HEARTTALKA Q U A R T E R L Y P U B L I C A T I O N O F S E M B A W A N G T O W N C O U N C I L • M C I ( P ) 0 7 2 / 0 5 / 2 0 1 5

OUR TOWN’S TRANSFORMATIONAL

JOURNEY

MR LEE AND ACLEAN SINGAPORE—SEMBAWANG TOWN

CLEANS UP

MR LEE, SINGAPORE’S CHIEF GARDENER—

SG50 GREEN HARVEST

GET TO KNOWTHE SEA GAMES

ATHLETES IN OURNEIGHBOURHOOD

PAGE 6 TO 7 PAGE 10 TO 11 PAGE 15 TO 19PAGE 8 TO 9

TRIBUTE TOPAGE 3 TO 5

SEMBAWANG COMMUNITYTRIBUTE SITE

MR LEEKUANYEW

S E M B A W A N G T O W N C O U N C I L • J U N E 2 0 1 5

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In this special edition of Hearttalk, we thank and remember the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew, founding father of our nation. His unwavering spirit and determination propelled Singapore into a modern metropolis in just 50 years. His accomplishments can be seen in our everyday lives — from the HDB flats we live in, to the harmonious and safe streets in our neighbourhoods. Take a look at our Sembawang Town. Once, mainly occupied by villagers and farms, it has developed into a bustling heartland town. This transformation is possible because of the policies implemented by Mr Lee. Grieving his passing, thousands of us paid our last respects at the community tribute site set up at Woodlands Civic Centre (pg 3-5).

Perhaps we can best honour Mr Lee’s memory by striving to uphold his philosophies. On 3 May, Sembawang Town took part in “Operation We Clean Up!”, an anti-littering exercise to encourage Singaporeans to continue to play an active role in

keeping Singapore clean and litter free (pg 8-9).

Building on Mr Lee’s vision of our Garden City, we harvested over 750 kg of local vegetables, grown right here in our various community gardens. The fruits of our residents’ labour, these fresh and tasty produce were distributed to 250 families and nine charities (pg 10-11).

As we bear the grief of losing our founding father, let us not forget to cheer on our Singapore athletes, who have been working hard to prepare for the 28th SEA Games, which will be held in Singapore this June. Some of these talented young individuals are residents right here in Sembawang; read about what Isabelle Li and her peers think of our home town (pg 15 to 19).

I hope you like the new Hearttalk. It not only looks better, it also costs less to produce!

Hawazi Daipi

Sembawang memperingati mendiang Encik Lee Kuan Yew

Di dalam edisi khas Hearttalk ini, kami mengucapkan terima kasih dan memperingati mendiang Encik Lee Kuan Yew, bapa pengasas negara kita. Semangat dan azam beliau yang tidak berbelah bahagi telah menggerakkan Singapura sehingga menjadi sebuah metropolis moden dalam masa hanya 50 tahun. Pencapaian beliau dapat dilihat dalam kehidupan seharian kita — daripada flat-flat HDB di mana kita tinggal kepada sekitaran yang selemat yang kawasan kejiranan yang harmoni. Lihat Bandar Sembawang kita. Dulu, kebanyakannya diduduki oleh penduduk kampung dan pekebun, tetapi sekarang ia telah berkembang menjadi sebuah bandar yang sibuk. Transformasi ini berlaku disebabkan oleh dasar-dasar yang dilaksanakan oleh Encik Lee. Ribuan yang bersedih di atas pemergian beliau telah memberikan penghormatan terakhir di tapak penghormatan masyarakat yang didirikan di Pusat Civic Woodlands (ms 3-5).

Mungkin cara yang terbaik untuk kita menghormati memori Encik Lee adalah dengan berusaha untuk mengamalkan falsafah-falsafah beliau. Pada 3 haribulan Mei, Bandar Sembawang telah mengambil bahagian dalam “Operasi Kami Bersihkan!”, satu

latihan anti-membuang sampah sebarangan untuk menggalakkan rakyat Singapura agar terus memainkan peranan yang aktif dalam memastikan Singapura sentiasa bersih dan bebas daripada sampah (ms 8-9).

Meneruskan wawasan Encik Lee untuk membina sebuah Bandar Taman, kami menuai lebih 750 kg sayur-sayuran tempatan, yang ditanam di pelbagai kebun masyarakat kita di sini. Berkat titik peluh para penduduk kita, hasil yang segar dan lazat ini telah diedarkan kepada 250 buah keluarga dan sembilan badan amal (ms 10-11).

