Day: October 28, 2022

From Tampines to Pasir Ris: A Cycling Guide

From Tampines to Pasir Ris: A Cycling Guide

Follow this cycling route to get from Tampines to Pasir Ris in less than 20 minutes

Speed on your feet and wind in your hair, cycling offers a huge adrenaline rush that has helped the sport grow in popularity over the years. Good news for cycling enthusiasts—by 2026, 8 in 10 HDB residents will have access to a cycling network within minutes under the new Islandwide Cycling Network (ICN) programme, where more cycling paths will be built near transport nodes and key amenities.

In some towns such as Pasir Ris and Tampines, comprehensive cycling networks are already in place, offering residents another convenient way to get around. For example, it is easy to cycle from Tampines Central to Pasir Ris Park!

Tampines Central (starting point)

As this route will take you along the Tampines Park Connector, you don’t have to worry about cycling on the main road.

Here are 6 landmarks you will come across along this route:

  1. Tampines Central (Tampines MRT, Tampines One)
  2. Sun Plaza Park
  3. Tampines Eco Green
  4. Tampines Expressway
  5. Sungei Tampines
  6. Pasir Ris Park

Photo Credit: NParks

Start your journey at Tampines Central and head towards Tampines Ave 4 – a path that will lead you to Sun Plaza Park. The route is sheltered, so rest assured you’ll be protected from the sun and rain!

Sheltered pathway along Tampines Ave 4

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Once you get to Sun Plaza Park, take a left. It’s a short ride, but don’t forget to enjoy the scenery! In March and August, look out for the blossoming Trumpet trees in the park. Its gorgeous pink flowers have even earned the nickname ‘Singapore’s Cherry Blossoms’!

Sun Plaza Park

Photo Credit: @ylint

Look out for the markers on the ground to follow the park connector route

Photo Credit: Google Maps

After cycling through the park, cross the road at Tampines Avenue 9. There are two options – cycle along the park connector or through Tampines Eco Green. If you’re feeling adventurous and have time to spare, try the second route. The charming rustic vibes of Tampines Eco Green will make you feel like you’re cycling in the countryside!

Follow the teal route if you want to cycle through Tampines Eco Green. The coral route is more straightforward as it follows the Tampines Park Connector.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Tampines Eco Green

Photo Credit: JustRunLah!

Both routes will lead you to an overhead bridge that helps you cross the Tampines Expressway safely. Remember to dismount your bicycle as you head up the ramp to cross the bridge!

Overhead bridge that leads to Pasir Ris

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Now you’re officially in Pasir Ris! Keep cycling along Sungei Tampines and cross the river to get to Pasir Ris Park. There are several bridges along the way, so don’t worry if you miss the first one!

Cycle along Sungei Tampines and enjoy the view!

Cross the bridge to get to Pasir Ris Park

Congratulations, you’re now at Pasir Ris Park! Watch the following video to learn more about the wildlife you can find here.

What other towns should we cover in our heartland cycling guides? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Fresh & Fun Date Ideas in the Heartland

Fresh & Fun Date Ideas in the Heartland

From taking leisure strolls in nature to exploring artworks in the neighbourhood, read on for different date ideas for every couple.

Café-hopping, movie-watching, window-shopping  – these are some of the usual date ideas. If you’re looking for something different (whether it’s to spice things up or to impress a date), there’s plenty to do in the heartland!

For the Nature Lovin’ Duo

Enjoy the outdoors? There is a wide assortment of parks and trails nestled in HDB estates that are perfect for your different date ideas. These include familiar green spaces such as Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West,  Coney Island located near Punggol and Bukit Batok Town Park (Little Guilin).

Make your way up the 120-step stairs for a panoramic view of Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West Park!
Photo: @nparks

For a breath of fresh air (literally), take a journey to the West and check out Jurong Lake Gardens! Comprising the Lakeside, Chinese and Japanese Gardens, the recreational space was identified for renewal and further development under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) Programme in 2011. The revamped Jurong Lake Gardens will be opened in phases, with Lakeside Garden marking its first phase in April 2019.

