Held under this year’s National Day theme, “Majulah Singapura – Go Beyond,” the celebration centred on the inspiring message of “Singapore Yesterday, Singapore Today, Singapore Tomorrow,” inviting guests to reflect on Singapore’s remarkable journey while looking ahead to the nation’s future with confidence and purpose.

The event was attended by an esteemed gathering of leaders from the diplomatic, business, media and community sectors, including former Singapore Ambassador to People’s Republic of China, Chin Siat Yoon; President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr Kho Choon Keng; 

Past President of the Singapore-Chinese Business Association Mr Goh Toh Sim; President of the Singapore China Association Mr Sia Eng Tek; Editor-in-Chief of the Chinese Media Group, Singapore Press Holdings Ms Lee Huay Leng; Honorary Chairman and past Chairman of the China Enterprises Association Mr Meng Fanq Qiu; and Chief Representative of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Singapore Office Madam Liu Hui.Hosting by Succession Advisory Partners Co-founder Melvyn Goh.

Welcoming guests on behalf of the host, SingCham Alumni Chairperson Dorothy Seet described the celebration as more than a National Day gathering. It was a tribute to Singapore’s nation-building journey, a celebration of the friendships forged across borders, and a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to contributing to Singapore’s continued success.

Reflecting on Singapore Yesterday, she noted that many in attendance had personally witnessed Singapore’s extraordinary transformation from its early years into one of the world’s most dynamic and globally connected economies. Their own life experiences mirror the nation’s story of resilience, determination and progress.

Speaking about Singapore Today, she highlighted the unique role of the SingCham Alumni community in strengthening Singapore–China relations. Many Singaporeans in the room had spent significant chapters of their professional and personal lives living and working in China, building lasting friendships and valuable partnerships. At the same time, many Chinese friends who attended the celebration have made Singapore their home for more than a decade, becoming valued contributors to Singapore’s multicultural society and economic development.

“The Singapore story is also a story of people,” she remarked. “It is a story of friendships, trust and meaningful connections that have grown across Singapore and China over the years.”

Looking ahead to Singapore Tomorrow, the celebration focused on the responsibility of today’s generation to build an even stronger and more connected future. As Singapore continues to evolve in a rapidly changing global landscape, nurturing international partnerships, cultural understanding and people-to-people exchanges will remain essential to the nation’s continued success.

Guests were also invited to revisit memorable milestones shared by the SingCham Alumni community, celebrating decades of friendship and collaboration that have strengthened the bonds between Singapore and China.

Special recognition was also given to friends from China and other countries who joined the festivities, reflecting Singapore’s long-standing identity as an open, inclusive and globally connected nation.

Whether Singapore is home, a second home, or simply a place held close to one’s heart, the celebration reaffirmed the shared belief that the nation’s greatest strength lies in its openness, diversity and ability to bring people together.

As the nation commemorates another year of independence, SingCham Alumni proudly joins Singaporeans in the past, celebrating the present and embracing the future with optimism and confidence. The on-site raffle session brought good luck and gifts to the winners, keeping the atmosphere of the venue continuously exciting.

“Yesterday reminds us where we came from. Today reminds us how far we’ve come. Tomorrow reminds us that the Singapore story is still being written.”

With that spirit, SingCham Alumni wishes all Singaporeans a meaningful National Day and joins the nation in celebrating the shared aspiration:

Majulah Singapura – Go Beyond!

Happy National Day, Singapore!

As Singapore and China continue to deepen cooperation across trade, innovation, education and cultural exchange, platforms such as SingCham Alumni demonstrate that the strongest bridge between the two countries is ultimately built by people. 

By connecting generations of Singaporeans and Chinese professionals through friendship, shared experiences and mutual trust, the alumni community continues to contribute meaningfully to the next chapter of bilateral relations.