Sambil kita merasakan kesedihan di atas kehilangan bapa pengasas kita, janganlah kita lupa untuk memberikan sorakan kepada para atlet Singapura, yang telah bekerja keras untuk bersiap sedia bagi Sukan SEA yang ke-28, yang akan diadakan di Singapura pada bulan Jun ini. Beberapa orang daripada bakat sukan tersebut merupakan penduduk di Bandar Sembawang; baca tentang apa yang difikirkan oleh Isabelle Li serta rakan-rakannya mengenai tempat kediaman kita (ms 15-19).

Akhir sekali saya berharap anda suka akan penampilan behara Hearttalk ini. Ia lebih cantik dan lebih murah!

Hawazi Daipi

三巴旺永远怀念已故李光耀先生

为了纪念和感谢新加坡建国之父，已故李光耀先生，我们这次特别推出一期《心语》。他为新加坡倾注巨大心力、始终坚定不移，在短短50年内，把新加坡发展成一个现代大都市。我们生活的许多层面– 从居住的组屋，到社区里宁静安全的街道，都活生生体现了他的成就。就以我们的三巴旺市镇为例，这里一度是穷乡僻壤的农村地区, 现在已发展成了繁华的邻里市镇。这一切的蜕变，都归功于李先生所推行的政策。数以千计的居民，已经到设于兀兰民事中心的社区吊唁处向李先生献上最后的敬意。（第3-5页)

秉承李先生的遗愿和理念，或许才是最好的怀念方式。 在5月3日，三巴旺市镇参与了“全民清洁大行动”，劝请大家不要乱扔垃圾，保持新加坡清洁卫生，让垃圾绝迹。(第8-9页）

基于发扬李先生建设花园城市的愿景，我们也在各个社区花园种植本地蔬菜，收成量高达750公斤。这些社区居民辛勤耕耘的甜美果实，最后送给250户家庭和9家慈善机构一同分享。（第10-11页）

建国之父的逝世让我们缅怀悲痛，不过大家也别忘了化悲痛为力量，在这个6月，给积极备战，为即将在新加坡举行的第28届东南亚运动会的我国健儿欢呼打气。新加坡团队

有不少才华洋溢的年轻成员，其中就有我们三巴旺的代表。请读李思韵和队友们，对我们市镇的观感。（第15-19页）

我希望大家喜欢《心语》的新面貌。新的《心语》，不但外观更出色，生产成本也减低了！

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Hawazi Daipi

SEMBAWANG REMEMBERS THE LATE

MR LEE KUAN YEW

贺华吉

03

FOUNDING

MINISTERPRIME

“THIS COUNTRY BELONGS TO ALL OF US. WE MADE THIS COUNTRY FROM NOTHING, FROM MUDFLATS...TODAY, THIS IS A MODERN CITY. TEN YEARS FROM NOW, THIS WILL BE A METROPOLIS. NEVER FEAR!”

his year, as Singapore celebrates 50 years of nation-building, we continue to witness how far we have come.

Mudflats have made way for sturdy HDB flats; so we can all look forward to owning our own homes. Our robust laws have forged a just and safe society; so we can walk freely in the streets. We live as one people, one nation; so we can enjoy racial and religious harmony not seen elsewhere in the world. We strive to keep our environment clean and litter free; so we can enjoy a beautiful and nurturing home.

Driven by fiery determination, you have rallied the people to forge a nation against all odds. You have shown us why we need not fear, and inspired us with an indomitable spirit to continue to fight for the future ahead.

-MR LEE KUAN YEW AT A GRASSROOTS EVENT IN SEMBAWANG, SEPTEMBER 1965

T

A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE

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FAREWELL,MR LEE oming from all walks of life, we

streamed into the tent — elderly on wheelchairs and walking sticks,

students in our school uniforms, parents with our children. Grateful Singaporeans who wanted to say their last goodbyes to the man who had united us and spurred us to build an unremarkable tropical island into an extraordinary nation.