Sunset walks at Jurong Lake Gardens

From Singapore’s largest nature heartland play garden (Forest Rumble) to a boardwalk experience through the freshwater swamp forest (Rasu Walk), get ready for a day’s adventure at Jurong Lake Gardens!

Located in Bukit Panjang is Chestnut Nature Park. At 81 hectares, this nature park is also Singapore’s largest to date. From hiking to birdwatching and even mountain biking, the park is the perfect for your outdoor date ideas!

There are two main hiking trails to choose from – the Northern Hiking Trail (3.5km) and the Southern Hiking Trail (2.1km). The former consists of more forested trails located next to water streams while the latter offers hilly walks that eventually lead to open lalang fields.

If you’re a couple that derives thrills from being on wheels, you can check out a cycling route that brings you from Tampines to Pasir Ris in less than 20 minutes. You’ll end up at Pasir Ris Park, where you can do some birdwatching, or just sit by beach listening to the lapping waves. For a more heart-pumping activity at Pasir Ris Park, hop on the multiple trails or the Mangrove Boardwalk and who knows you may just spot some of the park’s secret wildlife residents!

An HDBeautiful view while you cycle along Sungei Tampines

If the Tampines-Pasir Ris cycling route feels like riding on a training bike, how about challenging your date to a wheelie long ride on the Round Island Route? Stretching across 75km and covering the eastern half of Singapore, the first phase of the Round Island Route will take you on a journey round places such as Rower’s Bay at Lower Seletar where you may find Grey Herons and Copper-cheeked Frogs at the wetlands, and Changi Beach Park where the sights and sea breeze makes you feel like you’re on a beach vacation.

Map of the Round Island Route
Photo: NParks

For the Shutterbugs

This one’s for the Instagram boyfriends and girlfriends! You’ve probably captured countless shots of your partner at our #HDBeautiful void decks, lush rooftop gardens, and against our colourful block facades. Here’s another location for you: our playgrounds!

The iconic dragon playground at Toa Payoh makes for a distinctive photo spot!

There are plenty of vibrant and quirky playgrounds in HDB estates – including the well-loved and iconic dragon playground in Toa Payoh! Other iconic spots include the watermelon and mangosteen-themed playgrounds at Tampines Central Park, and the tilting train playground at Tiong Bahru.

For something a little less conventional, visit the Dinosaur Playground at Woodland’s Fu Shan Garden and the shipwrecked-themed playground at Sembawang Park.

Our playgrounds have evolved in their design and functions over the years, and are definitely an Insta-worthy backdrop for your photos.

For the Art Lovers

Whether you’re a culture buff or someone who appreciates works of art, this date idea is sure to tickle your fancy!

Take a stroll around the blocks of Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and 4 and you will spot nostalgic murals of well-loved Singapore snacks such as ang ku kueh, satay, and old-school items like the traditional hot water flask.

These murals are part of the Wayfinding Project by the Alzheimer’s Disease Association, which uses these murals to help residents with dementia easily recognise their surroundings.

Murals of nostalgic items help residents with dementia find their way around Ang Mo Kio estate.
Photos: Dementia Singapore

For a dose of high art in the heartland, head to one of the Void Deck Art Galleries and you’ll find hand-painted murals of iconic and inspired artworks by artists Van Gogh, Andy Warhol and Picasso.

You don’t have to be in Netherlands to indulge in the world of Van Gogh
These artworks can be found at Block 56 Pipit Road

For the Adrenaline Junkies

Save for the roller coasters and bungee jumps at Sentosa, there may not be many other heart-pumping activities in Singapore. But what if we told you there are unconventional date ideas for thrill-seekers, which can only be found in an HDB town?

Get your adrenalin pumping with a myriad of activities at Khatib Adventure HQ
Photo: HomeTeamNS

The Firemen Slides and the Roll Glider, Singapore’s first indoor aerial attraction that comprises hang-gliding, a coaster ride and proximity flight will definitely get your adrenaline going.

In addition to these date ideas in the heartland, you can also explore your neighborhood in the comfort of your home with our latest reads.

