Chai Chee

Grassroots Adviser Jessica Tan Soon Neo, Adviser to East Coast GRC GROs, explaining the use of insect repellent to a family at their home during a mozzie wipeout campaign exercise at East View Garden Estate on 26 April.

Changi Simei

Grassroots Adviser Lee Yi Shyan, Adviser to East Coast GRC GROs, singing a Chinese song, 城里 的月光, with Indian residents and Grassroots Leaders at the Kampong Chai Chee Indian New Year Show 2016 on 7 May.

Grassroots Adviser Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman, Senior Minister of State for Defence and Foreign AǏairs, Mayor of South East District and Adviser to East Coast GRC GROs, having an enjoyable time with residents at a Dialogue cum Street Party @ Limau Garden and Limau Walk on 9 April.

Siglap

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

STORY: WANDA TAN / PHOTOS: HONG CHEE YAN

APR-JUL 2016

SME

c i t s i t r A AN

ENDEAVOUR

Contact South East debuts a new series on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the South East District by looking at one in particular.

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he may have obtained a Mass Communications degree and worked in the corporate sector for a number of years, but Ms Gwen Wang, in her 30s, has never forgotten her rst love: art. “Art has been my passion since I was young, but I was hesitant to pursue it as a career,” says the mother of two. That is, until 2014 when she founded art enrichment centre Juz Art Studio, which oǏers customised art lessons for children and adults.

Before opening the studio, she approached SME Centre @ South East for help. There she met Business Advisor Mr Jonathan Choy. “SMEs play an important role in our economy, so we aim to be a rst stop for them when it comes to business and productivity-related assistance,” says Mr Choy.

“Jonathan guided me step by step to register the business and apply for government grants,” says Ms Wang. “He was very professional, gave valid advice and saved me a lot of time.”

Having bene ted from the Innovation and Capability Voucher (ICV) and the Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC) schemes, she is still in touch with Mr Choy and plans to next engage a consultant through the Capability Development Grant to improve her marketing strategy.

WHAT DID SHE DO?

1

Ms Gwen Wang

OUTCOME OUTCOME

USED AN ICV TO DESIGN AND DEVELOP A WEBSITE

OWNING A BUSINESS IS RISKY, SO WORKING WITH SME CENTRE IS A MUSTDO FOR FIRST-TIME ENTREPRENEURS.

INCREASE IN ENQUIRIES FROM POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS

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USED A SECOND ICV TO PURCHASE AN AUTOMATED POINT-OFSALE SYSTEM

MORE EFFICIENT AND ACCURATE CASHIERING PROCESS REPLACED THE MANUAL METHOD OF ISSUING INVOICES AND COLLECTING CASH

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OUTCOME USED THE PIC SCHEME TO IMPLEMENT SCHOOLMANAGEMENTSYSTEM SOFTWARE

CENTRALISED DATABASE FOR PARENT/STUDENT CONTACT DETAILS, CLASS SCHEDULES AND LESSON REPORTS

F R E E S E R V I C E S BY S M E C E N T R E @ S O U T H E A S T SEMINARS AND ROADSHOWS to brief SMEs on available government assistance programmes and how these suit their business growth needs

ONE-TO-ONE SESSIONS between SME owners and experienced business advisors to improve operational eǓciency and business performance

CAPABILITY WORKSHOPS to help SMEs learn skills and knowledge to improve productivity and business management practices.

T O M A K E A N A P P O I N T M E N T, EMAIL SOUTHEAST @SMECENTRE-ASME.SG OR CALL 6243 8753.

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contest GIVE THESE CHALLENGES YOUR BEST SHOT AND STAND TO REAP THE REWARDS!

Spot THE DIFFERENCE Find the 5 differences in these two photos and stand a chance to take home a $10 CapitaLand voucher.

Sprucing UP You have read about some of the spaces in the South East District that residents have “dressed up” to beautify their surroundings.

Share with us an idea to enhance your neighbourhood – upload a photo of what the space looks like now and your concept for the redecoration on our Facebook Page and stand a chance to win $20 worth of CapitaLand vouchers! Winners will be annouced on our Facebook page.

NAME

(AS PER NRIC)

NRIC

ADDRESS CONTACT NO EMAIL

STEPS TO WINNING 1) Head on over to South East CDC’s Facebook Page 2) Post your story or photos on the Timeline ‘LIKE’ US AT www.facebook.com/secdc

HOW TO WIN

Scan and email your entry along with your details to Contact_South_East@pa.gov.sg with the subject header: “Contact South East (Apr-July 2016) – Contest” or mail in your entries to: Contact South East – Contest South East Community Development Council, 10 Eunos Road 8 #12-05A Singapore Post Centre Singapore 408600 Winners will be notified by post.

