The old, the young, the MPs: The ones who attend the festivities
Singaporean government officials and MPs are increasingly using traditional 'getai' performances during the Hungry Ghost Festival to engage with residents and share public policy updates. These events serve as a platform to disseminate information about government initiatives like the Age Well Neighbourhood program and cash payouts.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of traditional cultural practices and modern government outreach strategies in Singapore.
The old, the young, the MPs: The ones who attend the festivities By
Getai has been given a boost with “a new mission” in recent years – to help the Government share public messages with audiences in various languages, said getai host Hao Hao.
The message in Ang Mo Kio on the night of Aug 16 was about the GSTV – Cash payouts from the Government to help Singaporeans cope with the rising cost of living.
Hao Hao, who has also been a host on SPH Media’s Mandarin radio station 96.3 HAO FM for about two years, usually repeats these messages on his shows to keep his listeners informed.
Getai hosts Ke Le and Jacky Chin sharing about the Age Well Neighbourhood initiative at a getai show.
Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat posing for photos with the performers and audience at Toa Payoh Industrial Park on Aug 20.
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