Hari Raya Singapore Light-Up 2002 Shines On Brighter and Bigger

This year's Hari Raya Light Up promises to dazzle all for 45 days, appealing to the local community's desire to see something new each year.

The Hari Raya Light-Up Ceremony at Malay Village on 1 November will be officiated by the President of Singapore, Mr S R Nathan. This is the 17th year that the Geylang Serai district participated in the street light-up for Hari Raya Puasa.

Last year, during the six week light-up, Geylang Serai saw an estimated 800,000 number of patrons - up by at least 5% from 2000. The number of retailers in the area this year is expected to increase by 5%. 

This year, the lights spread across a larger area including Sims Avenue East, Engku Aman Road and Jalan Ubi. For the first time, commuters on MRT trains plying eastwards, will be able to enjoy the lights from Sims Avenue East.

In the limelight is the "Distinguished Personalities Gallery" exhibition. Organised for the first time by Majlis Pusat, the exhibition of well-known Malay/Muslim personalities is a window into the richness of the Malay culture and the Malay community's contributions. The exhibition features six prominent leaders and will last for six months. 

On 1 November, children from the Darul Mawa Orphanage will be given a VIP ride in vintage cars down the light-up zones during the light-up ceremony. 

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB), a supporter of the light up since 1985, is marketing the Hari Raya Light-Up across the world.

Mr Lim Chwee Seng, STB's Director of Events Marketing, said: "Residents and visitors identify the annual street light-ups as part of the festive scene in Singapore. The new features in this year's Hari Raya Light-Up are a testament to the growth in its appeal. We are very encouraged by the strong support from the local community and visitors and we will continue to increase our marketing efforts for this event."

Organised at Geylang Serai in conjunction with the Light-Up is the annual Hari Raya Bazaar. The best of ethnic costumes, popular festive goodies, traditional arts and crafts and household items will be showcased. Until 15 December, the Bazaar will offer visitors to the Light-Up special bargains and attractive offers.

Away from the Geylang Serai district, the Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay, will mark the Hari Raya celebrations with a three-day Pesta Raya of Malay arts and culture. From 20 December, visitors can look forward to Main-Main, a provocative production by Teater Ekamatra, a concert by veteran singer Ramli Sarip and a Concert Hall performance by a 36-piece orchestra playing signature tunes from past Malay films. Outdoor music, dance and theatre performances and bazaars along the Waterfront will keep visitors to Esplanade entertained. 

The Hari Raya Light-Up, organised for the sixth year by Majlis Pusat, is made possible with the support of the STB, South East CDC and Malay Village Pte Ltd.