MICA(P) 147/10/2014 Dec 2015 - Jan 2016

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E ~ P SID ag N e I 5 660th0th AnniversaryAnniversary OOpenpen HouseHouse aatt SSADeaf!ADeaf! 2 SIGNAL Newsletter Contents

3 EDITORIAL 4 ANNOUNCEMENTS • Membership Renewal Reminder • Newly Formed Social Group of the Deaf (SGD)

6 FEATURE! • A Gala Dinner to Celebrate 60 Years! • 60th Anniversary Open House at SADeaf! • A Day in the Life of... • Bryan Makes the Breakthrough • A New Watch to Alert the Deaf of Imminent Danger Editorial Team

14 EVENTS Alvan Yap • SADeaf Flag Day Amidst a Hazy Day Ranee Govindram • National Deaf Children’s Camp Tan Lizhen • 6th World Federation of the Deaf Contributors: Youth Camp in Istanbul • Kathleen Holmberg • Youth General Assembly & XVII • Loh Eng Meng World Congress in Turkey • Tay Lay Hong • Spectacular Purple Parade • Sylvia Teng 2015 • James Ong • First Aid Awareness Talk • Danny Ng • Jian Hao Makes a Splash! • Elizabeth Khoo • SSD Students trip to • Yew Hau En Malacca • Lisa Loh • Workshop on Rhythm of • Yeong Zhi Wei the Drums • Chua Kim Leng • CapitaLand Celebrates Volunteerism We would like to highlight and thank Mr Raymond Lee, one of our dedicated volunteers, for help us with event photography, including the Gala Dinner, fi rst aid talk, Open House, and more! Thank you, Raymond! Designed and printed by Ee Tai Press Pte Ltd • EDITORIAL • SIGNAL Newsletter 3 A New Year Beckons (And Reflections On the Old) Alvan Yap Deputy Director, SADeaf

First, here’s wishing a happy new year to all! Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) courses, starting a Deafblind support group, revamping our website, roping in new Let’s pause to refl ect on the year just past. ambassadors GoodWater Company Pte Ltd and Hengrich It was a momentous one for both Singapore Pte Ltd, and hosting the third Deaf Dialogue. and SADeaf as we celebrated our nation’s Golden Jubilee and the association’s 60th The volunteers and staff of SADeaf are proud to have played anniversary. We marked these occasions with a role in making all these events and achievements possible our 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Open with various partners from the government, arts, corporate House, as well as the Sign for SG50 event. and sporting spheres.

This year also witnessed many fi rsts for our This year, we can look forward to the World Federation for sign language interpretation service. We the Deaf-related events which SADeaf would be hosting for welcomed the fi rst time ‘live’ interpretation the fi rst time. was provided for the national budget speech and general election rallies, at the ASEAN Last but not least, a new Executive Council (Exco) was Para Games opening and closing ceremonies, formed after our Annual General Meeting on 26 September and in the fi rst mainstream theatre production 2015. SADeaf would like to thank the following former ‘’TRIBES’’ by Pangdemonium. Exco members, who have stepped down, for their valuable contributions over their two-year term. We also organised our fi rst National Deaf Youth Camp and fi rst National Deaf Dr Low Wong Kein (president) Children’s Camp by the Singapore Deaf Youth Mr Yeo Chi Jin Alfred (vice president) Section, and noted with delight the hosting Ms Wong Yuen Chinn Cynthia (honorary secretary) of the fi rst National Deaf Games by Deaf Mr Tan Keng Sin Patrick (honorary treasurer) Sports Association. We are collaborating Mr Low Boon Hon (honorary assistant treasurer) with the National Gallery Singapore to provide guided tours with sign language Mr Goh Jwee How Kelvin (council member) interpretation - another fi rst. The ASEAN Mr Chua Cheng Lye Steven (council member) Para Games opening ceremony was also Ms Devyani Vaishampayan (council member) the fi rst time live captioning was provided Ms Tiah Tin Han Adeline (council member) at such a major event hosted by Singapore. We also welcome on board the new Exco team and look Due to increasing demand for notetaking forward to working with them. services, SADeaf also recruited its fi rst full-time notetakers early last year. Other Here’s wishing all clients, members, volunteers, supporters highlights include the launch of new and staff a wonderful 2016 ahead!

HAVE For feedback, comments and suggestions on Signal Newsletter, you YOUR can email [email protected] or mail to The Singapore Association SAY for the Deaf, 227 Mountbatten Road, Singapore 397998. 4 SIGNAL Newsletter • ANNOUNCEMENTS • MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL REMINDER

It’s time to renew your SADeaf membership again!

Find out more about membership privileges and benefi ts at www.sadeaf.org.sg/join-us/ be-our-member

To continue enjoying these privileges and benefi ts, we strongly urge you to renew your membership.