#HDBeautiful: 4 HDB Flats with a View

#HDBeautiful: 4 HDB Flats with a View

These housing projects effortlessly marry green and blue elements to bring nature closer to home.

While some may prefer to live amidst lush green spaces, others could prefer to be around calming water bodies. But why choose one when you can have both?

From waterfront living to resort-like views, we bring you 4 #HDBeautiful housing projects that effortlessly marry green and blue elements so residents can enjoy eco-friendly living right at their doorsteps. Some of these projects are also ABC Waters certified, which means they have incorporated Active, Beautiful, Clean waters (hence the term ABC) features within their design and landscape.

1. Alkaff Oasis

This project received a 2022 ABC Waters Certification

Located in Bidadari, Alkaff Oasis is surrounded by lush greenery and eco-friendly features. Within this Built-To-Order (BTO) project are rain gardens that can help to treat rainwater runoff. Seating spaces near the rain gardens bring people closer to the water, while signage provides more information about the rain gardens and their features.

Alkaff Oasis is also a place where residents can enjoy amenities, such as children’s playgrounds and fitness stations, amidst a green and relaxed environment. Roof gardens, façade greenery, and green roofs on the pavilion and covered linkway add to the beauty of Alkaff Oasis.

2. Waterfront I & II @ Northshore

These projects received a 2022 ABC Water Certification

Fancy the idea of resort-like living? Waterfront I & II are BTO projects situated along the Punggol seafront– just imagine the view! However, the view isn’t the only gorgeous thing about these projects, they also feature lush greenery— from the drop-off points to the eco-deck on the carpark roof, as well as roof gardens at various levels.

There are also footpaths, fitness corners and playgrounds that are close to bio-retention swales, vegetated swales, and a rain garden. These water features help to treat rainwater run-off.

Additionally, a coastal park connector runs the length of these developments, linking residents to other green pockets like the Sengkang Riverside Park, recreational facilities, amenities, and dining spots.

3. The River Vista @ Kallang

The River Vista @ Kallang is an HDB project flanked by the Kallang River. Along the river’s edge is a viewing gallery, as well as lookout decks that offer great waterfront views. On the opposite bank of the river is a floating pontoon and boat shed, for those who fancy some kayaking.

As with all HDB developments, plentiful greenery is located all around and there is also a community garden within The River Vista @ Kallang. A park connector, which runs alongside the development, leads residents to even more green spaces like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, and even Gardens by the Bay.

3. Hougang Capeview

A fishing spot, multiple viewing decks (1 in the estate and 2 along the river), and a park connector that links you to Sengkang and Punggol – Hougang Capeview has it all. You can enjoy the scenic view of Serangoon River and maybe spot some otters!

The viewing decks are cosy communal spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy the breeze while relaxing or exercising. Lush landscaping can be found throughout the development—around the blocks, atop the carpark, along walking paths, and at the central landscaped space where the playground and fitness stations are located.

Interested to find out about more #HDBeautiful projects? Read about the ones that have won Design Awards here!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Instagram-Worthy HDB Blocks that Have Won Design Awards

Instagram-Worthy HDB Blocks that Have Won Design Awards

Who says public housing projects can’t be #HDBeautiful? Take a trip to the heartland and uncover these Instagram-worthy HDB flats!

HDB flats comes in a variety of designs, some of which have achieved iconic status over the years. Whether you’re a budding photographer, exploring different photography styles or looking to spice up your Instagram feed, take a trip to the heartlands and discover Instagram-worthy HDB projects that have won HDB Design Awards.

1. Scenic Sea Views

Facing the Straits of Johor, Northshore StraitsView, as the housing project is aptly named, embraces the idea of waterfront living.

Northshore StraitsView is one of the housing precincts located in Punggol Northshore

Inspired by the scenes of a seafront oasis set against the backdrop of rolling mountains, the staggered blocks are designed to form a dynamic skyline along the waterfront. In addition to its architectural outline, the white and blue facade of the project also makes it an interesting photo subject, especially with the sea as a visual complement – definitely one of our top Instagram-worthy HDB projects!

