Adopting best practices from the Jurong Family, Mr Murali Pillai, co-organised carnival for residents staying at Block 210A. Mr Murali had earlier checked in on residents staying at the rental units that block for flats. During the conversations with the residents, he listened to their issues, motivating to initiate the “We Care, We Share@Bukit Batok Carnival” with the Bukit Batok Merchants’ Association.

Mr Murali invited families staying at the block to attend the carnival on 17 April 2016.

At the carnival, residents were treated to a unique shopping experience, and were able to pick and choose the daily items that they needed. This was a departure from the usual practice where low-income residents were given a bagful of essential items, regardless of their needs. There were also free haircuts, job training programmes and some entertainment programmes for the young children.

Mr Murali added that he drew inspiration from Jurong GRC Member of Parliament Mr Ang Wei Neng, who also has a similar project in his constituency. Mr Murali reiterated: “We are always one community, working and helping one another. That is the hallmark of Bukit Batok.”