Jean Tan, SIF Executive Director

It’s that time of year again, and end-of-year celebrations in Singapore are always rich and diverse. From October’s Deepavali – the Indian Festival of Lights — to Hari Raya Haji — the Muslim commemoration of sacrifice — to December’s Christmas, local festivals truly showcase the melting pot that is this little island.

In this issue of Singapore, we celebrate both the diversity that is our strength, and the festivities and goodwill that accompany it.

We find out from three expatriates living in Singapore how they annually give some end-of-year cheer to the less fortunate through their volunteer efforts. Also doing his part for his community is AKM Mohsin, whose self-published Bengali newspaper is helping over 100,000 Bangladeshi migrant workers in Singapore feel less homesick and more connected in their new environment.

To get you into the festive mood, Chef Manjunath Mural of fine dining restaurant The Song of India shares a recipe for a traditional Deepavali – or Diwali – dessert, as well as some of the traditions he’s brought to Singapore from his home in Mumbai, India.

If you need a break from the dazzling lights and festive hubbub, we take you to a little-known, quiet corner in Singapore where long-gone literary greats are still making their presence felt. Or you could hide away in one of Singapore’s 200 cinema halls, which see some of the highest attendance rates in the world.

At Singapore, we believe in building a better world, and this is about improving the lives of others. Ashoka Fellow and founder of Specialisterne, Thorkil Sonne, shares with us how he taps into the specialist skill sets of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, which enables them to secure gainful employment.

We at Singapore have the privilege of speaking to and learning from many unique individuals committed to bringing about positive change. We hope this issue inspires you – in the midst of the parties, fraternity and cheer synonymous with the end of the year – to share your joy with those around you who need it the most.

From all of us here at Singapore, have a happy, gracious and giving holiday season.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

As world communities explore ways of changing habits and practices to reduce their carbon footprints, we look at some residential and commercial buildings in Singapore that are doing so by going green. Also on the conservation front, lecturer and environmentalist N. Sivasothi talks about his efforts to protect and promote Singapore’s rich ecosystems.

Moving beyond Singapore shores, it’s been said that one of the best ways to positively impact developing communities is through education. Gladys Ng, a volunteer with the Singapore International Foundation’s (SIF) mobile library project, shares how bringing books and the Internet to rural Hanoi’s children can contribute to changing young lives. Also doing their bit for little ones are a pair of French expats in Singapore; be inspired by their preparations for a 250km footrace across China’s Gobi desert to raise funds for Singapore children’s charity Club Rainbow.

It’s been said that time changes things. As Singapore turns 46 and the SIF 20 this August, we recognise that, in reality, the changes we wish to see are the ones we have to make. And while we at the SIF continue our work to help to enable positive, tangible change, we also cheer on the change makers —those fuelled by passion, and who inspire passion in others, to do good. Together, through the exchange of ideas, skills and experiences, we’re moving ever closer to a better world.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

In this issue of Singapore, we profile the local and global communities that are bridging the distance through new friendships, cultural exchange and a compassionate spirit.

Two Singapore businessmen share with us their journeys to set up shop in India, creating new partnerships and fortifying an already strong relationship between the two countries. We also spotlight the Singapore artists making waves by collaborating with their overseas peers and bringing their artistic works to foreign shores.

We hear from two Singapore volunteers doing their bit for communities at home and abroad – Germaine Cheong, back from a 10-month stint integrating IT systems in Bhutan’s classrooms; and Celeste Basapa, a veteran fundraiser for locally-based organisations.

With food often a catalyst for meaningful conversation and a discovery of shared experiences, we find out how members of Singapore’s international community are introducing the smells, sounds and flavours of cuisines from their neck of the woods, through cooking classes they conduct in their new neighbourhoods.

As the Singapore International Foundation edges towards its 20th birthday, we are – more than ever – committed to making this world a better one. Whether through business ties, cultural exchange, or a shared meal, gaining a deeper understanding of those around us is instrumental to making that happen. Through this issue of Singapore, we hope you discover that the potential to effect positive change lies in each of us, and that together, we can make a better world a reality.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

At work, it is often a time to reflect on achievements as we shape our aspirations for the coming
year. For my colleagues and me, our dream is to build a better world. One firmly formed on friendships,
forged as we work together in developing communities overseas or bridging cultural divides.

In the midst of your reflections and goal setting, we hope this issue of Singapore will bring you ideas and inspiration. Like from Yayasan Roslin, an orphanage that has put scores of Indonesian children through school and life, started by one affable yet tenacious man who decided years ago that he would no longer wait to act. Or listen to the impassioned words of Canadian Benoit Valin’s campaign for the annual Ride of Silence and join the cause to promote a safe environment for cyclists on Singapore’s roads.