Enjoy the sea breeze from the viewing decks

To enjoy the breeze as well as capture the perfect sunset-by-the-sea moment, simply head out to the viewing decks via the sheltered linkways.

2. Keeping It Minimal

As clichéd as it sounds, sometimes less is really more. Having fewer elements in a photograph can direct focus on the subject for greater visual impact. For a photo that pops, position yourself in the foreground of the minimalist Northshore Residences I & II blocks in Punggol. Breaking the sleek facade of the HDB blocks are vertical fins, which are also designed for rain protection.

Located in HDB’s first smart-enabled housing estate, the towering blocks of Northshore Residences are hard to miss

The unique play spaces within the project also make for interesting photo spots, especially when set against the backdrop of the towering Instagram-worthy HDB blocks.

The precinct is home to a variety of amenities, including play spaces

3. Home in a Garden

The perfect photo spot for nature lovers, the verdant greenery of Alkaff CourtView is reminiscent of an urban garden. Designed to capitalise on Bidadari’s rolling greens and rich heritage, the project also houses a wide verandah surrounded by lush landscaping.

Lush landscaping can also be found within the Alkaff CourtView

In addition to photographing the generous green spaces within the precinct, take the chance to explore Bidadari Greenway, a 1.6km-long green spine that traverses the entire estate!

4. Geometric Lines and Angles

Tall HDB blocks create opportunities for minimalistic shots of HDB flats with the sky as a canvas. This style of photography is not only easy on the eyes, it also makes your subject pop which is perfect for the ‘gram. Hougang RiverCourt is a good example of this.

An unobstructed view of Hougang RiverCourt

Venture within the blocks for a variety of landscaped spaces, and in other spots, shapes and lines in the surroundings can also be used to frame your photos.

Make use of the surroundings and amenities to better frame your shots

Discover more Instagram-worthy HDB projects

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

6 Popular IG-Worthy HDB Blocks

6 Popular IG-Worthy HDB Blocks

No two HDB flats are the same.

A quick search on Google for the most Instagrammable buildings in Singapore yields unsurprising results – Marina Bay Sands, Jewel Changi Airport and the Super Trees at Gardens by the Bay.

But here’s an open secret among the locals – a number of HDB blocks have also been quietly making it to the ‘gram. We share with you 6 IG-worthy HDB blocks and the inspiration behind them.

1. Singapore’s Tallest HDB Blocks

It’s hard to miss this cluster of 50-storey HDB blocks which are juxtaposed against the historic district of Chinatown. Completed in 2009, Pinnacle@Duxton  boasts a modern façade that blends effortlessly into the iconic skyline of Singapore’s Central Business District. Made up of 7 blocks linked together by skybridges at the 26th and 50th storey, Pinnacle@Duxton is the tallest HDB development in Singapore. The skybridges on its 50th floor offer a panoramic view of the city and are a popular location for viewing the National Day fireworks display.

2. A Trip Down Memory Lane

Photo: TheSmartLocal

For the young millennials and Gen Zs, there was actually a time when television was the primary entertainment at home and when programmes weren’t running for 24 hours (cue gasp). When television broadcast ended each day, viewers were shown a test screen similar to what is now painted on several HDB blocks in Tampines, including Block 418 at Tampines Street 41. When their blocks were due to be repainted, residents were presented with various design options, and most voted to go with this nostalgic design which has since become one of the icons in Tampines.

3. The Rainbow

Known fondly as the Rainbow Block to Hougang residents, Block 316 at Hougang Ave 7 is adorned with a giant rainbow across its building façade. It might be of a surprise to you that the rainbow dates all the way back to the 1980s when the building was first completed. In fact, the residents who first moved in might just have been the ones who  coined the name Rainbow Block.

Over the years, the block and its surrounding amenities have been continuously upgraded but the rainbow has remained, with only slight variations to its design.

