Remarks by Mr Amrin Amin, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Health, at Sunlove Home Seniors' Annual Sports Day 2018, 8 October 2018

Mr Wee Lin, Chairman, Sunlove Home

Mr Fong Yew Chan, Chief Technology Officer, Republic Polytechnic

Ladies and Gentlemen

Good morning.

1.        I am very happy to join you today at Sunlove Home Seniors’ Annual Sports Day. Today, we have students from Republic Polytechnic co-organising this event for the seniors from Sunlove Home – I am heartened by the intergenerational collaboration.
       
2.        Singapore’s population is rapidly ageing. Today, one in seven Singaporeans is 65 years and above. By 2030, this ratio will be one in four. A reason for this is that Singaporeans are living longer. We are also cheered by the fact that we are staying healthier for longer.

3.        VWOs like Sunlove are crucial in helping our seniors maintain their health and wellbeing as they age. Sunlove promotes active ageing through a variety of programmes, such as active master gym, swimming, yoga and Zumba. I’ve heard that some 150 seniors are already taking part in these activities to remain mentally, physically and socially active. Some have shared with me that not only have they become healthier through the active ageing programmes, they have also made many friends and are happier. 

4.        Supporting our seniors to age with grace and confidence is a whole-of-society effort and inter-generational harmony is key. Through programmes such as this, our seniors can form meaningful friendships with our youths, and in return, our youths can learn from the valuable experiences of the seniors. I would also like to thank Republic Polytechnic for supporting this cause in rallying its students to step forward to participate in such a meaningful event.

5.        Do enjoy the exciting programme that Sunlove has lined up for you! More importantly, do make regular exercise and eating a healthy diet part of your lives. Have a lovely day and thank you.