The spirit of Hari Raya came alive at the annual SOS & Seacare Hari Raya Celebration, a cherished occasion that marks the end of Ramadhan and brings members together in a time of forgiveness, togetherness and shared joy.
This year’s celebration carried added significance as SOS commemorates its 55th Anniversary. Since its founding, the Union has journeyed alongside its members, anchored by values of solidarity, care and progress. The 2026 celebration was a meaningful reflection of that legacy.
Held on Mar 27 at Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, the evening kicked off with a nostalgic flair. As the Special Guest Ms Gho Sze Kee, SOS Advisor and Member of Parliament for Mountbatten SMC, and members arrived, they were greeted by pre-event activities including an instant photo booth to capture memories and a hands-on ketupat keychain-making workshop.
The energy in the room shifted gears with the rhythmic “joget lambak” performance which got several members moving to the beat.
No Hari Raya is complete without a feast, and this year did not disappoint. Members were treated to a sumptuous meal featuring festive favourites like Nasi Kuning Minyak, Ayam Masak Merah, and Ikan Siakap Masak Asam Manis, topped off with the sweet comfort of Pengat Pisang.
The programme, led by the charismatic emcee A B Shaik, kept spirits high with interactive games and prizes. Music filled the air courtesy of a five-piece Malay folk band, and even some spontaneous singing.
At the heart of the SOS mission is the belief that no one should be left behind. In that spirit of “giving back,” the Union, supported by the NTUC UCare Fund, had the privilege of hosting residents from the AWWA Community Home for Senior Citizens, Jamiyah Home for the Aged (Darul Takrim), and Ramakrishna Mission Boys’ Home as part of its CSR efforts.
Ms Gho, alongside SOS Vice President Mohamad Abu Bakar, presented these guests with green packets worth $50 each. Their presence served as a beautiful reminder of the empathy and generosity that define our union.
In his message, Mr Mohamad Abu Bakar reminded members of the values that underpin both Hari Raya and SOS’s 55‑year journey:
“As we celebrate Hari Raya and reflect on 55 years of shared journey, let us continue to uphold the values of empathy, generosity and mutual respect in our daily lives and in the work that we do together.”
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that beyond the festivities, the true essence of Hari Raya, rooted in unity, gratitude and community, remains at the heart of SOS.
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