Issue 126

With Passion GRASSROOTS ISSUE 126- August 2024

SINGAPORE NATIONAL DAY

MEMBERS DIRECTORY

TENANTS

Concierge / General Enquiries

6554 2350

LEVEL 1 Common Folks

11am to 10pm (daily)

Membership

6550 2114 / 6550 2120

Muslim Delights

12pm to 8.30pm (daily), closed on Weekends 8am to 10pm (Mon-Fri), 8am to 5pm (Sat-Sun)

Club Events

6554 2350

Sculpt Society

Facility Booking

6550 2121 / 6550 2115

(Multi-Purpose Hall, Banquet Hall,

Auditorium, Dance Studio, Meeting Rooms, Atrium)

Kin Kao Mai Authentic

4pm to 12am (daily), closed on Mondays

Thai Restaurant

Fish@Ang Mo Kio

9am to 6am (daily)

FACILITIES

The School House by

7am to 7pm (Mon-Fri)

Gym / Spa / Member Room / Swimming Pool / Activity Room

6550 2128

Busy Bees

LEVEL 2 Brighton Montessori LEVEL 3 Bright Path Inclusive

Mahjong Room

6554 2350

7am to 7pm (Mon-Fri)

Preschool

Small Wonder

7am to 7pm (Mon-Fri)

Qian Xi (Eternal Garden) 11.30am to 2.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm (daily)

CONTENTS

05 06 04 07 08 09

10 12 13 20 21

President’s Message - Mr Toh Sze Wei, PBM

A Journey Through Our Iconic Landmarks

Honorary Treasurer’s Message - Mr Kok Wai Kin

Upcoming Events

Editor’s Message - Miss Ng Liza, PBM

Membership Privileges

Introducing Our New General Manager

Welcome New Members

Past Events

Membership Promotion

32 nd Annual General Meeting

RECIPROCAL CLUBS SINGAPORE SINGAPORE POLYTECHNIC GRADUATES’ GUILD 1010 Dover Road Singapore 139658 Tel: 6796 9988 l Fax: 6796 9989 www.spgg.org.sg ORCHID COUNTRY CLUB 1 Orchid Club Road Singapore 769162 Tel: 6755 9811 | Fax: 6755 8874 www.orchidclub.com MALAYSIA THE MALACCA CLUB New Townhouse: No. 18, 5th Floor Jalan Syed Abdul Aziz, 75000 Melaka Tel: 06-282 4940 / 284 2488 / 283 3518 Fax: 06-284 8303 www.malaccaclub.com.my

EDITORIAL TEAM Chairman:

Members: Secretariat:

Dr Tan Kow Wah, PBM, Dr Tong Kai Wee Michael Joel Ng, Leonard Kam, Jevikka D/O Kadirchelvan, Ong Lee Syuen

Miss Ng Liza, PBM MIss Grace Tang

Vice Chairman:

Design & Editorial:

Win Creative

Disclaimer ISSUE 126 (Aug/2024) Disclaimer: Advertisements that appear in Grassroots with Passion do not constitute an endorsement by The Grassroots’ Club of any business, organisation, service or product. The Grassroots’ Club assumes no liability whatsoever for the honesty, integrity or validity of any of the advertisers in Grassroots with Passion or on The Grassroots’ Club website; or the product and/or service they promote. All information concerning the products or services advertised in Grassroots with Passion or on The Grassroots’ Club website is provided by the dealer, owner, or agent of the business. The Grassroots’ Club and its affiliates are not liable for misinformation, typographical errors or misprints in the advertisements in Grassroots with passion or on The Grassroots’ Club website

President’s Message

Dear Esteemed Members,

As we enter the third quarter of 2024 and celebrate the birth of our nation, I want to extend my heartfelt commendations to every member of the Club for your contribution to our nation. Your dedication to grassroots efforts has made our nation and community a more vibrant and welcoming place for everyone. The National Day celebration is not only a tribute to Singapore’s achievements and progress but also a recognition of the contributions of its citizens. In our rapidly evolving world, one constant remains: the importance of unity and moving forward together. Just as our nation evolves, so do we. At The Grassroots’ Club, we have been diligently working behind the scenes to create more meaningful events and programmes that foster interaction among our members, their families, and friends. As we navigate the transition due to the upcoming closure of our clubhouse, I want to reassure you that the management committee, staff, and I are steadfast in our commitment to the Club’s vision. We strive to be the Club of choice for meeting the social, educational, recreational, and developmental needs of Grassroots Volunteers in Singapore. We are excited about the transition plan and look forward to offering a diverse range of programs and creating more opportunities for grassroots volunteers to connect across various locations in Singapore. We encourage all members to continue their efforts in giving back to the community, as we remain committed to giving back to you through our club’s grassroots commitment. Let us work together in the years ahead to enhance both our country and our Club.

