Page 47 - NYAA Annual Report 2024

Launch of The Lion’s Roar by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
The ED and Deputy ED were honoured to attend the launch of The Lion’s Roar, the second volume of the
biography of Mr S. Rajaratnam, Singapore’s former Foreign Minister, authored by Ms Irene Ng, former Member
of Parliament for Tampines GRC.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who officiated the launch, reflected on Mr Rajaratnam’s profound legacy,
noting his sharp insights into economics, history, politics, and more. PM Wong shared how reading and
rereading Mr. Rajaratnam’s works inspires him.

The event, held on 22 July 2024, served as a poignant reminder of Mr Rajaratnam’s timeless ideals and vision
of a united Singapore. The PM urged all Singaporeans to honour this legacy by contributing to the ongoing
nation-building journey.

Attended by former and current Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, and other VIPs, the event was a
touching tribute to one of Singapore’s founding leaders and his enduring contributions to the nation.

Fundraising Dinner for North East Community Development
ED and Deputy ED, invited by Mr Mah Bow Tan, attended a fundraising dinner event for the North East
Community Development. The event was graced by Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for Social and Family
Development and Second Minister for Health; Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and
the Environment and Manpower; Mr Desmond Choo, Mayor of Northeast District; Professor Charlene Chen,
new PAP candidate for Tampines GRC; and former Minister for National Development, Mr Mah Bow Tan.

The evening felt like a family reunion of grassroots leaders in the Northeast District, reflecting the strong
camaraderie and dedication among community leaders to support local development initiatives.

Introduction of Digital Arts to Singapore
The Digital Art Week Asia was held in August 2024 at The Heritage 1930s Tiong Bahru conservation district.
While the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director have longstanding ties with many local and
international artists, this exhibition introduced them to a new realm of digital expression.

They were pleased to attend the Digital Art Week Asia exhibition and expressed appreciation to Mr Warren
Wee, a strong supporter of NYAA’s youth development efforts. As host, creative director, and curator of the
event, Mr Wee personally guided them through the exhibition and provided insight into the digital art pieces
presented.

In light of this inspiring experience, NYAA will explore opportunities to incorporate digital arts as a creative
medium for youth, leveraging technology for artistic expression.

The Unstoppable Journey
The ED believes in quietly contributing to society without seeking recognition and imparts this value to the
younger generation. The ED was pleasantly surprised to receive a copy of the book Unstoppable: The Woman
Driven By Passion and Purpose by Ms Zaibun Siraj, a distinguished member of Singapore society and a founding
member of AWARE and former NYAA Council Member.

The book features a 20-page segment dedicated to the NYAA mission under the chapter titled “The Youth
Is The Hope Of Our Future.” Including NYAA in such meaningful work is an honour and a validation of the
organisation’s efforts to inspire and nurture the next generation.

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