Singapore United: 20 Unforgettable Highlights of 2020 – Singapore News

2020: A Wild Ride Through the Little Red Dot

Covid‑19 turned our quiet island into a spinning coaster, but every twist and turn brought fresh chances to grow and shine.

20 Unforgettable Moments That Made 2020 Extraordinay

First Lockdown Shock: We all screamed when the city went silent—turns out the silence was louder than ours.
Resurfacing Fun: Even with commas, we celebrated the comeback of the world’s most beloved street food.
Sustainable City Project: A bold green initiative rolled out, and we pretended to plant a tree with each new policy.
The Self‑Care Boom: Everyone discovered home gyms, and we marveled at how a yoga mat became a status symbol.
Home‑Office Chronicles: We tuned into the art of balancing laptop, pajama pants, and the occasional kitchen trip.
Digital Connectivity: Live concerts, virtual conferences, and Instagram storytellers lit up our screens.
School of Resilience: Virtual classrooms made learning feel like a scavenger hunt on a backyard safari.
Healthcare Heroes: Doctors, nurses, and washing hands became new celebrity icons.
Brave Community Bonds: Neighbors organized video‑coffee mornings, proving distance can’t break friendship.
Innovation Sprint: Robots and apps became vital partners, and we joked about the future hiring AIs.
Family Ties Re‑winged: From Zoom family feasts to interactive board games, we kept sanity alive.
Plus‑One Crisis: Realizing the importance of diners & servers was a subtle reminder that society needs co‑work.
Resurgence of Culture: Local theaters re‑opened, and we celebrated arts, shaking the screen in awe.
Making the Most Out Of The Trash: Creative recycling hack, the new craze for up‑cycling.
Retrogadgets Reaching Back: Old phones, old radio stations, and ancient computer hardware received a new life.
Same‑Day Company: Our first phase of the supply chain that allowed essentials to be delivered faster than our kids could finish a perfect “Thumb wand.”
Food Delivery Revolution: The next wave of creative avocados, with a huge rush to try the newest lemon‑juice option.
Unveiling The Future: We looked up at sunrise, and felt our heart overflowed with hope for what’s ahead.
Creating New Days: “Chance” was reminiscent of 2021; we high‑lighted the best of everything that came following this year’s wonderful jump.

Love thy neighbour: SAF personnel help fight Australia bush fires

Australia’s 2020 Bushfire Blitz – The Day the Wildlands Went Wild

Picture This…

Before “Coronavirus” was on everyone’s radar, the Australian outback was on fire. Fire‑flares, smoke, and the scent of charred eucalyptus filled the air. It wasn’t just a gust; it was a full‑blown, globe‑shaking blaze that turned quiet towns into living nightmares.

How We Joined the Fight

Rapid‑Response Team Deployments – SAF troops flew in faster than an angry sparrow to help arm firefighters with evacuation gear, heavy‑duty equipment, and clear‑voice communication.
Evacuation Squads – While the froth roared, we guided locals off their property, ferrying them to safety and making sure no one got stuck behind a smoldering wall.
Co‑operation & Coordination – Our joint operations worked like a well‑tuned dance, syncing Australian firefighters with Singapore’s logistics specialists.

Why It Matters

Back then, the world was still waking up from a quiet pandemic. The bushfires showed that natural disasters don’t wait for a pandemic pause, and that a united front can make a difference. Little did we know, the world would soon face a new challenge on a different front.

What We Learned

When the smoke clears, teamwork is the key.
A quick, organized evac plan can save lives.
Future disasters need flexible, rapid‑response troops.

Fast forward to now – the flames may have cooled, but the spirit of quick, coordinated help stays alive. And hey, it teaches us that no matter what the ‘further crisis’ might be, we’re ready to stand together and get the job done.

One united people: Singaporeans stand together against Wuhan coronavirus

Stronger Together: Singapore’s Early Covid‑Coop Campaign

When the World Paused, Singapore Let the Spirit Rise

Picture the streets of Singapore—normally buzzing with scooters, hawker stalls, and the constant chatter of locals—gone quiet, as if everyone had gone on a surprise holiday to the moon. Yet in that hush, a powerful community spirit bubbled up, turning every corner into a place of solidarity.

