Renewed Pride

After more than 30 years of loyal service to the country, our national stadium in Kallang will finally make place for a new Sports Hub complex that will be able to host 55,000 spectators when completed in 2010.

As Singapore remakes itself to be a vibrant city that seeks to attract top talents into the country, we should be mindful of the fundamentals. There has been a lot of speculation and hype surrounding the introduction and construction of the Integrated Resorts (IR) consisting of casinos in Singapore recently, and many believe that it is crucial in revitalising our nation's dwindling tourist market. (See BFG) However, I find myself more interested in the progress of our new stadium complex.

I have watched with great disdain numerous national events hosted in this iconic symbol. The main events of one of our nation's favourite sport, soccer are usually hosted in the Kallang Stadium. Lacking in a proper drainage system, the pitch gets water-logged easily. Being a nation that loves soccer and has even taken the effort to organise exhibition matches with the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool, it is a real disappointment to fans when we have to present a muddy playing field.

I have had the privilege to represent the nation in the annual National Day Parade (NDP) more than once and have become quite acquainted with the grounds. Many of the facilities of the grand old lady have become old and worn. The seats that are made of wooden planks have been badly scarred by the natural elements. While it is a thrill to be amidst the electrifying home crowd every national day that I'm there, I feel that our people deserve more by having a better venue.

So I'm genuinely glad we are finally doing something about it. Sometimes all we really need is to go back to the basics and review the things we already have. The revamping our stadium will definitely boost our national pride as well as boost our image when we present events to the world. With a top notch stadium, who knows we might be able to host more international events like the Commonwealth Games, Olympics and perhaps the World Cup? Till then, Singaporeans shall await that day with hopeful hearts.