Please complete and mail the Membership Renewal Form (downloadable from the webpage) with a crossed cheque payable to ‘The Singapore Association for the Deaf’. Cash payments can also be made in person at the Association during offi ce hours (8.30am to 5.30pm) from Monday to Friday. On Wednesdays, our front offi ce is open till 9pm.

A hard copy of this reminder has been mailed to all members.

If you have any queries on your membership, please contact our Admin Assistant at 6344 8274 ext. 14, SMS 9226 7637 or email [email protected].

Thank you very much and we look forward to welcoming you as our member again!

Ambassadors for the Deaf are our cherished partners who believe in, and are committed to, playing a part for the Deaf and hard-of- hearing community in Singapore. Together, we work to raise public Ambassadors awareness of deafness, support our fundraising activities and provide employment opportunities. Please contact Corporate Affairs For The Deaf Manager Ms Ranee at [email protected] to find out more.. ABC Tissue Hearing Express AV-Science Marketing Pte Ltd Barclays Technology Centre Ltd ERA Singapore Pte Ltd Field Catering and Supplies Pte Ltd Fraser and Neave, Ltd Grid Synergy Pte Ltd Hengrich Pte Ltd Integrated Supply and Trading, BP Singapore Pte Ltd Kentucky Fried Chicken Management Pte Ltd Marina Bay Sands Singapore Pte Ltd Merrylin Holdings (Singapore) Pte Ltd Ms Valentane Huang Ti Xiang Mun Siong Engineering Ltd Natural Cooling Holdings Ltd Select Group Ltd Sivantos Pte Ltd The GoodWater Company Pte Ltd The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd Vobis Enterprise Pte Ltd • ANNOUNCEMENTS • SIGNAL Newsletter 5

INTRODUCING.. SOCIAL GROUP OF THE DEAF Ms Tay Lay Hong Chairperson of SGD 2. To inculcate awareness in the SGD members of general affairs and contributions to nation building;

3. To create positive impact on the Deaf community by exchanging ideas, building good relationships;

4. To provide support and take action to improve their quality of life;

5. To aim relentlessly for growth, seeking every opportunity for strengthening stronger team for better future.

Our Core Values Respect individual Deaf and Hard-of-hearing persons for their independence, dignity and diversity.

Signifi cance of Logo Red - Colour of happiness, joyous and celebrative spirit Orange – Colour of warmth and vibrant spirit Yellow – Colour of hope and supportive spirit A new Social Group of the Deaf (SGD) has been set up, which aims to bring the Deaf If you wish to join SGD, please contact James Ong via email and hard-of-hearing community together [email protected] or SMS 9688 5083. for social gatherings and activities such as healthy cooking workshops and educational tours to places such as Megazip Adventure Park, Amped Trampoline Park as well as overseas trips.

I would like to encourage SADeaf to join us in SGD and participate in the gamut of exciting ng and educational activities we are planning for the year ahead!

SGD Mission Statement Deaf community from all walks of life to come together, creating positive impact, The newly-formed SGD Committee exchanging ideas and building good relationships to improve their quality of life. Chairman : Tay Lay Hong Treasurer : Celissa Zhong Our motto Vice Chairman : Teo Bee Chuan To aim relentlessly for growth, seeking every opportunity for continuous unity Creative Designer : Catherine Goh and strengthening strong teamwork for a Secretary : James Ong better future. Committee Members : Ken Neo Our Mission Judy Ong 1. To inculcate awareness in the general Ho Amy public of the SGD members’ educational, Sunny Tian social, cultural, sports and recreational Naomi Ng needs; 6 SIGNAL Newsletter • FEATURE! • A Gala Dinner To Celebrate

SADeaf turns sixty - and what better way to celebrate this milestone than a gala dinner at the opulent Resort World Sentosa? Over 250 guests, including our deaf and hard- of-hearing clients and their families, turned up in force to enjoy a fi ne meal there on 19 September 2015 to celebrate SADeaf’s 60th birthday.

The guest-of-honour for the event was Ms Low Yen Ling, Parliamentary Secretary (Ministry of Education and Ministry Dance to 60s music of Trade & Industry) and Mayor of South West District.

Selfi e Time! The 60th Anniversary committee, chaired by Ms Tay Lay Hong, decided on an apt 1960s theme for the event. Many Emcees for the guests came dressed in the fashions and styles of the evening ...Billy and swinging 60s for a roaring good ole time. It was also a time Wong Ai Ling to reminisce on the historical journey leading to the vast transformation in the lives of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Singapore through the past six decades.

Guests were treated to an array of programmes, such as a visually stunning performance by HI Theatre, a deaf- Meeting the Guests orientated mime group, traditional games and, of course, a best-dressed contest plus lucky draw fi nale.

