Over 160,000 enjoy live performances, fireworks in the heartland

Celebrations take place across five districts, with each having its own unique theme

- Gabrielle Chan

National Day celebrations continued in the heartland on Aug 10, with over 160,000 residents across five districts treated to activity booths, live performances and fireworks displays.

The celebrations kicked off at 4pm, with each district having its own unique theme and featuring static displays of Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force vehicles.

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong arrived at the Central district celebrations in Bishan at 7.25pm to loud cheers.

Also at the event were Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Indranee Rajah.

They were accompanied by MPs from group representation constituencies in the central area. The crowd, which had gathered at the open field opposite Bishan Circle Line MRT station, surged towards them, eager for wefies and to shake their hands.

Greeting residents in both English and Mandarin, SM Lee said: "We've come a very long way since 1965. Singapore has changed, people have changed, two younger generations have grown up.

"Now, we are in a country that is safe, secure, prosperous, stable and united, and as long as we remain that way, Singapore will continue to progress and do well.

"Continue to make Singapore something special, the little red dot shining away for many years to come."