RVHSCID: Graded Assignment: Chingay Reflection

On 21 January 2017, I went on a learning journey and learnt more about the purpose of Chingay after watching fantastic performances put up by a massive number of volunteers.

(1) I enjoyed the whole event, from the Grand Opening Act to the Grand Finale, consisting of a total of 7 segments. The theme for this year is "Soundwaves Chingay, WeCare Singapore". The night was full of vibrant colours from stunning light effects, with many different dazzling floats. Familiar songs from different countries and languages were blasted through the speakers. Presentation by a flow of parade contingents evoked a sense of nation's pride and fond memories among Singaporeans. Atmosphere of enthusiasm was lingering in the air, with crowds cheering and clapping with all their might. My favourite was segment 3, where I noticed performers in traditional costumes from Yakutia, Cambodia, Indonesia, South Korea, The Japanese Association, Singapore and other countries displaying a splendid performance. I liked the idea of building friendship with friends from all over the world, because Singapore is a cosmopolitan city. Nearing the end of Chingay, the host was repeatedly encouraging the audience to shout "One People", "One Chingay", "One Singapore". This leads me to wonder why the word "one" was so strongly emphasized. It was then that I realized the importance of Unity with Diversity. Regardless of our race, ages, cultures and background, we can still come together as one nation to make Singapore a stronger and better home.

(2) On 4 February 1973, the first Singapore Chingay parade was held partly as a result of the ban on firecrackers a year earlier in 1972 as a result of fire hazards. Some people felt that the ban would result in a much dampened festival mood for the Chinese New Year period. To address this issue, a street parade was organised to bring back some cheer to the general public, bring back the festive spirit of Chinese New Year. The largely Chinese parade became a multi-cultural one from 1977 when Malay and Indian groups started joining in the performances, which was to mark a major precedent in the overall flavour of the parade into one which has become largely multi-cultural in character, despite the continued presence of traditional Chinese acts such as lion dances and stilt walkers to this day.

(3) I think Chingay fulfilled its purpose. Today, the parade is celebrated by the Chinese, Malay and Indian communities of both Malaysia and Singapore. It has brought people from all races and language together, which symbolizes unity among Singaporeans. The performers from different races get the rare opportunity to socialize and bond more when they meet up for rehearsals. Chingay has become a unique multiracial performance, the different races celebrating as one, thus fulfilling its purpose.