The celebrations also included an awards presentation ceremony in recognition of the contributions of various individuals, organisations and corporates to the Deaf A family group The Bracer Watch photo with GOH launched at Gala Dinner

The registration team Guests signing

A toast for the 60th Anniversary The SADeaf team who put the event together! • FEATURE! • SIGNAL Newsletter 7

James Ong 60 Years! Community Services

Sui Fai having Sandy, a volunteer (right) fun with bubbles community. Award recipients included outstanding Deaf explaining a traditional game individuals who overcame obstacles to achieve academic success, dedicated teachers and individuals, as well as groups and companies that have supported SADeaf over the years in their own ways.

The event was made possible through the generous support SADeaf Audiologists Sui Fai and Sunil of various organisations and individuals. We would like to having ball of a time thank our Ambassadors for the Deaf, namely ABC Tissue Hearing Express, AV-Science Marketing Pte Ltd, Barclays Technology Centre Ltd, ERA Singapore Pte Ltd, Field Catering and Supplies Pte Ltd, Fraser and Neave, Ltd, Grid Synergy Pte Ltd, Hengrich Pte Ltd, Integrated Supply and Trading, BP Singapore Pte Ltd, Kentucky Fried Chicken Management Pte Ltd, Marina Bay Sands Singapore Pte Ltd, Merrylin Holdings (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Ms Valentane Huang Ti Xiang, Mun Siong Engineering Ltd, Natural Cooling Holdings Ltd, Select Deaf Achievers Award recipients Group Ltd, Sivantos Pte Ltd, The Goodwater Company Pte Ltd, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd and Vobis Enterprise Pte Ltd for their continued support to our organisation and community.

We would also like to express our appreciation to Ms Low Yen Ling and all our volunteers, sponsors, donors, members

and clients who had played a part in the success of the 60th GOH with SADeaf Ambassadors Anniversary Gala Dinner.

SAdeaf Staff Long Service Award WiWWinnersnnn ers withwiw th DrDr ChristopherChChrists oppher LowLoLow It’s boogie time The Dancing Couple

I won!

One for the album.. GOH withh Certifi cates of appreciation presented interpreter Teo Zhi Xiong to our volunteers 8 SIGNAL Newsletter • FEATURE! • 60th Anniversary Sylvia Teng Open House at SADeaf! Honorary Secretary, SADeaf

Ms Low Yen Ling having a game of 5 stones Ms Low and Mr Sim Gim Guan blowing bubbles while SADeaf President Ms Irene Yee with Ms Low with Mr Sim Gim Guan, CEO of NCSS Ms Irene Yee Choy Peng, President of SADeaf (2nd left) at a handicraft stall and Ms Tay Lay Hong, SADeaf Board, look on

Chaptek, fi ve stones, pick up sticks, paper balls and bubble Our guests spent an enjoyable afternoon with balloons - these were the traditional games which many of our members, clients and Executive Council our guests and visitors played during our 60th Anniversary members. Besides enjoying performances Open House cum Carnival on 28 November 2015 from such as line dancing and bokwa, they gained 12 noon to 8pm. a better understanding of SADeaf’s history and services provided from the infographics SADeaf was honoured to have Ms Low Yen Ling (Parliamentary on display. Secretary, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Trade and Industry) to grace the Open House as our guest-of-honour, Everyone also had the opportunity to enjoy together with our valued partners from the various government a little retail therapy via the shopping belt agencies such as Mr Sim Gim Guan, CEO of NCSS, as well outside the classrooms, where we had our as Ms Phyllis Chua and Ms Christina Michael from Special Deaf and hard-of-hearing entrepreneurs set Education, Education Services Division, MOE. up stalls selling their crafts. The cash registers

SADeaf Deputy Director Mr Alvan Yap SADeaf Past President Dr Christopher Low Wong greeting Ms Low Having a chat in the MVS café Kien and SADeaf Hon Secretary Ms Sylvia Teng

A group shot of guests and SADeaf Board members at SDYS member Yew Hau En briefi ng Ms Low on SDYS activities the Open House • FEATURE! • SIGNAL Newsletter 9

Ms Irene Yee, President of SADeaf, Ms Low presenting prize to the One for the album with the GOH.. New Ms Low with Ms Tay Lay Hong, presenting a Merdeaf Mascot to top lucky draw prize winner SADeaf Board member Mr Sean Tan, his Chairperson of Open House Ms Low wife and daughter Organising Committee

SDYS members with GOH, guests and SADeaf Board members

A group photo with the SADeaf line dancers

rang as many showed their support in the most tangible way!

Thank you for spending your Saturday with us and our heartfelt appreciation to the organising committee, staff members, volunteers, my fellow Executive Council members and kind sponsors namely AKONA Pte Ltd, Fun Toast GOH Ms Low reading SADeaf history Pte Ltd, Gogreen Holdings Pte Ltd, Puregold. from the infographics on display sg Pte Ltd, Sentosa Luge Company Pte Ltd, SunMoon Distribution & Trading Pte Ltd.