Best Regards,

Mr Toh Sze Wei, PBM President The Grassroots’ Club

Honorary Treasurer’s Message

Dear Members of The Grassroots’ Club,

including the impending land lease expiry, the closure of the physical clubhouse, and the transition to off-site activities. These changes will undoubtedly impact our operations and finances. My focus will be on maintaining transparency, accountability, and sound financial practices while developing robust strategies to address these challenges. This includes exploring alternative revenue streams, optimising our budget and ensuring seamless logistics for off-site activities. We will also prioritise maintaining strong community engagement through innovative channels and adapting our programs to suit new environments. I am dedicated to ensuring the long term sustainability of TGC and will work tirelessly to navigate these uncharted waters. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to my predecessor, Mr Abel Tan, for his exceptional service as Honorary Treasurer. His leadership and dedication have set a high standard, and I am fortunate to build upon the strong foundation he has laid. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr Simon Leong, the former President of TGC, whose vision and support have been instrumental in our club’s success. Additionally, I am grateful to the previous Finance Committee, the TGC management, and the staff for their hard work and unwavering commitment to the club. As we embark on this new chapter, I look forward to working together with all of you to ensure the continued financial prosperity and growth of The Grassroots’ Club. Thank you for your trust and support.

It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I introduce myself as your newly appointed Honorary Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance Committee. My journey with The Grassroots’ Club (TGC) began in 2007 when I served as Vice-Chairman of The Grassroots’ Aquatic Club. Over the years, I have had the privilege of contributing to TGC in various capacities, including Honorary Auditor, Honorary Assistant Secretary, Honorary Assistant Treasurer, and Vice-Chairman of both the Finance and Building & Facilities committees. Today, I am excited to take on this role, where I will continue to serve our club with dedication and commitment. My professional background has been deeply rooted in finance and management, with significant experience as General Manager and Financial Controller for several prestigious clubs. These roles have equipped me with a solid foundation in financial stewardship, strategic planning, and operational excellence. I have been responsible for overseeing complex financial operations, ensuring fiscal discipline, and driving financial sustainability. My experience in managing large-scale budgets, optimising financial processes, and leading diverse teams will be invaluable as I work to enhance the financial success of TGC. In addition to my work in the club industry, my extensive grassroots experience has shaped my approach to leadership and community service. Since joining the People’s Association Grassroots Organisations in 1986, I have been an active participant in numerous committees and have held various key positions. My time as an Adjunct Faculty Trainer at the National Community Leadership Institute allowed me to impart essential financial management skills to grassroots leaders, further solidifying my commitment to community development. As I step into the role of Honorary Treasurer, I am committed to leveraging my knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure that TGC continues to thrive financially. I am acutely aware of the challenges ahead,

Sincerely,

Mr Kok Wai Kin Honorary Treasurer & Chairman, Finance Committee The Grassroots’ Club

Editor’s Message

Greetings Members,

Happy National Day! As our nation celebrates its 59th anniversary, we are delighted to present a special edition commemorating this significant milestone. For an in-depth look at our journey through past events and notable highlights, turn to pages 8 and 9 of this issue. Here, we reflect on the milestones and achievements that have shaped our journey over the years. Looking forward, page 12 offers a glimpse into our exciting upcoming events. Whether it’s community gatherings, engaging tours, or special initiatives, we invite you to join us in these upcoming activities. Additionally, page 13 provides comprehensive details on the exclusive privileges and benefits available to our valued members. From discounts and promotions to unique member-only events, we aim to enhance your experience with us. To stay updated on all our events, promotions, deals, and discounts, follow us on our social media channels on page 19.

We are glad to have you as part of our club community.

