Some of our grandfathers worked as rickshaw pullers, while others worked in plantations and construction sites. Some of our grandmothers, on the other hand, were Samsui women who provided invaluable support for the construction industry, building Toa Payoh housing estate under the scorching sun. There is so much our nation’s pioneers have done for us, but how many of us take the time to understand them?
I started this project as a tribute to the pioneer generation to thank them for their efforts in making Singapore what it is today. It isn’t much but it is the only way I know to thank them as a photographer. I went about Singapore to find these people and talked to them to learn about their stories.
Some opened up to me, telling me of their close calls with death, and some found love. Through talking to them, I learnt a lot about the hardships they dealt with. Their stories taught me many things, the most important of which is to never give up on your dreams. Walk if you can’t run, and crawl if you can’t walk. But no matter what, always keep moving towards your dream.
To all the people I have interviewed, a huge thank you for participating in the interview. But more importantly, thanks for all the hard work you’ve put in to bring Singapore to where it is today.
A: Having 5 grandchildren and being able to spend time with them.
A: When I am here people watching.
Q: What is your happiest memory/moment?
A: Being able to travel overseas especially to Japan with my kids and grandchildren.
A: When I am working on a boat.
A: When eating my favourite food, and also when I go out for a walk with my kids.
A: While doing volunteer work for the public free clinic society.
A: When I can hang out with my family.
A: I am happiest when my kids get good results for their exams.
A: When I was 16 because I could bring girls out to clubs! Also things were less expensive back then.
A: When I am healthy and fit!
A: When I am eating delicious Singapore food.
A: I am most happy when I am cooking for my family.
A: When I can save money from selling packets of tissue.
A: I am happy when I have a job, food on the table, and enough money.
A: I am happy when I get to travel. I’ve been to a few places and I love Taiwan.
Fifty years ago, there was no Marina Bay Sands, there was no ION orchard, and there was no modern Singapore. We were a small island without any natural resources – those were difficult times.
My grandmother used to tell me her stories of how hard life was back then. She was 25 when the racial riots happened and it was a really frightening experience for her. She rushed to close her shop when the riots broke out to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. It was chaotic. Many lives were lost. Till today, she keeps reminding us how lucky we are and we ought to be more appreciative of what we have now.
Listening to my grandmother talk about the past, it makes me appreciate how simple things like these are sufficient to make the Pioneers happy. We have so much to learn, to count our blessings and be content with what we have. Thank you for all your contribution and efforts in building a modern Singapore. We salute you.
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