1. The “Banding Together” Moment

Even before lockdowns, people stocked up on groceries while caring for neighbors.
Neighbors even shared homemade rice cakes to keep the mood light.

2. Turning the “New Threat” into a Team Effort

It wasn’t just a virus—it was a real test of Singapore’s resilience.
From bustling markets to quiet streets, the city turned into a living testament that it’s the people, not the tech, who keep things ticking.

What Does This Teach Us?

In short: when faced with a new challenge, uniting the “us” beats any single hero. Covid may have come as a hard winter, but the collective goodwill of Singapore turned it into an inspiring story of teamwork.

Thank this couple for helping your Ah Ma, Ah Gong understand coronavirus

Dialects and COVID: A Home‑grown Health Hero

Meet the Pair Behind the Campaign

Liz and Alex are more than just a couple— they’re community champions who have turned their living room into a studio.

What They Did

Shooting short, upbeat videos that break down Covid‑19 safety steps.
Delivering the info in Cantonese, Hokkien, and Teochew so their elders can swallow the message in the accents they know best.
Keeping the tone light and relatable, with a splash of humor to keep folks engaged.

Why It Matters

When seniors speak primarily in dialect, learning about masks, hand washing, and social distancing doesn’t always come naturally. These videos give them a sense of belonging and make the science feel personal.

Take‑away

In a pandemic that hit faster than you can say “quarantine,” Liz and Alex showed that a little creativity and a lot of heart can bridge the language barrier and protect the community— one syllable at a time.

In Singapore, everyday heroes perform acts of kindness during novel coronavirus outbreak

How Everyday Heroes Took on COVID

Picture this: the world was suddenly in lockdown, and folks who usually just shuffled through life suddenly became the front‑line soldiers of kindness.

What the “Good Samaritans” Did

Grocery runs for the 80‑somethings and the kids stuck at home.
Spreading masks and sanitizer like they were on a treasure hunt.
Giving a quick pep talk or a friendly call to those feeling a bit lonely.
Carrying extra grocery bags through the metro because the city was too crowded.
Checking in on neighbourhood pets that were left out.

When the pandemic hit, ordinary citizens stepped up, turning into local heroes who proved that a bit of goodwill can brighten the darkest days.

S’pore pro wrestlers fight for healthcare workers – literally!

Grapple MAX Packs a Punch for COVID Frontliners

What went down in February

In a heart‑warming mashup of adrenaline and altruism, Grapple MAX, the local pro‑wrestling fitness studio, threw its first ever online charity wrestling show. The goal? To rally support and squeeze out a hefty donation for the frontline medical heroes still battling the Covid‑19 pandemic.

How the event played out

People in scrubs were the MVPs — the very doctors and nurses who’ve been the real‑life warriors on the front lines.
Wrestlers of all calibers jumped into the virtual ring, turning a typical battle of bodies into a battle for the cause.
The show was streamed live, making it super easy for friends, family, and fans worldwide to tune in and throw pennies (or big bucks) into the pot.
A good dose of banter, pep talks, and splashy antics kept the crowd cheering, while the serious message underscored the gravity of the fight against the virus.

Why it matters

Every ticket sold and every donation raised directly helped support the frontline medical staff who are still grappling with Covid‑19 demands. It reminded everyone that sport can be a powerful platform for kindness, and that behind every athlete’s hard‑working body lies an equally hard‑working community that matters.

Takeaway

Grapple MAX’s online charity event proves that with a little imagination and a lot of heart, even a wrestling gym can become a lifeline for the nation’s bravest. Next time you see a “Battle of the Bulge” on your screen, know that the ring might just be hum…or maybe it’s actually ears of cash for Covid‑19 heroes!

Coro-NAH: Young S’poreans produce music video promoting compassion and cleanliness amidst Covid-19

Sing‑Squeak a Clean & Caring Revolution

During the heights of the COVID‑19 scramble, a handful of energetic Singaporeans decided to put the Township Kitchen dicey emergency to music. Their mission? Encourage the heroic front‑liners and volunteers, while spreading a tidy, kind mantra.

Why a music video?

