14 SG50 projects accepted so far

SINGAPORE — A total of 14 projects, out of more than 100 suggested by Singaporeans to commemorate the Republic’s 50th birthday next year, have been accepted to receive funding support.

They include those that celebrate Singapore’s heritage, multicultural diversity, pioneer generation and the elderly.

Under the SG50 Celebration Fund, ground-up projects proposed by individuals, groups, societies and organisations can get up to S$50,000 in funding. A total of S$5 million has been set aside, but the SG50 Programme Office will consider pumping in more if worthwhile projects come along.

One of those accepted is an idea from Mr Logapreyan Renganathan, 42, and Mr Bhagrav Sriganesh, 21, who proposed a song composed and performed by individuals from different ethnic backgrounds to celebrate Singapore’s multicultural diversity. Although it will be sung in Tamil, it will include musical instruments from other cultures, such as Chinese string instruments and Malay drums.

Another project, suggested by Ms Lynette Wan Wai Lin, 35, and Dr Patrick Shi Chee Wai, 39, is to compile a book on a diverse group of 50 Singaporeans from the pioneer generation. Targeted to be available at public libraries and community centres by August next year, the book hopes to help youth understand and appreciate the values of the pioneer generation who have contributed to nation-building and national identity.

Meanwhile, Mr Samuel He Zhengbang, 31, and Mr Ivan Tan, 26, are working on a photography project on Singapore’s iconic neighbourhoods. The photographs will be stitched together to create “community quilts” that will be exhibited at the neighbourhoods as well as other locations.

Singaporeans can send in their project ideas for consideration for funding until the end of August next year.