Warmest Regards,

Miss Ng Liza, PBM Chairperson, Marketing and Communications Committee Vice President The Grassroots’ Club

Introducing Our New General Manager

Joel Ng General Manager The Grassroots’ Club

Dear Members,

recognize the invaluable contribution of grassroots leaders for their service to the community, and build a more vibrant and cohesive grassroots network. As we more forward, I acknowledge it will be challenging to lead the club in its transformation to adapt and operate in a new operating model without a physical clubhouse. However, I am confident that we can continue the club’s rich legacy of fostering a vibrant membership while embracing the future. Technology will play a pivotal role in enabling these new experiences, however we are to be mindful that it is not meant to replace physical interaction. It will provide more seamless and diverse opportunities for members to engage with one another. Our commitment remains to foster a vibrant community where members can continue to build meaningful relationship, share ideas, and participate in activities that matter to them. As we embark on the transition to the new model, our focus will be in enhancing members’ experiences and offerings beyond the physical clubhouse by offering a broad range of programmes and creating more opportunities for more grassroots leaders to interact at different locations across Singapore. We are excited about the opportunities that this will bring, and members can look forward to being part of a vibrant and growing grassroots community.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Joel Ng as our new General Manager, who assumed the said role on 1 April 2024 at The Grassroots’ Club (TGC). We are pleased to share that Mr Joel Ng has dedicated 14 years of service with the People’s Association (PA). During this time, he has taken on roles such as Deputy Constituency Director and Constituency Director, where he contributed to grassroots recruitment, volunteer development, and implementation of community infrastructure projects and community events. These experiences have helped him grow in his commitment to the values we hold dear at TGC—leading with humility, engaging with the community, and building strong relationships. His journey and values reflects our shared mission to create a vibrant and cohesive grassroots network.

As Mr Joel Ng steps into the role of General Manager of The Grassroots’ Club, the focus will be to:

1. Innovate and Adapt: Imagine, innovate and build a new operating model to enhance the club offerings to its members without a physical clubhouse. 2. Support Member Needs: Continue to introduce and implement programme and activities to meet the social, recreational and well-being needs of its members. 3. Build Community: Strengthen the relationship and cohesion amongst grassroots leaders and volunteers within and across different parts of Singapore

I am confident, together, we can make this a success.” Mr Joel Ng expressed this with confidence.

We believe that Mr Joel Ng’s extensive experience and dedication will be instrumental in guiding TGC through the journey in the transformation. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mr Joel Ng at The Grassroots’ Club!

“It is both rewarding and fulfilling to lead the The Grassroots’ Club being a Club which is dedicated to

PAST EVENTS

Pickleball Trial (10 May 2024)

To encourage fitness among our members and introduce new sports to our audience, our Club hosted a pickleball trial class. Within the confines of our club, participants learned the fundamentals of this uncommon sport while thoroughly enjoying themselves. Amidst learning the basics and getting comfortable with the rules and equipment, contagious laughter could be heard throughout. It seems that sports, too, can be a fun way to bond with others.

Will Writing (29 June 2024) In June, our members participated in an enlightening session on will writing. Thanks to the efforts and insights of an experienced speaker, our members gained a deep understanding of the complexities involved in ensuring a will’s validity, learned effective steps for writing one, and dispelled common misconceptions surrounding the subject. Members left the session with a newfound knowledge, feeling enlightened and motivated to initiate the planning of their wills for their diverse assets.

Durian Trip (21 July 2024) Durian, the ever controversial but much beloved fruit, also known as the National Fruit of Singapore, was the focus of our recent trip. This trip included multiple different activities that immersed us into the world of durian, guided by an experienced local. From visiting a durian plantation in Putuo Village to feasting at a durian buffet, the sheer amount

of durian was formidable. We achieved our objective of spreading the joy brought on by this fruit to our members, who greatly enjoyed the activities, often expressing awe and delight!

32 ND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Grassroots’ Club’s 32nd Annual General Meeting took place on the 19th of July 2024, with 177 members in attendance. Key concerns about the clubhouse closure were addressed, and TGC announced a transition to a new operating model that will enhance members’ experiences and offerings beyond the physical clubhouse. As a gesture of gratitude, all current members will receive an appreciation package. Look out for a letter from the Club in September 2024 with details on how to redeem the appreciation package. After the formalities, members enjoyed an electrifying evening at Qian Xi. The evening began with the introduction of the new president by the former president, followed by a celebratory toast with everyone. The night then kicked off with a dazzling LED belly dance performance, setting the stage for a series of stunning acts. The audience was treated to performances by four incredible singers: Jessie, Ru Ping, Hao Hao, and the versatile Yati, who wowed everyone with her songs in Cantonese. The fun did not stop there, as members engaged in engaging table games. The emcee kept the energy high throughout the evening while guests savoured a sumptuous eight-course dinner. It was a night filled with laughter, music, and unforgettable moments.

