Singapore Government Press Release
SPEECH BY MR ABDULLAH TARMUGI, MINISTER FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SPORTS, AT NTUC FAIRPRICE NATIONAL DAY OBSERVANCE CEREMONY ON FRIDAY, 10 AUG 2001, AT 10.30 AM AT FAIRPRICE SINGAPORE POST CENTRE, 10 EUNOS ROAD
Mr S Chandra Das, Chairman of NTUC FairPrice
Mr Tan Kian Chew, CEO of NTUC FairPrice
Ladies and Gentlemen:
This morning, I am happy to join you once again for this year’s National Day Observance Ceremony.
Compared to last year, we celebrate National Day this year in a more sombre mood, given the current economic downturn. Besides holding a National Day Observance Ceremony to pay tribute to our Nation, I understand that FairPrice, together with other NTUC co-operatives, have put together a $6.4 million National Day gift package for workers and ordinary Singaporeans. This comes mainly in the form of discounts and price cuts for the customers. Throughout the month of August, FairPrice has lined up great value deals for consumers. This is certainly something to cheer about, especially in view of the current economic atmosphere.
The readiness of NTUC co-operatives in responding to the economic crisis attests to the strong commitment of their collective social mission. I am sure Singaporeans, particularly those who are affected by the downturn, will appreciate the savings made possible by the discounts and price cuts. I hope that other retailers and businesses will take after the labour co-operatives’ move to also reduce their prices and charges, and pass down more savings to consumers.
This and many more of Fairprice’s community projects and generous contributions will help make Singapore a better place to live in. So, as we mark our country’s 36 years of independence, let us all remind ourselves of our commitment and responsibility as Singaporeans in contributing towards the community and nation.
Companies can demonstrate good corporate citizenship and their social responsibility through fund-raising, donating funds and in-kind contributions, as well as mobilising employees to participate in community activities.
In just over three decades, Singapore has been transformed into one of the most prosperous nations in the world, socially and politically cohesive, confident of her place among the nations of the world. However, this success did not come easy and all the more, we should not be complacent.
Fund raising becomes an uphill task as Singaporeans and most companies are tightening their belts in a time like this. Hence, it is also a very trying year for welfare organisations and charity homes. I am gratified to learn that FairPrice has not forsaken its social responsibility in this aspect. Named twice by the National Council of Social Service as an "Outstanding Corporate Citizen", FairPrice has taken the challenge to rally support from its suppliers to help raise $1 million for the underprivileged during this year. FairPrice is also one of the founder members of the Marine Parade half-percent club and has, on its own accord, donated generously to various worthy causes. I commend companies like FairPrice who care enough to support charity even in times of hardship. This is truly a showmanship of corporate citizenry.
Other than adding value to the consumers, FairPrice should not forget about your workers. The new economy demands new skills, new knowledge and new ways of doing things. All workers must be ready for them. It is the responsibility of all, not only the leaders to prepare for what is to come. So, it is imperative that workers go for training, retraining, and upgrading, so that the employed stays employable.
As the saying goes, "There is a silver lining in every cloud". Let us keep our spirits high even when the going gets tough. We are a small nation but not a weak nation. United we stand, let us go through the rough patch together and emerge stronger than before. We have done it before and we are confident we can achieve that again this time.
The global downturn notwithstanding, I wish all of you a very happy National Day. Thank you.
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