"Dragon's Awakening: Blossoms of Prosperity" Celebration Soars in Shanghai"龙腾花开：福满堂"庆典辉映上海

On 24th February, a vibrant display of cultural exchange and festivity took centre stage in Shanghai as “Dragon’s Awakening: Blossoms of Prosperity”. This grand event is a collaboration between the Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore in Shanghai, SingCham Shanghai, and Shanghai Singapore International School (SSIS). We offered a unique fusion of Singaporean and Chinese traditions to celebrate the end of the 15-day-long Lunar New Year.

“龙腾花开：福满堂” 活动在2月24日当天在上海闪亮登场。这场盛大的活动是由新加坡共和国驻上海总领事馆，中国新加坡商会-上海和上海新加坡外籍人员子女学校共同举办的。这是充满文化交流和欢庆的一场活动，融合了新加坡和中国传统文化并给15天长的农历新年画上了美丽、欢乐的结尾。

Various leaders such as the Singapore Consul-General in Shanghai, Mr Chua Teng Hoe and Vice Chairman & Secretary-General of SingCham Shanghai, Mr William Chang, together with over 900 guests were present at SSIS.

新加坡驻沪总领事蔡簦合先生和中国新加坡商会-上海副会长兼秘书长曾广仁先生等各界领导，以及900余位的嘉宾出席了这场活动。

The day began with the crackling sounds of traditional Chinese firecrackers, heralding the start of festivities and filling the air with excitement and anticipation. This lively opening was followed by a series of captivating performances, including the majestic Dragon and Lion Dances that enthralled the audience and set a tone of auspiciousness and good fortune for the day ahead.

活动在中国传统鞭炮的噼里啪啦声中开始，空气中充满了兴奋和期待。热闹的开幕式之后是一系列精彩的表演，包括喜庆的舞龙舞狮，吸引了全场观众的目光，预示着新的一年的吉祥和好运。

In his address, Mr Chua Teng Hoe emphasized the importance of inclusivity and the gathering of Singaporeans abroad. He remarked that inclusivity and the gathering of Singaporeans abroad are pivotal in fostering a sense of unity and community, transcending geographical boundaries. Furthermore, he underscored the need for Singaporeans to remain relevant in the ever-changing and volatile global environment. To navigate the complexities of the modern world, he remarked that we must continuously adapt and innovate, leveraging our collective strengths to stay ahead of the curve. Mr Chua's words resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring them to embrace inclusivity and adaptability as guiding principles in their endeavours abroad.

蔡簦合先生在致辞中强调了包容和海外新加坡人聚集的重要性。他说，包容和海外新加坡人的聚集，对于培养超越地域界限的团结和社区意识至关重要。此外，他强调新加坡人需要在不断变化和动荡的全球环境中保持相关性。他指出，面对纷繁复杂的现代世界，我们必须不断适应和创新，发挥我们的集体优势，保持领先地位。蔡先生的一席话深深打动了听众，激励他们在海外工作时，以包容和适应为指导原则。

Mr William Chang, in his address, highlighted the significance of introducing Singaporean culture to the locals in Shanghai. He emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in fostering understanding and appreciation between nations. Furthermore, Mr Chang emphasized the need to create new linkages with Singaporeans living in China, bringing forward a sense of home in a foreign country. He stressed the importance of building strong community ties and providing support networks for Singaporeans abroad. Through initiatives that promote cultural exchange and community building, SingCham aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for Singaporeans living in China, allowing them to maintain their connection to Singaporean culture and heritage while embracing their life in a foreign land.

曾广仁先生强调了在上海向当地人介绍新加坡文化的重要性，以及文化交流在促进国家之间的理解和欣赏方面的重要性。此外，曾先生还强调了与居住在中国的新加坡人建立新联系的必要性，可以在异国他乡营造家的感觉。他更加强调了建立牢固的社区联系和为海外新加坡人提供支持网络的重要性。通过促进文化交流和社区建设的举措，中国新加坡商会旨在为在中国生活的新加坡人创造一个友好和包容的环境，使他们能够保持与新加坡文化和遗产的联系，同时拥抱在异国他乡的生活。

Amidst the vibrant festivities, SingCham Shanghai took a moment to recognize and honour the exceptional contributions of our event sponsors and partners. With their steadfast support and hard work, they played an invaluable role in bringing this celebration to life. We extend our deepest gratitude to them for their unwavering dedication, which contributed to the success of the event.