A JOURNEY THROUGH OUR ICONIC LANDMARKS

As Singapore’s celebrating its 59th birthday soon, let’s take a stroll down memory lane through three iconic landmarks that encapsulate the essence of our country: Marina Bay Sands (MBS), Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Little India Marina Bay Sands (MBS)

Marina Bay was previously only an area of water off Collyer Quay where ships arrived, and passengers were transferred to small boats that took them to Johnston’s Pier (which was replaced by Clifford Pier in 1933). Marina Bay has since become a futuristic centre. The land reclamation project in the 1970s laid the groundwork for what would become one of Singapore’s most iconic skylines. Marina Bay Sands, designed by titular architect Moshe Safdie, was created to complement Singapore’s idea of a modern Garden City. MBS is now a work of art that seamlessly combines Singapore’s illustrious past and forward-thinking future, attracting both locals and tourists. The integrated resort, located along the scenic waterfront overlooking the Singapore Strait, consists of a diversified collection of elegant structures and interconnected public spaces that weave together to form the focal point of civic life, drawing inspiration from the great Roman cities of the past. Aside from its splendour, MBS offers art exhibitions, performances, and events, making it a cultural hub.

Chinatown

Chinatown has endured numerous challenges and tribulations since its humble beginnings as the birthplace of Singapore’s early migrant population. Originally a thriving community for Chinese immigrants, it became famous for its diverse mix of businesses, coolie quarters, marketplaces, restaurants, theatres, shops, and brothels. Despite tackling issues such as crowding, Chinatown was designated as a conservation area in 1989 to protect its historical architecture and cultural value, and today, as Singapore’s largest historic district, with its four sub- districts—Bukit Pasoh, Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, and Tanjong Pagar—were granted conservation status in the late 1980s, allowing remnants of its vibrant history and ancient customs to survive amidst the changes. Chinatown continues to be the core of the Chinese community, with many traditional cultures, arts, and crafts being revived. It is jam-packed during the Chinese New Year season, where many residents gather to purchase Chinese New Year goods and participate in various events. Chinatown currently stands out as a quaint throwback, with lively temples, bustling marketplaces, and a delightful combination of old and contemporary, drawing both visitors and Singaporeans wanting to explore the country’s rich history.

Kampong Glam

Singapore’s one of the most vibrant and historic areas is Kampong Glam, which has long become a symbol of the nation’s mixed cultural background. It originally was a fishing village but later became the center of Malay-Muslim community in the early 19th century, housing the palace of Sultan Hussein Shah as well as the magnificent Sultan Mosque. Presently, this is a lively place that mixes old-

fashioned shophouses with up-to- date fashionable boutiques , coffee shops and art exhibitions. Kampong Glam stands as an embodiment of Singapore’s ability to respect its rich heritage .

Little India

The term “Little India” has evolved to mean an enclave or microcosm with a concentration of Indian and South Asian people. Little India in Singapore started as a small town for Indian immigrants in the early nineteenth century. In the beginning, the Indian people were hired to work in brick kilns and then in the cattle industry, but the area soon grew into a cultural hub for Indian and South Asian community. As it continues to blossom, Little India became known for its spice stores, textile merchants, and traditional restaurants.

From the years after World War II to the present, the Little India area has evolved into a commercial hub supporting the needs of the Indian population. Today, Little India is an area that caters to everyone. From the aromatic spices at Tekka Centre to the delicate jewellery at Goldsmiths, the region is a bustling market where local Indians shop for traditional handicrafts and tourists explore its history. The festive energy is especially notable during Deepavali, the Hindu festival of lights, where the streets are adorned with spectacular lights and decorations, bringing visitors from all around Singapore.

