In celebration of our nation’s 57th birthday, we asked some of our clients, caregivers and volunteers to share their thoughts about what Singapore meant to them.

To some, it might remind them of their favorite local dish, served piping hot in a crowded hawker centre buzzing with life. To others, Singapore gives them a sense of security and familiarity, walking about in a clean city with a peace of mind.

One thing in common is their love and appreciation for Singapore, and their desire to contribute back to the country in their own ways.

Find out what Singapore means to them, and their pledge for the nation.

Santhia, SPD volunteer: “Green City”, “Diversity” and “Kampong Spirit” are some well-known descriptions of Singapore.

However, Singapore’s significance to me transcends these as she is an evocation of home, familiarity, and serenity. Having been born and raised in Singapore, I am grateful to have experienced Singapore’s multi-faceted culture. I have tasted Singapore’s eclectic mix of ethnic foods, celebrated an array of festivals, witnessed advanced technological developments and most importantly, have had the opportunity to form deep, long-lasting bonds with people from diverse backgrounds. Singapore is truly my safe haven.

In this regard, I am profoundly grateful that SPD has provided the platform for me to give back to my community, and I will continue doing so as I relish contributing to my home.

Joshua, client at SPD’s Day Activity Centre (DAC): Singapore is a clean and green city. I pledge to recycle more and reduce the use of plastic bags.

Singapore means a lot to me. It is a familiar place that always feels like home, everywhere I go. I feel safe and I know my loved ones will be safe too. Singapore is where I belong, and I am proud to be a Singaporean. Majulah Singapura!

Tahirah, SPD Inclusion Champion and caregiver: As a parent advocate for special needs, I pray and hope that Singapore will continue to be home to persons with disabilities and their families. Even though we are still on our way to achieving inclusion as a nation, I believe that my children will achieve their fullest potential and be empowered to participate and contribute as members of society, as long as Singapore keeps growing to be a safe, caring and inclusive nation.

Sebastiraj, client at SPD’s Transition to Employment programme: I am thankful to be a Singaporean. Thanks to the policies implemented, the residents are very well-taken of most of the time. I deeply appreciate the kind folks of Singapore, especially the front-line workers who rendered help selflessly during my hospitalisation stay.

I pledge to continuously give back to the society and to the nation in one way or another.

Enya, NatSteel-SPD Education Programme Bursary Award recipient: To me, Singapore means home. I have spent my whole life here and there is no place like Singapore. My pledge to Singapore is to do my part to recycle more and reduce my carbon footprint by reducing my meat intake!

Kirisnah, SPD Sheltered Workshop trainee: Singapore is my home where my loved ones are. I feel safe and supported in my home. Singapore is my home! I pledge to be a responsible and contributing citizen to my nation.

Mr Raj, Kirisnah’s father: Singapore is my home where I truly belong. I cherish my days growing up here and I am proud to build up a sense of belonging in this country. I pledge to play an active role building an inclusive society for all citizens, especially the disabled persons and caregivers.

Li Li, SPD Sheltered Workshop craftsman: I am happy and proud to be a Singaporean! Over the years, I have seen continuous improvements made in road infrastructures and buildings to make it more accessible for the elderly and persons with disabilities. I feel well taken care of living here. I pledge to contribute back to the society, by helping in grassroots events held for the residents.

Shameer, SPD volunteer: For me, Singapore is home. Like many homes with siblings, we all differ in our unique ways and perspectives. Despite this, we learn to accept each other which is why I’m proud to call Singapore my home. My pledge to Singapore is to always be accepting and inclusive.

Oliver, client at SPD’s Day Activity Centre (DAC): As a person with special needs, I understand that many may not understand or like me. I pledge to be more tolerant towards others who may be different from me, who may look different and who may behave differently. I also pledge to be kinder and more patient, and most importantly, to protect those who can’t protect themselves.

Singapore is my country and is known as “The Little Red Dot”. Despite our tiny size, Singapore is an amazing place! It’s a clean, green and safe place, and we get clean water from our taps. I love S’pore. It’s our home!

The SPD team would like to wish Singapore, a very Happy Birthday!