The Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM) has kicked off its 12th annual Kindness Day Singapore (KDSG) with a fresh twist this year: the first-ever Kindness Festival. Themed “May Kindness Be With You,” this week-long event runs until May 19 at Plaza Singapura Level One Atrium, promoting compassion and goodwill. The theme highlights the transformative power of kindness in daily interactions and wishes individuals well in their endeavors.
Celebrating Ground-Up Movements
A highlight of this year’s festivities is the inaugural Stickability Award Ceremony on May 18, recognizing the dedication of Ground-Up Movements (GUMs) that have partnered with SKM over the past decade. Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, and Second Minister for Law, Mr. Edwin Tong, will grace the ceremony as the Guest-of-Honour.
The award commends the passion and perseverance of various GUMs, including Roses of Peace, The Volunteer Switchboard, The Morning Greeters, Blossom World Society, Geylang Adventures, Ang Mo Kio-Hougang Hibiscus Residents’ Network, and Participate In Design. These groups will share their stories and host Q&A sessions from May 17-19, engaging attendees with their inspirational journeys.
A Transformative Festival Experience
The Kindness Day Singapore Festival offers a six-step experience designed to inspire self-reflection and a commitment to promoting kindness and gracious living. Guests will embark on a transformative journey, exploring the importance of kindness in their lives and communities.
Recognizing New Kindness Ambassadors
In addition to the award ceremony, SKM will induct ten new GUMs and recognize several Organised Kindness Initiatives and Enterprises (OKIEs) and Voices of Loving Kindness (VOLKs) into the Kindred Spirit Circle (KSC). This collective works to spread the message of kindness and inspire others to initiate and share acts of kindness. The new inductees will join existing Kindred Spirits in reinforcing SKM’s mission as a nationwide movement.
Amplifying Kindness Year-Round
Since 2008, the SKM Graciousness Survey has provided valuable insights into the state of kindness and graciousness in Singapore. The 2023 survey revealed that Singaporeans aged 25-44 showed more positive sentiments regarding consideration, courtesy, and appreciation compared to previous years.
SKM has organized various online and offline activities to encourage kindness throughout the year. Events like B-Greater in October 2023 have inspired greater kindness within the community. Looking ahead, SKM will partner with ten local organizations for KDSG 2024, continuing its mission to foster a kinder Singapore.
Join SKM at Plaza Singapura to celebrate Kindness Day Singapore and participate in the inaugural Kindness Festival.
