On 21 January 2016, a Saturday, we went to the Chingay Parade NE show 2017, which was held at the F1 Pit Building. It was my first time watching Chingay, so while I was excited, I really did not know what to expect.
We gathered in school at around 4.30p.m., took our attendance and boarded a bus that took us to the venue. Much to our dismay, it was alternating between pouring and drizzling while we were on our way there. The prospect of sitting on wet seats in the rain did not heighten our enthusiasm, but we were adamant about having a good time together. So we chatted between ourselves as the volunteers handed us raincoats and ushered us to our sector.
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| The 1974 Tiger Float in Chingay 2017 |
This year's Chingay theme was Soundwaves Chingay, WeCare Singapore. We would be able to expect performances from different ethnic groups, Chingay classics like the much anticipated Tiger Float and of course, fireworks!
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| The Indian performance and Float: multi-cultural Singapore |
The opening segment was named Crescent Moon and Stars, where 600 performers from all races, age and background gathered together to dance, exemplifies and uplifts the 5 core values, Democracy, Justice, Peace, Prosperity and Equality, of our nation. The lively performances from the youths of Singapore, where we got to see dance and even bicycle tricks, really caught my attention. The NS performed with military precision, along with the iconic NS service man float that came along with it. Then there were the performances from the different races, along with floats of their respective ethnic group. There was also the legendary Tiger Float, which we were really excited to see. They also played folk songs and xingyao, many of which were familiar to us, so we sang along. For example, the Malay dancers played their Kompangs and danced along with the familiar folk tune, Rasa Sayang. In that moment, as we joined in the voices, we felt really bonded.
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| Performance by the Japanese Association |
There were also performances from other countries too! For example, Cambodia, South Korea and the Japan Association, where we got to see performances specific to their cultures. The performers of the Japanese Association wore tradition Japanese costumes and danced to the Japanese folk-like tune in the background, some while holding up drums, banners and flags, really showing their cultural spirit and who they are. It was a great experience to see different performances from cultural groups, not just from the major ones in Singapore.
Towards the grand finale, the song 'Rainbow In Our Hearts' was showcased and many of us stood up to wave our light sticks and pom poms. I found the lyrics really meaningful, and there was one line that really stuck out: As one people we are, reaching for the brightest star. It really struck me as how similar it was to Chingay's purpose: To bring people as one. The song was something I feel Singapore should work towards; An accepting nation with no racial discrimination.
In my opinion, Chingay's purpose is to let the people of Singapore have a glimpse into the different culture, both of Singapore and the world. There are no barriers of race or language, therefore bringing everyone together. While Chingay started off celebrating the Lunar New Year and being a strictly Chinese celebration, the different ethnic groups have joined in the celebration over the years. Chingay wasn't just a 'Chinese parade' anymore. It was neither the Malays' festival, nor the Indians', but everyone came to perform and watch. Performances from countries outside Singapore really show how Singapore receives foreigners with open arms, not only to tolerate them, but really accept their cultures without prejudice. Singapore has truly integrated multi-culture into our society.
*With our love at the core, we know we can achieve so much more.
A brighter Singapore, evermore.
*With our love at the core, we know we can achieve so much more.
A brighter Singapore, evermore.
*lyrics from 'Rainbow in Our Hearts'
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