SINGAPORE: Over a quarter million people ushered in the New Year at Singapore's new downtown Marina Bay.

There was high energy to reflect the troubled times, but there were also quiet moments of peace and hope for 2009.

The specially-choreographed fireworks at Marina Bay took spectators' breath away.

"Fantastic fireworks, great show, all good," said a man in the crowd.

An Indian woman added: "It's definitely something different compared to New York, so it's great to be out here."

More than 10,000 spectators came to watch the very first full-length concert out on Marina Bay.

Revellers were entertained with 90 minutes of song and dance by local celebrities from Singapore's MediaCorp Channel 5, Asian Idol Hady Mirza and Filipino band 'River Maya'.

As much as many would say that 2008 has been a rough and unforgettable year, many more celebrating at Marina Bay would hope for 2009 to be a much better one. - CNA/de