TAKE A BOW, NDP 2006 SPONSORS

Like the colourful fireworks, the National Day Parade (NDP ) 2006 has left a lasting beautiful impression. But it would not have been a rousing success without the generous contributions by many companies and individuals.

Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean hosted a reception on 25 Aug at the Shangri-La Hotel to thank some 300 participants, organisers and sponsors from various groups and organisations for their support and contribution to NDP 2006.

Commending the organisers, Mr Teo said: "You have impressed not only by your care and attention to detail, but also in your refreshing and imaginative approach to the celebrations."

He also thanked the sponsors: "Your commitment and support in rallying behind the NDP 2006 efforts cannot be overstated."

Mr Teo presented certificates of appreciation and mementos to representatives from various groups and organisations.

NDP 2006 enjoyed strong support from almost 300 sponsors - the highest number of sponsors for NDP in recent years.

Mr G Shanmugam, managing director of Gayatri Restaurant, was one of the sponsors, who had come forward to lend his support for NDP 2006 for the first time.

"In Singapore, with various races and religions, there is only one celebration when all can come together and celebrate Singapore's birthday," said the 43-year-old. "It's an important event for Singapore, and I see my sponsorship as a form of national service."

Gayatri Restaurant, which has four branches in Singapore and one in Dubai, provided food vouchers for the working committees and catered food for the publicity events of NDP 2006.

Added Mr Shanmugam: "I'm definitely looking forward to next year's NDP!"

Another first-time sponsor, iCell Network Pte Ltd, enabled the NDP executive committee to have wireless Internet access at the National Stadium with its sponsorship. This is a first as previous years' committees did not have this privilege.

Mr Ken Chua, CEO of iCell Network said: "We got more and more involved in NDP 2006. At first it was done on a smaller scale, then it became bigger and bigger. Our teams were on stand-by even during rehearsals to make sure that the connection is all ready."

"This sponsorship gave our technology a good test and we hope to join the parade next year at Marina Bay."

Mr Albert Lai is a Hongkonger but his act of generosity towards the National Day Parade (NDP) puts him above all Singaporeans.

Mr Lai has been making a personal cash contribution for NDP every year since 2001, and in fact, he is the only individual sponsor for NDP 2006.

His contribution might not match the millions donated by private companies and public corporations, but it is his thought that warms the hearts.

The 54-year-old, who has been a Singapore permanent resident for 15 years, said: "I feel thankful to be in Singapore for so long. It's a nice place to live in. So I thought if I can contribute and do something for the country, why not?"

He first found out about how to make a personal contribution in 2000 when the organising committee sent out invitation letters to companies to canvass for sponsorship.

With his younger daughter due to sit for her Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) later this year, the deputy general manager of Allson Hotel Singapore decided to skip this year's parade and help his daughter with her studies.

But he was full of praise for the previous parades that he had attended. "It's a wonderful show! Great job done by Singaporeans and also the Army!"

Mr Lai received his certificate of appreciation on 22 Aug and promises to continue his support for NDP.

"I feel very happy and proud of this certificate. Not many people have this, right?" said Mr Lai with a chuckle.