On Saturday, Singapore marks a momentous milestone: its 60th year of independence. SG60 is not just a commemoration of the nation’s birth but a celebration of its remarkable transformation from a fledgling city-state to a global metropolis. 

Singapore’s journey began on August 9, 1965, with the Proclamation of Independence. The document, drafted by Minister for Law Edmund Barker and signed by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, announced Singapore’s separation from Malaysia and its emergence as a sovereign, democratic, and independent nation. The proclamation declared Singapore’s commitment to justice, equality, and the welfare of its people, a vision that has guided the nation for six decades.

“Now I LEE KUAN YEW Prime Minister of Singapore, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AND DECLARE on behalf of the people and the Government of Singapore that as from today the ninth day of August in the year one thousand nine hundred and sixty-five Singapore shall forever be a sovereign democratic and independent nation, founded upon the principles of justice and ever seeking the welfare and happiness of her people in a more just and equal society.”

SG60 is more than a birthday; it is a national moment to reflect on Singapore’s journey, celebrate its achievements, and reaffirm the values that have shaped its identity. As Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasised, SG60 is a time for all Singaporeans to reflect on the values that brought the country this far—resilience, unity, multiculturalism, and openness—and to look ahead to the future.

The theme for SG60, “Building Our Singapore Together,” highlights the importance of collective effort in shaping the nation’s next chapter. It is a call for every Singaporean to connect, care, and contribute, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and community spirit.

SG60 is marked by a vibrant calendar of events that span the arts, sports, family, and community engagement. These include the SG60 Homecoming Concert at Jewel Changi Airport on August 1, featuring homegrown stars like Stefanie Sun, Kit Chan, and Regina Song. The event is part of Changi Airport Group’s “Together, We Make Magic” series, which also includes horticultural displays and a spectacular outdoor light-up along Airport Boulevard.

The National Family Festival on May 31 was a large-scale event promoting family values and intergenerational bonding, reinforcing the importance of strong family ties in Singapore’s social fabric. On June 24, the International Conference on Cohesive Societies brought together local and global leaders, fostering interfaith and multicultural dialogue, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to harmony and inclusivity. Between July 11 to 20, Singapore hosted the World Aquatics Championships with the world’s top aquatic athletes participating. This event showcased Singapore’s status as a global sporting hub and the World Aquatics Masters Championships also offered opportunities for local participation. 

GetActive! Singapore in July and August is a nationwide movement encouraging Singaporeans to celebrate National Day through sports and active living, with companies and communities hosting their own activities. The Purple Parade is Singapore’s largest disability inclusion movement, promoting awareness and support for persons with disabilities, a testament to the nation’s commitment to inclusivity.

At the Changi Airport SG60 Outdoor Light-Up and Floral Displays, iconic locations like the Merlion, Toa Payoh Dragon Playground, and Gardens by the Bay will be illuminated, while floral installations across Changi’s terminals and Jewel Changi Airport feature the national flower, Vanda Miss Joaquim, and a six-metre-high floral Merlion made from 60 plant types. The Arts and Heritage Triple Bill is a series of special arts and heritage events that invites Singaporeans to explore the nation’s history and identity, fostering reflection and unity.

Singapore’s progress over the past 60 years is a testament to its people’s resilience and determination. From its early struggles with unemployment, housing shortages, and limited resources, the nation has become a global financial centre, a leader in education and healthcare, and a model of multicultural harmony.

Key milestones include:

• Economic Transformation: From a trading port to a diversified economy driven by innovation and technology.
• Housing and Urban Development: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) provided affordable homes, transforming the cityscape and improving living standards.
• Education and Workforce: Investments in education created a skilled workforce, powering Singapore’s economic growth.
• Multiculturalism and Social Cohesion: Policies promoting racial and religious harmony have fostered a stable, inclusive society.

SG60 is not just a look back; it is a rallying call to shape the next chapter of the Singapore story. The celebrations emphasise the need for Singaporeans to stay united, embrace change, and continue building a society that is open, resilient, and caring. The Forward Singapore exercise, which informs the SG60 theme, encourages citizens to participate in shaping policies and initiatives, ensuring that Singapore remains a place of opportunity and hope for future generations.

At the core of SG60 are the values that have defined Singapore’s journey. These include multiculturalism, which is celebrated through events like the Chingay Parade and the International Conference on Cohesive Societies, reinforcing the importance of diversity and harmony; resilience, which honours stories of overcoming adversity, from the early days of independence to the challenges of a fast-changing world; openness and boldness, which are reflected in Singapore’s embrace of globalisation, innovation, and new ideas; and care and contribution, which are encouraged through community initiatives, volunteerism, and efforts to support the vulnerable.

As Singapore turns 60, the nation pauses to celebrate not just its achievements, but the spirit of its people. From grand concerts and sporting events to community festivals and acts of kindness, SG60 is a reminder that Singapore’s greatest strength lies in its unity and collective resolve. Whether you are attending a concert at Jewel Changi Airport, participating in a community walkathon, or simply reflecting on the nation’s journey, SG60 offers every Singaporean a chance to be part of something bigger, a shared story of hope, progress, and togetherness.

As the red and white flags fly high and familiar songs fill the air, Singaporeans are reminded that the journey continues, powered by the same values and spirit that have always defined this remarkable city-state. 

Happy birthday, Singapore! Happy SG60! And Majulah Singapura!