How Non-Singaporeans See National Day #OneNationTogether

Picture: Maria Micaela Boncacas Vergara

On August 9, 2017, or otherwise knowns as Singapore's 52nd Birthday, is the time to be celebrating its independence day that aims to remind all the Singaporeans that regardless of origin and background, they belong as One People and One Nation.

Just take the Chairman of EXCOCOL Ong Yoke Lam Meluin's words as an example. He said that the theme "#OneNationTogether" encourages Singaporeans to harness their diversity and "come together to build a brighter future".

Out of 5.75 million people in Singapore, however, around 1.6 million people stand to be foreigners. What's their view on the National Day?

Made Anthony Iswara, an Indonesian student in Singapore, feels that the event could be "more ceremonial and less glamour". On the other hand, Vivek Verma,an Indian living in Singapore, , believes that it is an one-time expense and "the kind of patriotic feeling the events stir, even in the foreigners, is all worth it!".

Picture: Franz Patrick

Nonetheless, watching thousands of people in red and white that arecoming together as one with a spirit of co-operation is something that is truly worth watching. The firework show brings happiness and excitement, making it the perfect ending before a new start.