SINGAPORE – About 2,000 migrant workers were treated to a carnival that included an art competition, a dance performance and games on Monday as part of Deepavali celebrations.
The carnival, held at Penjuru Recreation Center in Jurong East, was organized by the Ministry of Manpower’s Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) Group, social service agency Cornerstone Community Services and migrant worker engagement network My Brother SG.
About 50 participants painted rangoli-inspired designs on canvas, led by artist Vijaya Mohan, who holds the Guinness World Record for the largest rangoli design.
Rangoli is an Indian art form of making colorful patterns, which are believed to bring good luck.
A panel of judges, which includes Senior Minister of State for Manpower Zaqy Mohamad, selected the top three models. Winners were awarded shopping vouchers, goody bags and hampers.
Mr. Zaqy also distributed goody bags to attendees, containing items such as festive sweets and digital watches.
Other activities at the carnival included a classical Indian dance performance and game booths.
Cornerstone Community Services executive director Lew Mi Yih said: “We recognize a growing need to look after their mental health and well-being, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We want to let them know that we value their contribution to nation building and provide them with mental and emotional support so that they do not feel lonely or homesick while working in a foreign country.
My Brother SG founder and project leader Tam Wai Jia said the celebration this year plays two important roles for migrant workers. One, it gives them a chance to celebrate Deepavali after two years of muted celebrations due to Covid-19 movement restrictions.
Second, it enables them to commemorate their resilience with each other as well as with the Singaporean community.
The carnival is part of the Deepavali celebrations organized by ACE Group and its various partners to bring festive cheer to migrant workers.
Other events on Monday included a special prayer session at the Sri Balasubramaniar Sacred Tree Temple in Yishun, attended by Minister of State for Manpower Gan Siow Huang. About 100 migrant workers participated in the session.
