SINGAPORE: Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh was an honoured guest at the “high energy” Global Festival celebrated by the Australian International School on Friday (June 23).

The Leader of the Opposition wrote in a Facebook post later that day that he had been “delighted” to be part of the festivities, which was also graced by Australia High Commissioner H.E. Allaster Cox and New Zealand High Commissioner H.E. Gabrielle Rush.

“The Australian International School’s Global Festival is an annual event that recognizes the depth of cultures beyond superficial observations and encourages participants to transcend stereotypes and assumptions,” he wrote.

Mr Singh added that the festival parallels Singapore’s aims of embracing multiculturalism and promoting intercultural understanding. He wrote about what appears to have been two highlights for him: participating in a “fantastic” rendition of the “Majulah Singapura” by the school and talking to the school staff.

The festival used to be called the school’s International Cultural Experience but was given a new name to honour the 30th anniversary of the Australian International School.

The festival “aims to foster authenticity, purpose, and global citizenship while embracing the unique perspectives and identities within our community, both locally and globally.”

The school’s students come from China, India, Brazil, Australia, Israel, and many other countries.

“By showcasing and celebrating these diverse identities, the festival nurtures understanding, respect, and unity among students, staff, and families,” he added, extending his thanks to the school leaders who invited him and congratulating the school “for being active participants of the larger Singapore community.”

On the school’s Facebook page, a post about the festival reads, “Excitement filled the air today during our Global Festival as we embrace diversity, shared our stories, and learn from one another! The school was buzzing from Early Years through to Secondary with cultural workshops to music showcases.”