Residents show kampung spirit by helping needy neighbours

SINGAPORE: Residents and grassroots leaders in Kembangan and Chai Chee did their bit for their needy neighbours on Sunday in a project aimed at building greater community spirit.

They distributed rice to more than 1,600 households, and gave 34 homes that belong mostly to elderly and immobile residents a good spring—cleaning.

Acting Minister for Manpower Tan Chuan Jin also got in on the action and helped out.

In addition to spring—cleaning homes and the surrounding estate, residents helped conduct medical check—ups and a food donation drive while others gave their neighbours a haircut.

More than 700 residents showed up to help.

Mr Tan said he hoped to see more of such activities that allow residents to show their care and concern for those in need.

Mr Tan said: "Actually the Kampung spirit that we talk about as if it’s from many many years ago — it’s true that today we don’t have the same kind of kampung but actually the kampung spirit can still be alive in ways which can be manifested in very practical terms today.

"And I think it’s very important to encourage residents to play a part and just participate, and to actually get to know each other at the same time."

— CNA/fa