Almost $3 million was raised at the NTUC SG60 Solidarity Walk this morning, where about 1,500 participants came together in a show of unity to support lower-income union members, platform workers, caregivers and their families.
The event marked Singapore’s 60th year of independence and the National Trades Union Congress’ (NTUC) 64th birthday since its founding on 6 September 1961.
A walk with purpose
“As we celebrate SG60 and NTUC marks 64 years of championing workers’ interests, our NTUC SG60 Solidarity Walk reflects the very heart of our mission – to help workers earn a better living and live a better life,” said NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng.
He added:
“The $3 million raised is a testament to our collective solidarity and will go directly to support our lower-income members, platform workers, caregivers and their families. With the strong support of our unions, partners and donors, we will continue our efforts to uplift and care for every worker in Singapore.”
Assistant Secretary-General and NTUC Care Division Director Melvin Yong said it was inspiring to see union leaders, partners and volunteers come together to make a difference.
Strong backing from unions and partners
The fundraising milestone was made possible with strong support from NTUC-affiliated unions, corporate donors and tripartite partners. Contributions came from NTUC’s impact businesses such as FairPrice Foundation, Income Insurance Limited and Mercatus Co-operative Limited.
Funds raised will go towards NTUC Care assistance programmes, which provide bursaries, e-vouchers and enablement grants for lower-income families. NTUC aims to raise a total of $7 million by the end of 2025, benefitting more than 40,000 individuals.
Walking for solidarity
The Solidarity Walk started and ended at NTUC Centre, One Marina Boulevard, with participants choosing between 3km and 6km routes that passed landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, the Helix Bridge, Singapore Flyer, Esplanade and Gardens by the Bay. The event was held from 8am to 12pm.
At the finish line, participants received goodie bags, posed at photo booths, and enjoyed nostalgic food and drink stalls serving local favourites.
Close to 200 youth volunteers also joined the event, some accompanying beneficiaries to better understand the challenges faced by lower-wage workers and their families.
Celebrating NTUC’s legacy
The walk also commemorated NTUC’s founding on 6 September 1961. For more than six decades, NTUC has championed workers’ rights, safeguarded livelihoods, and helped working people adapt to the changing economy.
The SG60 Solidarity Walk not only celebrated this history but also reaffirmed NTUC’s ongoing commitment to uplift and care for every worker in Singapore.
