Deputy PM Wong was addressing the 75th anniversary celebration dinner of the Sikh Advisory Board
Singapore: Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong congratulated the Sikh community who had made significant contributions in Singapore in diverse fields while retaining their culture, faith and unique identity, a PTI report in The Tribune, Chandigarh, says.
He was addressing the 75th anniversary celebration dinner of the Sikh Advisory Board (SAB) on Sunday.
“You have all distinguished yourselves in your chosen professions and made significant contributions in diverse fields…Sikhs have done all this in Singapore while retaining their culture, faith and unique identity,” he told the gathering.
“Whether it is in the civil service or the uniformed services, the judiciary, business, sports or many other professions, Sikhs are well represented, excelling and taking on leadership positions,” he told the community.
“From the government’s perspective, we certainly appreciate and value this very close collaboration with the community. Compared to other communities you may be small in number, but your contribution to Singapore is out of proportion to your number,” the minister added.
The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the Sikh Advisory Board for having been instrumental in advising the state on matters concerning the community, be it religion, customs or overall welfare issues.
He observed that the Board, had always been candid, open and forthcoming in their perspectives and views.
“So, even though you may be an Advisory Board, I assure you the government listens to your advice and takes it very seriously.
“The Board has also been instrumental in mediating disputes as those relating to employment practices to ensure that Sikhs continue to observe the key tenets of their faith,” he underscored.
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