Quick, eye‑catching format that spreads fast on socials.
Turn “wash hands” into a hook that actually sticks.
Inject a dose of light‑heartedness when spirits feel low.

The Beat & the Message

Imagine a snappy pop chorus, a catchy rhythm, and the unmistakable upbeat vibe that eats through the silence of an office cubicle. Every verse underlines the double‑whammy: cleanliness (soap, mask, sanitizer) and compassion (sharing, listening, saving).

Props of Compassion

Hands sliding into double‑hand washing chords.
Volunteers dancing with their gloves as that neon‑blue cape.
Humorous chorus line: “If you wanna stay healthy, keep those plates in the pharmacy!”

Choreography of Cleanliness

Staged in front of a vibrant backdrop—a mix of pink bubblegum and fresh mint—each dance step imitates the correct technique for hand scrubbing, mask fitting, and social distancing. The characters keep backyard vibe and the mass‑stat order like a choir of tiny glowing needles.

Positive Vibes and Real Impact

To the frontline warriors, the video is a roaring backstage soundtrack. To ordinary citizens, it’s a playful call‑to‑action. The result? More people washed hands on cue, more volunteers nodded thumbs “yeah!” in solidarity, and a casual reminder that life can be a bit more joyful—even when dealing with a pandemic.

Download the Dancing Manifesto

Available for free on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram Reels. Grab the clip, hit repeat and cheer on the ones who’ve had your back—hands with a twist of humor, hearts in sync, and safety in rhythm.

Must watch: Song for healthcare workers by Pri 6 student is damn power

Young Singer‑Songwriter Lights Up Singapore’s Pandemic Pulse

Meet the 12‑Year‑Old

About the Artist: A bright‑eyed Primary 6 student who has never let a school rule stop them from making a difference.

The Song That Moved the Nation

Purpose – A heartfelt anthem cheering on doctors, nurses, and every other frontline hero.
Lyrical Themes – “We’re all in this together,” “Your sacrifices carry us forward,” and a chorus that’ll stick in your head for days.
Musical Touch – A jaunty mix of pop‑core beats and a melody that feels like a warm hug.

What’s Pop Quizzical About the Hook?

Imagine a 12‑year‑old shouting “Keep the masks on, we’re in it till we win!” and everybody nearby starts tap‑tapping along. That’s the kind of contagious joy the song delivers.

Reactions From Singapore’s Frontlines

Doctors, nurses, and even the occasional laundry‑room‑sanear crew reported feeling “inspired” after hearing it on hospital break‑rooms and transit as the tempo got them moving.

Why It Matters

Emotional Impact – A simple tune showing that a little human voice can remind society that compassion is the strongest weapon.

Community Rally – The song has become a rally cry for the city‑state, uniting people from all walks of life in the shared fight against Covid‑19.

Wrapping Up With a Smile

So next time you hear a jaunty beat on the radio, remember it might be the tunes that a primary school star composed to keep the nation’s heartbeat strong.

What you didn’t see during the home singalong: Migrant workers singing, too

Unexpected Harmonies at the National “Home” Sing‑Along

Picture this: a crowd gathered to sing the heart‑warming anthem “Home”, the kind of moment that turns ordinary streets into an impromptu concert hall. And right there, amid the cheering and the shimmering lights, a group of migrant workers decided to drop in and jam out loud enough to make the soundtrack jealous.

Why the Crowd Was Stunned

They brought a fresh, un‑polished energy that cut through the polished vocals.
Their voices—some high, some low—creatively stitched into a lively patchwork the audience had never heard before.
It felt like that “surprise chorus” everyone expects in a movie soundtrack—but this time it was real life.

Who? Who? The Melodic Millennials

These workers, usually busy trading time for money, found their rhythm in the great Nickear, parking their cans of beans as micro‑floats in the air, and joined the chorus with a laugh that made the whole room clap.

Feel‑good Takeaway

When someone from a community that normally lives on the outskirts of the city steps up to the microphone, the whole Uniqueness of that moment gives you a warm sense of something truly human—humor, community, and the universal desire to belong.