These contests are only open to the residents of the South East District (Bedok, Braddell Heights, Changi Simei, Fengshan, Geylang Serai, Joo Chiat, Kampong Chai Chee, Kembangan-Chai Chee, MacPherson, Marine Parade, Mountbatten and Siglap). South East CDC staǏ and their immediate family members are not eligible.

Residents who have already won this contest in 2015 will not be eligible. Limited to one winner per household.

Closing date: 31 AUGUST 2016

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Eastern CHC (Bedok North)

6446 7200

Eastern CHC (Bedok South)

Eastern 6449 5419 Health Alliance

Eastern CHC (Tampines)

6782 6885

Jurong East CHC

6665 1290 SATA CommHealth

National NHG Mobile CHC 9088 5562 Healthcare Group Singapore Tiong Bahru CHC 6376 0158 Health Services

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up & coming AUGUST

3M 50th Anniversary Step-Up Challenge @ South East 2016 (Public Roadshows) ORGANISER HIGHLIGHTS

CONTACT

South East CDC In celebration of 3M’s 50th Anniversary, this event imbing up encourages the community to keep t by climbing teps climbed, the stairs for a good cause. For every 500 steps 3M Singapore will contribute a household product for a bic steppers, South East family-in-need. Other than aerobic pants can jump there will also be trampolines which participants on and contribute to the step-count too!

For more infromation, please go to http://cdc.org.sg/South East/Events

6 AUG 2016 SAT

6 AUG 2016 SAT

7 AUG 2016 SUN

Kampong Chai Chee National Day Dinner

National Day Dinner for Siglap residents

Bedok National Day Observance Ceremony

Kampong Chai Chee CCC Bedok Town Plaza TIME 7.30pm – 9.30pm HIGHLIGHTS For the rst time, the estate’s Annual National Dinner will be held at the recently opening Bedok Town Plaza which connects Bedok Mall & Bedok Hawker Centre.

Residents will enjoy entertaining performances accompanied with a stumpous sit down dinner in the comfort of this spanking new setting ADMISSION FEE $30/per pax CONTACT Lina 6241 9878

ORGANISER

Siglap CCC organising committee VENUE Amphitheatre @ 46 Bedok South Ave 3 TIME 6-10pm HIGHLIGHTS Residents of Siglap are cordially invited join in the National Day celebrations by partaking in a sumptuous dinner where they can get to mingle with their neighbours as well.

ADMISSION FEE $28/per pax CONTACT Ee Ling 64498040

ORGANISER

ORGANISER VENUE

Bedok GROs Blk 23 Bedok South Ave 1 TIME 7-10pm HIGHLIGHTS Residents will be sure to experience the feeling of patriotism during the observance ceremony for Singapore’s 51st birthday. Here, they will have the opportunity to come together as one while singing the National Anthem.

ADMISSION FEE Free CONTACT Benjamin Soh 64496323 (Benjamin_SOH@pa.gov.sg) VENUE

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C O N TA C T S O U T H E A S T

APR-JUL 2016

making waves

P I CT U R E - P E R F E CT Check out this travelling exhibition that chronicles Singapore’s National Day Parades over the last 50 years!

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he evolution of Singapore’s ‘birthday celebrations’ over the past ve decades has been documented in a travelling exhibition titled 50 Years of National Day Parades. Curated by the National Heritage Board, the exhibition was launched at Kallang Wave Mall on 10 June. It features more than 100 photographs – from the country’s rst parade in 1966 to 2015’s Jubilee celebrations at the Padang. Colourful anecdotes behind the planning of the various parades are also showcased. The exhibition has since travelled to Bedok Public Library and Velocity mall in Novena. AǢer its next pitstop at One RaǙes Place, the exhibition returns to Kallang Wave Mall on 23 July in the lead-up to National Day on 9 August.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLLECTION OF NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE.

10 The NDP Procession took to the streets in the 1970s. For Singapore’s Golden Jubilee, segments of the street parade were re-enacted as part of the SG50 Vintage Parade.

NUMBER OF YEARS SINCE THE NATIONAL DAY PARADE WAS HELD AT THE NATIONAL STADIUM, WHERE IT WILL RETURN TO THIS YEAR. 37

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