SINGAPORE — An indoor archery range that is now wheelchair-friendly, a toy library for children including those with special needs and a cafe corner that serves free hot beverages, biscuits and board games can now be found in this community club.

The upgraded Pasir Ris Elias Community Club has reopened with these among its new features after 14 months of structural improvement works that cost S$6.1 million and that extended its space from 4,600 sq m to 6,198 sq m.

It also has new courses and interest groups, ranging from emcee hosting and Chinese dance to singing classes, which were featured at its open house on Sunday (Oct 2).

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, the adviser to Pasir Ris-Punggol grassroots organisations, officiated its re-opening and said he was “delighted” to re-introduce the CC with its “brand-new facilities” and wider range of activities, especially for residents with special needs.

He pointed to the toy library as a “favourite” with parents and children. “For CCs all over Singapore, we try to keep upgrading them, not just in terms of facilities but activities that cater to (people’s) needs and interests,” he said.

“CCs are important, as people can come together and bond, to bring their families, friends and neighbours to do things together, get a sense of belonging and sense of community in the town they live.”

One resident among the crowd of 1,500 there today was Mdm Cecilia, 80, who used to frequent the CC often to meet her friends, and she said she would consider going to the cafe corner.

“I stay alone at home ... It’s a good move (with such facilities), as everyone can gather,” she said. “They do take care of the old folks like me.”

Engineer Lim S. K. said he was bringing his nine-year-old daughter to try the archery sessions. “It’s good because now classes can be conducted, regardless of the weather,” said the 48-year-old.