在充满活力的欢庆氛围中，中国新加坡商会上海为了表彰和感谢我们的活动赞助商和合作伙伴的杰出贡进行颁奖。通过他们坚定的支持和辛勤的工作，让这个庆典生机勃勃。我们向这些企业深表感谢，感谢他们的坚定奉献精神，对活动的成功做出了重要贡献。

The event crescendoed with the Mega Lohei, crafted in the shape of a dragon by Jumbo Seafood. Also known as the Prosperity Toss, this beloved custom represents the welcoming of abundance and blessings. Guests encircled the table, each ingredient imbued with significance as auspicious blessings as they were added. With eager anticipation, attendees gleefully flung the salad skyward, a spirited gesture heralding the arrival of prosperity and good fortune in the forthcoming year.

活动在由珍宝海鲜呈现的巨型龙形鱼生中达到高潮,这一习俗更为人熟知为“捞鱼生”，是一项深具象征意义传统新年庆祝活动，代表着丰裕和祝福。宾客们围着桌子，每一种食材都寓意深远，伴随着添加食材的是祝福的话语。在满怀期待的情绪下，与会者高兴地将色彩斑斓的鱼生往上捞，预示着未来一年的繁荣与好运即将到来。

An array of activities awaited our guests, offering a delightful blend of tradition and entertainment. From engaging traditional customs to mouth-watering food vendors, captivating song and dance performances by the SSIS students, mesmerizing Sichuan Opera-Face Change, Teh Tarik performances, captivating melodies from our talented singers, and thrilling lucky draws. Guests immersed themselves in interactive experiences across a myriad of zones, from the TCM-scented bag-making and hawthorn pill-making, Spring couplets calligraphy, and DIY Paper Dragon, to the group picture-taking activities around the school. These engaging activities not only fostered connections but also strengthened bonds within the Singaporean community in China. Moreover, a delectable spread of Singaporean delights, showcasing our home favourites like Pandan Cake, Nasi Lemak, Chicken Rice, Laksa, Carrot Cake, Satay and Oyster Omelette, tantalized the taste buds of attendees, further enriching the festive atmosphere and leaving lasting memories to cherish.

一系列精彩活动让我们的嘉宾感受到了传统与娱乐的美妙融合。从引人入胜的传统习俗到令人垂涎的美食摊位，再到SSIS学生们的动人歌舞表演、令人着迷的川剧变脸、拉茶表演，以及我们才华横溢的歌手们的动人旋律和惊险的抽奖环节。宾客们沉浸在跨越多个区域的互动体验中，从散发着草药香气的制作香囊袋和制做山楂丸子、春联书法和DIY纸龙，到在学校周围进行的集体拍照活动。这些引人入胜的活动不仅促进了联系，也加强了中国新加坡社区之间的联系。此外，我们还为宾客们准备了丰盛的新加坡特色美食，展示了我们家乡的招牌菜，如班兰蛋糕、椰浆饭、鸡饭、叻沙、萝卜糕、沙爹和蚝烙，令人垂涎欲滴，进一步丰富了节日氛围，留下了令人难忘的回忆。

In a heartwarming display of unity, Mr. Chua Teng Hoe and Mr. William Chang led a sing-a-long session during a Singaporean event in Shanghai, featuring the nostalgic song "Home." The familiar strains of this beloved melody filled the room, bringing together Singaporeans from all walks of life in a shared moment of nostalgia and camaraderie. As voices joined in harmony, memories of Singapore flooded minds, briefly transporting attendees back home. This poignant reminder of community and connection resonated deeply, highlighting the enduring spirit of Singapore that transcends borders. As the event concluded, the echoes of "Home" lingered, leaving the Singaporean community in Shanghai feeling closer to home than ever before.