4. Living in Nature

Block 86, SkyVille@Dawson, Dawson Road
Block 90, SkyTerrace@Dawson, Dawson Road

Dawson, in Queenstown, was among the first few towns and estates identified for comprehensive redevelopment under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme in 2009. As part of the renewal, HDB unveiled new-generation public housing projects there, starting with SkyVille @ Dawson and SkyTerrace @ Dawson which were completed in 2015.

Besides their stylish and eye-catching designs, the projects were developed with a ‘Housing in a Park’ concept which means residents get to live in homes surrounded by lush greenery.

5. Cascading Terraces

Inspired by the terraced rice fields across Southeast Asia, Waterway Terraces was the first public housing project along My Waterway@Punggol. Completed in 2015, a core design element of Waterway Terraces was to establish a strong relationship between buildings and the waterway. The cascading skyline, created by the landscaped terraces of the roof, serves to highlight this connection.

6. Geometry-Inspired

Each year in the period leading up to National Day, photographers flock to Blk 9, Selegie Road for this particular shot of the building façade with Singapore flags hung over its parapet wall. Not many know that the HDB block, at 180ft tall and 20-storey high, was one of the tallest buildings in Singapore when it was completed. It was officially launched in 1963 by then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

HOTH: Author Suffian Hakim on HDB Living and the Singaporean Identity

HOTH: Author Suffian Hakim on HDB Living and the Singaporean Identity

Suffian works include a Harry Potter satire starring Harris bin Potter from Tampines, and a horror comedy set in a Yishun HDB flat.

Author Suffian Hakim grew up in a 4-room flat in Bukit Panjang with his family, where he had to share a room with his late grandmother. “Every night, she would tell me horror stories about monsters as tall as HDB flats and fantastical stories about sentient grains of rice and talking animals.” Suffian reminisces. “I am a storyteller today because my grandma passed it on to me. We may have used different mediums and languages, but that spirit lives on in me.”

Author Suffian Hakim is best known for his novel, Harris Bin Potter and the Stoned Philosopher

Deriving Inspiration from HDB Living

From a Harry Potter satire starring Harris bin Potter from Tampines, to a horror comedy set in a Yishun HDB flat, Suffian Hakim’s works prominently feature the HDB heartland. “I write what I know,” he explains. “And I know HDB spaces because I’ve lived in them for most of my life. There is great food, arresting art and novel businesses in our estates. I always try to capture that energy when I’m writing stories set in Singapore.”

A proud HDB dweller, Suffian also says the heartland references in his stories help keep his quirky, offbeat works relatable to the local audience. In his debut novel, which has topped the national bestsellers list, the bustling Bizarre Night Bazaar— where the protagonist, Harris Bin Potter, first discovers one of his many magical abilities— brings to mind the sounds, smells, and chaotic energy of pasar malams.

In his second novel, the Yishun flat where a motley crew live, features a neighbourhood garden opposite it, not unlike the ubiquitous landscaped spaces around HDB estates. “I conceived it to be a sanctuary for them, a sliver of nature in their urban lives,” Suffian says.

A large part of Suffian’s work is influenced by the HDB living experience, including the surroundings and amenities.

WFH = Writing from Home

Suffian now lives in a Telok Blangah flat that he shares with his wife. “Telok Blangah is great. It’s so historically rich, near the sea, and near nature. I think it’ll make a really good setting for a story someday,” he says.

Suffian recently moved to his first home at Telok Blangah

Suffian does a huge chunk of his writing at home, having set aside a room which doubles up as a library and work space. “This room is my getaway. When I need to find inspiration and disappear into the fictional worlds I am building, I come here,” he says. “My book collection is here, and the decor items I have chosen remind me of what’s important as a writer.”

When he needs a change of scenery, Suffian heads to the closest public library to write, or nearer still—the void deck. “It’s very chill there!” he laughs. “People do stare out of curiosity at times but no one disturbs me.”

Suffian’s home office also doubles up as a library, adorned by posters of his works and favourite reads

On pursuing writing as a career, Suffian remarks that while the journey has been fulfilling, it hasn’t been easy.