Exclusive: These Guys are running 4,107km to raise $20k for migrant workers

Purple Monkeys Lace-Up for a Cause

Why They’re Running (and How Fast They’re Going!)

In a wild twist of creativity, the amateur football club Purple Monkeys decided that the best way to support migrant workers in Singapore is to run the same distance they would have to cover if they hopped from Singapore straight to the buzzing streets of Dhaka. That’s a total of 4,107 kilometres of sheer cardio‑fuelled compassion.

Team Spirit: Every kick, sprint, and sweaty grin counts towards a bigger good.
Storytelling Mile: They document every mile, turning runs into a narrative of solidarity.
Fundraising: Every kilometer sprinted brings a boost to migrant workers’ welfare.
Humor Infusion: Picture a bunch of monkeys in tracksuits—a lighthearted reminder that charity can be fun.

How It Works

They split the massive 4,107 km into manageable chunks, hit the pavement, and keep a running log. The big picture? Make a real impact while proving sports can be a great charity platform.

Takeaway

Turns out, if you’re looking for a super‑effort way to help out, swing a soccer ball or string a running belt—both will get you from Singapore to Dhaka in your mind, if not in real life.

1000 free meals for the needy: If you can cook, you can help

Cooking Compassion: How GoodHood.SG’s #KindCooks Got a Whole City on the Plate

Picture this: a group of Singaporeans, apron‑squared and spoons in hand, stepping into the kitchen of hope. The GoodHood.SG team rolled out the #KindCooks initiative, turning everyday cooking skills into a heartfelt mission. The goal? To whip up delicious, free meals for those who need a little extra love in their lives.

Why It Matters

Brings people together over bowls of food.
Shows that a simple recipe can also be a recipe for kindness.
Turns a community’s love for food into a real, tangible impact.

The Flavor of Generosity

From stir‑fries that sizzle hot to stews that simmer down, every dish prepared under the #KindCooks banner carries a story—a story of generosity, community spirit, and the simple fact that sharing a meal can warm more than just a stomach.

Takeaway

In a world where we’re often pressed for time, GoodHood.SG reminds us that cooking for someone else is a quick, powerful way to spread love and lift spirits. And hey, if you’ve ever thought of turning your cooking talent into a community good, now’s the perfect moment to stir the pot.

Who strawberry? Not these millennial pandemic pivoters

Millennials: The Unexpected Champions of Singapore

Moving on from the “Strawberry Generation” buzzword, the real heroes are the millennials who showed the world that they can thrive even when the lockdowns kept everyone stuck at home.

Here’s why they stood out:

They’re tech‑savvy—lessening the impact of social distancing by staying connected wherever they were.
They’re resilient: turning every obstacle into a brand‑new learning opportunity.
They’re community‑driven—still willing to chip in for local causes, even from their living room.

In short, the youth of Singapore proved that age is no measure of determination, and that a little laughter and a big heart can keep the spark alive.

Special National day shows take illness off their minds

Alexandra Hospital’s Fun-Filled National Day Celebration

Feeling a bit under the weather? Alexandra Hospital had a clever plan to turn that frown upside down.
They organized two unforgettable National Day shows that were designed to redirect patients’ thoughts from their ailments to pure, joyous entertainment.

What Went On:

Fireworks & Ferris Wheels – Think bright lights, spinning wheels, and a big splash of patriotic color.
Live Music & Dance – The rhythm got everyone swaying, even the white coats couldn’t help but tap their boots.
Audience Participation – Patients got to join in, sing, and test their limbo skills. It was all about turning “patient” into “party” mode.

In a nutshell, the hospital turned the room into a merry playground, letting people forget about their problems for a while. And honestly, who doesn’t appreciate a little fun amid the hospital hustle?

Covid-19 can’t stop these architects from building hopes in Africa

Architects with A‑Plus Mission: Building Hope in Africa

When the world’s borders filed for exit, these design daredevils turned their blueprints into lifelines—shelter, schooling, and a whole lot of optimism for the next generation.

How They Made a Difference

Constructed homes that stand tall and hold hearts—think sturdy walls, sturdy hope.
Set up classrooms that feel more like playgrounds, where kids can learn, laugh, and plan their next great project.
Provided mentorship that’s less “draw a diagram” and more “draw your future.”

