SINGAPORE, Jan 19: On Sunday, the Indian High Commission in Singapore organized a vibrant celebration of Pongal, a significant harvest festival that also heralds the start of the Tamil month, gathering over 2,000 Indian migrant workers for a day filled with festivities.
The event took place at the Kranji Recreation Centre, located in the remote northern industrial area of the city-state.
Deputy High Commission Pooja M Tillu highlighted that this was the first large-scale funfair aimed at engaging Indian migrants in Singapore.
During the event, she distributed “goodie bags” to migrant workers involved in construction, marine, and other demanding industries that support Singapore’s economic development.
“Though we’ve organized smaller events over the years, we are now expanding to larger gatherings to better connect with workers from India,” she stated, mentioning that three additional events are scheduled for this year to coincide with other major Indian festivals.
Tillu also extended her well wishes to the workers and their families back in India.
According to Tung Yui Fai, Head of Assurance, Care, and Engagement for foreign workers at the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore is home to over a million foreign workers in labor-intensive sectors, a significant portion of whom hail from India and Bangladesh.
The Ministry collaborated with the Indian High Commission to support this festive gathering, which was also assisted by nearly 100 professionals living and working in Singapore.
Tung emphasized the importance of engaging foreign workers, who are essential to Singapore’s economic success and growth.
The day’s activities featured performances from various Indian-origin musicians and dancers, alongside sporting events and wellness programs.
Participants also included non-Indians residing and working in Singapore. (PTI)
