By: Mrs Yu-Foo Yee Shoon, Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports
10 September 2005, 5.30 pm at Palm Terrace, The Legends, Fort Canning Park
Distinguished guests
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon to all of you
I am very happy to see so many students from different parts of the world ? China, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand ? here today. I hope that all of you had fun learning about Singapore and Singaporeans in this ''round the country'' race which you have just taken part in.
As Singapore develops itself into an education hub, we will see more international students here, from primary school level to polytechnic and university. We in Singapore are happy that you have chosen to come here during your formative years and we will do our best to help you get the best possible education. At the same time, your presence and participation will add to the diversity and vibrancy of our schools, and the learning experience of Singaporean students. This is a win-win situation, with both sides gaining a more outward looking, international perspective.
For most of you, the main purpose of coming to Singapore is to learn and build your future. But an overseas education is more than just about obtaining a certificate or degree, and learning is more than attending classes. It is also about opening your minds to different people and cultures, understanding different points of view and making friends from around the world. Today's event is an example of a learning experience not only outside of the classroom, but also outside of your familiar circles of home and family.
Besides private initiatives like today's Xplore Singapore event, I understand that the Ministry of Education, the Singapore Tourism Board and the schools also have various programmes to help international students here settle in, familiarise with the Singaporean way of life and interact with the local community. I strongly encourage all of you to take advantage of these opportunities.
As for those who have settled in, I would even encourage you to take it a step further. Get involved in the community you live in, whether it is the university campus or the housing estates. There may be activities in the community clubs that interest you. Go sign up for a Singapore food cooking class or participate in the local street soccer team. Who knows, you may be the one leading your local team to a championship in the next National Street Soccer League!
And for those of you who are keen to do something for the less fortunate, volunteer your services to help the needy in your neighbourhood, such as coaching children from less well-off families in their studies. I know of many who have already taken the initiative to volunteer in our voluntary welfare organisations as well as our community centres. My heart warms up every time I hear of stories of our foreign friends doing their bit for the local community.
By venturing out of the school and classroom, your stay here will only be a more meaningful and enriching one. It leaves me now to congratulate the organiser, AD Studioworks, for hosting such a successful event. I am sure everyone here today has had an enjoyable and enriching experience.
Thank you, and a pleasant weekend to all.
MCYS SPEECH NO: 51/2005
DATE OF ISSUE: 10/09/2005