Singapore’s National Day celebrations got a vibrant, sporty twist on Aug 3 as the Singapore Indian Association (SGIA) transformed its historic Balestier Road ground into a bustling arena of athletic energy and community spirit.
From 10am to 7pm, the association’s annual National Day Sports Carnival drew hundreds of participants and spectators of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels.
Events spanned the spectrum – seven-a-side football tournaments for under-8, under-10 and under-12 boys, a youth hockey tournament, a spirited futsal competition for migrant workers, and a women’s Captain’s Ball showcase.
A cricket batting experience zone and an exhibition hockey match between SGIA and St Joseph’s Institution also drew enthusiastic crowds.
In a crowd-pulling highlight, Singapore football legends Fandi Ahmad and Malek Awab turned back the clock as part of a Celebrities 11-a-side match.
The day culminated in a much-anticipated futsal showdown between the SGIA Management Committee and the Parliament House football team. Among the parliament players were prominent political figures, including Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow and Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng.
“It’s heartening to see MPs from both the ruling party and opposition play together. In sport, there is no politics,” said chairman of SGIA’s Board of Games Jeevan Kevin, who also laced up for the game.
“We want people to know that the Singapore Indian Association is for everyone, not just Indians,” said Mr Kevin. “You could see people from all races – Malay, Chinese, Eurasian, even expats – playing and enjoying. This is a carnival for the entire community.”
Guest of honour, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash graced the occasion and even displayed his hockey prowess to cheers from the crowd. But the heart of the event was its inclusivity.
Mr Dinesh said: “As we mark SG60 and celebrate the nation’s birthday, one thing that stands out about Singapore is this: we work as a team. Even if you’re from another country, like many of our migrant brothers working here, it doesn’t matter. Because here, we are one team. And as long as we stay united as a team, we will succeed and overcome any challenge.”
Indeed, this year’s edition marked several firsts. The SGIA introduced a full-fledged carnival atmosphere, complete with food, family-friendly games, and low-priced carnival coupons – many of which were distributed to underprivileged families, thanks to generous sponsors.
“Carnivals these days can be so expensive. We’ve kept our game coupons at S$2 to make it affordable. We want people to celebrate Singapore with us, without worrying about costs,” said SGIA president Mr Tamil Marren.
“This event is not just for kids or parents, it’s for the whole family to come together. This is a true community celebration, Singapore-style.”
Another key addition was the Captain’s Ball tournament for women, especially those in their 40s and 50s.
“Many of them never thought they’d step on a pitch again. They’re reliving their school netball days through Captain’s Ball, and it’s beautiful to see,” said Mr Kevin. “Fitness is for all ages, and we’re trying to create that opportunity.”
Madam Krishnasamy Sarojani Naidu, 61, who participated, said: “It’s great being here with other women. We’ve all become friends. We have players from all age groups, and the teamwork is excellent. Initiatives like this are very important, as they not only promoted physical health but also mental well-being.”
Adding to the inclusivity was a cricket activity zone, featured for the first time during the carnival’s actual day.
“Cricket takes up a huge area, so it’s tough to accommodate,” Mr Kevin explained. “But we said – this year, our cricket team must be involved. We’re letting people try their hand at tennis ball cricket safely, right on the centre pitch.”
The festivities also marked the 102nd birthday of the Singapore Indian Association, founded on Aug 8, 1923.
In the evening, the celebrations continued with live DJ performances, fitness sessions and a national observance ceremony featuring the singing of the national anthem and pledge.
Reflecting on SGIA’s sports journey over the past year, Mr Kevin – who was appointed chairman of the Board of Games in January 2024 – spoke of transformation.
“There used to be silos – cricket here, football there, each operating separately. I said enough. Let’s unify. So now, under the SGIA sports wing, every sport operates under one umbrella. We’re stronger and more collaborative.”
The National Day Carnival, now in its fourth edition since 2022, has grown into SGIA’s signature annual event. “We time it with both National Day and our birthday, and it just keeps getting better,” said Mr Marren. “Every year, the bar is raised.”
From the youngest footballers aged six to veteran hockey players aged 70, the day offered sporting opportunities across generations. With an estimated 800 people streaming in throughout the day, the atmosphere was festive despite sporadic rain.
Mr Kevin closed on a jubilant note. “Our theme this year was ‘Majulah Singapore, Majulah SGIA’. Turns out that ‘Majulah Singapore’ is also the official National Day theme – what a happy coincidence! It’s a celebration of who we are as a nation and as a sporting community.”
