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SINGAPORE: Singaporeans feel encouraged by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day message and remain hopeful about the country's future beyond this financial crisis.
In his annual message televised on the eve of National Day on Saturday, Mr Lee had said Singapore's economic contraction in the first half of the year was not as bad as feared and that the country is now in a stronger position than at the start of the year.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Lee joined residents in his constituency to celebrate Singapore's 44th birthday.
In an effort to ensure the needy were not left out even though Singapore may be facing economic difficulties, Mr Lee joined grassroots members in distributing groceries and food vouchers - worth about $100 each - to 700 disadvantaged residents.
About 2,000 residents from Ang Mo Kio and Yio Chu Kang joined Mr Lee at the celebration.
The Prime Minister also spoke to some Singaporeans living overseas in countries like Australia via a video conference link.
Speaking in Mandarin, Mr Lee wished them "Happy National Day".
An overseas Singaporean responded: "Thank you and here's wishing you 'Happy National Day' as well. Wishing all of you happiness and wishing Singapore a very happy birthday."
Singaporeans were in a celebratory mood as they marked their nation's 44th birthday.
"Singapore has a very good future and a bright one for everyone," said a Singaporean.
"I think it's (the future) bright. We will be able to overcome this kind of situation. The way the government bodies have actually put in the strategies in order to overcome the current situation and also giving confidence to the citizens, the Singaporeans, they're all prepared," said another.
"I'm very confident of Singapore's future. They're doing very well, I think they've got a very good plan how to manage it well," said a third.
"I'm very confident of Singapore's future, going forward," said a fourth.
Singapore may be facing an economic downturn now, but it's hoped that residents don't give up on their dreams and beliefs.
That's why Ang Mo Kio GRC handed out some 2,000 kites to its residents to encourage them to keep their aspirations flying high.
- CNA/ir
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