Applications for the Bishan-Toa Payoh Community Scholarships Opens

The Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC has open applications for the Bishan-Toa Payoh Community Scholarship Scheme. Click the link below for more information on the scholarships and to download the application form.

Scholarship Application Form Jan 2011


The deadline for submitting the completed form is 18 February 2010.

BEZ6 Block 167 House Visit, 15 December 2010

DPM Wong Kan Seng visited Block 167 on Wednesday evening. Hosting the visit was Miss Lee Ker Hwa, Zone 6 RC Chairperson, her fellow grassroots leaders and officers from the HDB, Town Council, LTA and the police. Many residents eagerly invited DPM Wong into their homes for refreshment and chit-chats. Residents took this opportunity to share with their special guest many of their thoughts and suggestions to improve their living environment. Many are looking forward to the start of the Neighbourhood Renewal Program that would bring extra sports and recreational facilities along the canal and jogging track.

BISHAN EAST LUNAR NEW YEAR GARDEN PARTY

The Bishan East Grassroots Organisations would be organising the Bishan East Lunar New Year Garden Party for residents to welcome the Year of the Rabbit in 2011. The garden party would be held at the popular Bishan East Community Park in the estate where residents could view the live performances under the stars while enjoying the sumptuous spread of food among their family and loved ones. The Guest-of-Honour is DPM Wong Kan Seng, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Advisor of Bishan East GRO. Tickets are priced at the $3 per person and are available at the Bishan Community Club. So come down and join us on Saturday, 12 February 2010!

BEZ5 Block 149 House Visit, 2 December 2010

The month of December brings about a slower pace with the start of the school for residents of Bishan East. With a more leisurely mood and the cooler weather in December, residents welcomed the door-to-door house visit of DPM Wong Kan Seng, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC on 2 December 2010. During the block visit, Mr Wong invited residents to share their thoughts freely on what further improvements or upgrading works the residents wish for. Many residents commented that Bishan East estate is already being served by unsurpassed level of amenities and conveniences. Several complimented the proactive service attitude of the Town Council staffs who looked after the conservancy issues. In general, residents rate Bishan East as a highly liveable estate and are not willing to consider making another estate to make their homes.

SUNDAY BLOCK PARTIES@BISHAN EAST RC ZONES 2, 4 AND 5, 21 NOVEMBER 2010

After three block parties on Saturday evening, DPM Wong attended another three block parties organised by Bishan East RC Zones 2, 4 and 5 on this Sunday morning. He brought the same good news to residents of Bishan East RC Zone 5 this morning that the last few blocks in Zone 5 would soon be enjoying the conveniences of lift at every floor through the HDB Upgrading Programme. DPM Wong encouraged residents to vote in favour of the programme during the upcoming poll as the programme is heavily subsidised by the government.

To end the Sunday morning, DPM Wong and senior grassroots leaders planted trees at the open field along Bishan Road to commemorate the annual Tree-Planting festival.

FINAL BATCH OF HDB LIFT UPGRADING IN BISHAN EAST

By 2013, all HDB flats in Bishan East estate would have undergone the HDB Lift Upgrading Programme. Announcing this to residents of Bishan East Zone 1 during a block party, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Mr Wong Kan Seng who is also the Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, urged residents to vote in favour for the Lift Upgrading Program for Blocks 501, 502, 503 and 506. DPM Wong noted that HDB flats in Bishan East estate are very attractive and fetch high resale value due to the centralised location and plentiful amenities. However, DPM Wong also reminded home owners to be mindful and careful when selling their flats as there are known cases where owners sold their flats hoping to apply for a HDB rental flat in the interim. DPM Wong said that such plans were unlikely to materialise as their is a very limited and short supply of HDB rental flats. Mr Wong also attended two other block parties in Bishan East RC Zones 3 and 6 on the same evening.

BEZ4 Block 172 House Visit, 18 November 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, visited Block 172 at Bishan East Zone 4 RC. DPM Wong was warmly hosted by the RC Chairman Mr Alfred Tan. Accompanying DPM Wong were officials from agencies such as the NEA, LTA, Town Council and HDB. During the block visit, residents gave feedback that Bishan East was the most ideal place to live in with many conveniences not found in most housing estates.

Mrs Lee Cheng Koon, a new resident, was pleasantly surprised to learn about the various new media platforms that residents could keep in touch with DPM Wong. Mr Wong invited residents to stay abreast of community events by accessing the community blogspot http://www.bishan-east.blogspot.com and http://www.wongkanseng.sg.

BISHAN EAST MARKET WALKABOUT

On Sunday, 14 November 2010, all the five Members of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, led by Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng, visited the market zones in Bishan East estate.  Joining DPM Wong were Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mayor Zainudin Nordin, Mrs Josephine Teo and Mr Hri Kumar Nair and grassroots leaders and representatives from the merchant association, HDB, Town Council and LTA.

During the market walkabout, residents and stall-holders warmly welcomed all the MPs.  Many took the opportunity to have their photos taken with the MPs and also to give their feedbacks on issues close to their hearts.

HAMPTON PRE-SCHOOL OPENING AND CONCERT 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, officially opened the Hampton Pre-School situated at Block 178 Bishan Street 13 on Saturday, 13 November 2010. Hampton Pre-School achieved full enrollment within the first year of operation with strong demand from the young parents who live in Bishan East.

Mr Wong was joined by his parliamentary colleagues, Minister for Education Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mr Zainudin Nordin, Mayor of Central Singapore District, Mrs Josephine Teo and Mr Hri Kumar, together with the management of EtonHouse and the proud parents of the children of Hampton. During the event, DPM Wong announced the creation of a new Bishan-Toa Payoh Community Scholarship which would benefit a total of 35 students from local Institutes of Education, polytechnics and universities. This was possible with the generous donation of Mr Peter Lim, Dr Albert Hong and grassroots organisations of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. A total of $3.1 million was raised to fund the scholarships.

BISHAN-TOA PAYOH GRC LAUNCHES $3.1 MILLION COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME

1 From next year, the Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC will launch a $3.1million community scholarship scheme to provide financial assistance to Singaporean children of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC residents who are pursuing tertiary studies in local universities, polytechnics and the Institute of Education (ITE).