A visit to Little India is essential for experiencing the precinct’s sights, sounds, and aroma. While strongly ingrained in tradition, Little India is still filled with stories from the past and present from the exhibition, which allows visitors to tour the district on foot, meet its people, admire its shophouse architecture and monuments, and taste the cuisines on offer. In Celebration of Singapore’s Journey

These landmarks set upon a reminder to us of our nation’s journey from a humble trading port to a global metropolis. They are a testament to the country’s resilience, forward-thinking spirit and diversity that truly define Singapore. Be it the dazzling skyscraper of MBS, the charm of Chinatown’s history, the richness of the cultural and heritage of Kampong Glam, or the bright and vibrant streets of Little India, each tells a unique tale of Singapore’s past and present. Happy 59th Birthday, Singapore!

UPCOMING EVENTS Acres Tour - September

Immerse yourself in an educational journey through the world of wildlife with our exclusive tour hosted by Singapore’s premier wildlife rescue center. Witness firsthand how captive animals are meticulously observed, studied, and cared for. Delve into the manmade habitats of numerous endangered species, gaining invaluable insights that foster a deeper empathy and understanding

of these magnificent creatures. This experience promises not only to enrich your knowledge but also to inspire a newfound appreciation for the importance of wildlife conservation.

Talk on LPA - October Join us at our club for an informative talk on Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). Discover how this crucial legal document empowers you to plan for the future, ensuring your affairs are managed according to your wishes even if you lose mental capacity. Learn about the eligibility criteria, the process of appointing donees, and the importance of registering your LPA. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain clarity and peace of mind regarding your future planning.

Embark on a memorable farm tour with us, where you’ll delve into the heart of agricultural life. Explore our fields and greenhouses, learn about sustainable farming practices, and discover firsthand how we cultivate a variety of crops. Meet friendly farm animals and gain Farm to Table - November

insights into their care and role in our ecosystem. Whether you’re passionate about agriculture or simply curious about rural life, our guided tour promises an enriching experience surrounded by nature’s beauty and the charm of farm living.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

Mr Amit Saxena Mdm Chen Yin San Sandra Mdm Chew Su-Fen Karen Ms Foo Choon Lian Celest Mr Goh Boon Keong Robin

Mdm Misnah Bte Nawi Mr Muhammad Sani Bin Ahmad, PBM Mr Ong Chong Yang Aaron Mr Pang Yong Lun Mr Peh Hwee Heong Mr Peter Yap Wan Shern Mr Shanmugam Elangovan Mr Senthil Prabhu Thangavelu

Ms Huang Lisen Mrs Jasmin Lau Mr Jun Yuan Ng Mr Lakshmi Narayanan Balasubramaniam Mdm Lee Sor Kuan Mr Lin Nan Mr Lim Sin Hoo Ms Martine Wee Ms Melissa Loh Xin Ru

Mr Suan Eng Tiong Ms Suan Lay Khim

Mr Tan Koon Lin Mr Toh Sze Guan Mr Tong Boon Yew Kenneth Mdm Yeo Lee Siong

Exclusive Discounts

for TGC Members to Enjoy at TGC Outlets

LEVEL 1 Common Folks Muslim Delights Sculpt Society

10% discount off the final bill 10% discount off the final bill 20% discount off all fitness classes 10% discount off the final bill 40% discount (Prawning) 50% discount (Longkang Fishing) 80% discount (Fish Spa) 10% off monthly childcare fees $50 off enrichment classes

Kin Kao Mai Authentic Thai Restaurant

Fish @Ang Mo Kio

The School House By Busy Bees

LEVEL 2 Brighton Montessori

10% off monthly childcare fees $50 off enrichment classes

LEVEL 3 Bright Path Inclusive Preschool

10% off monthly childcare fees 10% off enrichment classes 10% off monthly childcare fees 10% off enrichment classes 20% discount for ala carte menu excluding liquor

Small Wonder

Qian Xi (Eternal Garden)

IF YOU’RE A

GRASSROOTS LEADER, JOIN US TODAY!

The Grassroots’ Club is set up specially for Grassroots Leaders in recognition of their contributions to community service. For more information contact: 6554 2350 or email MSHIP@TGC.ORG.SG

SPA & FITNESS

MEMBER’S ROOM

Members can make use of the gym to keep themselves fit and healthy or relax in our spa pool.

EVENT FACILITIES

QR Code for Membership Registration

Multi-purpose Hall, Banquet Hall, Auditorium, Meeting rooms, Atrium

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