Our volunteers worked tirelessly as the crowd swelled in numbers, helping to direct the queues, handing out hundreds of bottles of water, and sharing in the grief of those who came to mourn.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan shared in a Facebook post: “Among the many (residents who visited the tribute site) I spoke to, one young lady wept and said that she had been among those who had complained about every little inconvenience in Singapore. But the last few days, after reading about what Mr Lee did and how much our society had been transformed, she now understood better our difficult nation-building journey. Even in death, Mr Lee continues to teach us on how to live our lives and how to make Singapore better.”

C

“I am

fortunate enough to live in this century

to meet you in person. Thanks for being the

strength of Singapore and shaping us.”

On the last week of March, thousands of us joined our fellow residents in visiting the Community Tribute Site at Woodlands Civic Centre to bid a final farewell to the late Mr Lee. We came heavy-hearted and teary-eyed to pay our last respects to Singapore’s first Prime Minister, the father of our nation.

“Thank you for being the best, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.

We will always remember you.”

05

“EVEN IN DEATH, MR LEE CONTINUES TO TEACH US

ON HOW TO LIVE OUR LIVES AND HOW TO MAKE

SINGAPORE BETTER.”- MR KHAW BOON WAN

“Dear

Mr Lee Kuan Yew, thank you

for sacrificing your entire life [to] care for Singapore. Thanks for being with Singapore through all the hard

times…”

“Your life example is an

inspiration to me. You inspire me to have vision, faith, foresight, and infinite patience

to hold on.”

06

SEMBAWANG’STRANSFORMATIONAL

JOURNEY

ikewise, the development of Sembawang mirrors our nation’s transformation – a sub plot in the main

story. Once considered the sleepy backwaters of our island, Sembawang is now a vibrant heartland town. In 1962, Mr Lee graced the opening of the first rural community centre, Hock Choon Community Centre (CC). Community events such as National Day celebrations, lion dance, and Malay cultural dance were held at the centre. It was a meeting point where residents could receive information about the various initiatives launched during the years of nation-building, and get involved in the community. Today, Hock Choon CC is renamed Fuchun Community Club – a modern six storey building which is well-equipped to continue to serve the changing needs of residents.

It is hard to imagine how Singapore was like in the fifties and sixties. Within a short span of 50 years, we have emerged from being a small struggling nation to a flourishing metropolis, a gateway into Asia. The Singapore Story has often been described as nothing short of an economic miracle, an incredible engineering feat we credit to the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew for spearheading. His boldness, foresight and strong leadership have brought us together to realise a vision of Singapore beyond our muddy shorelines.

L

Photo of the old Hock Chun Village CC

A massive scheme to build rural

community centres was launched

by the People’s Association. Hock

Choon Community Centre, the first

rural community centre, was declared

open by Mr Lee Kuan Yew, the then

Prime Minister, on 19th November

1962. The picture shows the former

Prime Minister unveiling the plaque of

the Hock Choon Community Centre.

This picture was taken off People’s

Association (PA) 5-year souvenir

magazine with PA’s kind consent.

Fuchun CC formerly

known as Hock Chun Village

CC

Lee Kuan Yew at the official opening of

Hock Choon Village CC.

Grassrootsleaders of the time

at a meeting toresolve issues

of the day.

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Presently, Sembawang is home to over 70,000 households, and the numbers are growing. Our town is remaking itself, and a series of exciting developments are in the pipeline. As part of the new Thomson-East Coast Line, three new MRT stations, Woodlands, Woodlands North and Woodlands South, will provide greater accessibility for residents when built. In a couple of years, new high-rise residences with a focus on garden living will be changing the landscape of our town. Touted as Singapore’s Northern Gateway, Sembawang provides access to lush greenery and breathtaking waterfront views, seamlessly integrated with commercial spaces.

Indeed, Sembawang’s transformational journey is part of the macro changes which swept the nation, made possible by the hard work of those who came before us. We are indebted to our founders, and we salute the late Mr Lee for laying the cornerstone for our progress. Thank you, Sir.

We are fortunate to witness the transformation of our nation within 50 years. From attap houses to HDB flats, our forefathers personally experienced the move from village living to high-rise dwelling in their lifetime. May the good work of our founders continue to inspire the generations to come.

LIKEWISE, THE DEVELOPMENT OF

SEMBAWANG MIRRORS OUR NATION’S

TRANSFORMATION... ONCE CONSIDERED THE SLEEPY BACKWATERS

OF OUR ISLAND, SEMBAWANG IS NOW

A VIBRANT HEARTLAND TOWN.

