Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Law & Ministry of Social and Family Development
Donors, volunteers, friends and participants
- Good morning! It’s wonderful to see all of you here this morning. Today is a special edition of the SPD Ability Walk. It is the Walk’s 10th anniversary, and it coincides with SG 60. Both milestones remind us of how far we’ve come as a nation, and as a community, in building a more inclusive and caring society.
- Over the years, Singapore has made inclusion a national priority. We have made good progress, step by step. The building blocks and foundations are put in place – Enabling Masterplans, early intervention services, special education schools, barrier free environment, employment opportunities and long term care. These collective efforts reflect our shared belief that every person, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to contribute and to thrive.
- When we first started the SPD Ability Walk in 2016, the objective was simple. It was to bring people together in support of persons with disabilities, and to champion inclusion. Over the past 10 years, we are very encouraged to watch this community grow. More partners are stepping forward, more volunteers giving their time, and more individuals with disabilities achieving goals once thought out of reach.
- Indeed, this year’s Walk has reached new heights. I am happy to share that we have the support of 27 corporate donors – the highest number to date. Together we have raised about $550,000 with the Tote Board matching grant.
- It is only fitting that we take a moment to recognise some long-standing partners who have supported us from the start.
- A very special mention goes to TechnipFMC, who has been our top donor year after year. Your steadfast partnership and generosity have set the foundation for the Walk’s success, and we are grateful for your unwavering belief in our cause.
- This year, we are also honoured to have StarHub and Wah Loon Engineering joining in as top supporters and good role models for businesses.
- We also want to thank Phillips 66 International Trading, Eureka! Campaign Associates for their pro bono support, and the volunteers from the Freedom Adventure Club, who have been with us from the very beginning.
- And to all our donors, supporters and participants, thank you for being part of this milestone event. My appreciation to Senior Parl Sec Eric Chua for taking time to grace this event. Mr Chua is an ardent champion of inclusion for persons with disabilities.
- Enjoy the walk, the Singapore River and the scavenger hunt. Thank you!