Ms Low and Mr Sim Gim Guan trying out a hearing equipment at Sivantos booth Guests watch a line dance performance

A Bokwa Dance Applause in sign language 10 SIGNAL Newsletter • FEATURE! • A Day in the Life of ...

The spotlight in this issue falls on our Accounts Offi cer Danny Ng. Danny, who has been with SADeaf for almost six years, started as a Deaf Access Assistant for 1.5 years before moving over to the Finance Department - where he has been for the past 4.5 years. Let’s fi nd out more about him and what he does!

How did you come to know of SADeaf or come to join SADeaf?

When I was looking for a job after my graduation, I approached Singapore Pools which suggested that I apply to SADeaf. I did so successfully and after a stint as a Deaf Access Assistant with the Deaf Access Service side, I requested for a transfer to the Finance department because of my interest in accounts work.

What does your job involve?

I handle the Accounts Receivable/Accounts Payable matters, the monthly account closing reports and reconciliation with to keep track of outstanding payments/ two schools - SSD and MVS. invoices and follow up with the various departments concerned; I have to churn How do you fi nd your work? Any memorable cases or out the donation report and issue tax- incidents? exemption receipts for our donors; on the fi rst week of every month, I am very busy I fi nd working in Accounts meaningful and challenging as with the monthly account closing report I could learn new skills; I had originally studied Electronics and ensuring all supporting documents are and Computer Engineering in Ngee Ann Polytechnic. In submitted. the beginning, I faced some diffi cult times and challenges in communicating with my supervisor due to my deafness. Sometimes I have to reject some claims or What complicated matters was that I was new to the accounts invoices and then follow up to ensure the fi eld and my supervisor was also new to sign language! procedures are adhered to. I also go to the bank every Tuesday and Friday to bank in I even thought of giving the monies collected from the departments up, but my family, for the various programme and activities. friends and colleagues motivated me and asked My other life outside the offi ce.. me to persevere and have patience. Now my My hobbies are travelling, collecting LEGO supervisor and I have items, sleeping and playing sports. been working together well for almost fi ve years My dream is…. already - that is a good sign! … to travel around the world because I want to see and know more about nature, A typical work day for as well as learn more about other cultures, you involves.. including Deaf cultures, which I feel is meaningful. I also love sightseeing! .. quite a lot of fi nance- related tasks. I have • FEATURE! • SIGNAL Newsletter 11 Bryan Makes The Breakthrough!

Ranee Govindram Corporate Affairs

Bryan Chong was about a year old when his parents discovered that he was deaf. Eventually diagnosed with profound hearing loss, the growing-up years were not easy for Bryan. This was especially true during his early school years when he often encountered bullying and also had diffi culty socialising with his peers.

But that did not dampen Bryan’s burning desire to excel in his studies. His hard work paid off and it was a proud moment for him and his family when he was selected, in October 2015, to be one of the three awardees of the Asia Pacifi c Bryan receiving his scholarship award from Ms Low Breweries (APB) Foundation Scholarship. Yen Ling, Parliamentary Secretary (Education) Now in its 11th year, the scholarship is given to outstanding students with physical and sensory disabilities. Recipients get an annual allowance of $12,000 to cover their course fees in university.

Bryan, who is now reading psychology at Nanyang Technological University, recalls: “I coped in school by doing the best I could do in whatever I did, be it paying attention in class, studying diligently and focusing during external private tuition sessions.’’

He also attributes his determination to succeed in whatever he does to the support Bryan (extreme right) with the GOH and and motivation from his parents. “My parents other scholarship recipients, their parents and inspired me to do the best I can to make them representatives from SPD and APBF. proud by nurturing me and helping me to be on the same platform as other individuals”, he “Challenges are what makes life interesting; overcoming them is said. what makes life meaningful. I have been shaped by experiences, both good and bad, but experiences maketh a man. I am a Bryan describes himself as an “easy-going person who believes in putting his best foot forward,” he muses. person” who likes to spend time with family and friends. He acknowledges that life for him as a The future is indeed bright for this positive thinker who aspires to deaf person would be not be smooth sailing but be the best he can and who “hopes to make a positive impact in that, paradoxically, is what he looks forward to. other individuals’ lives in future.” 12 SIGNAL Newsletter • FEATURE! • A New Watch to Alert the Deaf of Imminent Danger

Ranee Govindram Corporate Affairs sounds above 100 or 115 decibels. The watch has a battery life of between 100 and 150 days on a single charge.

While the BRACER Watch aims to help people who are deaf or hard of hearing, it is also useful for seniors and youths who may be distracted with other tasks and which cause them not to be fully aware of their surroundings, according to Mr Sean Tan.

Testing out the Bracer watch at SADeaf carpark

The Goodwater Company, one of SADeaf’s Ambassadors, has launched a watch that can alert users, especially the deaf or hard of hearing, to imminent danger by picking up loud audio signals like car horns and fi re alarms.

