SINGAPORE: Tourism developments in the neighbouring regions need not be seen as competition for Singapore, said Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry S Iswaran on Sunday.

He was referring to plans for Iskandar Malaysia in Johor and an upcoming integrated resort on Indonesia's Bintan island.

Mr Iswaran added that what Singapore needs to do is to ensure that it remains a compelling destination for visitors.

"Yes, there may be some competitive component, but at the same time, they're complementary because they enhance the offerings in the region and we wish them luck," he said.

Mr Iswaran was speaking on the sidelines of an Indian community event – Narpani Family Day – which saw the creation of Singapore's largest laddu, a popular Indian snack that is usually the size of a golf ball.

Ladies from PA Narpani Pearavai Ladies' Sub-Committee managed to win an entry in the Singapore Book of Records with their 16.9kg laddu.

In another record-making attempt at the same event, over 500 people joined in an Indian mass aerobic workout called the Aarokkia Aattam.

The event was organised by the People's Association and is part of the three-week long Tamil Language Festival which ends on 27 April.

Organisers hope the festivities will give other racial communities a better understanding of local Indian culture.


- CNA/so