As carols fill the air along Orchard Road and Serangoon Road gets ready to celebrate Pongal, we reflect on a remarkable year that felt like a decade’s worth of history compressed into just 12 months. This year was not merely another rotation around the sun; it was a pivotal moment for our past, present, and political future to intersect in the public sphere.
The year began with SG60, prompting a crucial inquiry into the role of the Singapore Indian community within this milestone celebration. A prominent highlight was the 10th anniversary of the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC), which served as a focal point for this reflection. Exploring the IHC’s galleries, particularly with the display of 60 newly rotated artifacts—ranging from WWII registration cards to traditional mehendi applicators—underscored the idea that the “Singapore Story” is not only inscribed in words but also in the rich spices and traditions that shape our culture.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized during the IHC gala that our diversity extends beyond being a mere characteristic; it is the cornerstone of our resilience. He articulated that, much like the Indian community, Singapore itself is a vibrant tapestry woven from multi-racial, multi-religious, and multi-cultural threads.
The release of the “Albatross File” this December, accompanied by an insightful exhibition at the National Library, provided a candid glimpse into the concerns and deliberations faced by our nation’s founders. These archives illustrate that independence was a profound struggle rather than a serendipitous event, reminding us, especially the Indian community, that our place in Singapore is grounded in hard work and strategic determination.
The dynamics of the year were significantly influenced not just by cultural heritage but also by political engagement, notably marked by the upcoming GE2025 in May. This election will test the resolve of the fourth-generation leadership and holds particular significance for the Indian community as it seeks representation beyond party lines. With a record number of newcomers in politics and an emphasis on the “Forward Singapore” social compact, the community has shown a strong commitment to addressing pressing issues like the cost of living and employment security.
In line with this commitment, a high-level committee has been established to guide the Indian community’s development over the next five years, chaired by Senior Minister of State Murali Pillai and Minister of State Dinesh Vasu Dash. This committee has already embarked on intensive discussions with various socio-cultural organizations, focusing on critical matters such as recidivism, social mobility, and organizational growth. Its efforts aim to ensure that the community’s progress is both visible and deeply embedded in structural changes, incorporating voices and perspectives from all walks of life.
As we pause to celebrate Christmas, the theme of “giving back” resonates with greater significance. Whether it involves visiting the IHC, engaging with The Albatross File exhibition, volunteering for SG60 initiatives, or participating in community outreach, 2025 has shown that our Singaporean community remains the steadfast heartbeat of this 60-year-old nation.
We are not merely pioneers or newcomers; we are now the architects of the next 60 years.
Wishing all our readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!