SAFRA PUNGGOL DECLARED OPEN
PHOTO // Kenneth Lin
Its facilities are a welcome addition for the families living in the north-eastern part of Singapore and it is already known as a popular gathering place for Operationally-Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) to meet up.
Called the "jewel in SAFRA's range of clubhouses" by 2nd Minister for Defence and President of SAFRA Ong Ye Kung back in January, SAFRA Punggol has attracted more than 150,000 visitors since its soft launch in April.
The clubhouse was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean on 24 Nov. He was accompanied by Minister for Defence and Chairman of SAFRA Board of Governors Dr Ng Eng Hen, Mr Ong, Senior Minister of State for Defence and Deputy President of SAFRA Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Teo commended the NSmen for their unwavering commitment to the defence of Singapore and thanked their families for their support.
He said: "The strong support from their families is vital to help our NSmen give their best. The thought of protecting their loved ones also strengthens each NSman's commitment to serve."
Mr Teo also reminded everyone to stand firm against rising threats and to stay united in the Total Defence of Singapore.
He noted the importance of SAFRA as a place to strengthen the psychological and social defence of the people. "Today, SAFRA clubs are a common space for NSmen to build friendships, spend quality time with their families, or meet like-minded individuals to pursue common interests."
With its go-green concept and suite of water-related activities, he added that SAFRA Punggol would be a one-stop recreation hub for NSmen and families in the North-East.
Chairman of SAFRA Punggol Executive Committee Major (MAJ) (NS) Terence Quek said that when conceptualising SAFRA Punggol, the team was clear of what they wanted the clubhouse to be - a place where families could have fun and create fond memories.
Noting how well the clubhouse' facilities has been utilised since its soft launch, he said: "I am glad that today, SAFRA Punggol has become a place with strong appeal to NSmen and their families to gather, have fun and bond. I hope that when you think of (SAFRA Punggol's tagline) Where Fun Flows, you'll think of SAFRA Punggol."
At the opening ceremony, Mr Teo, Dr Ng, Mr Ong and Dr Maliki also toured some of SAFRA Punggol's key facilities. These included the three-storey indoor water playground Splash @ Kidz Amaze, the bicycle rental kiosk, 24-lane bowling centre, the electronic darts bar and the EnergyOne gym where NSmen can take their Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) and attend IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT) sessions.
As SAFRA celebrates 50 years of National Service and SAFRA's 45th Anniversary next year, NSmen and their families can look forward to a slew of activities and promotions including the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon and SAFRA Swim for Hope, as well as a dinner to recognise SAFRA volunteers and corporate partners.
In addition, SAFRA is planning to upgrade SAFRA Tampines and have starting working on plans for the next clubhouse in the North-West region of Singapore.
Visitors to SAFRA Punggol can also look forward to the opening of a new water activities facility. Slated to be launched in March 2017, the facility will allow them to rent kayaks to paddle along the Punggol Waterway.