2 The scholarships are bond-free, but the scholars will be strongly encouraged to perform voluntary community service in grassroots organisations in the GRC during their school vacations and after they graduate.

3 The scholarships are valued at $5,000 per annum for bachelor degree programmes, $2,000 per annum for diploma programmes and $500 per annum for Nitec and Higher-Nitec programmes in Institute of Technical Education. The scholars will receive the awards annually for the full duration of studies.

5 The GRC is prepared to award up to 35 scholarships each year. It has the financial resources to run the scholarship programme for 15 years, making it the most extensive and comprehensive bond-free community scholarship programme ever launched by a GRC.

6 The scholarship programme was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng at a community event on this morning.

Generous donations to the scholarship fund

7 The GRC has raised $3.1 million for the scholarship programme. Among the donors are two generous donations by Mr Peter Lim ($2 million) and Dr Albert Hong ($750,000). The Citizen Consultative Committees (CCCs) raised another $350,000 to make up $3.1 million to the scholarship fund.

8 Speaking at the launch of the scholarships, DPM Wong said, “The scholarships will provide education support for many Singaporean students from low income families in our GRC. We are targeting those who have already secured places or are currently pursuing tertiary studies, but whose results may not get them other academic-based scholarships from other organisations. The scholarships are the most substantive and meaningful investment by the Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC in the education of our residents’ children. It will uplift the lives of many residents and it represents what our GRC stands for – that we care for everyone in our community, and we will work together to help those who need our support.”

Applications open in December

9 Applications for scholarships for ITE and polytechnics will begin in December 2010 and the scholarships will be awarded in April 2011.

10 Applications for scholarships for universities will begin in March 2011 after the A level results are announced. The scholarships will be awarded in July 2011.

11 More information will be available when applications for the scholarships open. The GRC will also post information and updates on the scholarships at the Bishan-Toa Payoh Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/BishanToaPayoh). Residents who wish to be kept informed when the applications open can also send an email to iam@wongkanseng.sg with their contact details.

BISHAN CC UPGRADING

Bishan Community Club will be undergoing a facelift with upgrading of facilities. Some of the proposed new features and facilities include an outdoor rock climbing wall, interactive water feature, additional youth activity space, games room and computer room and even a well-equipped gymnasium with a panoramic view. So drop us an email and give us your feedback to share your thoughts or any proposals for the plans.

Look out for the changes to the Bishan East skyline!

BEZ3 Block 192 House Visit, 4 November 2010

The new series of block visits for November 2010 started off at block 192 Bishan Street 13. Steaming ahead with the bi-monthly block visits, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited Block 192 at BEZ3 on 4 November 2010. Residents warmly welcomed DPM Wong into their homes and took the opportunity to express their views and bring up issues related to their living environment. In particular, a resident Mr Loo, expressed appreciation for the good work of the conservancy workers who helped to keep the estate clean.

The visit was hosted by Bishan East Zone 3 RC Chairman Mdm Frances Tang, fellow grassroots leaders, and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council, Police, NEA and LTA.

BISHAN NORTH RC ZONES 3 AND 4 GRASSROOTS EVENTS

On 23 October 2010, Bishan North Zone 3 RC and residents welcomed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng to celebrate the RC ’s 13th Anniversary.

Residents were entertained by a music performance put up by two of their own residents. The Guest-of-Honour presented the prizes to the winners of the Mahjong Tournament-Mind Game Challenge 2010 held earlier in the afternoon. The highlight of the evening was when DPM Wong was invited to join the RC members on stage for a cake cutting ceremony before the RC Chairman cut the cake.

During the event, residents were also invited to view the People’s Association 50th Anniversary GRC Exhibition. The exhibition traced back the history and development of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC over the years which helped brought many nostalgic and cherished memories for the residents. While viewing the exhibits, DPM Wong shared many thoughts and fruitful conversations with the community about the past, present, and future of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

On the same evening, Bishan North Zone 4 RC organised the “Garden Party cum BBQ Nite” for their residents. Mr Show Goon Yean, Chairman of the RC hosted the visit by Mr Wong Kan Seng.

While residents were enjoying the BBQ food, free flow of pop corn and candy floss, children were having the best of time on the air-blown bouncer, jumping and bouncing non-stop with laughter. Games were also organised for the residents. The highlight of the evening was the magic show where the magician performed intriguing tricks, and even merged oneself into a big balloon. After catching a short segment of the magic show, DPM Wong took a group photograph with new Singapore Citizens who have moved into the estate.

WELCOME PARTY FOR NEW RESIDENTS 2010

Bishan East GRO organised a Welcome Party for new residents of Bishan East estate. This year, a total of 39 residents joined Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC at the gathering. During the speech, DPM Wong warmly welcomed the new residents and their family and thanked them for making Bishan East their home. Mr Wong also encouraged new residents to join the grassroots movement and make contribution to the community. In Mr Wong's reliquishing of his Ministry of Home Affairs portfolio, residents took the opportunity to thank him for his stewardship and wished him the best in his next important portfolio as Coordinating Minister for National Security.

BISHAN EAST CAMP FIRE 2010-"TOGETHER IN SONG"

The Bishan East GRO will be organising a year end camp fire for our residents to usher in the start of 2011. DPM Wong Kan Seng, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, will be joining our residents in this spectacular event. Come join us is a night of songs while renewing your spirits of friendship and neighbourliness at the open field beside Circle Line Bishan MRT station. Be the first to sign up and stand a chance to win an Apple IPad! Tickets are $3 per head inclusive of a goodie bag. Come down and join us!

BEZ2 Block 124 House Visit, 21 October 2010

Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng, visited residents at Block 124 at Bishan East RC Zone 2 on the Thursday evening of 21 October. Mr Wong, who is the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs visited the households to gather feedback and suggestions from residents on how to improve the estate. Many residents gave the feedback that they welcome and are thankful for the convenience of the Lift Upgrading Programme for the block and look forward to the many coming changes to upgrade amenities within the Bishan East estate.

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairman Mr Chia Pen Chuen and his team of fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA.