“When I give creative writing workshops, I tell my students: Don’t follow your passion. Follow your pain. Writing is tremendously rewarding, but only if you can bear the pain of uncertainty and judgement that comes with, including the “you’re-wasting-your-life, you’re-never-gonna-make-it-as-an-author” look. If you can bear that pain, then chase the passion. If you cannot, then writing is probably not for you.”

HOTH: Clementi’s Christmas Wonderland

HOTH: Clementi’s Christmas Wonderland

For the first time this Christmas, Philip will be debuting a life-sized wooden sleigh with jumbo presents.

It started with Philip Sobrielo hanging a handful of Christmas lights and streamers along his corridor. Then over the years, the Clementi resident spruced up his neighbourhood more extensively, with Santa Claus, reindeers and Christmas trees.

“I love Christmas,” the 41-year-old smiles. “It’s a season for spreading joy, and that’s what I hope to do with the decorations.”

Clementi resident Philip decorates his neighbourhood for the holidays

Christmas Wonderland in Clementi

For the past 10 years, Philip has turned the common corridor in front of his childhood home into a Christmas Wonderland. Each year’s handmade decorations would feature a different theme. This Christmas, Philip’s designs will feature the colours pink and white. “We featured the colour red last year, so I wanted something brighter this time round,” he explains.

Decorations also include Christmas trees and for the first time, a life-sized wooden sleigh decked with jumbo presents. “I wanted to have a sleigh surrounded by many gifts and brought this idea up to a friend who specialises in handywork. He agreed to help and brought my design to life.”

Philip’s Christmas Wonderland was also made possible with the help of the Town Council, which helped with the wiring for the lights, collecting recyclable boxes to paint over as presents. They  also offered space to store the decorations.

Behind-the-scenes: John, Philip’s godson, painting the sleigh (top) and Philip putting out decorations along the common corridor (bottom)

In addition to using recycled materials, decorations are also repurposed to minimise waste. Some decorations are reused for subsequent years, some are gifted to family and friends, while others are donated.

Recycled boxes repainted and repurposed as presents
Photo: Philip

A Season for Get-Togethers

Residents look forward to the decorations every year. “The neighbours would ask how I’ll be decorating the neighbourhood and when the lights would be up. It’s heartwarming to see neighbours coming together to admire the decorations and even take photos with them.”

Philip will also invite his neighbours to come to his flat to check out more Christmas decorations and enjoy festive snacks.

Like the common area, Philip’s home is decked out for the holidays

“This reminds me of my growing up days, where movie nights were held at the carpark. Everyone would gather with food and we’d all have a good time,” Philip reminisces. “I guess this is my way of bringing back the kampung spirit.”

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

#HOTH: Help Is Always Around Riqmah Kindness Corner

#HOTH: Help Is Always Around Riqmah Kindness Corner

Riqmah Kindess Corner was founded by Norhasyimah Awaludin and Asanul Fariq, to provide the needy with essential items

Asanul Fariq and Norhasyimah Awaludin stock a small space outside their Tampines flat with daily essentials such as rice, biscuits, drinks, and shower gels. They call it the Riqmah Kindness Corner, where anyone can take whatever they need, no questions asked.Norhasyimah Awaludin and Asanul Fariq founded Riqmah Kindess Corner to provide the needy with essential items

For the couple, giving back to the community has always been something that’s close to their hearts. “Years ago, we were volunteering, going door-to-door to provide the needy with groceries. We were helping a beneficiary rearrange her food items when we discovered that the cabinet was largely empty, except for a packet of instant noodles,” the couple recalls. “That incident really inspired us to try and help as many people as possible.”

The Riqmah Kindness Corner is restocked daily with items such as rice, biscuits and condensed milk

 

A Family Initiative to Help the Underprivileged 

Though the take-up for items at Riqmah Kindness Corner was initially slow, word soon spread. “The supplies that were supposed to last a month were gone in under a week,” Norhasyimah smiles. “We’re just happy to be able to reach out to so many people.”

Fariq also shares how his four sons, who are between 12 and 20 years old, restock supplies and keep Riqmah Kindness Corner organised. They also help in charity events that Riqmah Kindness Corner occasionally participates in.

