When I first heard about the Singapore International Water Festival (SIWF) I was actually expecting a very dull and serious event due to the importance of water issues in Singapore.

Just one of the colourful rafts on show

But after arriving, I was shocked to discover how fun and engaging the event was.

Being targeted at youths, all the different stations and activities at this event really pointed out the importance of water in our small country in less-than-conventional and indirect ways. For instance, the event taking place at the barrage itself brought me to realise Singapore’s need for efficient and effective water management systems, due to the large role the barrage itself plays in this. In addition, the event gave me the chance for my very first visit to the barrage too.

Also, contrary to what many of my fellow course mates believe – that the event focused too much on water sports rather than water conservation itself – I feel that those very water sports activities are a great way to show us youths how important a clean water supply is. The very participation and witnessing of all the dragon boat and raft races at the barrage were in themselves a celebration and appreciation of the clean water us Singaporeans get to enjoy, but take for granted, on a day-to-day basis. All of the water sport athletes there would not have been able to enjoy their sport if not for our country’s water management systems and plans, such as the Marina Barrage.

The knowledge I gained from speaking to the students from Singapore Polytechnic’s drama club was also a large eye-opener for me. They taught me about the dire state of other countries and their water supply, where a large majority of the population have limited to no clean water at all. To these people, the very water us Singaporeans get the privilege of drinking, is an absolute luxury, and this knowledge only increased my appreciation of our nation’s water supply.

This event, co-organised by Singapore Polytechnic and PUB has certainly highlighted the importance of water to me without being boring and stale, for without clean and sufficient water, none of the water-related activities featured would have even been possible.

Posted by Luke Lim Yi Ming, School of Film & Media Studies, Ngee Ann Polytechnic