Why It Matters

Because every brick laid and lesson taught is a vote in favor of a brighter tomorrow. And honestly—who doesn’t want to see a continent rise with a smile on its face?

This teacher goes the extra mile to put on shows for kids with special needs

From Stage to Screen: A Sensory Adventure Goes Digital

When the world hit pause on live shows thanks to Covid, one teacher and her energetic crew decided not to sit on the sidelines. Instead, they rewired their multi‑sensory spectacle—originally crafted for kids with special needs—into an online odyssey that keeps the fun alive all the way home.

Why the switch mattered

Continued Connection: “If we stopped, their learning would stall,” the teacher explained, lighting up a video call with brighter smiles than any stage light.
Inclusive Reach: Kids who once struggled to hear a bell can now feel textures and sounds just a click away.
Safety and Comfort: Home settings let them relax; the risk of virus exposure? Zero.

How they pulled it off

Tech‑savvy Teamwork: The crew mixed tactile props with interactive apps, turning every room into a playground of touch, taste, and sound.
Live Interaction: Mic‑checked fun moments, where the kids could shout reactions and the teacher responded in real time, keeping the energy level sky‑high.
Emotional Boost: They added humorous “puppet talk” segments, making learning feel like a family gathering rather than a lecture.

Impact at Home

Parents report “burnt‑out” kids now re‑energized, “inspired” teen performers glow on screen, and the entire family shares laughs that would have otherwise stayed locked on stage.

In a nutshell, the team turned a challenge into a charming digital experience, proving that with creativity and a dash of humor, education—and entertainment—can thrive even from a couch.

Singapore high jumper makes leaps in helping the elderly

High‑Jumping Hope: The Jumpers Helping the Elderly

Picture this: a local high‑jumper—yes, literally the kind that clears the bars over three metres—decides to take a swing at a different kind of challenge. Instead of shooting hoops or leaping over rooftops, he’s leaping into the lives of the city’s seniors.

Why It Matters

Loneliness can feel like a very long, invisible jump. The elder community often feels…well, like an airborne binge—isolated and disconnected.
Our hero’s initiative is a quick, dry run to bridge that gap. It’s a mix of visits, chats, and fun activities that let them feel glued back into the social fabric.
“A human touch is worth a thousand high‑jump records,” he says.

What the Program Looks Like

Every week, he and a handful of volunteers arrange small “summer hike‑and‑talk” groups or a board‑game marathon—think chess hustle, but with a sprinkle of laughter. The aim isn’t to run up the bar but to run through the feelings of isolation.

Community Praise

Local newspapers are already calling it a “gratitude rally.” Residents say it’s been “the best bridge between generations.”

Takeaway

So whether you’re a high‑jumper or a high‑school student, remember: Sometimes the most impressive leap is having the courage to hop into someone else’s story and make sure it’s not just a solo run.

Singapore tennis player serves his best on and off the court

From the Court to the Community

While the ball was bouncing on the court, the tennis star kept the excitement on the sidelines. Using the CB platform as a springboard, he turned the busy Hari Raya weekend into a win‑for‑others mission. He raised money and handed out meals to migrant workers, ensuring that the holiday was as full of generosity as it was of feasting.

Raised funds to help cover basic needs.
Solded thousands of warm meals to hardworking locals.

World mental health day: She created an app to provide on-demand counselling

Feeling the Covid‑19 Haze?

It’s more than just a pandemic—it’s a mood tower that’s trapped many of us in a fog of worry. Luckily, a bright idea is emerging from the digital trenches to lift the veil.

Meet the Millennial Mind‑Coach App

When the world was stuck inside its own bubble, a young visionary turned the brainstorming glow into a text‑based mental health coaching app. Think of it as a supportive friend who’s always ready to chat—no voice calls, no video screens, just good old messaging to tidy up that mental clutter.

Key Features That Make It Work

On‑Demand Sessions: Send a quick message, receive a guided exercise, and feel the shift in minutes.
Personalized Check‑Ins: The app remembers your mood swings and nudges you with gentle prompts at just the right moments.
Privacy First: Your chats stay just between you and the app—no public drama, no data voyeurism.
Calm‑Badger‑Level Caution: Humor is woven in—because a giggle sometimes beats a sigh.

