The Singapore Indian Association (SGIA) celebrated Singapore’s 61st National Day on Aug 2 with its fifth annual National Day Sports Fiesta, drawing crowds to the historic Balestier Plain in a vibrant display of community spirit. The event also marked a significant milestone with the official launch of the SGIA Youth Wing.
Minister for Law Edwin Tong attended as Guest of Honour and unveiled the new Youth Wing logo. The emblem retains the association’s heritage blue, red and white colours while incorporating upward-pointing arrows to symbolise growth, leadership, and ambition.
In his address, Mr Tong said Singapore’s 61st National Day marks the beginning of a new chapter, with the responsibility of shaping the nation’s future resting on the next generation.
Praising the spirit of multiracial harmony on display, he also recalled founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s words that “without the Indian community, Singapore would not be what it is today.”
The event saw dedicated volunteers, including one family whose commitment to the SGIA spans generations.
Despite the demanding logistics, the experience was immensely rewarding, said Ms Diana Estella Peter, 26, who served as the fiesta’s Deputy Chairman.
“The best part is seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces, especially the children. It makes all the hard work worthwhile,” she said.
Her father, Peters Illamaran Subbrayan, 52, an SGIA Management Committee member, noted: “It’s not just the Indian community here. We see Chinese, Malays and people from all backgrounds coming together like one family, playing games and enjoying the day together.”
Diana’s mother, Suujatha Nandita Peter, 51, who supports the SGIA Women’s Wing, was especially encouraged by the turnout of women. “I’m so happy to see women of all ages coming together to exercise, have fun and enjoy themselves. It’s wonderful to see that kind of participation,” she said.
The fiesta also showcased inspiring stories of second chances. After serving an eight-month prison sentence for a fighting-related offence, 28-year-old delivery driver Karthigesan emerged with a clear resolve to rebuild his life and give back to the community.
He found that turning point in February when he joined the SGIA football team. Although a recent injury sidelined him from playing in the exhibition match, he refused to remain on the sidelines, instead taking charge of the event’s social media marketing.
“The support I’ve received at SGIA has been incredible. Knowing that people genuinely care makes me feel that this is a place where I truly belong,” he said.
Offering advice to young people seeking a fresh start, he said there will be moments when they feel like giving up, but urged them to persevere, remain disciplined, and keep believing in themselves.
On the sporting front, one of the day’s biggest highlights was an 11-a-side exhibition match between Singapore’s legendary 1993 ‘Dream Team’ and a combined SGIA-Parliament team.
The star-studded Dream Team featured iconic local football giants like Fandi Ahmad, Malek Awab, and Steven Tan. They faced off against a combined lineup that included political leaders such as Minister Tong, Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How, Minister of State Alvin Tan, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi, and MP Dr Hamid Razak.
Local football icon Fandi Ahmad was delighted by the reunion, noting that it was the first time the old teammates had shared a pitch in nearly 30 years.
“Football unites people. Once we’re on the field, we don’t see race or colour – we’re simply one team,” he highlighted. Mr Fandi encouraged young people to take up sports, saying they help build qualities such as discipline, resilience and dedication.
While sports enthusiasts showcased their skills in football, hockey, box cricket and Captain’s Ball tournaments, the rest of the venue was transformed into a bustling playground of community joy. A free-for-all family carnival ran parallel to the matches, offering a welcoming space for families to connect, play, and celebrate as one.
SGIA Chairman of the Board of Games and Organising Chair Jeevan Kevin stressed the importance of creating a dedicated platform for younger members. “I think it’s time for the older generation to listen to our youths, understand their perspectives and give them the support they need,” he said.
The newly established Youth Wing hopes to provide a safe space where young people can openly discuss issues such as mental health, added Mr Jeevan.