Woodlands Civic Centre

Pedestrian-centric regional

retail hub

Woodlands Station

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WOODGROVE DIVISION

On 3 May, a nationwide cleaning initiative, ‘Operation WE Clean Up!’ was launched. In partnership with the Public Hygiene Council,

litter-picking exercises were conducted across Sembawang in the various divisions. Armed with rubbish bags and tongs, residents participated with enthusiasm. Residents also learnt to appreciate the cleaners who help to maintain our estate daily through this event.

Nandini d/o Manaugaran, a Republic Polytechnic student who shadowed the cleaners to understand their work, says: “We have gained more respect for this group of individuals who work tirelessly for the benefit of our community. We salute our everyday heroes.”

SEMBAWANG TOWN

CLEANS UP! WOODLANDS DIVISION

SEMBAWANG DIVISION

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WOODGROVE DIVISION

The Beginnings of the Clean and Green Campaign…

Even as Singapore was developing rapidly, the late Mr Lee was careful to avoid turning the island into a massive concrete jungle. He focused on creating an environment which is liveable. He also set the example by personally taking to the streets to sweep up litter in a mass clean-up campaign conducted in 1959. Citizens were rallied to play their part in keeping this country clean.

As we enjoy the fruits of the labour, let us not forget the responsibility to continue the good work lies with us now.

In Mr Lee’s words….

“Even in the sixties, when the Government had to grapple with grave problems of unemployment, lack of housing, health and education, I pushed for the planting of trees and shrubs. I have always believed that a blighted urban jungle of concrete destroys the human spirit. We need the greenery of nature to lift up our spirits.”

At the launch of the National Orchid Garden,20 October 1995

“WE HAVE GAINED MORE RESPECT FOR

THIS GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS WHO WORK TIRELESSLY FOR THE BENEFIT

OF OUR COMMUNITY. WE SALUTE OUR

EVERYDAY HEROES.” -NANDINI D/O MANAUGARAN

Mr Lee sweeping the streets in 1959 in a mass clean-up

campaign.

MARSILING DIVISION

ADMIRALTY DIVISION

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SEMBAWANG REAPS BENEFITS FROM

SG50 GREENHARVEST

This year, in celebration of our nation’s golden jubilee, the SG50 Green Harvest initiative saw 140 residents and students coming together to work on 17 community gardens

in Sembawang. Through hard work, the participants harvested about 750kg of vegetables. This exceeded the initial target of 500kg, and surpassed last year’s yield of 250kg. The vegetables were distributed to nine voluntary welfare organisations and 250 low-income families from Sembawang.

On 12 March, our Members of Parliament (MPs), Mr Khaw Boon Wan, Mr Hawazi Daipi, Ms Ellen Lee, Mr Vikram Nair, and Mr Ong Teng Koon joined residents to celebrate this joyous occasion at Marsiling Primary School. They also made a trip to Man Fut Tong Nursing Home, one of the beneficiaries, to present the donated harvest personally.

Jaslyn Woo, a Primary Four student from Marsiling Primary School was one of the volunteers who helped to grow the vegetables. She said, “It was hard work, but everyone [knew] that it was all going to pay off soon.” Another fellow planter, Lin Zhi Yu, chipped in excitedly, ‘We felt happy when we saw the harvest!’

Mdm Salbiah Osman, 69, has been helping out at the community garden of Woodlands Zone 2 RC for 10 years. She has also gotten to know her neighbours better, and friendships have bloomed over the exchanging of gardening tips.

Our community gardens are part of the envisioning of Singapore as a ‘Garden City’. Thanks to our ‘chief gardener’, the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s insistence on keeping Singapore’s floral and fauna even as the city developed, we are able to enjoy these oases of greenery in our heartland now.

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750KGOF VEGETABLES

THROUGH HARD WORK,PARTICIPANTS HARVESTED AROUND

THIS EXCEEDED THE INITIAL TARGET OF 500KG, AND SURPASSED LAST YEAR’S YIELD OF 250KG

A bountiful harvest!

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The SPECtacular Experience @ Sembawang initiative brought together private sector partners as well as grassroots organisations to reach out and offer a comprehensive range of eyecare services for

residents. The services include free eye screening, eyewear sponsorship, and sharing on good eyecare practices. Also available under the scheme are pro-bono cataract surgeries that will be offered to qualifying individuals.