Why It’s a Game‑Changer

Traditional therapy can feel like a long‑haul train ride—sessions are booked, structures are rigid, and stops are spaced far apart. This app slashes through these barriers: you can start whenever you feel the urge, and the conversation flows at your own pace.

Get Started Today

Just click the download button, sign up with a simple profile, and let the text‑based therapy begin. If the Covid blues are rattling your confidence, app‑based coaching could be the safe harbor you’ve been waiting for.

Remember: Self‑care doesn’t have to be a solo sprint. Grab a friend (in the app’s digital sense), chat it out, and breathe easier—because every day deserves a clear mind.

Despite pandemic, virtual charity swim meet raises $166k, attracts over 4,300

Swim For Hope Goes Virtual And Makes a Splash

When the world turned a little upside‑down this year, the Swim For Hope charity event still made waves—literally. Even though it was reimagined as a virtual swim meet, over 4,300 Singaporeans dove in to support those in need.

Who’s In the Mix?

3,300 brave men and women from the Singapore Navy took the plunge.
They accumulated an astonishing 76,641 laps.
With more than 80 sessions spread across the island, participants clocked a total distance of 3,832,050 metres.

Why a Virtual Meet?

While the usual pool tour was off the menu, the Navy found a way to keep the spirit alive—think of it as a “pool‑party” that could be joined from any couch. The event became a bridge between charity and community, proving you don’t need a big splash to make a small one.

Some Fun Facts

Each lap was a tiny victory for the bigger cause.
The collective effort pumped out 3,832 kilometers—yes, that’s almost a full looping run around the Earth.
Every splash translated into real‑world support for those who truly needed it.

So, hats (or goggles) off to everyone who dove into Swim For Hope—you’re the tide we can all admire!

Song of hope: Local singers band together to help children with cancer

Festive Beats for a Cause

When the holiday season rolled in, a handful of local singers hopped onto a sweet spot of talent and produced a lively cover of “I’m Gonna Be Loved (This Christmas)”, the shining single from the hometown sensation The Sam Willows.

This wasn’t just any remix. It was part of a heartfelt donation drive organized by the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) to cheer up kids on the frontlines of the fight against cancer.

What Made It Tick

Local voices blended into a new, upbeat version that kept the original’s joyful spirit.
Every note was a pledge—each streaming played a part in collecting a generous lump sum for CCF.
Listeners were invited to spread the cheer by buying the track, joining a charity playlist, or simply sharing the song on their socials.

So, if you’re looking for a quick soundtrack to wrap up the holiday hustle, this cover is a perfect way to jazz up your vibe while giving back to a cause that matters.

Singapore hawker culture: Wah UNESCO See Us Up Leh!

Singapore’s Hawker Culture Gets a Global Gold Star

Picture this: a bowl of chili crab, a steaming pot of laksa, and the hustle‑and‑bustle of hawker centres that feel like a carnival of flavours. Suddenly, a gleaming badge shows up on that vibrant scene—UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage stamp.

Why It Matters

Singapore’s hawker culture isn’t just about nibbles; it’s the heartbeat of the city’s social fabric. From the first splash of tea to the final bite of satay, every stall tells a story of tradition, community, and that unmistakable Singaporean aroma.

Community Connection: The hawker centre is where strangers become friends over a shared plate.
Economic Lifeline: It’s a launchpad for budding chefs and a livelihood for many.
Cultural Preservation: Each recipe carries years of heritage, passed down through generations.

What Does UNESCO Do?

UNESCO’s big‑time recognition means the world will look at Singapore’s hawker scene as a living, breathing treasure worth protecting. It’s like getting a shiny “Cultural Heritage” badge on your favourite foodie app.

2020’s Upside

When the pandemic took a toll on food stalls and eateries, this recognition came as a huge morale boost. It reminds us that even in tough times, our culinary roots stay solid—and that, my friends, is worth cheering about.

So next time you scoop up a mangosteen or try a varkasalai, remember: you’re part of something bigger than just a delicious snack.