A day out on a Duck
Video clip created by JRS intern Ms F.
On February 6, 2022, the day started with storm clouds looming in the horizon. Our JRS volunteers prayed earnestly, and our migrant brethren waited anxiously for the rain to clear and for the go-ahead to embark on the much-awaited Duck Tours. Prayers were answered and all heaved a collective sigh of relief when the drizzle stopped. We happily boarded our ‘Duck’ and commenced on our Land and Sea tour.
This outing was a collaboration between JRS Singapore, Duck Tours Singapore and Changi Travel Services and was organized to give a group of 27 migrant workers a treat and a well-deserved relaxing day out.
Accompanied by four enthusiastic JRS volunteers and an MOM staff, the group embarked on a short land tour followed by a scenic journey in the waters around Marina Bay. The face masks could not hide the smiles and excitement of the participants who were busy taking photographs, chatting animatedly and posing for shots with the Merlion. It gave all participants a chance to take in Singapore’s city skyline – much of which was created with the labour of migrant workers.
“I liked the scenery, especially the view of Merlion is good,” Ali Arman from Bangladesh shared. This sentiment was echoed by his fellow countryman Parvez who has been in Singapore for 8 years, “My favourite part of the tour is seeing the Merlion and the Marina Bay Sands.” Saikh Rosain who has been working in Singapore for the past 11 years chimed in, “I liked the tour because of the good scenery, and it was relaxing.”
As part of the organizing team, it was rewarding to see the happy faces during the tour. I felt that it was really a blessing to be able to do a little something for our brothers who have contributed so much to help build our country. Being able to hear their stories during the journey was such a joy.
Jamal from India shared that he had been working in Singapore for 20 years. He would be leaving for home soon and the outing gave him a chance to remember the iconic Singapore skyline. “I feel happy seeing how nice Singapore is. I am happy to see this before I go back. Thank you very much!”
When the group sadly parted ways after the tour, the heavens could hold back no longer and down came a torrential downpour. A sure sign that we are indeed a blessed group! It was a fulfilling and memorable day for everyone, and we look forward to more exciting JRS migrant outreach programmes in the near future. Watch this space for more volunteer opportunities!
The trip was made possible by well-wishers and our kind sponsors:
- The big-hearted volunteers who donated their SingapoRediscovers Vouchers to purchase the Duck Tours tickets.
- Donations from Church of the Holy Cross which sponsored packed meals for our migrant brothers.
- Volunteers who sacrificed their weekend to be on the Duck Tours.
- Changi Travel Services and Duck Tours Singapore for making this tour happen.