The launch of SPECtacular took place at Fuchun Community Club on 22 March. For a start, 120 residents were presented with free spectacles at the event. Lending their support to this meaningful event were Minister Khaw Boon Wan, Mr Hawazi Daipi, Ms Ellen Lee, Mr Ong Teng Koon and Mr Vikram Nair.

About 1,500 residents of Sembawang can look forward to the benefits of improved, clearer vision – at no cost.

A TRULY

SPEC

Mr Said Bin Awang Chee is among our residents who will benefit from SPECtacular. The sole breadwinner of the family and parent of two special-needs daughters revealed he was diagnosed with cataract last year. His worsening eyesight was interfering with his work, affecting his ability to perform his duties as a security officer, such as taking down car license plate numbers.

However, a lack of finances meant that he could only take each day as it comes, and had to get about with poor vision. With SPECtacular he has hopes for renewed eyesight that will enable him to do his work well, once again.

GIFTTACULAR

Mr Syed bin Awang Chee (left) and Mdm Maznah bte Aman (right) were among our residents who received free vision aids and eye checkups.

Mr Ahmad bin Sinan (left) receiving his new spectacles from Mr Hawazi Daipi (centre).

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Come 13 June, residents can look forward to a day of fun, games and delicious food at Masiling Community Day, which will be held in conjunction with the launch of the Mega Sports Park. Since

January, the construction of the basketball, badminton, sepak takraw, and street soccer courts has been underway. Now, these works are completed, and residents can enjoy the facilities which are located conveniently within their neighbourhood.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the Mega Sports Park is an ideal location to exercise, meet up with fellow neighbours, and bond over playing a game or two! Our MP, Mr Hawazi Daipi, was at the Mega Sports Park in May for a thorough inspection of the park before the launch — and yes, it is ready!

Tickets are priced at an affordable $5. Participants can look forward to receiving a goodie bag, which comes with a MacDonald’s Breakfast. For ticketing enquiries, please contact Marsiling Community Club at 6269 6768.

What are you waiting for? Come, join in the fun!

NEW MEGASPORTS PARK

WE’RE LAUNCHING OUR

A throwback photo to January sees Mr Hawazi,

grassroots leaders and Town

Council staff poring over plans

for the Mega Hard Court.

JOIN US ON JUNE 13!

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With our smartphones in hand, it’s easy to keep up with the latest news, updates and features of our Town. Join us on our Kampung Sembawang Facebook page and never miss out again!

WHERE RESIDENTS OFSEMBAWANG MEET!

LIKE KAMPUNG SEMBAWANG,

OUR TOWN COUNCIL’S PDPA POLICY

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR E-NEWSLETTER!

HERE’S HOW:

Login to Facebook and search for “Kampung Sembawang”. (Kampung is with a ‘u’).

The Town Council’s collection, use and disclosure of your personal data are described in its Personal Data Protection Policy, a copy of which is available at the Town Council office and accessible online at www.sbtc.org.sg. Please note that, by using the Town Council’s services, you signify that you have read, understood and agreed to relevant portions of the Policy.

The Town Council may collect and use your personal data for purposes including (but not limited to)

The Town Council may disclose your personal data where permitted by applicable law to our service providers for purposes described above, to public agencies for funding, reporting, statistical, research, survey or follow-up purposes, and/or to your authorised proxies or representatives.

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For queries regarding the Policy, please contact our Data Protection Officer at: Tel: 6368 3100 or E-mail: feedback@sbtc.org.sg.

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TALENTED ATHLETES OF SEMBAWANG

TOWN

MAKAN SEMBAWANG

CONTEST

Did you know that our town is

home to some 21 young and

talented athletes, who will be

striving to win accolades and

medals for Singapore come

June? Read our exclusive

interviews and get to know

our SEA Games stars! Chicken rice and laksa are two popular local favourites, but in the North, it’s the White Beehoon that’s reigning. We didn’t have the results at press time, so you’ll have to head on over to Kampung Sembawang to find out which dish was ultimately crowned the King in the North!

Want to get the latest issue of Hearttalk delivered piping hot to your email inbox? Now you can! Simply sign up for our electronic version of Hearttalk and you’ll be getting the news as early as one week before everyone else!

