Fostering cultural growth and social harmony
Around 500 distinguished guests gathered on 2 February, the third day of the Lunar New Year, to celebrate the arrival of Year of the Horse at Spring Reception 2014, jointly organised by Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA) and Business China.
Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs, was the Guest-of-honour at this joyous occasion, which was also attended by Minister Chan Chun Sing, Senior Minister of State Mr Lee Yi Shyan, Senior Minister of State Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister of State Ms Sim Ann, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Mr Sam Tan, Parliamentary Secretary Ms Low Yen Ling, Members of Parliament, foreign diplomats and other dignitaries.
In his speech delivered in Mandarin, DPM Teo commended SFCCA’s efforts in promoting the Chinese culture and fostering social cohesion. “The SFCCA has organised many large-scale activities to increase our knowledge of Chinese culture and traditions, enrich the variety of local cultures, and promote social cohesion.”
DPM Teo also complimented Business China for promoting bilingualism and biculturalism and strengthening friendly ties between Singapore and China. He hopes both organisations will continue to contribute to Singapore’s harmony and cultural growth.
In his welcome address, SFCCA President and Chairman of Business China, Mr Chua Thian Poh, summed up the achievements of SFCCA and Business China in the past year and shared the two organisations’ plans for the upcoming year, including SFCCA’s array of large-scale events leading up to Singapore’s 50th birthday next year. “We hope these activities will encourage mutual understanding between different communities and cultivate an appreciation for different cultures and customs.”
The customary festive ceremony of exchanging well-wishes in a large circle, signifying unity and harmony, was performed. Entertaining cultural performances by Yunnan Opera Theatre, Singapore Chin Kang Huay Kuan and Dunman High School Chinese Orchestra further enlivened the festivities.
The Spring Reception is held every year to usher in the beginning of the Lunar New Year. Leaders from the Chinese community as well as other ethnic groups gather in celebration of the festivities to exchange greetings and renew connections in wishing for a brand new year of abundance.