From giant flag displays to NDP rehearsals: Meet the volunteers behind Singapore's 61st birthday celebrations

Singapore’s 61st National Day celebrations have brought together a diverse array of volunteers, from community leaders to students, who have played pivotal roles in making the festivities memorable. In Toa Payoh, residents have continued a tradition begun in 2015 of creating a large-scale flag display that spells out “61” using Singapore flags suspended between two HDB blocks. This year’s installation, which was unveiled in August 2026, has become a familiar sight for locals and visitors alike, symbolizing national pride and unity. The project, led by grassroots leader Ong Kok Chee, involves meticulous planning and coordination, with preparations starting as early as February. Volunteers assemble individual flag panels, carefully aligning them to form the large number. On installation day, teams work across multiple floors, adjusting tension and positioning to ensure every flag is precisely placed. Over the years, the group has developed techniques to secure the flags against strong winds and heavy rain, ensuring the display remains intact throughout the celebration. The efforts of these volunteers extend beyond the physical setup of the flag display. Ong and his team have also taken their expertise to neighboring areas within Toa Payoh, helping other communities create their own eye-catching National Day installations. This collaborative spirit reflects the broader ethos of Singapore’s volunteer culture, where individuals contribute to communal projects that foster a sense of belonging and identity. The flag display, which has grown into a local landmark, is not only a visual spectacle but also a testament to the dedication of ordinary citizens who choose to give their time and energy to public service. Meanwhile, in preparation for the National Day Parade (NDP) at the National Stadium, another group of volunteers has been training intensively. Among them is Madeline Chan, a 34-year-old who joined the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Volunteer Corps this year. As a new citizen, she has embraced her role as part of the country’s military band, performing alongside the SAF Military Band. Her experience in a symphonic band meant she had to adapt quickly to the rigorous demands of military marching drills. She described the transition as challenging but rewarding, noting that balancing the physicality of marching with the precision of playing a woodwind instrument required both discipline and practice. Despite the difficulties, she expressed enthusiasm about being able to perform in front of a large audience, contributing to the cultural and ceremonial aspects of the parade. Equally vital to the success of the NDP are the motivators who keep the crowd engaged throughout the event. Student Celeste Kan, a second-year polytechnic student, has volunteered as a motivator for two consecutive years. Her responsibilities include leading cheers, demonstrating choreography, and encouraging spectators to participate actively in the performance. She described the atmosphere as infectious, noting how seeing the audience smile and sing along creates a powerful sense of collective joy. These motivators, often young students, play a crucial role in maintaining the energy levels of the crowd, ensuring that the parade remains a vibrant and interactive experience for all attendees. The National Day celebrations in Singapore are not solely about grand displays or military parades. They also highlight the contributions of everyday individuals who dedicate their time and skills to support the nation’s traditions and values. Whether it is the careful coordination of a flag display, the disciplined training of a volunteer performer, or the energetic engagement of a motivator, each contribution adds to the richness of the event. These volunteers, spanning different age groups and backgrounds, embody the spirit of community service that defines Singapore’s approach to national celebrations. Their efforts underscore the idea that national pride is not just a feeling but a shared responsibility, nurtured through collective action and commitment.