he initiative is a gesture of appreciation towards migrant workers, and hopes to encourage
friendship between communities through interaction with local volunteer guides
SINGAPORE, 13 December 2021 – As part of the launch of the “Blossoms of Friendship” programme in conjunction with International Migrants Day, over 200 migrant workers enjoyed a visit to Gardens by the Bay today. With the help of volunteers from TOUCH International and Gardens by the Bay,these workers who reside at Westlite Tuas Ave 2, were brought on a tour of Cloud Forest as well as Flower Dome, where they experienced some yuletide cheer at the Poinsettia Wishes floral display.
“Blossoms of Friendship” is an initiative jointly conceived and organised by The Salvation Army and TOUCH International, supported by Gardens by the Bay, and in partnership with Westlite Accommodation – a leading provider of workers accommodation in Singapore. Under this initiative,groups of migrant workers will get to experience Gardens by the Bay on complimentary tours hosted by volunteers every month.
Today’s launch was graced by Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Ms Sim Ann, who also accompanied a group of Chinese migrant workers on a tour of the Poinsettia Wishes floral display. Also present at the launch were supporting partners including Ministry of Manpower and Corporate Alliance for Good.
Since Covid-19 hit Singapore, most migrant workers have only been allowed to commute between their dormitories and work sites. Besides missing their loved ones back home, they also miss being part of the larger community in Singapore. “Blossoms of Friendship” was conceived as a gesture of appreciation towards their sacrifices, and a small step towards welcoming migrant workers back to the community.
With local volunteers from TOUCH International and Gardens by the Bay playing host to migrant workers on their monthly visits to the Gardens, it is hoped that budding friendships will be formed between migrant workers and local residents. Hence, the name of the initiative, “Blossoms of Friendship”.
Singaporeans can also do their part and show appreciation for the migrant worker community by donating their unused SingapoRediscovers Vouchers before 31 December 2021, so that migrant workers will be able to enjoy facilitated tours to local attractions such as Gardens by the Bay. At today’s event, Ms Sim Ann presented a donation of her family’s SingapoRediscovers Vouchers to The Salvation Army.
For people who would like to donate their SingapoRediscovers Vouchers to The Salvation Army, kindly visit https://www.salvationarmy.org/singapore/upcomingevents.