By Layan Damanhouri
JEDDAH — The Singaporean community celebrated their country's 51st National Day in a festive mood and a sumptuous dinner on Thursday.
In his welcoming speech, Singapore's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Lawrence Anderson spoke about the preserving of Singapore’s hard-fought unity, quoting his prime minister’s words: “The most fundamental factor in keeping Singapore exceptional is not good plans or adequate resources; it is whether we remain united."
Anderson further said, “This is crucial at a time when Singapore’s continued success depends on how well Singaporeans, new citizens and our expatriate communities can work and get along together. If we can pull together as one united people, regardless of race, language or religion, then we can truly look to the future with confidence.”
The young nation has witnessed an eventful year with the passing away of a former president, who played an imperative role in the nation-building of Singapore. However, last month also marked a moment of rejoice in recording a national achievement.
This year, Singaporean swimmer Joseph Schooling recorded the nation’s first ever Olympic Gold at Rio de Janeiro. Anderson remarked, “Joseph won gold and we all rejoiced in his victory so that it felt just as much our triumph and Singapore’s. We must not forget the years of hard training and single-minded effort he put into that 50.39 sec swim, the sacrifices his parents made so that he could pursue his dream. And as Joseph has proved, we can achieve almost anything if we really want to.”
Jeddah and the Western region of Saudi Arabia is home to about 290 Singaporeans and is the largest concentration of Singaporeans in the Kingdom according to Consul General Raziff Aljunied.
“We are very glad to be able to celebrate Singapore's 51st National Day with the Singaporean community in Jeddah. This is a testimony to the good ties between Singapore and KSA. We have cooperated in many areas and there has been a steady stream of official and exchange visits. This positive developments will continue to increase," Aljunied told Saudi Gazette.
The upcoming Haj season is expected to be one of the annual highlight event for Singaporeans visiting Saudi Arabia. As many 680 Singaporeans are expected to perform Haj this year.
"With the Haj just around the corner, we would like to take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Saudi government for hosting the Haj so efficiently and seamlessly year after year. This has enabled Singaporean pilgrims and pilgrims from around the world to perform their Haj obligation in comfort and security. We look forward to another successful Haj this year," Aljunied said.