Witness how some white collars are moving away from their comfort zones — our cover story might inspire you to shed that business shirt and get into the ring, with a swelling interest in martial arts courses in the city. And if you haven’t already sussed out what to expect for the Lunar New Year, one of the major festivals in Singapore, we offer ideas from our expat friends here on celebrating the lunar month.

While you mull over what to wish for or aspire to in the next twelve months, remember what truly matters is not when you make that pledge but the people your promises impact and the friendships formed that make making resolutions meaningful!

I wish you all the blessings you desire in the new year…
that you may be a blessing to others.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

The founder of Singapore-based NGO Riverkids Foundation tells us about her work to protect and provide for Cambodian children at risk to prevent the sale and exploitation of kids. SIF volunteer Alvan Yap, whom Prime Minister Lee praised in the recent national day rally speech, shares with us his yearlong stint teaching sign language and developing a curriculum for the hearing-impaired in Timor Leste.

This issue also takes a look at how foreigners who’ve made Singapore their home ‘go local’ and what they’ve discovered in their new backyard. American filmmaker Tony Kern, for one, can’t get enough of Singapore’s spooks. His recent feature film Haunted Changi explores the strange happenings surrounding the old Changi Hospital.

Then meet our very own Indiana Jones, archaeologist Lim Chen Sian, who shares his passion for digging up the artefacts and architecture that make up Singapore’s history. And with Singapore’s latest bid to make it to the UNESCO Heritage Site list, we make our own pitch for Tiong Bahru, a well-loved residential area that has stood the test of time.

There is no question that Singapore is alive with many customs and cultures, and at no time is that more celebrated than during the yearend festive season. Singapore’s multiculturalism is evident in the diversity of foods we love and festivals we observe. We not only tell you about Singapore’s most famous Jewish restaurant, but also how it manages to dish up hawker favourites, all kosher of course! Find out too, how two Singapore expatriates celebrate their own versions of the traditional year-end holidays – Diwali and Christmas – here in Singapore.

Whether you’re commemorating a festival or simply enjoying the goodwill this time of year always brings, this issue of Singapore celebrates how here, people of different races, religions, and cultures strive to show respect for each other and live peacefully together. Happy holidays!

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

We take a tongue-in-cheek look at our fascination with holding the top spot in just about everything, delve into the sights, sounds, smells and colours of Indian weddings in Singapore, and talk to Singapore business selling treats loaded with local flavour. Don’t miss our photo  spread capturing the little things that make Singapore and its inhabitants tick – we’re sure you’ll find something that resonates with you! – or the recipe for the quintessential local breakfast or late night supper – roti prata.

As the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) continues with its cause to make friends for a better world, we speak with individuals who, like us, are working to create a world that is peaceful, inclusive and offers opportunities for all. Jeanne Khong, owner of the Joan Bowen cafe, tells us about her work teaching life skills to youth with special needs. Katrina Tan-Conte, a Filipina artist, art academic and recent participant in the SIF’s new Art Associates programme, shares how her ideas and perpectives have changed a following 10-week exchange with Singapore’s art community. We also brave a chat with German expat blogger “Anger Angmo” about his love-hate relationship with Singapore, to see if he really is as angry as he makes out.

In showcasing and celebrating Singapore through the experiences of its international community, the SIF”s lastest initiative is Singapore Discovered!,  a 13-part Channel NewsAsia TV series hosted by seven foreigners living and working in Singapore. One of the hosts, Canadian Shirley Ngo tells us, after two and a half year in Singapore, what living here has come to mean to her.

In the spirit of National Day, We hope this issue of Singapore will inspire you to think about what Singapore means to you and, even more importantly, what can you do to make our world a better one.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

Ever heard of the Fullerton Waterboat House? If you’re no stranger to the business and civic districts around the City Hall area, you’d have passed it many times. Read “Island Gems” and learn about some of these buildings that we take for granted.

With “Biz.sg”, we dive deeper into Singapore’s innovation in water technology. Read about how Singapore companies are coming up with sustainable solutions to convert moisture to potable water for water-scarce places and to treat shipping wastes that reduces harmful emissions.

And if you’re a pizza fan, flip to “What’s Cooking” to learn how one socially-conscious café is ‘greening’ our diet with a pizza made from indigenous produce such as baby pak choy, laksa leaves and even the pungent petai.

In “Culture Fix”, we are starting a series of cultural wedding tips for guests, so take a peek to prevent a social faux pas or culture shock.
We hope this issue brings you as many surprises as it has brought us. Happy reading!

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

First, an update on our foundation: the SIF has a new vision. After 19 years of nurturing active global citizens we’ve determined – together with our stakeholders – that it’s time to update our vision to meet new challenges and to match the passion with which we carry out our work.