BISHAN LOFT HOUSE VISIT

DPM Wong Kan Seng made his second visit to Bishan Loft, the landmark private estate dwelling in Bishan East on Sunday, 17 October 2010. During the visit, DPM Wong and grassroots leaders were warmly hosted and welcomed by the Management Committee for the condominium. After a short breakfast while mingling with some families, DPM Wong proceeded with the door-to-door visit. Residents eagerly invited the VIP into their homes and gave their feedback and suggestions on how Bishan East could be improved.

Watch out for the space below as we would be uploading more photo albums!

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ1 Block 114 House Visit, 30 September 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs visited block 114 at Bishan East RC Zone 1 on the Thursday evening of 30 September 2010.

The visit was hosted by the Zone 1 RC Chairperson, Mdm Paridah and was accompanied by fellow grassroots leaders and officers from the Town Council, Police, LTA, HDB and NEA. When asked by DPM Wong Kan Seng what else could be done to enhance the living enviroment, nearly all the interviewed residents said they are already extremely satisfied with their estate and could not think of any thing they lack of. Many residents paid tribute to the good work of the Bishan-Toa Payoh Town Council and extended their personal gratitude to Ms Veron Loh who is the Property Manager overseeing the estate.

People's Association 50th Anniversary Roadshow, 25 September 2010

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC celebrated the 50th year of the formation of the People's Association with a roadshow at Toa Payoh HDB Hub on Saturday, 25 September 2010. The event was graced by the five Members of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. The Guest of Honour was Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Wong Kan Seng and the Special Guests were Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mayor Zainudin Nordin, Ms Josephine Teo and last but not least, Mr Hri Kumar.

At the event, different cultural and martial arts performances were put up and the public was treated to a photo exhibit that traced the humble beginning and gradual evolution in the role of the People's Association over the decades. MPs and senior grassroots leaders reminisced and shared their common memories and laughters recalling their their early days at the ground and serving the community.

BEZ6 BLOCK 156 HOUSE VISIT, 23 SEPTEMBER 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited Block 156 at BEZ5 on 23 September 2010. Residents were pleasantly surprised by the visit and eagerly welcomed DPM Wong into their homes. Many residents expressed their views when DPM Wong invited them to give feedbacks and suggestions on how to improve their living environment. Residents are excited and look forward to the new facilities brought about by the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme. They were also curious whether the PUB's Active-Beautiful-Clean Waters (ABC) programme would be extended to the canal near Bishan East Zone 6.

The visit was hosted by Bishan East Zone 6 RC Chairman Miss Lee Ker Hwa, PBM and her fellow grassroots leaders, accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council, Police, NEA and LTA.

BEZ5 Block 135 House Visit, 16 September 2010

Forging ahead with the bi-monthly block visits, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited Block 135 at BEZ5 on 16 September 2010. Residents warmly welcomed DPM Wong into their homes and took the opportunity to express their views and bring up issues related to their living environment. Residents are excited and look forward to the convenience to be brought about by the coming lift upgrading.

The visit was hosted by Bishan East Zone 5 RC Acting Chairman Mr Don Mun Chee Kin and his fellow grassroots leaders, accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council, Police, NEA and LTA.

TOA PAYOH EAST ZONE 4 RC BLOCK PARTY – GARDEN FIESTA AND TOA PAYOH EAST ZONE 5 RC BLOCK PARTY – RACIAL HARMONY ON 18 SEPTEMBER 2010

Toa Payoh East Zone 4 RC organised a block party called Garden Fiesta for their residents on Saturday, 18 September 2010. This block party also celebrates the Mid-Autumn festival. Mr Seger Venu, Chairman of Zone 4 RC hosted the visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng.

Although the main celebration of the block party was for the Mid-Autumn, there were a good number of non-Chinese residents coming forward to participate. The children were treated to a series of magic shows which they were clearly very impressed and happy by the performance. Before the arrival of DPM Wong, the residents were enthusiastically rehearsing with the emcee on their welcome for DPM Wong before his arrival.

DPM Wong was invited to watch a short segment of the magic show before he was invited by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman to mingle with the residents and residents were waiting in line to take photo with DPM Wong.

On the same evening, Toa Payoh East Zone 5 RC organised a Racial Harmony block party for their residents on Saturday, 18 September 2010. Mr Joseph Lau, PBM, Chairman of Zone 5 RC hosted the visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng.

The residents were treated to performance by the various ethnic groups. Upon the arrival of DPM Wong, the RC Chairman brought DPM Wong to the various table to interact with the residents, eager residents were waiting in line for their photo opportunity with DPM Wong. DPM Wong also had a brief chat with two of the RC members who had recently become Singapore new citizens.

TOA PAYOH EAST ZONE 2 RC 30th ANNIVERSARY DINNER ON 18 SEPTEMBER 2010

The Toa Payoh East Zone 2 RC organized their 30th Anniversary Dinner for their residents and former grassroots leaders who had served in the community since the Residents’ Association (RA) days on Saturday, 18 September 2010. The RC Chairman, Mr Benny Soh, PBM hosted the visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng.

Residents and grassroots leaders had arrived earlier to walk through the ‘hall of fame’, a show case of the RA/RC 30 years of achievements.

DPM Wong was invited to join in the seat down dinner and was later invited by the Chairman to mingle with residents at each table so that the residents could offer a toast to him. Before departing, DPM Wong had the opportunity to visit the ‘hall of fame'.

BISHAN EAST MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL CELEBRATION

This year, close to 3000 residents and friends of Bishan East celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival at the open field beside the Bishan East Circle Line MRT station. On the Sunday evening of 19 September, Bishan East CCC and GROs organised the annual event to usher in the traditional custom of remembering Hou Yi and Chang Er for their undying love and committment to each other. On a more serious note, according to a widespread folk tale, the Mid-Autumn Festival commemorates an uprising in China against the Mongol rulers of the Yuan Dynasty (1280–1368) in the 14th century.

The special guest of honour for the event was Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. During the event, DPM Wong gave away plaques to congratulate Mr Daryl Sim Jia Jun for winning Singapore first Youth Olympic Games Medal ( Bronze Medal in Taekwondo). The second plaque recipient was Mr Rainer Ng who won Singapore's first silver medal for the Youth Olympic Games.(Silver Medal in Swimming) where he clocked a a time of 26.45s to finish second in the men's 50m backstroke final. At the same event, DPM gave out 57 bursary awards to ITE and polytechnic students who did well academically.

