Singapore: The Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) has presented close to S$2 million in donations to 10 charitable organisations at the May Day Charity 2025 Cheque Presentation Ceremony.

The 54th edition of this flagship charity initiative marked a proud continuation of tradition. Launched in 1972 as a simple golf fund-raiser initiated by a group of members, the May Day Charity has evolved into a cornerstone of the club’s annual calendar.

This year, Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong and his wife, Madam Tan Choo Leng, graced the gala dinner.

Held during April and May, a diverse range of club-wide activities contributed to this year’s fund-raising efforts. These included charity golf tournaments and fringe activities organised by various fraternities, such as the swim carnival, tennis and squash charity matches, pickleball social fund-raisers, table tennis events, fitness events, and specially curated food and beverage charity nights.

These initiatives enabled SICC members to contribute through channels that aligned with their individual interests while fostering a spirit of community, wellness, and generosity.

Since its inception, May Day Charity has raised more than US$27 million, supporting over 100 charitable organisations and making a profound, lasting impact on Singapore’s social service landscape.

The cheque presentation ceremony was attended by members of the May Day Charity Organising Committee, led by How Seen Yong, SICC Club Captain and Chairman of the Committee, alongside representatives from each of the 10 beneficiary organisations.

“The cheque presentation not only marks the culmination of this year’s campaign, but it also reaffirms our enduring commitment to community care,” said How. “We thank our members, donors, and sponsors for their generous support, and we look forward to continuing this legacy of giving.”

One of this year’s beneficiaries, the Singapore Hospice Council (SHC), was represented by Helen Ding, SHC Ambassador, who shared a moving testimony about her personal experience with palliative care.

She said: “My father received palliative care, and his final journey was one of comfort and dignity. It was the warmth of the palliative care team that made it possible for my family and I to have peace of mind then. That experience inspired me to join SHC as its ambassador to speak to others about palliative care and end-of-life care. My hope is that more will benefit from palliative care and find the same warmth and support for their loved ones, like I did.”

Her words underscored the real and lasting impact of SICC’s support on individuals and families, reinforcing the importance of sustained charitable giving.

Ian Roberts, General Manager of SICC, expressed his appreciation to all who contributed to making this year’s May Day Charity a resounding success. He highlighted the significance of the initiative in fostering a strong culture of giving within the club and in creating tangible benefits for the community.

He said: “The generosity of our members and partners reflects the true spirit of SICC – a spirit of togetherness, kindness and shared commitment. It is deeply meaningful to see our collective efforts translate into real and lasting impact for the beneficiaries we support.

“This event is more than a fund-raiser; it is a celebration of the values that define our club. We are proud to continue this legacy of service and to work hand-in-hand with organisations making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Representatives from the beneficiaries expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support, which will go towards sustaining vital community programmes and services for their respective causes.

Preparations are already underway for the 55th edition of the May Day Charity in 2026.

Roberts said: “As one of the club’s most cherished traditions, the event will continue to serve as a unifying platform in bringing together members, staff, and generous donors in a shared commitment to giving back and supporting those in need. SICC remains dedicated to strengthening this legacy of compassion, community spirit, and meaningful impact.”

*The Singapore Island Country Club is a Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.