Photos by Singapore Sports Hub
On 22 and 23 July, the Singapore Sports Hub came alive with vibrant personalities and energy as the inaugural Harmony Sports Fiesta 2023 was launched to commemorate racial and religious harmony month. Jointly organised for the first time by Kallang Alive Sport Management (KASM) and the Racial and Religious Harmony Circle, the fiesta was a great platform for people from all walks of life to be immersed in sports and activities from different cultures while enjoying delicious local snacks.
Different Races, Many Beliefs, One Singapore
In support of the #SGinHarmony movement, the Harmony Sports Fiesta 2023 provided a common space for people of different races, religions and socio-economic backgrounds to interact and get to know one another better. It was wonderful to see how the Fiesta brought together many families and friends of different cultural backgrounds through music, dance, food, games and sports. The event encouraged community participation to deepen inter-racial and inter-religious understanding. Some of these efforts included a best-dressed competition where enthusiasts were decked out in their vibrant traditional wear.
The festivities kicked off on 22 July with a slew of exciting activities which included a multicultural dance, artistically blending signature movements from different cultural art forms. The high energy dance workout underscored the event’s tagline, “Different Races, Many Beliefs, One Singapore”.
Mr Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth & Second Minister for Law, who graced the opening ceremony as the Guest-of-Honour, emphasised the significance of the occasion and our role in nurturing a stronger sense of Singaporean identity. Mr Tong participated in the Silent Prayer, led by representatives from the Inter Religious Organisation (IRO). This was a powerful display of solidarity, transcending cultural and religious boundaries through mutual respect and understanding. Mr Tong also painted the final piece to complete a 200-piece tile mural, which symbolised unity, cohesion and diversity.
Hustle and Bustle of Cultural Delights
OCBC Square served as the epicentre of activities, alive with a cacophony of sounds from music and dance performances. Specially-curated music by the Nee Soon Harmony Choir, The Jumpstart and Eason Music, among others, captivated audiences while dance acts such as Kalamanjari Dancers and Dian Dance Troupe had people grooving along to the beat. The energy was so contagious that some even got to their feet to dance along with the performers!
Ferhad, a multi-talented artiste with more than 20 years of stage experience as both an emcee and an established singer, took to the stage several times over the two days of festivities. Inspired by Singapore’s harmonious culture, the singer-songwriter specially composed his single, “One in Harmony” for this occasion, and even performed it live at this event which was a special treat for those who were in attendance.
The OCBC Square also offered visitors the opportunity to learn about various cultures and traditions through interactive activities. For the young and young-at-heart, larger-than-life versions of beloved traditional games like carrom, goli sandpit (marbles), snakes and ladders and congkak provided educational entertainment. Alongside these, were traditional arts and crafts, including the making of Chinese knot bracelets, Wayang Kulit puppets, and Rangoli sand art. Informative boards explaining the significance of the various festivals and religions in Singapore were also displayed, showcasing the historical significance and richness of Singapore's diverse racial and religious communities.
A symphony of flavours wafted through the air as rows of food and beverage booths served delectable treats from various culinary traditions. From mouthwatering goreng pisang and muah chee to refreshing ice bandung and ice milo, the culinary spread proved that nothing binds communities together quite like ‘food, glorious food’!
A Hub for Shared Heritage and Memories
As the sun set on the Harmony Sports Fiesta 2023, hearts were nourished by the celebration of diversity, the appreciation of a shared heritage, and the camaraderie that unites Singaporeans as one. While the Singapore Sports Hub continues to elevate the experience for the community, our commitment to welcome one and all to create cherished memories with us here will always be top priority.
