Jolene Ang Straits Times 18 May 19;
SINGAPORE - Ramadan is a good opportunity for Singaporeans to build cohesiveness and forge deeper understandings, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat on Saturday (May 18) evening.
Speaking at the launch of Our Tampines Hub's annual Hari Raya Bazaar, which is into its third edition, Mr Heng said: "I think as we celebrate this event, we can build a deeper understanding and a closer sense of community.
"And this is important not just for our Muslims, but for all races and religions. I'm very happy to see so many people coming together, enjoying each other's company and getting to know one another better," said Mr Heng, who is also MP for Tampines GRC.
There were about 80 stalls at the bazaar with the environmentally friendly theme this year. It started operations on May 3 and will run till June 2.
At most of the food and beverage stalls, plastic bags and straws were only available on request, while discounts of 5 to 10 per cent were given to those who brought their own containers. Reusable metal straw sets were also sold.
Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli, who was also present at the launch, said: "In celebrating Ramadan with the community, and also in putting up the bazaar, we asked the community to think about the environment... so that we consume responsibly and take care of the environment.
"This is very important now - that we are putting together resources and efforts to make sure that whatever we have can last us for as many generations as possible," said Mr Masagos, who is also Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs.