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC-Potong Pasir SMC Citizenship Ceremony 2010

On Saturday, 18 September 2010, 150 new Singapore citizens received their citizenship certificates from Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.
DPM Wong also oversees the Population and Talent Division in the Prime Minister's Office.

In his speech to the new citizens who resides in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Potong Pasir SMC, DPM Wong encouraged them to integrate into the Singapore society and make an effort to understand and appreciate the cultural differences among our various ethnic groups. Learning English would be a good start as it is Singapore's working language. New citizens are encouraged to participate in grassroots events or become grassroots leaders to learn more about and give back to the community.

Mr Steven Lee, an accountant from Malaysia, lives at Toa Payoh Central with his wife and daughter. After living and working for 20 years in Singapore, Mr Lee decided to become a Singapore citizen and it was a natural choice as Singapore offers a stable and safe environment to bring up his family. Mdm Palma Catherine, a finance manager who came from the Philippines, shares the same views. She is attracted to the efficiency of the government and the high quality of public education.

..The Bisha East Blog Team..

Bonding Through Community Forum

I spent an engaging Saturday afternoon with some 300 residents and grassroots leaders discussing how we can make our community a better place for all residents. The occasion was the Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC community forum.

The forum was part of the GRC’s 3-year workplan process that started in February. The workplan process allowed residents to have a say on how they want to shape our GRC. Before the forum, more than 100 students from 13 schools in the GRC interviewed residents to gather views on how they felt about the GRC. Their views were studied and strategic areas of focus were identified. Teams were formed to look into these areas and propose projects for the GRC.

It was fun and fruitful afternoon, hearing the exciting ideas that various project teams have put together to involve the youth, encourage community volunteerism and promote community bonding. Some of the ideas raise were:

a. Holding a book festival where residents can exchange and trade old books
b. Organising a GRC Garden Festival to promote community bonding through gardening
c. Expanding the annual GRC Healthy Heart Day to a full-scale community sports festival called the Active Heart Day
d. Having a GRC-wide giant recycling project that involves everyone in the GRC
e. Implementing a system to encourage short-term volunteerism by residents on a project basis
f. Having younger residents help older ones get online through Facebook

While some ideas may have been explored previously, what struck me was the enthusiasm and participation by everyone.

For me, the significance of the forum was not the projects that were raised, but rather the process in which the residents came together to put their ideas forward. This process got them closer to other residents while they explored how to improve their communities. It allowed them the opportunity to bond through a common purpose. We should have more of such sessions.

The ideas that were tossed up during the forum will not end after the session. The grassroots leaders will explore how they can implement these ideas with more residents. We will keep the enthusiasm going.

On a personal note, the most encouraging moment of the forum was when a secondary school student stood up and said, “I was involved in interviewing the residents before this forum. What I did was meaningful. How else can I help after the forum?”

The eagerness and passion in the tone of the young man’s voice was inspiring. If we have more young men and residents like him, we will make Bishan-Toa Payoh a better place for all our residents. And if there are more young Singaporeans like him, we will have a bright future.


Wong Kan Seng

BEZ4 Block 179 House Visit, 26 August 2010

August was a busy month for Bishan East where major events such as the National Day Dinner and National Day Observance Ceremony were held to celebrate Singapore's 45th National Day. In the same month, Bishan East was also one of the host venue for the first ever Singapore Youth Olympic Games 2010.

To round up the month of August, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited Block 178 at BEZ4 on 26 August 2010. Residents took the opportunity to express their view and concerns on several community and nation issues such as how senior workers could be helped to prolong their employability. The visit was hosted by Bishan East Zone 4 RC Chairman Mr Tan Khee Koon and his fellow grassroots leaders, accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council, Police, NEA and LTA.

Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Youth Olympic Games – it started in Singapore

(Photo from the Straits Times)

The Youth Olympic Games has drawn to a close. In the 12 days of competition, medals were won and lost, but what that won the hearts of many Singaporeans was not the glory of winning the medals but the passion that we felt throughout the games. And it was not just the passion of the athletes that touched us. We also witnessed the spirit and dedication of the volunteers.

Some 20,000 volunteers helped out in the games. There included students taking time off school and retirees who wanted to play a part. They took on roles such as ushers and event programmers. The meticulous planning by the organisers, the support of Singaporeans and the enthusiasm of volunteers made the games a great success.

Although I was unable to attend many of the matches but I managed to catch some of our athletes in action on television. Watching them compete with other international sportsmen in Singapore made me reflect on my school days. I was a school gymnast and swimmer, but the youth athletes during my time did not have the opportunity for such exposure to international competition. Our student sportsmen today have ample opportunities to compete with the very best in the world. Some truly excelled. This shows how much our country has progressed and how our talented student sportsmen now enjoy opportunities and resources that were not available more than a generation ago. The Government has invested tremendous resources our education system which helps students excel in their studies and now, also in sports

Although the YOG is officially over, we should also reflect what it meant for Singapore. We successfully organised the Games even though we did not have any experience organising an international sporting event of such a scale. It is a resounding testimony to our ability to galvanise the nation to get things done. With the conclusion of the Games, Singapore has now sealed our place in international sporting history as the birthplace of the Youth Olympics. In the years to come, we will continue to cherish this beautiful experience. The Youth Olympics will continue to grow and Singapore will forever be remembered as the place where it all started.

Wong Kan Seng

BEZ3 Block 190 House Visit, 12 August 2010

Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng, visited residents at Block 190 at Bishan East RC Zone 3 on the Thursday evening of 12 August. Mr Wong, who is the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs visited a total of 76 households in that evening to listen to feedback and suggestions from residents on how to improve the estate.

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairperson Mdm Tang Po Tim’s team of fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA. Overwhelming number of residents agreed unanimously that the estate is well looked after by the Town Council with many conveniences of a centralised location which is served by plentiful amenities. From an early Chinese graveyard, many residents still find it unbelievable that Bishan East has become one of the priciest housing estate centred in Singapore and served by two MRT lines.
Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

PAP COMMUNITY FOUNDATION STUDY AWARD 2010

On Tuesday evening, 24 August 2010, DPM Wong Kan Seng was invited to give away the PAP Community Foundation (PCF) Study Award to a deserving student Ms Regina Ng Hui Xuan. Regina is selected by the PAP Community Foundation as one of the recipients for the PCF Study Award 2010.