Fariq and Norhasyimah with their four sons

“We once had to pack 150 care packs in two days. The whole family was about a quarter way through and decided to rest for the night. The following day, I woke up earlier to complete the task, only to find out that my youngest son, Irfan, had stayed up to finish the packing,” Fariq beams. “Through our efforts, we’re hoping to impart the values of giving and sharing to our sons— and they have really made us proud.”

 

Forming a Tight-Knit Community

As Riqmah Kindness Corner is right outside the couple’s home, Fariq and Norhasyimah often take the opportunity to greet those who come by, and strike up conversations. Over time, they have forged many friendships, within and beyond the neighbourhood.

“When word first got around, we had neighbours from different floors and blocks coming over to visit Riqmah Kindness Corner. Some of them were curious, but most of them offered words of encouragement and donations. These things really keep us going,” Norhasyimah says.

During festivities such as Hari Raya, Norshasyimah and Fariq would offer tudungs and baju kurungs to the community

 

Planting the Seed of Kindness

What motivates the couple the most is when they see acts of kindness spreading within and even beyond the neighbourhood.

Fariq and Norhasyimah’s neighbours who live directly across them, have been supportive of the Kindness Corner since it first started. “At times, our neighbours help the beneficiaries, especially the elderly, transport heavier items such as rice to the ground floor.”

Over the years, Riqmah Kindness Corner has received monetary and food contributions from neighbours, with additional stocks stored in the couple’s home

The couple’s act of kindness has also inspired kindness corners similar to Riqmah Kindness Corner in other towns. “We’re really heartened when we receive calls and texts on how to set up similar kindness corners,” they smile.

An annual celebration of the community spirit in our heartlands, the HDB Community Week showcases the rich tapestry of our heartland experiences, through an array of exciting and engaging activities. This year, we also launched the #OurGoodNeighbours challenge, as part of the Good Neighbours Movement. Residents were invited to share what they think it means to be a good neighbour through video submissions – watch them here:

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

#HOTH: Active Ageing in the Heartlands

#HOTH: Active Ageing in the Heartlands

With the support of HDB’s Friends of Our Heartlands (FOH) Volunteer Network, these Temasek Polytechnic students have designed a series of activities that encourages active ageing

Toh Zenaide (Zen) was 14 years old when her grandfather began displaying early symptoms of dementia. That was when it dawned on her that there are seniors like him who may face many struggles, and would require help and support to allow active ageing.

Spurred by her grandfather’s experience, Zen is now learning about active ageing and how to support the evolving needs and aspirations of seniors, as she pursues a Diploma in Social Sciences in Gerontology at Temasek Polytechnic.

For the past few years, HDB has been partnering Temasek Polytechnic in empowering students like Zen to play an active role in community-building. With the support of HDB’s Friends of Our Heartlands (FOH) Volunteer Network, Zen and her course mates have designed a variety of activities for seniors living in their towns – Punggol, Sengkang, Hougang, Bedok, Tampines and Pasir Ris – to support active ageing.

Promoting a Culture of Active Ageing

The students took great care in designing exercise, music, and arts and crafts activities to meet the seniors’ needs while promoting active ageing.

“For our exercise routines, we incorporated everyday items like umbrellas and towels,” says Zen’s coursemate, Ahmad Zaki bin Taufik.

Also, as the sessions had to be conducted virtually, the students simplified the exercises to make them easy to follow through a screen. “As we were not able to do the exercises with the seniors in person and help them with posture adjustments, we were worried if they would be able to gain as much as they can from these activities,” Zaki recalls.

The students hard at work to ensure the seniors can benefit as much as possible from the virtual sessions

But their worries were unfounded   as the seniors adapted quickly to the virtual experience, and  made the most of their time re-connecting and bonding with their friends online. One of the senior participants, Aunty Evelyn, says: “The activities by the students allowed me to see my friends online. The experience also gave me a new hobby and a chance to meet new and old friends in the neighbourhood. This was meaningful since staying home during the pandemic has felt lonely at times.”