To sign up, simply send us an email to feedback@sbtc.org.sg with “e-newsletter sign-up” as the subject line!

OUR CURRENT FACEBOOK STORIES:

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Isabelle Li subsequently progressed from playing in the junior to the senior team. Her stellar performances at both regional and global competitions have caught the

attention of audiences overseas, as well as Singaporeans back home. Her achievements include clinching the Singles silver medal at the 26th and 27th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in 2011 and 2013 respectively.

Despite having been thrust into the spotlight of Singapore’s burgeoning sports scene, this home-grown talent (and Sembawang resident!) remains grounded. She is appreciative of the many people who have helped her become who she is today. She cited her parents’ support as being crucial, especially that of her mother’s, who would wait patiently for her as she attends training sessions. She also points to the tailored curriculum at Singapore Sports School, where she enrolled in after completing primary school, for helping her to manage both studies and training. Isabelle says, “As an athlete, when you win a competition, you are the one basking in the glory. But sometimes, I think they are the ones who deserve the applause.”

Isabelle’s thoughts on the upcoming SEA Games are remarkably level-headed. She is keenly aware of the hopes pinned on the women’s table tennis team, and emphasises on the need to “prepare for your opponents”. Despite the pressure, she looks forward to the prospect of having her family and friends cheer her on as she competes at this year’s SEA Games, which will be held in Singapore. Isabelle says with pride, “When you have the flag on your chest, it is not just something on your shirt. It is something you carry in your heart ... I remind myself not to take it for granted. It’s a privilege for me.”

With it being Singapore’s turn to host the SEA Games, all eyes are on this golden girl. Let us also come together as a community to root for our SEA Games star and fellow resident, Isabelle Li!

The young rising star of the women’s table tennis team burst onto Singapore’s sporting scene in 2010 when she bagged a silver at the Youth Olympics Games on home ground.

5 THINGS ABOUT ISABELLE LI

Her childhood ambition was to

be a fighter pilot.

She was approached by Mr Vikram

Nair to help out at the Meet-the-People

sessions which she gamely took up.

She was first exposed to table tennis

when she was 9 years old.

The food she loves most is

Char Kway Teow.

She dislikes long plane rides.

“WHEN YOU HAVE THE FLAG ON YOUR CHEST, IT IS NOT JUST SOMETHING ON YOUR SHIRT. IT IS SOMETHING YOU

CARRY IN YOUR HEART... I REMIND MYSELF NOT TO

TAKE IT FOR GRANTED. IT’S A PRIVILEGE FOR ME.”

CHEER YOUR SEMBAWANG GRC ATHLETES!

GERALDINE LEE CANOEING

MUHAMMAD FARHAN BIN AMAN

SEPAK TAKRAW

KOH SOCK HWEE GOLF

MUHAMAD RIDHWAN

BIN SELAMAT PENCAK SILAT

JOEL TAN BOWLING

ISABELLE LI TABLE TENNIS

LIM SHENG YU BASKETBALL

MARTINA LINDSAY P VELOSO

SHOOTING

SAIYIDAH AISYAH ROWING

ANN LEE FENCING

FLYING THE FLAG HIGH FOR SINGAPORE - ISABELLE LI

16

Standing at 1.92m, it is hard to imagine that Sheng Yu was once “short and unfit” in primary school. The desire to be “big and strong” led him to start playing basketball, sparking his love for the sport. Sheng Yu is optimistic about the upcoming SEA Games, and has high hopes for the team to win the gold.

Sembawang has a special place in Sheng Yu’s heart. He says that he owes his basketball career to the many hours spent practising at the basketball courts near home. He is especially grateful to have met an elderly ex-national player in his neighbourhood, whom he simply calls ‘uncle’ – for teaching him the basics of the game.

LIM SHENG YU BASKETBALL

Sembawang has a special

place in Sheng Yu’s heart. He says that

he owes his basketball career to the many hours

spent practising at the basketball courts

near home.

One may be easily misled by Joel’s petite frame. But this kegler certainly packs a punch in his play, doling out sharp strikes in succession down the alley. Despite failing to make it to the youth team in Secondary Three, he did not give up and worked hard to emerge top in the selection the following year. He is certainly looking forward to hear the home crowd cheer him on at the SEA Games.

A true Sembawang boy, Joel’s favourite hangout in the neighbourhood is Causeway Point. He likes that the shopping mall is just a stone’s throw away from his house, and he feels comfortable visiting the mall in his causal wear without having to dress up.

