"Kampung games" roadshow attracts 500 people

SINGAPORE: Some 500 members of the public indulged in some good old—fashioned fun at a roadshow in Woodlands on Sunday afternoon.

The event, organised by the North West Community Development Council and Ground—Up Initiative, aimed to promote community and family bonding.

Children tried their hand at "kampung games", while adults revisited some of the games from their childhood.

The event, called "Kampung Play", is in its third run, and it is held every last Sunday of the month.

"A lot of the games now do not have much physical interaction, rather just taking up a gun and shooting stuff or pressing buttons," said Justin Lu, a volunteer at the event.

"I really hope the kids will get more involved and maybe learn more about the environment. Instead of going to other places to buy games, maybe they can make their own games."

More than 20 volunteers created and showcased their own games at a mini—arcade.

The event, which included jigsaw puzzles and coordination games, attracted hundreds of participants.

Bing Yu, a representative from Ground—Up Initiative said: "Ever since Season 1 (the first run), we have had more and more volunteers coming on board. We have families who say ’hey, I’d like to make the games myself, so how can I be a part of this?’."

"Online gaming seems to be the trend for the younger generation now, and many will prefer to stay at home to play games than to do outdoor activities with their families," commented Dr Teo Ho Pin, mayor of North West District.

"Through Kampung Play @ North West, we hope to bring the kampung spirit back to the community where individuals and families can take part in interactive and fun activities together. At the same time, this will also help to promote community and family bonding and nurture our young leaders to champion and lead projects like such."

— CNA/xq