Our new goal is to grow the relationships we’ve formed into enduring friendships that lead to good, and hence, our new vision “making friends for a better world”. To us, a better world is one that is inclusive, peaceful and offers opportunities for all. This new ideal is one which we aspire to be, through our various exchange programmes and overseas community development projects, to uplift lives and create greater understanding between Singaporeans and world communities. I believe it resonates with you too.

As you read this issue’s stories, from the efforts of Austrian couple Christine and Henry Laimer in delivering food to the needy in Singapore (p.12), to Japanese expatriate Yoshi Yanase, who’s lived here for nine years and is a bona fide member of the Peranakan Association (p.23) – you will find that many in Singapore are ‘making friends for a better world’. That they have touched many lives, formed friendships with people from all over the world, is a testament to the belief in SIF’s mission. Be it through volunteer work, cultural exchanges or simple encounter between new friends, everyone has a part to play in building a better world. Start by reading their stories here.

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
& Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

Briton Amy Corrigan shares her thoughts on animal rights activism for ACRES in GOING LOCAL, while Hidayah Amin recalls personal memories of Kampung Glam’s distinctive ‘Yellow Mansion’, in MY SINGAPORE. In BIZ.SG, we look at the current developments in the business of social enterprise – which has come into its own in Singapore. And not forgetting foodies, Eurasian chef Quentin Pereira shares a fiery recipe for Prawn Bostador, measuring a sumptuous ‘slap’ on the spice-o-meter.

For more on Singapore, do log on to our new website Singapore Kopitiam (www.singaporekopitiam.sg), a lifestyle website produced by the Singapore International Foundation. As the name kopitiam suggests, this is the place to chew the fat and share stories and videos. We welcome all your feedback and content contributions to make this a lively and noisy ‘coffeshop’ where friends from all corners get to mingle.

The burning of rubber in the second F1 night race in late September marks only the start of year-end festivities. From here, we wish you all the best in health, work and revelry!

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
& Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg

In the last couple of years, the Singapore magazine has been expanding its contents and reach. Many of us are finding new and exciting developments around us, where talking about Singapore in the classic categories of ‘society’, ‘policies and ‘business’ isn’t going to cut it. Which is why we’re refreshing the stories (more on that later), adding new content and more pages to the magazine.

Previously dedicated to overseas Singaporeans dotting the world map, we now also distribute far and wide to friends of Singapore around the world. This complements the new direction of the Singapore International Foundation, where our goal is to bridge people and ideas, whether it’s through our overseas community work and transnational dialogues, or with this quarterly magazine.

So let us know if you like what you see:

Scene is a new section where we put the spotlight on news makers. Now there’s no need to lament that you can’t keep up with the constantly changing city and its personalities. In this issue we talk to a group that ‘incubates’ made-in-Singapore musicals—yes, musicals, led by local writer and composers Stella Kon, Kenneth Lyen and Desmond Moey.

Island Gems is another addition—the magazine’s ‘green piece’. A subject close to our hearts (and yours too, we know), we hope to debunk the thinking that Singapore is too small for ecological wonders. Here we reveal off-the-beaten-track locations, biodiversity and wildlife research and other green activities that are gaining ground. This edition‘s “Island Gem” takes you to Singapore’s beautiful ‘garbage’ island Pulau Semakau.

For those not born but bred in Singapore, My Singapore will strike a chord. Walk down memory lane with Briton Derek Tait as he shares his fond memories of sampans, banyans and rambutans.

Next up is Culture Fix. Get your heritage, arts and culture fixes here as we untangle the bewildering ‘multiculti’ web that makes up Singapore and its quirky inhabitants. See Exhibit A The Kopi on what the local coffeeshop brew really is, how to order and what it has to do with flowering cans.

We’ve kept some of the stuff that you love, from news headlines (Round-up), to unique businesses (Biz.Sg), snippets on policies (Policy Buzz) and talking points (Society). We’ve also retained hot favourites like Going Local and What’s Cooking.

So do write and tell us what you want to see in the new Singapore. Send in your suggestions or even contributions—we’d love to hear from you.

July, August and September are busy months for the Singapore International Foundation. If you’re on our mailing list, you would have seen our call for volunteers and invitations to our activities; if not, do consider visiting www.sif.org.sg. For the past months’ goings-on, do read SIF News.

As these hectic months threaten to fly by in the blink of an eye, we hope that through this issue’s refreshed line-up you’ll find respite, as well as answers, to all your niggling curiosities about our island city, Singapore.

Happy reading!

Jean Tan
Editor-in-Chief, Singapore Magazine
& Executive Director, Singapore International Foundation
Email: singapore@sif.org.sg