JOEL TAN ENG AN

KOH SOCK HWEE

BOWLING

GOLF

A true Sembawang boy, Joel’s favourite

hangout in the neighbourhood is Causeway Point.

CHEN LIYUAN HOCKEY

SAIYIDAH AISYAH ROWING

17

Canoeing for Geraldine is both intense and relaxing. During training, her gaze is steady and strokes, strong as she charges ahead with her boat cutting swiftly across the waters. These gruelling sessions can be challenging, but canoeing also allows her to forget her worries. Having just returned from a training camp, she hopes to continue to keep herself in the best shape so that she can perform well this June.

Having lived in Sembawang for almost 15 years, Geraldine appreciates the friendliness of her neighbours. The food stall owners and shopkeepers whom she regularly patronises often greet her cheerfully.

GERALDINE LEE WEI LING

CANOEING

Havinglived in Sembawangfor almost 15 years,

Geraldine appreciatesthe friendliness of

her neighbours.

SUHAIDAH MOHD YUSOF

FLOORBALL Suhaidah was introduced to floorball by a friend in junior college back in 2007. Since then, she has been hooked on the sport. She is clearly excited for the upcoming SEA Games, and feels that it is an “honour and blessing to represent Singapore”. She is looking forward to SEA Games 2015, since it will be held on home ground.

Suhaidah has lived in Sembawang all her life, and is more than familiar with it. Her favourite eatery is Bagus at Causeway Point which offers a plethora of food choices. Her childhood memories growing up at Sembawang include playing badminton and soccer with her friends every Saturday, and she describes her neighbours as “awesome”.

MOHAMMAD SAIFULUDIN BIN

MOHAMMAD KHALID

RUGBY

MUHAMMAD FARHAN

BIN AMAN SEPAK

TAKRAW MARTINA LINDSAY P VELOSO SHOOTING

Suhaidah’s childhood memories

growing up at Sembawang include playing badminton and soccer with her friends

every Saturday, and she describes her neighbours

as “awesome”.

18

As the captain of the Women’s Sabre team, Ann Lee shares her passion and experiences with her juniors readily. She accepts that pressure and expectations are part and parcel of an athlete’s life, and balances that with the goals she set. For her, the sense of fulfilment from her sporting career comes not only from personal achievements, but also the friendships forged.

Ann jokes that her dad is the ‘kopitiam king’ as he can often be found at the coffeeshop with fellow Sembawang residents. She sometimes join him for meals, and is often overwhelmed by the warmth and generosity of the stall owners who would give her extra servings.

At the encouragement of his father, Ridhwan took up Silat at the age of 10. Since then, Silat has been an integral part of his life. He will be participating in the SEA games for the second time. He hopes to bring glory to Singapore and sing the national anthem together with fellow Singaporeans on the winners’ podium.

Ridhwan enjoys going for runs at the parks in Sembawang, and finds the environment relaxing. During these runs, he will usually plug into his earphones and start to ‘daydream’. But he is really thinking about how he can overcome his opponent in the upcoming matches, and reflecting on previous fights.

MUHAMAD RIDHWAN

BIN SELAMAT PENCAK SILAT

Ridhwan enjoysgoing for runs at

the parks in Sembawang, and finds

the environmentrelaxing.

MOHAMED IQBAL BIN HAMID HUSSAIN FOOTBALL A lesson which Iqbal has learnt from playing football is never underestimate his opponent. He says “there [are no] underdogs in football as every team is getting stronger.” He used to play street soccer every day at the court in front of his house from the age of 12 to 18. This pastime has now evolved into a deep-seated passion for the game. Iqbal says, “It is a great honour to represent Singapore…playing for my country spurs me on to train harder to improve myself.”

Iqbal grew up in Sembawang, and has strong attachment to our town. He also cites accessibility as one of the benefits of living in his neighbourhood.

Ann sometimes

join her father for meals, and is often overwhelmed by

the warmth and generosity of the stall owners who would give her

extra servings.

ANN LEE HUI MIN FENCING

Iqbal grew up in Sembawang, and has strong

attachmentto the place.

19

Peng Hui first joined dragon boat racing in 2010 when he was a freshman in university. His motivation was simple – to lose weight. However, this has grown into a full-time commitment, especially after joining the national team in 2011.

