Mr Zainul Abidin graces certificate presentation ceremony for Project Khwaish VII

Twenty-nine young Singaporeans returned on 24 December 2007 from a journey of selfless and charitable service in aid of underprivileged and needy children in Punjab, India. They had left for Bhaloor village in Moga, Punjab, on 7 December 2007 under as YSA’s Project Khwaish VI banner. The word “Khwaish” means hopes or aspirations in Punjabi.

In recognition of their invaluable service to the Indian community, Mr Zainul Abidin Rasheed, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented certificates to the participants at a ceremony on 13 May 2008 at Singapore Management University.

During his address, Mr Zainul Abidin expressed his amazement at the spirit of brotherhood, tolerance and respect of other beliefs among the Sikhs. He also spoke of the friends he has within the community and stated that the community has inspired him as to what a small minority could do if it gets its fundamentals right. He also congratulated YSA and the participants of Project Khwaish VII on the successful completion of the project. He urged the participants to continue on their journey of community service.

Four participants – Ibrahim Musa, Valliammai N. S., Ravinder Kaur and Ms Lim Hui Shan – provided a personal perspective of their experiences in Punjab. This was followed by the presentation of certificates and a multi-media show on the project. The ceremony was followed by a dinner reception.

YSA will lead its eight community service expedition to Punjab, India, in December 2008.

Quotable Quote

“The project certainly left a deep impression on these young people. Congratulations on the good work! Do convey my congratulations and best wishes to all the participants. They have done Singapore proud.”

Mr Lee Hsien Loong
Prime Minister
Singapore