Regina Ng and her family lives in Bishan East estate and was a former student of the Bishan East PCF kindergardent. She completed her GCE'O' levels and was admitted into Republic Polytechnic where she is currently pursing a full-time Diploma in Biotechnology.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will be presenting to Regina the certificate at a presentation ceremony to be held during the PCF Day 2010 on Sunday, 5 September 2010, at the National Museum of Singapore.

Heartiest congratulations from Bishan East to Regina and keep up your good work!

From PCF Study Award 2010

From PCF Study Award 2010

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Inter-Faith Ifta@Masjid An-Nahdah

On Sunday, 22 August 2010, Masjid An-Nahdah at Bishan East Street 14 hosted a special inter-faith ifta by bringing friends and leaders among the different religious faith, community and residents to break fast together. The event was especially memorable as it is a rare opportunity for all five Advisors to Grassroots Organisations for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC to gather at a single ifta session. Members of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, DPM Wong Kan Seng, Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mayor Zainudin Nordin, Ms Josephine Teo and last but not least, Mr Hri Kumar, were joined by more than 100 guests at the event.

Earlier, some 120 youths discussed integration issues of new citizens into Singapore, and how they can help play a bigger role in community bonding.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Bishan East Mid-Autumn Festival on Sunday, 19 September 2010

From Mid-Autumn Festival

The Bishan East GROs will be organising the annual Mid-Autumn Festival celebration for the community and residents on Sunday, 19 September 2010. Ticket are at an attractive price of $2 per person. So come down with your family and children to enjoy a fun-filled evening!

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Bishan boy win Singapore’s first Youth Olympic Games medal

From Bishan East SYOG Medalist

17-year-old Daryl Tan won a bronze medal in taekwondo at the Youth Olympic Games on Monday, 16 August. He gave us our first Youth Olympic Games medal. Daryl kicked and fought hard despite having groin injuries to earn a place in Singapore’s sports history. In doing so, he made all of Singapore proud.

What is especially heartening to me is that Daryl is our own Bishan boy. He is a student at Raffles Institution and he stays with his parents at Bishan Street 12.

In congratulating on his medal-winning feat, I wrote him a letter saying, “Your tenacious fighting spirit is inspiring. Continue to train hard and set higher goals for yourself in taekwondo. Your fighting spirit will see you excel in the sport.”

Daryl has not only flown Singapore’s flag high by winning Singapore’s first Youth Olympic Games Medal, he has made all of us in Bishan community proud of his achievements.


Wong Kan Seng

Happy 45th National Day, Singapore!

Bishan East ushered in Singapore's 45th National Day with a full weekend of celebrations and events. On Saturday, 7 August 2010, more than 4,500 guests attended the Bishan East National Dinner at the open field beside the Bishan Circle Line MRT Station. This year, a record of 450 tables of guests attended the significant event in celebration of Singapore 45th birthday. The event was organised by Mr William Lee and his team of dedicated grassroots leaders to bring the festivity and joy to the Bishan East Heartlands. During the event, DPM Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, and MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, delivered his National Day message and launched his personal website to connect with the younger generation using the New Media.



Following this, on National Day, DPM Wong joined 900 residents at the Bishan Community Club for the National Day Observance Ceremony. Despite the rain, there was a strong turnout from supportive residents who took part in the Family Colouring Competition and Community Song session. This year, 2 deserving and long-serving grassroots leaders were given the Nation Day Awards. We wish to congratulate Mr Lau Cheng Nam, Treasurer for Bishan East Zone 6 RC for being conferred the Public Service Star (BBM). We would also like to congratulate Ms Frances Tang, Chairperson, Bishan East Zone 3 RC for being awarded the Public Service Medal (PBM) title by His Excellency, Mr S.R Nathan, President of the Republic of Singapore.



..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ2 Block 130 Visit, 29 July 2010

On Thursday, 29 July 2010, the final block visit for the month of July was held at Block 130 in Bishan East RC Zone 2. On that evening, Mr Wong Kan Seng, who is the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, visited a total of 96 households at the block.

DPM Wong was hosted by the RC Zone 2 Chairman Mr Chia Pen Chuen and his fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers from the Town Council, LTA, Police and NEA. During the visit, many residents gave feedback eagerly to DPM Wong on the living environment, conservancy and housing issues. Several praised the good and efficient work done by the Town Council in keeping Bishan East clean and are thankful for the safe and secured environment.

For the month of August, we have in store for Bishan East residents a new platform to share with you the developments and happenings within our estate. Do keep a lookout for the next update to this blog.

Last but not least, wishing all Bishan East residents and Singaporeans a Happy National Day as we celebrate 45 years of nationhood.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ1 Block 102 House Visit, 15 July 2010

Tucked at a serene and peaceful corner of Bishan East RC Zone 1, Block 102 buzzed with excited residents who looked forward to the house visit by their Member of Parliament, Mr Wong Kan Seng. Mr Wong is the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. On 15 July 2010, Mr Wong Kan Seng visited 92 households to obtain feedback from his residents.

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairperson Mdm Paridah and her fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA. Many residents commented that the estate is very well looked after by the Town Council. In fact, there is a handful of households who moved out of Bishan East but moved back subsequently as they missed the conveniences of a centralised location which is served by plentiful amenities. Many residents are grateful that DPM Wong for helped to bring in the HDB Home Improvement Program that would enhance their homes.

Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BISHAN EAST RACIAL HARMONY DAY 2010

On the Saturday evening of 17 July 2010, Bishan East ushered in the annual Racial Harmony Day. The aim of the event was to foster an awareness and a deeper sense of understanding between the major ethnic races among our community in Bishan East. Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC was the special guest for the evening.

Guests, residents and grassroots leaders were treated to a evening packed with cultural performances with themes which centred around our major groups. In an impromptu speech, DPM Wong stressed on the importance of peaceful coexistence as the bedrock to Singapore's growth and development. Not forgetting the performers, he also expressed his appreciation and thanks for the hardwork and efforts put in by the organisers and the school performers for this important event.

