Racial Harmony Day

Racial Harmony Day was commemorated on 21 July. Students, teachers and principals came to school dressed in ethnic costumes representing Singapore’s four major ethnic groups. Each costume was unique, decorated with detailed motifs or glittering gems. The Indian sarees had intricate patterns, while the Malay baju kurung featured colourful floral designs. It was truly a wonderful sight to behold.

After we sang the national anthem, a band called “Hummingbird” came onstage to perform classic Singaporean songs and share about Singapore’s rich multicultural history. They even invited some students onstage to perform a song, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere.

During recess, parents from the Parents Support Group set up a booth where we could try traditional snacks such as murukku, gem biscuits and kueh lapis. Another booth displayed traditional games, including pick-up sticks, snakes and ladders, and chapteh. These activities were an interactive and enjoyable way for us to learn about what people in early Singapore ate and played.

A classmate whom I interviewed about what Racial Harmony Day meant to her said, “Racial Harmony Day is about bringing people of different cultures and races together, no matter their background or history. We should be open and inclusive to everyone’s cultures.”

I strongly agree with her. Racial Harmony Day reminds us of the 1964 race riots, teaches us not to take peace for granted, and promotes multicultural understanding.

Finally, I hope this year’s celebration brought everyone closer together and taught us more about different cultures and beliefs.

Written by: Haley Chee Ying (1C3)