Opening Remarks by Mr Heng Swee Keat, Minister for Finance, at the Launch of the Inter-Racial Inter-Religious Harmony Train on 26 Jun 2017 at 1100hrs, Harbourfront Station

Mr Lee Kim Siang,

Chairman, Thye Hua Kwan Moral Society

Organising Committee of the Inter-Racial Inter-Religious Harmony Nite 2017

Harmony Train supporters and friends

1. Good morning! It is my pleasure to join you this morning to launch the Inter-Racial Inter-Religious Harmony Train. Selamat Hari Raya Puasa to all our Muslim friends!

1. This time last year, you launched the Harmony Truck.  The Harmony Truck journeyed into the heartlands over two months, spreading the message of racial and religious harmony to over 45,000 people, bringing together locals and foreigners living in Singapore.  Congratulations on touching many people with the important message that harmony extends beyond borders.

1. It is a timely, and serious focus.  Of late, we have seen divisions along racial and religious lines lead to horrific attacks – in Manchester, London, Brussels, and, closer to home, the Philippines. It is sad to see this happening to our peace-loving friends and neighbours. 

1. We have been fortunate to enjoy inter-racial and inter-religious harmony.

1. What can we do to guard against division and foster harmony?  We can keep three things in mind.  Since we are launching the Harmony Train today, I could not help but think about harmony in terms of a journey. 

1. First, remember: we all have a common destination.

1. Second, as the saying goes – it’s not about the destination, it is about the journey.  I would say, it is about our fellow travellers.

1. Finally, there is one way harmony is not like a train journey – it does not come to a stop. 

1. The Harmony Train reminds us daily that we are all in this together.

1. I wish you all the best with this initiative. I hope that many people will join us on board this journey of safeguarding the special inter-racial, inter-religious harmony we enjoy.  While we each have our own path to travel, may we all journey together, in peace, trust and friendship – in a train of harmony.

Thank You.