Called the BRACER Watch, it was created by staff and students from Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) in coordination with The Goodwater Company. The company’s founder Sean Tan is Showing off the Bracer watch, from left to right: Mr an NYP alumnus and is also an Executive Council member of Alvan Yap, Deputy Director of SADeaf; Mr Sean Tan, Founder and CEO of The Goodwater Company, and SADeaf. Mr Wong Chee Chein, Nanyang Polytechnic Lecturer

Before launching the BRACER Watch to the public, a trial was conducted “We are pleased to collaborate with Sean with six SADeaf clients for about and The Goodwater Company, which share three weeks in August last year. the same innovative and enterprising spirit as They assessed its effectiveness in Nanyang Polytechnic. It has been heartening alerting users of potential dangers in to see the product put to good use and to Singapore’s urban environment. The have the opportunity to work with our alumni feedback was generally positive. in contributing to the community,” added Mr Edward Ho, Senior Director, School of Mr Alvan Yap, SADeaf’s Deputy Director, commented, “There Engineering, Nanyang Polytechnic. is still room for enhancing the device in terms of fi ne-tuning its sensitivity in detecting and recognising sounds linked to The GoodWater Company is selling the initial potentially hazardous situations. We are glad to continue batch of 100 Bracer watches for $200 each, working with GoodWater on further improvements.’’ with $50 from each sale going to SADeaf. The company has also signed cooperation The device detects noises above 95 decibels, such as car agreements with deaf associations in horns or fi re alarms, and alerts users by vibrating and fl ashing Cambodia, Vietnam and Indonesia to lights. In noisy environments, it can be adjusted to detect only distribute the watch. • EVENTS • SIGNAL Newsletter 13 SADeaf Flag Day Amidst a Hazy Day Tan Li Zhen Corporate Affairs

Staff volunteers from Deutsche Bank

SADeaf volunteers at HQ

Throughout the day, staff who were manning these stations kept a close watch on the PSI readings and advised the volunteers to go indoors at the nearest point should the PSI reading be in the unhealthy range as per NEA guidelines.

We would like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers, donors, including corporate donors who gave outright donations and a special thank you to Goodwater Company and Pasture Group for the N95 masks.

Raising funds together as a family A special “thank you” also to Rachel Freer at Deutsche Bank for going the extra mile by passing the hat round for a collection from her colleagues in the bank. The SADeaf Flag Day, a key fundraising event for the Singapore Association for the The Flag Day Collection may not have been as much as hoped Deaf, was held on Saturday 3rd October – a for, but every dollar and cent received makes a big difference day that saw one of the worst haze days in in our efforts to supplement the cost of the many services and Singapore. programmes run by SADeaf for the benefi t of our deaf and hard of hearing clients. But that did not deter our 79 dedicated volunteers and staff from walking the streets islandwide with donation bags in hand to seek much needed funds.

Donning N95 masks, kindly donated by The Goodwater Company and Pasture Group, the committed volunteers, comprising mainly of Deutsche Bank staff and Singapore Institute of Management iCare students, covered six areas islandwide – Bugis, Jurong, Tampines, Toa Payoh and SADeaf HQ at Mountbatten – from 9am to 6pm. Staff and volunteers from SIM iCare at Bugis collection centre 14 SIGNAL Newsletter • EVENTS • Our First National Deaf Children Camp! Yew Hau En SDYS

2015 was a busy and exciting year for the Singapore Deaf Youth food was ready, the volunteers challenged Section (SDYS) indeed! Just a few weeks after participating in youngsters’ intelligence with cards and board the Purple Parade, SDYS hosted the 1st National Deaf Children games. Soon dinner was served, and parents Camp on 14 November 2015 at the Canopy @ Gardens By The and guests joined the campers in a hearty Bay. BBQ meal.

The campers started off and sparkled with fun activities such With their bellies full, the young campers were as ice-breaking games, drawings and cooking! Though the ready to settle down for the night. After a number of participants was small, that did not affect the quality good night’s sleep, the children campers were of fun time for all, including the volunteers who made sure the woken up at dawn to take part in a rigorous little campers had an enjoyable day inside the domes within Great Singapore Workout led by a strict the Gardens. The children were mesmerised by the greenery, instructor. It was then time to learn some life bright colours and scent of the fl owers, and much tickled by the skills such as cooking, cleaning and packing! cool droplets of fl oating mists bringing them closer to nature. The one-night camp ended successfully with Later on, while a little sad to leave the domes at the Bay, the children happy and energised and, most the kids cheered up when the heavenly smell of BBQ wafted importantly, bringing fond memories home through the air. To keep the young campers occupied until the with them.