Here are the photos taken during the event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

DIALOGUE ON IMMIGRATION AND INTEGRATION, 18 JULY 2010

One hundred grassroots leaders were invited to a closed-door dialogue session with Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs. Mr Wong is also the Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

The dialogue kickstarted with a detailed slide presentation by officers from the National Population Secretariat headed by its Director Ms Sim Ann. This was followed by an interesting Question-and-Answer session with DPM Wong on the panel taking on a slew of interesting and pointed questions ranging from the stress on national resources to social challenges posed by the influx of new citizen and immigrants. In replying and putting context to the questions, DPM Wong shared with grassroots leaders his rich personal encounters.

We are pleased to share with you the following photos taken during the dialogue session.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ4 Blocks 173 and 174 House Visit, 8 July 2010

Barely one week from the last block visit at block 154 of Bishan East Zone 6 RC, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng, blazed through his trail and continued the hectic series of block visits, this time at Blocks 173 and 174 of Bishan East Zone 4 RC. DPM Wong visited 77 households on 8 July 2010 evening which started at 7:45 pm. Blocks 173 and 174 is a mix of HDB 5-room and Executive Apartments.

Not unexpectedly, residents and families continued to pour accolades and praises for the wonderful and safe living environment in Bishan East estate. Many eager families awaited for this unique opportunity to have their photos taken with their MP while expressing their appreciation to the fine work and efficiency put in by the various agencies for their work in keeping the community clean and crime-free.

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairperson, fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA.

We would like to share with you some photos and videos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ6 Block 154 House Visit, 1 July 2010

The first block visit for the month of July took place at block 154 of Bishan East Zone 6 RC. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng, visited nearly 100 households on 1 July 2010 evening which started at 7:45 pm and did not end until 10:00pm. Many families took the opportunity to express their appreciation and thank Mr Wong and the various agencies for their work in keeping the community safe and clean. One new citizen household was so excited about DPM's visit that they went to the extent of calling up to confirm DPM's visit and even cancelling their air ticket booking for a pre-scheduled trip!

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairperson Ms Lee Ker Hwa and her fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA. The block visit is part of the twice monthly house visit program for Mr Wong to pay a personal visit to residents and obtain their feedback. Many residents commented that the estate is so well developed that they ran out of suggestions or ideas to improve the estate! Now that is one good problem to have.

Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Bishan East Family Day, 27 June 2010

Mention the last day of school holiday and many children would groan. After all, many would have gotten used to the more idyllic pace of school holidays where there is no school, homework or CCA. To make sure these children have a memorable last day of the long June vacation, the Bishan East Grassroots Organisations organised the Bishan East Family Day with the theme of "Back to Kampung" on Sunday, 27 June 2010 at the Bottle Tree Park.

On the early Sunday morning, busloads of Bishan East residents woke up early to join Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC at the carnival. Families braved the light drizzle which cleared up fortunately to be entertained by the programs put up for their delight. There were overwhelming participants for the Photo Hunt game where residents searched high and low within the compound to locate the special landmarks and items. For anglers who prefer more serene activities, they took to the lakes to pit their fishing skills to see who had the bigger catch of fishes or prawns in the ponds. Meanwhile, toddlers and young children were kept occupied with the colouring activity and longkang fishing!

We hope that parents and their children had a truly wondering time to bond through these interesting outdoor activities.

Here are photos taken at the event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BLOCK PARTIES ON SUNDAY, 13 JUNE 2010

The long June vacation has arrived and you would expect residents to laze in bed on a beautiful Sunday morning. But not in Bishan East. On Sunday, 13 June 2010, RC Zones 1 and 2 organised block parties for their residents. To start off the event, residents and their children took part in the colouring competition which pitted the creative skills of parents and their children. They were joined by DPM Wong Kan Seng while being entertained by a hilarious magic show which tickled the crowd and brought waves of laughter.

At Zone 2, a mass birthday party celebration was organised for the birthday babies born in the same month. They were joined by DPM Wong in the singing of the birthday song and the simple cake-cutting ceremony. Eager residents took the opportunity to take pictures with DPM Wong while many gave valuable feedbacks to him during the visit.

Here are some pictures taken during the event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

DPM Wong at Zone 1 RC



DPM Wong at Zone 2 RC

Bishan East RC Zones 4, 5 and 6 Warmly Welcomes Dr Ng Eng Hen

Saturday, 12 June 2010 was a unusually busy evening as Bishan East hummed with many activities. The RCs at Zones 4, 5 and 6 organised block parties as well as an early Father's Day cum Mass Birthday Celebration for residents and fathers. During the parties, residents and children were entertained by programmes such as face painting, balloon sculpturing, caricaturist and the ever popular magic shows.

To bring home the message of fire safety, Zone 6 RC organised a fire safety talk which was especially useful for residents and domestic helpers in reacting to fire outbreaks at home. Many eager residents and children could not wait for their turn to try their hands at using the fire extinguisher to put out the flame.

The special Guest of Honour for the parties was Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

Here are some photos taken during the events.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Dr Ng at RC Zone 5



Dr Ng at RC Zone 6



Dr Ng at RC Zone 4

Dumpling Festival (端午节)@ Concourse @ Blk 156A and Blk 158

The Toa Payoh Central Zone ‘5’ and Zone ‘6’ Residents’ Committees (RC) organised a Dumpling Festival celebration on 12 June 2010 respectively at the Concourse at Blk 156A and Blk 158 Lorong 2 Toa Payoh. The event brought residents of all races together for a night to learn about the Dumpling festival in its commemoration of the great Chinese patriot Qu Yuan (屈原).

Both events were graced by Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. DPM Wong was invited and gamely joined residents in a Dumpling Making Contest. The participants were treated to a sumptuous dinner whilst being entertained by an array of exciting stage performances.

Here are some photos taken from the event.

…The Bishan East Blog Team..

DPM At Toa Payoh Central Blk 156A



DPM At Toa Payoh Central Blk 158

BEZ3 Block 186 House Visit, 20 May 2010

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng, visited 80 households at Block 186 on 20 May 2010 evening. The block visit started at 7:45 pm and ended at 10:00 pm sharp. Many residents congregated with their family members and eagerly awaited for the arrival of the VIP DPM Wong to invite him warmly into their abode. Families took this opportunity to express their appreciation and thank Mr Wong and the various agencies for their work in keeping the community safe and clean.

