Translated version of the original speech in Mandarin:
Honourable Senior Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong,
Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Trade and Industry Mr Gan Kim Yong,
Distinguished Ministers, Ministers of State, Mayors, Senior Parliamentary Secretaries, Members of Parliament,
Heads of Diplomatic Missions and Government Officials, Chairman of Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre Mr Ng Siew Quan,
Members of Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre Board and Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations Council,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Happy Lunar New Year!
A very warm welcome to all our distinguished guests for joining Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (“SFCCA”) and Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (“SCCC”) in ushering in the Year of the Snake. Today, Mr Lee Hsien Loong officiates the Spring Reception in his capacity as Senior Minister, adding special significance to this event. Back then, in 2012, Mr Lee had attended the Spring Reception held at SFCCA in Toa Payoh and expressed strong affirmation and support to our proposal to establish the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre. Thirteen years on, that vision has evolved into an integral platform for promoting Chinese culture. Thus, today’s gathering at the SCCC to celebrate the Lunar New Year is also a celebration of this meaningful accomplishment.
The Year of the Snake symbolises wisdom, agility and transformation, signifying achieving breakthroughs and seizing new opportunities. Last year, SFCCA successfully concluded our 18th Council Election, welcoming three female council members and more young members, marking the start of a new chapter. We remain committed to driving innovation and supporting clan associations in staying dynamic and relevant in a rapidly evolving environment, while preserving and passing on Singapore’s Chinese heritage and clan culture. This will ensure that clans continue to thrive in the modern era and for generations to come. It is truly encouraging to see Chinese clan associations uphold the spirit of mutual support, working together to overcome challenges and contribute to strengthening social cohesion and preserving our culture.
To further support the development of clan associations, the Federation is partnering with Singapore University of Social Sciences to launch a tailored training programme for our association members. The programme will cover topics such as governance, financial management and the effective use of social media for events’ publicity. This initiative aims to help clan associations adapt to evolving trends and attract new members. In addition, it will also enhance the management competencies of secretariats and leaders, so that they could effectively manage operations in the new era. More details will be announced in the second half of the year, so please stay tuned!
Bringing you another good news – the Federation has raised the cap on the “Clan Associations Cultural Activities Fund” to $7,500. Joint projects involving multiple clans will have higher chance of receiving funding support. We hope this adjustment will encourage our members to collaborate and share resources, enhancing the effectiveness, reach and impact of the projects, co-creating greater social value. For clans that are organising events independently, the funding limit has also been raised to $5,000. The first project to benefit is Kwong Wai Siew Peck San Theng’s Cultural Festival, which will take place in April this year. Please give your support too. Member associations interested in applying for the fund can contact the Federation’s Secretariat for more details.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this year Singapore is celebrating SG60, and SFCCA will mark our 40th anniversary later this year. To mark this important milestone, there will be a Fundraising Gala Dinner. A portion of the funds raised will go towards the renovation of the Federation’s building in Toa Payoh. The newly renovated space will integrate modern design elements and upgraded facilities, enabling us to serve our members and the public better, while bringing vitality to SFCCA.
Looking ahead, we sincerely hope everyone will continue to work hand in hand with the Federation for the preservation and innovation of Chinese culture, contribute to the deepening of our multiculturalism, and promote harmony among the different ethnicities!
Lastly, we would like to express our gratitude to Senior Minister Lee and all our distinguished guests for your presence and unwavering support. May the Year of the Snake bring success, joy and blessings to you and your family!
Thank you!