Here’s looking forward to future Camps! • EVENTS • SIGNAL Newsletter 15

6th World Federation of the Deaf Youth Camp in Istanbul

Yeong Zhi Wei and Lisa Loh SDYS

the opportunity to use the International signs (IS) and gestures to interact with the Deaf from around the world, and learn Singapore Deaf Youth Section (SDYS) about their cultures as well as exchange experiences and members Lisa Loh and Yeong Zhi Wei were information with each other. Singapore’s representatives at the 6th World Federation of the Deaf Youth Section The highlight of the camp was the cultural night. Besides (WFDYS) Youth Camp held in Istanbul, Turkey, enjoying the visually appetising traditional dances, we stuffed from 19 July to 25 July 2015. The camp, with our stomach with traditional snacks and listened to their cultural the theme “Youth Beyond Diversity”, was a stories. Other than that, there were three presentations given historic one celebrating the 20th anniversary by three presenters from Hong Kong, Fiji and Sweden. The of WFDYS. Organised by WFDYS and the topics were: Turkish National Federation of the Deaf Youth Section, this camp was an important part of • Deaf Youth Movement WFDYS’s work to achieve full human rights for • My Journey Through Youth Politics deaf youth worldwide. • Do we need a gender perspective in the Deaf world?

It was an eye-opening and enriching Overall, the most amazing thing we gained from the camp is experience for the youth delegates who had to forge a good friendship with them.

Youth General Assembly and XVII World Congress in Turkey Besides attending the YGA, both of them attended workshops and seminars during the four-day Congress covering topics Lisa Loh and Chua Kim Leng such as Sign Language and Deaf Culture; Accessibility and SDYS Technology; Deaf Education; and Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs). Moreover, we visited many booths decorated with “Deaf” style, including Gallaudet University’s which had Lisa Loh, President of SDYS, also represented information on its education system and courses. Singapore at the 6th Youth General Assembly (YGA) on 27 July 2015, together with SDYS “Overall, we felt that these presentations were informative Treasurer, Chua Kim Leng. It was the fi rst and it was always good to know how and what other Deaf time Singapore had sent representatives to people have done to advocate for their rights in their the YGA, following SDYS’s appointment as countries, so we could be able to emulate them in our own a Youth Ordinary Member (YOM) last May. country. Besides, those nights after the daily programme With the status of YOM, SDYS has been were spent on social interaction with international Deaf granted to discuss opinions and interests friends which we truly enjoyed and from whom we learnt a and have the right to vote in YGA. lot of new things!” said Kim Leng. 16 SIGNAL Newsletter • EVENTS • Spectacular Purple Parade 2015

Ranee Govindram Corporate Affairs

The colour purple reigned at Hong Lim Park on 31 October 2015 as more than 7,000 people gathered there for the 3rd Purple Parade, a movement which supports inclusion and celebrates the abilities of persons with special needs.

SADeaf clients, members, staff, volunteers and friends of the Deaf turned up in full force, wearing purple t-shirts to join in the contingent march-past and partake in the revelry.

Joining the crowd in this spectacular event was Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his wife, Ms Ho Ching, who watched the march, wearing purple coloured spectacles handed out to many in the crowd by the organisers of the Purple Parade.

Lauding the organisers, led by Ms Denise Phua, Mayor of Central Singapore District and adviser to the Purple Parade Steering Committee, the Prime Minister said:

Wong AiAi Ling wiwithth BoaBoardrd membermember Mr StevenSteven LeeLee

The SADeaf Contingent • EVENTS • SIGNAL Newsletter 17

“We are building an inclusive society in Singapore where everybody has a place, where everybody can make a contribution.”

“Whether you have special abilities, whether you are an ordinary person... you all have something to contribute and in a different way, each one of us is somehow special,” Mr Lee added.

Our youth group the Singapore Deaf Youth Section (SDYS) took the opportunity to raise funds by setting up a curry-puff stall at the carnival and raised a commendable sum of over $3,400!

A fi rst for the Purple Parade was the SADeaf contingent introduction of seven people from the special needs community representing the movement.

Promoting SGSL

SADeaf team at PP 18 SIGNAL Newsletter • EVENTS • First Aid Awareness Talk

Elizabeth Khoo Community Services

Mr Vincent Kwek, an instructor from the Singapore Red Cross Academy, conducted a First Aid Awareness Talk for 39 deaf participants at the SADeaf Hall on Saturday, 3 October 2015.

The participants were given basic lessons on the following topics:

• Emergency Action Plan • Choking: Conscious/Unconscious (Heimlich Manoeuvre) • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Mr Kwek also gave an hands-on demonstration of the Heimlich Manoeuvre pertaining to choking and CPR procedures.

Besides gaining basic knowledge on CPR, the participants Participants learning the proper CPR technique with the assistance of Instructor Vincent Kwek also learnt how to react calmly during an emergency. Certificates of participation were presented to all. It was indeed a fruitful session for the participants.

Participants listening attentively during a slide presentation. • EVENTS • SIGNAL Newsletter 19 Jian Hao Makes a Splash!