The visit was hosted by the RC Chairperson Mdm Frances Tang and her fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA. The block visit is part of the twice monthly house visit program for Mr Wong to pay a personal visit to residents and obtain their feedback.

Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

DPM Wong Kan Seng and Mayor Zainudin officiate launch of SYOG Venue for Gymnastics at Bishan Indoor Stadium

Bishan Indoor Stadium departed from its usual activity this morning as residents of Bishan East, Bishan-Toa Payoh North and Thomson Constituency gathered to witness the unveiling of a plaque by DPM Wong Kan Seng and Mayor Zainudin to mark the launch of Bishan Indoor Stadium as the Singapore Youth Olympics Games venue for Gymnastic events.

Leaving the celebrations in the good hands of the SYOG mascots Lyo and Merly, DPM Wong went on to attend residents’ block parties at Bishan East Zones 2, 4 and 6 where he presented a total of 31 CDC-ITE scholarships and Edusave bursaries to students who had attained sterling academic results.

DPM Wong and residents were treated to activities that ranged from mystical magic shows, cooking demonstrations and a mini flea market at the block parties, which were hosted by RC chairmen, Mr Chia Pen Chuen (Zone 2), Mr Alfred Tan (Zone 4) and Ms Lee Ker Hwa (Zone 6).

“In addition to discovering the intricacies of how to make good Kimchi, it was a good opportunity to catch up with residents and their families whilst they enjoyed the activities on a Sunday morning,” said DPM Wong.

Here are some photos of the morning’s event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ1 Block 111 House Visit, 22 April 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited Block 111 at Bishan East Zone 1 on the evening of 22 April 2010. The block visit started at 7:45 pm and ended at 10:00 pm sharp. The block visit is part of the twice monthly house visit program for Mr Wong to pay a personal visit to residents and obtain their feedback.

Block 111 houses 96 households which took part in the recent poll for the Home Improvement Programme administered by the Housing and Development Board. Nearly 95% of the households voted in favour of the programme and residents are eagerly looking forward to the improvement to their homes at a highly subsidised cost.

During the block visit, residents expressed their appreciation to DPM Wong for bringing the programme to their precinct. Many shared valuable feedback and comments with Mr Wong on the safe and friendly neighbourhood. The visit was hosted by Mdm Paridah Yusof and her fellow grassroots leaders and accompanied by officers representing the HDB, Town Council Police, NEA and LTA.

Here are the photos taken during the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BEZ3 and Z5 Block Parties and Launch of HIP for BEZ1

The Bishan East Zone 3 and Zone 5 RC organised block parties for their residents on Sunday, 11 April 2010. The two RC Chairpersons, Ms Frances Tang and Mr Don Mun hosted the visit by Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr Wong Kan Seng who is also Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs. Residents woke up early on the Sunday morning to participate in the games and were entertained by magic shows and sparkling performances by young children from the Bishan East 3-in-1 Centre.

At Zone 1, DPM Wong was invited to launch the voting for the new Home Improvement Programme (HIP) administered by the HDB for selected blocks. The HIP is heavily subsidised by the government and Singaporean households would only have to pay between 2.5% to 7.2% of the total cost, depending on their flat size.

Here are some photos taken at the events on Sunday.

BEZ6 Blocks 159, 161 and 162 House Visit, 8 April 2010

On the evening of 8 April February 2010, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs ,Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited residents of block 159, 161 and 162 at Bishan East RC Zone 6.

DPM Wong visited a total of 77 households in the three blocks. He was hosted by Zone 4 RC Chairman, Ms Lee Ker Hwa and was accompanied by agencies such as the Town Council, Police, LTA, HDB and NEA.

Families and residents warmly welcomed DPM Wong into their homes and took the opportunity to share their compliments on the safety and security, convenience of transport and plentiful amenities available in the estate. Many families and their young children are looking forward spending quality family time at the new sports and leisure facilities to be brought about by the coming Neighbourhood Renewal Programme in their communal area.

Here are some photos taken during the visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

DPM Wong Kan Seng visits homes at Blk 138 Bishan St 12

Accompanied by representatives from Bishan East RC and various government agencies, namely HDB, Town Council, Police, LTA and NEA, DPM Wong Kan Seng made visits to 105 homes at Block 138 yesterday evening, 25 March 2010. The purpose of the visit was to gather feedback from residents on any matters relating to their general living environment.

Residents opened their homes and extended a warm welcome to DPM and expressed appreciation for all efforts that have gone into providing a tranquil, well maintained and safe environment in which to live. Several residents also cited the close proximity to amenities and easy access to public transport as contributing factors to the overall pleasant living environment.

Many also applauded the lift upgrading programme which will provide lift access to every floor. Scheduled to commence at the end of the year, it will provide convenience to all residents, and better address difficulties faced by residents and visitors who are wheelchair bound, have mobility problems or are struggling with baby prams.

Long time resident, Mr Abdul Kadir Jeelani who has lived in Bishan for more than 10 years commented that he was very happy living there because of the quiet and extremely well maintained surroundings. He added that the he is looking forward to the completion of the lift upgrading programme.

Here are the photos taken the block visit.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

TOA PAYOH PALM SPRING MARKET OPENING

Members of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC graced the opening ceremony of the Toa Payoh Palm Spring Market on Sunday, 14 March 2010. DPM Wong Kan Seng, together with Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mayor Zainudin Nordin, Mr. Hri Kumar and Ms Josephine Teo officiated the completion of the project by unveiling a commemorative plaque jointly. This was followed by a market visit where residents took the opportunity to interact with their MPs and to provide feedback on their living environment. The event also coincided with a Resident's Block Party in conjunction with Clean & Clean & CSSP Day 2010.

Here are some photos taken at the event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

BISHAN LOFT FAMILY DAY 2010

The Bishan Loft Condominium Management Committee organised a fun-filled Family Day for the more than 300 households in the development. Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC was invited to grace the special event.

The event is a first for Bishan Loft and residents eagerly awaited and welcomed the visit by their Member of Parliament. During the event, Mr Wong gave an impromptu speech informing the residents about the salient points about the current Budget debate. Mr Wong encouraged Singaporeans in general, to take the opportunity during the last downturn to restructure and upgrade their skills and industry to take advantage of the next upturn.