Reflecting on the significance of the sing-a-long session, one attendee shared her thoughts: "It's in these shared moments of nostalgia and unity that I find a piece of home in this foreign land, reminding me that no matter where I am, the spirit of Singapore will always be with me."

在一首温暖感人的歌曲中，蔡簦合先生和曾光仁先生带领大家进行了一场合唱，演唱了令人怀念的歌曲《家》。这首心爱的旋律充满了全场，将各行各业的新加坡人聚集在一起，共同感受怀旧和友情的时刻。随着声音的和谐，新加坡的回忆涌上了人们的心头，它暂时的将参与者带回了家乡。这个关于团结和民族精神的时刻深深触动人心，凸显了超越国界的新加坡精神。活动结束时，《家》的余音缭绕，让在上海的新加坡社群感受到了前所未有的亲近，比以往任何时候都更有归属感。

回顾合唱活动的精彩瞬间，一位参与者分享了她的想法：“正是在这些共同的怀旧和团结的时刻，我在这个异国他乡找到了家的一部分，它提醒了我无论身在何处，新加坡的精神永远与我同在。”

Announcing the highlight of our lucky draw – the top prize sponsored by Singapore Airlines (SIA): KrisFlyer miles equivalent to a business class ticket. This generous reward offers the winner a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious travel experience. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Singapore Airlines for their generous support, which has made this fantastic prize possible.

宣布我们幸运抽奖的亮点——由新加坡航空（SIA）赞助的顶级奖品：等同于商务舱机票KrisFlyer里程。这份慷慨的奖励为获奖者提供了一个绝佳的机会，享受舒适豪华的旅行体验。我们衷心感谢新加坡航空的慷慨支持，让抽奖环节达到了高潮。

After four enchanting hours of celebration, the "Dragon's Awakening: Blossoms of Prosperity" event concluded, marking the end of a truly memorable journey and the dawn of new beginnings. As we bid farewell to this joyous occasion, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the performers whose captivating talents brought life and vibrancy to our festivities. We also express heartfelt appreciation to our generous sponsors whose unwavering support made this event possible. To our esteemed guests, your presence and participation added warmth to our celebration, making it truly unforgettable. Looking ahead to the New Year, SingCham Shanghai remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating a thriving community through diverse activities and events, guided by a shared vision of inclusivity and progress. Together, let us embark on this journey with optimism and determination, knowing that the future holds boundless opportunities for us all.

在令人陶醉的四小时庆祝活动后，“龙腾花开：福满堂”活动优美地落下帷幕，标志着一段真正难忘旅程的结束，也预示着新的开始的曙光。在我们告别这个欢乐的时刻时，我们向所有表演者深表感谢，他们的迷人才华为我们的庆典注入了生机和活力。我们也衷心感谢我们慷慨的赞助商，他们的坚定支持使这次活动成功举办，丰富了我们的体验。对于我们尊贵的客人，你们的光临和参与为我们的庆典增添了温暖和友谊，使它真正难忘。展望新的一年，中国新加坡商会上海将坚定不移地致力于通过多样化的活动培育一个繁荣的社区，这一共同愿景指引着我们朝着包容和进步的方向前进。让我们携手起来，共同怀着乐观和决心踏上这段旅程，因为我们知道未来对我们所有人都充满着无限的机遇。

We would also like to thank the organizing committee, mission office, SSIS, Sparks IC, emceees, sponsors and all volunteers for their dedication in making this event possible. Your collective efforts have created unforgettable memories, and we deeply appreciate your invaluable contributions. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment.

我们还要感谢组委会、新加坡共和国驻上海总领事馆、中国新加坡上海子女国际学校、灵星创意咨询有限公司,主持人，本次活动的赞助商以及所有志愿者们致力于使这次活动成功举办。你们的共同努力创造了难忘的回忆，我们深表感激你们的宝贵贡献。感谢你们始终如一的支持和奉献。

Written By Melissa Lim&Ng Tze Kean

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