Singapore Government Press Release

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Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,

I am glad to join all of you at the official opening of CDANS Town Clubhouse here at Riverside Point.

2 CDANS was established in November 1991 with two objectives. The first was to recognise the commitment of our CD NSmen towards Civil Defence and the second was to foster camaraderie amongst you. I am delighted that CDANS has served these objectives well, adding facilities and creating many opportunities for members to get to know each other better through a host of activities and programmes.

3 The Marina Square clubhouse was originally intended as a temporary measure, when it was opened in 1992, pending the construction of a permanent home. But the concept proved so popular with our NSmen that we have decided to retain a town clubhouse. Our new premises here at Riverside Point, serving members in the downtown area, will complement the main Bukit Batok clubhouse, which is now under construction, and almost ready.

4 Let me take this opportunity to update you on progress at Bukit Batok. The building itself will be completed by the end of the year, and after furnishing it, CDANS management looks forward to serving members from February 1998. With facilities matching that of country clubs, it will be an excellent place for members and their families to spend their leisure time.

5 I am delighted this evening to present the "CDANS Service" and "Friends of CDANS" awards, which recognise individuals and organisations for their contributions towards our success. This is the first time CDANS is presenting such awards. I am also very happy to announce that individual Performance Awards will also be presented in the future to CDANS members who have excelled in sports, arts and culture. I congratulate not only the award recipients, but everyone who has helped CDANS in one way or another. Thank you.

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