The Central Singapore Market, hosted by the Central Singapore Community Development Council (CDC), is an exceptional community market with a unique focus. The event, held in Zhongshan Park, is dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle, sustainable living, and inclusivity, while also providing a platform for small businesses to flourish.
The inaugural Central Singapore Market showcased 20 vendors offering a diverse range of products, including fresh locally grown vegetables, all-natural yoghurt popsicles, potted plants, handmade soaps, and upcycled lifestyle products. One prominent vendor was The Helping Hand, a halfway house that sells fresh vegetables farmed by their residents, an initiative in collaboration with the Singapore Prison Service to support ex-offenders in their reintegration into society. Trevor Wong, the business and operations manager, emphasized that the primary objective is not profit-making, but rather to support their programmes and facilitate the rehabilitation of ex-offenders back into society.
In addition to the vendors, the market also featured eco-workshops that demonstrated how to create body scrubs and eco-enzymes using accessible items or food waste, led by Audrey from Eco Rangers, an eco-friendly platform aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainability within the community. These initiatives not only provided activities for market visitors but also served as educational opportunities, empowering individuals to make sustainable choices in their own homes.
What set this market apart was its commitment to inclusivity. Visitors were entertained by performances from buskers with disabilities, highlighting the council’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for persons with disabilities. Central Singapore District Mayor Denise Phua shared the council’s plans to organize similar markets in different locations across the district, focusing on products that align with their pillars of healthy living, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Looking ahead, the council aims to maintain consistency in their mission by ensuring that the products featured at these markets promote healthy living, support local businesses, and offer sustainable options. Phua also expressed the council’s intention to include elderly performers in future market events, further embodying the spirit of inclusivity.
In conclusion, the Central Singapore Market represents a paradigm shift in community markets. By championing healthy living, supporting local businesses, and embracing inclusivity, this initiative is not only creating a platform for small businesses to thrive but is also fostering a community that values sustainability and inclusivity. As the market continues to evolve, it is poised to become a cornerstone of healthy, sustainable living in Central Singapore.