SINGAPORE – Community Spirit Displayed at $1 Marketplace

In a dazzling display of community spirit, the $1 Marketplace in Hougang kicked off at 10 am on March 29, but eager residents had begun lining up as early as 8 am. A staggering queue of around 300 people formed at Ci Yuan Community Club, with all participants having purchased a $1 ticket for the chance to grab groceries valued between $12 to $13. Items included fresh produce like cabbage, lettuce, oranges, and lemons.

This initiative was spearheaded by the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association in collaboration with the Ang Mo Kio-Hougang Citizens Consultative Committee, aiming to bring together community members from all walks of life. Mr. Darryl David, Member of Parliament for Ang Mo Kio GRC, arrived before the official start and decided to commence the event early upon seeing the enthusiastic crowd, predominantly made up of senior citizens.

"Don't worry, don’t rush, take your time," Mr. David reassured the participants, many armed with bags and supermarket trolleys. "After you grab your groceries, there are many activities for you to check out."

Participants Share Their Excitement

Seventy-year-old homemaker Koh Chai Hong was one of the first in line, expressing delight at the experience: "I didn’t suffer any loss; it’s worth it. This is fun! I came early to chat with people since I’m bored at home." Similarly, 76-year-old retired insurance professional Ms. Laxie Mary Sequeira was thrilled with the opportunity to obtain fresh goods for just $1, stating, "Every bit helps with the cost of living," and looked forward to connecting with fellow attendees.

Inaugural Event of SG60 Celebrations

The $1 Marketplace is the inaugural event of three planned in celebration of SG60, marking Singapore's 60th anniversary. The activities are designed to cultivate greater connections and community engagement within the Ang Mo Kio-Hougang area. Mr. David emphasized that the marketplace helps foster a sense of community, inviting locals to come together and participate in shared experiences.

On the day of the event, an SG60 message board was set up for residents to leave messages of appreciation for local merchants. Additionally, organizers introduced a stamp card initiative, encouraging attendance at monthly SG60 events including Racial Harmony Day and National Day carnivals. Residents who attend at least two events will receive a $60 FairPrice voucher, incentivizing community involvement.

Community Involvement and Future Plans

Francis Swee, president of the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association, remarked that the marketplace was a way to give back to loyal customers, suggesting that the selection of items resonated with the local "Heng Ong Huat" prosperity theme, featuring items symbolizing good fortune like oranges and cabbage.

Looking ahead, the Hougang Village Merchants' Association is set to hold a trade fair in Hougang Village with around 30 stalls from April 26th for 19 days and will distribute approximately 1,000 vouchers to residents to spend at participating outlets in May.

As for the next $1 Marketplace events scheduled for April 27 and June 22, Mr. David assured the community that thoughtful arrangements were underway to ensure fulfilling experiences. “One certainty is that for just $1, each resident will receive much more than their money's worth,” he added, emphasizing the practical nature of the goods provided.

Don't Miss Out!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage in community bonding and enjoy great savings! Mark your calendars for the upcoming $1 Marketplace events!