In preparation for the upcoming SEA Games, he now trains six days a week, twice each day. He is thankful for the support of his family, and his girlfriend who is his pillar of strength.

In his 29 years living in Sembawang, Peng Hui has many happy moments spent in his neighbourhood. His fondest memory is playing basketball at the court near his house where he met friends from different schools.

Kong Peng Hui: standing, fourth from right, Gan Chea Hau: sitting, second from right

When Chea Hau first joined traditional boat racing better known as ‘dragon boat’, with Ngee Ann Polytechnic in 2008, he did not expect to pursue it. He, however, went on to join the national team in 2011 after graduation. Among other reasons for liking the sport, he highlights the brotherhood among his fellow dragon boaters. He is confident about the upcoming SEA Games, and is working hard to prepare for it.

One of the things which Chea Hau likes about Sembawang, having lived in the place for 20 years, is the friendliness of the people. He sometimes reminisces of the times spent exercising with his family at past events held in our town.

TRADITIONAL BOAT RACE

Chea Hau sometimes

reminisces of thetimes spent exercising

with his familyat past events held

in our town.

Peng Hui’s fondest memory is playing

basketball at the courtnear his house wherehe met friends fromdifferent schools.

The three things which Silas says he cannot live without are his phone,

wallet and hockey stick. He fell in love with the fast contact sport at the age of nine. Despite the injuries sustained over the years, he is undaunted and has great passion for the game. In preparation for the SEA Games, he

has extra training sessions during the weekends and pays close attention to his diet. He relies on his family, friends,

and hockey team for support, and cannot wait to play for them and his

fellow Singaporeans come June.

Silas has lived in Sembawang for 13 years, and appreciates the clean

environment. In addition, he finds the location convenient and accessible.

SILAS ABDUL RAZAK

HOCKEY

Silas has livedin Sembawang

for 13 years, andappreciates the clean

environment.

KONG PENG HUI

GAN CHEA HAU TRADITIONAL BOAT RACE

Receive the latest SEA Games news as they unfold. Log on to http://www.seagames2015.com and cheer on your favourite athletes!

20

CALENDAR OF EVENTS20 Jun 2015

13 Jun 2015

15 Aug 2015

7 Aug 2015

6 Aug 2015

1 Aug 2015

8 Aug 2015

9 Aug 2015

16 Aug 2015

9 Aug 2015

9 Aug 2015

8 Aug 2015

18 Jul 2015

4 July 2015

2 Aug 2015

Admiralty Zone 2 Grandparents’ Celebration

Marsiling Community Day 2015

Admiralty Hari Raya Celebration

Marsiling National Day Celebration 2015

SG50 Woodlands Star Night Cum Street Party

Woodgrove National Day Dinner cum Cultural Performances

50th National Day Celebration @Sembawang (NDP Variety Show and Dinner)

Marsiling National Day Observance Ceremony 2015

Woodlands National Day Dinner 2015

Woodgrove National Day Observance Ceremony 2015

50th National Day Observance Ceremony @Sembawang

Admiralty NDD

Hi Tea Time with Ms Ellen Lee

Woodgrove Hair for Hope 2015

Sembawang SG50 Celebration - Reminisce the Good Old Days

7 PM

8 AM to 12 PM

8.30 AM to 11 AM

7.30 PM to 10 PM

2.30 PM

2 PM to 6 PM

6 PM to 10 PM

7 PM to 10 PM

7.30 PM

6.30 PM

8 AM to 12 PM

7 PM

Morning

7 PM

7 PM

ACE The Place MPH

Mega Sports Park next to Marsiling CC

Blk 638 Multi Link Hall, Woodlands Ring Road

Woodgrove CC Courtyard Beside Blk 353 Woodlands Ave 1

Mega Sports Park next to Marsiling CC

Open Field beside North Woodlands Way near Woodlands MRT Station

Mega Sports Park (Next to Blk 336 Woodlands Ave 1)

Mega Sports Park (Next to Blk 336 Woodlands Ave 1)

Sembawang CC

Mega Sports Park next to Marsiling CC

Open Field beside North Woodlands Way near Woodlands MRT Station

ACE The Place MPH

Admiralty Sports Park

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The participants harvested about750kg of vegetables

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She was first exposed to table tennis when she was nine years old

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