Loh Eng Meng The Singapore Association for the Deaf congratulates Tan Deaf Sports Association Jian Hao on his achievements and commend Deaf Sports Association (Singapore) for representing the Republic at the Deaf Games in Taoyuan. It was a moment to remember for Deaf national swimmer Tan Jian Hao when he was selected to represent Singapore at the 8th Asia Pacifi c Deaf Games held in Taoyuan, Taiwan. More than 1,000 participants from 22 countries competed in the Games. As the only athlete in the contingent of six, including fi ve offi cials from the Deaf Sports Association (DSA), attending the event, Jian Hao went all out to prove his mettle.

Jian Hao, who is 21 years old, was a fi rst- time participant in the Games held from 3 to 9 October 2015. He not only bettered his personal timing best (00:28:47) in The Singapore contingent the 50M freestyle, erasing his former timing (00:30:97), he also showed true The Asia Pacifi c Deaf Games, held every four years, is sportsmanship throughout the Games. equivalent to the Asian Games and Asian Paralympic Games. To compete in the Games, the athlete must be Mr Loh Eng Meng, Chef de Mission of the Deaf, defi ned as a hearing loss of at least 55 dB per tone Singapore contingent and President of average in the better ear. During the Games, all athletes DSA, said, “We are very proud of Jian Hao are guided using visual devices or systems. For instance, and believe in his potential as a swimmer.’’ the swimming races are started by using a two-colored Though Singapore has yet to win a medal light system instead of a starter pistol, while the football in the event since it previously participated referee uses a fl ag instead of blowing a whistle. iinn tthehe 66thth AAsiasia PaPPacicic fi c DeDeafaf GGamesama ese hheldeld iinn 20002000,, DSDSAA is ccononfi dedentnt tthathah t SiSingapore’sngapore’s dedeafaf The Deafl ympics Games (which is equivalent to Olympic atathleteshlettes wwouldouuldd ccontinueononttiinuue toto wworkorrk hhahardardrd aandndnd bbee Games and Paralympic Games) will be held in Samsun, abableblele ttoo bbrbringriinng hohhomeomeme a mmedalededalal iinn fuffuture.ututurere. Turkey, in July 2017. For updates, please follow DSA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DSAS.sg.

Singapore was among 22 countries which participated in the Asia Pacifi c Deaf Games 20 SIGNAL Newsletter • OUTINGS • SSD Students takes a trip back in time... to Malacca

Kathleen Holmberg Teacher, Singapore School for the Deaf

In front of the Portuguese fort - A Formosa

It was a trip back in time for students from the Singapore School We next took a stroll down the famous Jonker for the Deaf (SSD) when they embarked on their third learning Street, where time seemed to have stood still. journey abroad -- this time to Malacca. On the morning of 11 The old shop houses reminded the students November 2015, the nine students of SSD and four alumni of pictures of certain old parts of Singapore. students (from Balestier Hill Secondary School and Boon Lay Walking down Harmony Street, it was easy to Secondary School), accompanied by VP, Mrs Barbara D’Cotta- see why this historical and culturally important Ang together with full-time teachers, Mr Dennis Tan and Mr place is dubbed ‘Harmony Street’ - a number David Lee and part-time teachers, Ms Gertrude Bheem and of places of worship of different religions Ms Kathleen Holmberg, boarded a 21-seater coach for a 3-day lined the street - the Kampong Kling Mosque trip to the historical state of Malacca in Malaysia. (Islam), the Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple (Hinduism), the Cheng Hoon Teng On the way through Johore, we learned how palm oil and Temple (Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism) rubber play an important role in the economy of Malaysia. Do and the Xiang Lin Si Temple (Buddhism) are you know that palm and rubber can be harvested for only 20 an admirable testament to religious harmony years before the trees are cut down so that the soil can rest? in Malacca.

As soon as we reached Malacca, we headed for the Baba After a good breakfast spread at the hotel, and Nonya Heritage Museum. There the students, who had our second day started off with a visit to the learned about the Peranakans during a cultural lesson in class, Portuguese Fort – A Formosa (‘The Famous’) got to see fi rst-hand the history of ethnic Chinese-Malays which is among the oldest surviving European called Baba (men) and Nonya (ladies) or Peranakans as well as architectural remains in South-East Asia. the well-preserved artifacts such as blackwood furniture with marble and mother-of-pearl inlay. They were also impressed Then we did a brisk climb up St Paul’s Hill to to see the heavily embroidered and elaborate looking clothes visit the ruins of the church and of course, worn by the Peranakans. we made our wishes at St Francis Xavier’s • OUTINGS • SIGNAL Newsletter 21

