#MyFSGPLedge - Dieky Dzulkarnaen Deo

“I do not take the peace that we have between races in Singapore for granted. So I do my best to bond with my neighbours and participate in activities that strengthen community ties.”

— Dieky Dzulkarnaen Deo, 61
Community artist, volunteer & Forward SG participant

There’s lots that we can do as individuals to help bring people together, bond, exchange knowledge. To contribute meaningfully to Singapore’s unity, I’ve decided to be a better neighbour.

So this Hari Raya, I bought cookies for all my neighbours along the common corridor and they each reciprocated with something in return. This reminded me that small, kind acts can bring joy to those around us, and we all have a part to play in that.

I also teach art classes in the community because it promotes teamwork, collaboration, and appreciation for the small things and beauty in nature around us.

We do everything from painting wall murals with school children to batik-painting with those with special needs.

On an individual level, I also mentor a small group of amateur artists because I am happy to share my knowledge and watch them succeed.

If we do more to share wisdom between communities and promote understanding, we can achieve so much more together.

I attended the Forward SG session at Cairnhill CC and took the opportunity to share with other participants the importance of reaching out to their immediate neighbours.

A few thanked me for the reminder, and that gave me encouragement to continue my community-building activities.

Download the infographic of Dieky Deo's MyFSGPledge [PDF, 848 KB]