On 8 September 2017, TSMP Law Corporation and Tasek Jurong Limited organised an educational and fun-filled heritage trail around Singapore’s Civic District to bring joy to some 50+ socially disadvantaged children and youth, and acquaint them with Singapore’s cultural heritage.

The event, flagged off by Guest of Honour Rahayu Mahzam, Member of Parliament for Jurong GRC, saw participants race against the clock to complete the circuit, which started at the Cavenagh Bridge and included stops at notable historical and cultural landmarks and monuments like the Cenotaph, Lim Bo Seng Memorial, Victoria Concert Hall and Fort Canning Park.

At each station, they took part in activities old and new in keeping with the theme, ranging from a chapteh (“kick feather shuttlecock”) contest to a fidget spinner challenge, which they had to complete before being given clues leading them to the next stop. They were also taught the significance of each site by the station masters, sparking their interest in Singapore’s history.

TSMP closed the firm for a day for all its employees to take part in the event, with staff manning stations, leading groups and handling games, food and logistics. As part of its outreach programme, TSMP organises and participates in two community charity events a year under its Handprint series, aiming to benefit at-risk children and youth, foreign workers and the elderly. Last year, it partnered with HOME and TWC2 to bring migrant workers to RWS SEA Aquarium to celebrate the contributions of our foreign friends in building our nation. It also organised a MasterChef Junior showdown at CulinaryOn Singapore, where professional chefs imparted cooking skills to boys from the Muhammadiyah Welfare Home.

“In fast-paced, upwardly mobile Singapore, it’s easy to forget those who fall through the cracks, often through no fault of their own,” says TSMP partner Ian Lim, who oversees its Community Programmes. “Tasek Jurong makes it their mission to nurture and develop these underprivileged
youth at risk, and we ended up being the privileged ones when we got to partner Tasek and enjoy the kids’ company while running around town locating and learning more about Singapore’s cultural heritage landmarks together.”

Tasek Jurong Limited, a non-profit organisation, dedicates itself to support and help uplift its beneficiaries – the socially disadvantaged – who include ex-inmates, youth at risk, single parents, the needy and disabled and their families, among others.

“When we mentioned ‘Amazing Race in the City’, Tasek Jurong children were excited and looked forward to the event,” says Tasek Jurong CEO Muhammad Faizal. “Through this activity, they learnt about hard work and teamwork, which are important values in order for them to grow together. We are grateful to TSMP for partnering with us in this activity, as a way of giving back and helping to nurture a caring society.”