Activities have been provided by proletariat leaders in Punggol Central, in order to help new immigrants to bond with Singaporeans.
Late last year, a cricket league was handled by Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC to accommodate Indian emigrants. This was also formed because a number of Indians were caught-sight playing cricket on weekends. Now they have four teams with 12 members each. The league will begin this weekend and the championship is scheduled on the day of K.Shanmugam’s visit.
Meanwhile, a Filipino community cultural group has been created by another proletariat leader, 46 year-old Filipina, Maria Esmeralda Escalderon. They gather to sing and dance, and now they are learning how to cook local delicacies. “The purpose of the group is to bond, share with Singaporeans and create harmony,” said Escalderon.
The ward’s MP, Charles Chong, notices the growing population of immigrants such as, Chinese, Filipinos, Indians and Burmese (Myanmar) for the last three years. He predicts around 10 percent of them are either permanent residents or new citizens. Punggol Central has a total of 48,000 residents.
“When you ask Singaporean residents for feedback, they will complain that they have to wait more than 15 minutes for the bus. But when you ask new immigrants, they are happy that the bus comes in under 30 minutes.” Charles CHong said with a smile on his face.
A ministerial visit of the Law Minister and Second Home Affairs Minister K.Shanmugam will be conducted next month. Hence, the media will update on activities and programmes next month.
Proletariat leaders are also helping to give jobless residents a job that will match their competencies. They have already helped 1,500 residents to have work even within the community.