We are Singaporee, Singaporeannn!
Written by: Darren Hong Yuan-Zhang
Currently on the NOC Shanghai programme, for me and many of my program mates, it was our first time spending National Day away from Singapore. Back in Singapore, most of us will spend the public holiday out with family and friends, and watch the national day parade show on TV at night. This year, we celebrated the 44th birthday of Singapore with other fellow Singaporeans working in Shanghai at the National Day Dinner organized by SSBA (Singapore Shanghai Business Association).
The event was held at the ballroom of 5-star Shangri-La Hotel in Pudong. The event ran by Orang3 was hosted by my lovely batch mates, Joel and Yan Ling. Joel hosted in English and Yan Ling in Chinese which aptly highlighted Singapore’s bilingualism policy and the Chinese guests there were present for the dinner. Other than hosting duties, Joel showcased his singing skills with 2 song performances, including a duet cover of Pink Floyd’s “Wish you were here”. The night also witnessed a Wonder Girls-like dance and song performance by the quartet of Zhong Shan girls which was well received by the audience who appreciated the entertaining and confident performance.
The National Day Dinner was definitely a memorable night. It was heartwarming to be with so many Singaporeans in Shanghai celebrating Singapore’s National Day, especially so soon after leaving Singapore. The food was incredibly good, with many Singapore classics like Hainanese chicken rice, Nasi Lemak, Lasak, Satay and a delightful choice of desserts to keep us wanting for more. It was a good time for picture taking in picturesque Shangri-La which is by the Bund and also with decorations, like the ERP gantry at the entrance, put up for the celebration. I will now leave you with some pictures of the night.
The (in)Famous ERP Gantry
Joel's Solo Performance
Ailin, our very own Liang Po Po
Flavours from home: Nasi Lemak!
