Walking united, come rain or shine

The walkers came with their families, and even heavy rain midway through could not dampen their spirits.

At The New Paper Courts Big Walk yesterday, 5,000 walkers braved the elements to finish the 5km route through the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.

Many of them were children eager to be acquainted with the zoo and Night Safari's animals and greenery.

At 2pm, the guest of honour, Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin, flagged off the Big Walk.

Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin (centre) walks on in the rain with TNP Editor Dominic Nathan (left). PHOTO: ST

Mr Tan said he was happy to see a huge turnout, highlighting that such events gave opportunities for more family bonding.

"I think spending time together as a family is important. One of the things you find is that strong families make a difference in the outcomes of children," he said.

EXTENDED FAMILY

As family units grow smaller, he said families need to consider relationships with extended family members, such as aunts, uncles and grandparents.

He said people need to know how to use opportunities like the Big Walk to nurture the relationship with the extended family as the support given by its members would be very important over time.

Mr Tan was glad more of such activities were being held and more frequently, as they helped promote healthy living and helped Singaporeans discover different parts of the country.

He said: "Keeping active is important... As a society, we are all going to be living longer but the key thing is also to make sure that we age well.

"So it is not just about the healthcare system but about being healthy.

"Activities like this will go a long way to developing a habit of being outdoors, being out and about, whether it is a walk, a run, cycling...whatever it may be.

"So it is good to see that events, such as this, are well attended."

Mr Tan, who was drenched by the rain, was seen helping a crying boy find his mother after they became separated in the crowd.

Participants enjoyed other activities such as a Families For Life Instagram contest, a lucky draw and a chance to win a Harley-Davidson Street 750 motorbike.

Walkers also had the chance to meet celebrities such as actors Edmund Chen, Joshua Tan, Maxi Lim, Ryan Lian and Paul Nagaoka.