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple Listening to the history of along Harmony Street the Dutch Square exhumed tomb. Making our way down the exploring Makhota Parade hill to Stadhuys (Dutch for City Hall), we saw and Pahlawan Megamall. The a couple of old cars that brought a certain children managed to get some amount of modernity to the area. The children good buys for family members recognised the different red buildings in the as well as for the teachers who Dutch Square from pictures they had seen did not go on the trip. during their Culture lesson on Malacca. We got a good taste of local As the day grew hotter, it was nice to sit food around the Jonker Street and enjoy a bit of breeze on a cruise down area, where we had some the Melaka River, even getting splashed famous chicken rice balls and from the slightly choppy ride was welcome. chendol…DURIAN chendol The children found it interesting to learn (which is absolutely yummy that it was along the River Melaka that - durian lovers take note). the town’s colourful history began. After a Peranakan food was also high Peranakan dinner, we visited the Melaka on the menu, with the Portuguese chili tomato fi sh and the Deaf Association. The children were told the lotus root soup, beating many other dishes hands down. The story of how the Association was set up and fried banana across the road from the Dutch Square was out how the deaf overcame several hurdles to of this world and was relished by the children. get to where they are today. It was a relaxing evening at the Association. While we all had a lot of fun on the trip, it was not just play for the SSD students and teachers. The students had to take note On our third day, after checking out of our of all they had seen and learned so that they could complete hotel, we visited to the Cheng Ho Cultural a booklet on Malacca. They had to take note of the places Museum where the students were excited of interest that we visited as well as remember the history of at the experience of being in an ancient Malacca and recognise a few fl ags. The children also wrote Chinese vessel. They also saw the original down their refl ections of the learning journey and were grateful Ming Dynasty artifacts found in the wells at for the opportunity given by the school. the site of the museum. It was a lovely trip back in time, but it is nice to know we are Shopping, of course, was on the agenda back safe and sound in a clean and green city – our home. and the students and teachers alike enjoyed

Our fi rst durian chendol Refl ections of the learning journey by student Shariffah Faaiqah Binte Alkaff 22 SIGNAL Newsletter Workshop on Rhythm of the Drums

Elizabeth Khoo Community Services

Year on year, Wyeth Nutritionals has been sponsoring outings for Mountbatten Vocational School (MVS) students after their fi nal year exams as well as gifting well-performing students with awards of achievement. This year, students were treated to a drumming session at *SCAPE The Treetop near Orchard Cineleisure.

Upon arrival, MVS students were greeted by volunteers from Prize Presentation from Wyeth Nutritionals for Wyeth Nutritionals. Participants were then divided into four Best Performing Students groups. Each team was given a challenge to create their own music and beats using the instruments provided, such as drum, xylophone, tambourine, maracas and triangle, and perform. The best performing team won a stationery set.

The drumming session ended with students who performed well receiving Certifi cates of Achievement. All participants also received a 3-in-1 mobile stand/speaker/charger as a token of gift from Wyeth Nutritionals. Students and teachers were also treated to a tea reception before the day ended with a “thank you” note to our sponsors.

Students settling down at SCAPE The Treetop for Drumming Session hosted by Wyeth Nutritionals

Students practising their beats to create music and perform as a group • OUTINGS • SIGNAL Newsletter 23 CapitaLand Celebrates Volunteerism

SADeaf volunteers Marcus and Jiaying helping at the SADeaf booth

In a show of support for volunteerism, over Ranee Govindram 1,600 CapitaLand staff, their families, friends Corporate Affairs and business associated attended the fi nale of the CapitaLand#100KHopeHours Challenge Carnival held at Raffl es City Singapore on 3 October 2015.

The #100KHopeHours Challenge was created to help spur volunteerism and the initiative paid off with more than 200,000 volunteer hours pledged, surpassing CapitaLand’s target of 100,000.

In recognition of the volunteers’ support, CapitaLand, through its CapitaLand Hope Foundation, presented a cheque for Mr Alvan Yap (3rd from left) among the recipients of the Champions of Volunteerism $300,000 to the President’s Challenge Certifi cate, with President Tony Tan Keng Yam (6th from left). Standing next to 2015.The donation will benefi t six charity President Tony Tan Mr Lim Ming Yan, President & Group CEO of CapitaLand Ltd organisations under President’s Challenge, including SADeaf. Despite a very hazy day, visitors thronged the Carnival and tried out experiential activities such as ‘Sign to Me’, ‘Guide SADeaf was also among nine organisations Me’ and ‘Read with Me’ where they had to learn sign language, recognised as Champions of Volunteerism walk blindfolded and decipher messages in dyslexic font to for their contributions in pledged volunteer experience and understand some of the hardships faced by hours. This was based on number of hours the deaf and hard of hearing, visually impaired and dyslexic that SADeaf volunteers had contributed to respectively in the community. our events. The Certifi cate was received on behalf of the association by our Deputy Grateful thanks to our volunteers Marcus Quah and Lee Jiaying Director, Mr Alvan Yap. for helping out at the SADeaf booth. 24 SIGNAL Newsletter