Mr Wong was invited to give perform the lucky draw and give away the prizes. Residents took this unique opportunity to interact with Mr Wong and give their feedback. The Bishan East GRO looks forward to working with Bishan Loft in partnership for future community projects and events.

Here are some photos taken during the event.

..The Bishan East Blog Team..

Bishan East Block Parties, 6 March 2010

Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, was the Guest-of-Honour for three block parties organised by the Bishan East RC Zones 2, 4 and 5 on the evening of 6 March 2010. At RC Zone 2, DPM Wong officiated the completion of the upgrading project while residents celebrated the event through a BBQ organised by the RC.

At Zone 4, DPM Wong joined in the celebration of the birthdays of the residents over a sumptuous dinner. At RC Zone 5, DPM Wong spoke to the residents about the convenience that would be brought about by the Lift Upgrading Program which he hopes that each and everyone of the residents would support by voting unanimously in favour of the program.

Here are some photos taken during the three block parties.



BEZ4 Block Party



BEZ5 Block Party Cum LUP Poll

Bishan East Block Parties, 7 March 2010

The Bishan East RC Zones 1, 3 and 6 organised an interesting array of block parties centred around different themes for their residents on the sunny Sunday of 7 March 2010. The block parties were held at the void decks of Block 103, 182 and the open badminton court beside block 164.

The three events were graced by the Guest-Of-Honour, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. Residents at block 103 were entertained by an intriguing magic show and "wowed" by the dare-devil stunts brought by a group of enthusiastic group of roller-bladers.

This was followed by the entertainment for kids and adults at block 164 where residents enjoyed breakfast in the cool shades while young children took part in the various games. DPM Wong had the opportunity to interact with a new resident who hails from Haerbin, China!

Next, DPM Wong visited block 182 and mingled with residents while they were entertained by a ventriloquist and our very own yo-yo champion Marcus who lives in Bishan East. And Marcus ranks ninth in international standing as a championship yo-yo competitor! Well-done, Marcus! You did Singapore proud!

Here's the first part of the photo album for the three events.



Here's part 2 of the photo album.

Bishan East Lunar New Year Garden Party 2010

Bishan East grassroots leaders planned and organised the annual Lunar New Year Garden Party at the community park near block 181 on the Saturday evening of 27 February 2010. The event was hugely popular and welcomed by residents who looked forward to a night of good food and plentiful entertainment. Families and residents took this opportunity before the end of the Spring festival to have a gathering and to mingle among neighbours who live within the same estate.

The Guest-Of-Honour was Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minster for Home Affairs, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. Mr Wong was hosted by the Organising Chairman Mr Teo Keng Koon and his committee. In his impromptu speech, Mr Wong shared his view with residents that the Singapore economy is showing signs of recovery and urged Singaporeans to continue to work hard.

Here are some photos taken during the event.



Part 2

BEZ4 Block 175 House Visit, 25 February 2010

Once again, wishing all residents of Bishan East a prosperous Lunar New Year with roaring successes and good health in the year of the Tiger. On the evening of 25 February 2010, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs ,Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, visited residents of block 175 at Bishan East RC Zone 4.

DPM Wong visited a total of 96 households and was hosted by the Zone 4 RC Chairman, Mr Alfred Tan, who despite his injury, welcomed DPM Wong on his arrival. DPM Wong was by led through the block visit by grassroots leaders and was accompanied by agencies such as the Town Council, Police, LTA, HDB and NEA. Residents were pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful gesture by DPM Wong who personally gave away tokens of mandarin oranges that signify prosperity and good fortunes.

Families and residents warmly welcomed DPM Wong into their homes and gave their resounding compliments on the safety and security, convenience of transport and plentiful amenities available in the estate. There was also unequivocal words of appreciation for the convenience brought about by the latest Lift Upgrading Program. Residents would also be very pleasantly surprised that many of their neighbours came from a wide array of interesting places such as Johor Bahru, Penang, Indonesia, Shenzhen, Hanoi, Ho Chi Min city, Taiwan, Hong Kong and not forgetting the Philippines!

Here is the first batch of the photos taken during the visit. Watch out this space for more photos to come!

..The Bishan East Blog Team..



Below is Part 2 of the photo album

DPM's Visit to Thomson Toa Payoh View and Toa Payoh Heights

The Thomson Toa Payoh View RC organized the ”New Year Variety Show 2010" event at Blk 118A Lorong 1 Toa Payoh Amphitheatre from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Saturday, 6 February 2010.

Close to 150 residents from Thomson Toa Payoh View RC zone celebrated Chinese New Year in conjunction with NEA’s Environment day. The residents were encouraged to bring their Recycleable Items to the event location to exchange for token gifts.

The event was celebrated with performances by Malay traditional groups. Residents were kept entertained with fun-filled quizzes and lucky draws as they mingled with their neighbours and friends at the Amphitheatre of Blk 118A Lorong 1 Toa Payoh.

The event was graced by the Special Guest, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Guest-Of-Honour Mr Hri Kumar Nair, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. The residents were happy to meet their MPs DPM Wong and Mr Nair and look forward to their visit.

Here are some photos taken at the event.







On the same evening, the Thomson Toa Payoh Heights RC organized the "Residents’ Day cum Chinese New Year 2010” event at the Link Hall at Block 142A Lorong 2 Toa Payoh from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

Chinese New Year came early to about 150 residents of Thomson Toa Payoh Heights RC zone. Together with their families, neighbours and friends, the residents enjoyed the dance performances by a group of young children while singing along to the tune of popular and traditional Lunar New Year songs to usher in the festive mood. The Toa Payoh West CC Chinese Orchestra made a special appearance to perform at this yearly event.

Residents eagerly await for the arrival and warmly welcomed Special Guest, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Guest-Of-Honour Mr Hri Kumar Nair, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. Many eager residents took this unique opportunity to interact and take photographs with DPM Wong and Mr Nair.

Residents, families, neighbours and friends enjoyed the evening in good company and good food. Many residents even walked away with attractive prizes at the lucky draw!







..The Bishan East Blog Team..