I have a deeper understanding of the significance of Singapore’s multicultural integration. Different ethnic groups and cultures are presented side by side on the same street, respecting and appreciating each other. This is the most moving scenery in Singapore, and it is also a cultural and educational force that is worth passing on from generation to generation.
Today, I had the honor of participating in the reading the picture book “My Little Chingay Float” for the elderly, and as I read and looked through the pictures about the festival, I couldn’t help but think of the my own participation in the Chingay Parade many years ago. At that time, Chingay was held on Orchard Road, and the streets were crowded with people on both sides of the street. The moment the music sounded and the lights came on, the whole street seemed to be awakened, and the atmosphere was lively and exciting.
In the parade, cultures from various countries took turns to appear. The dance rhythm brought by the Indian representative is distinct, and the body movements are full of power and story. The performance of the Japanese representative was delicate and solemn, showing a unique aesthetic spirit. The carefully designed floats slowly passed by, blending history, art and modern creativity, which was dizzying. It was not just a visual feast, but also a vivid cultural lesson.
Years later, revisiting these images from picture books, I have a deeper understanding of the significance of Singapore’s multicultural integration. Different ethnic groups and cultures are presented side by side on the same street, respecting and appreciating each other. This is the most moving scenery in Singapore, and it is also a cultural and educational force that is worth passing on from generation to generation.
Author: Lin Shu Bing
Singapore University of Social Sciences