Primary student sorry after rude gesture at NDP is caught on camera

SINGAPORE — A Henry Park Primary student caught making an offensive gesture during Wednesday’s (Aug 9) “live” broadcast of the National Day Parade (NDP) is sorry for his actions and has been counselled, the school’s principal said on Thursday (Aug 10).

“The student regrets his action and is deeply apologetic, said Mr Chia Soo Keng. “The school and his parents have counselled him, and he will ensure he learns from this incident.”

Mr Chia declined to comment further on the episode.

The boy, whose name and age are not known, was among 400 students from the school who performed in a segment at this year’s parade. 

Called Progressing Together, it included the Henry Park Primary contingent performing alongside The Purple Symphony, an orchestra made up of individuals with and without special needs.

The boy was caught making the rude gesture on “live” television when the students were shepherded back on stage with the other performers for the finale. The video clip of him went viral on social media. 

Subsequently, a photo of him being spoken to by Mr Chia and another man also circulated online.