Beyond physical well-being, the students also organised activities that seek to encourage active ageing through improving the seniors’ mental and cognitive health. The participants had the chance to get their hands dirty during art and craft activities, where they created clay art, colour paper collages and origami.

A variety of activities, such as exercises and art and craft, was planned for the seniors to encourage active ageing

The Intergenerational Ties That Bind

For Zaki, his interactions with the seniors are among the precious highlights of his academic journey.

“I got to speak with some very interesting and fun seniors who were very keen to participate in our activities. Their jovial personalities and enthusiasm often helped calm our nerves and break the ice as we conducted the activities, ultimately paving the way for a successful event,” Zaki says.

Echoing his sentiments, Zen says, “This experience has reaffirmed my desire to help the elderly community with active ageing, so that they can live their golden years comfortably.”

For more unique stories from the heartland, check out more reads from Humans of the Heartland.

Photos by Temasek Polytechnic

#HOTH: Heartland Tales from Jurong

#HOTH: Heartland Tales from Jurong

Uncover a different side of Jurong in this video that long-time resident Kai Yi and her classmates at Republic Polytechnic have produced.

Having lived in Jurong all her life, 21-year-old Tham Kai Yi knows there is a lot that her beloved town has to offer. This is especially so after Jurong went through exciting town-wide rejuvenation under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme.

Previously an industrial town, Jurong is now a modern and bustling town with a vibrant community, and home to a wide variety of facilities and recreational spaces.

To showcase a side of Jurong that many may not know, Kai Yi and her classmates at Republic Polytechnic produced a video about the town and some must-see places there.

My Jurong, My Home

Through making the video, Kai Yi found deeper appreciation for how well-connected and well-equipped her town is. “I didn’t really give much thought to such things previously. I probably took all these facilities and amenities for granted,” she says. “I also have so many food options and shops near home, so I don’t have to go far to get my daily necessities.”

Under the ROH programme, towns undergo a nip and tuck to make the town even better. Extensive greenery was introduced, and there are now more spaces for the community to come together.

As someone who loves nature and the outdoors, Kai Yi appreciates how there are now many beautiful green spaces around her home, like the neighbourhood park right next to her block. Or the revamped Jurong Lake Gardens, which has new and improved spaces such as nature-inspired play areas and grassland trails for the community to enjoy nature as well as take in scenic views of Jurong Lake.

Kai Yi shares, “I can easily go downstairs to take a walk and clear my mind, or go on a short walk to the nearby Jurong Lake Gardens.”

HDB blocks surrounding the beautiful Jurong Lake Gardens
Beautiful green spaces are just a walk away from Kai Yi’s home
Kai Yi has grown to appreciate her town where she grew up and lives in

Growing Up in Jurong

Kai Yi recalls how there was a strong community/ gotong royong spirit in Jurong in her growing up years. “There was a big space in the neighbourhood where kids would play soccer, and anyone could just join in the game,” she reminisces. “I remember it was always so fun and welcoming.”

Lush greenery and recreational spaces for residents
The playground in Kai Yi’s neighbourhood has been rejuvenated for a new generation of children

Kai Yi’s closest neighbours are a Malay family, who used to take care of Kai Yi after school when her parents were at work. “I would play with the daughter, who is my age and was from the same school. Till today, our families are still close, and we would give each other goodies or red packets during special occasions like Hari Raya and Chinese New Year.”

Kai Yi also gave special mention to one of her favourite food stall owners. “There’s a Western food stall at the coffee shop near my house, which sells dishes that are affordable and taste just like home-cooked food,” she shares.

“The owners there recognise me by now. Whenever they see me, they will simply ask me, ‘Same thing?’ Because they have memorised my favourite dish – grilled fish with rice!”

“Jurong has always been a vibrant town and the underrated gem of the West. I’m proud to be a Jurong resident,” Kai Yi smiles.

Facilities such as convenience stores are conveniently located right at Kai Yi’s doorstep, where she can also find friendly and familiar faces

Watch another video by Kai Yi and her classmates to learn more about Toa Payoh Town and its heritage.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg