Launch ceremony
The launch ceremony, held on 14 September 2024, brought together about 100 attendees from various government agencies, close partners from the agri-food industry as well as the academic and research community. The key highlights included a captivating performance by SFA's own band and a commemorative video tracing Singapore’s 65 years food journey since 1959.
In her speech, Guest-of-Honour Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu expressed her appreciation to past and present officers and industry partners who have contributed to Singapore’s food safety and security, and highlighted that the quest for a sustainable and resilient food future requires the joint responsibility of the industry, consumers, and the government.
Minister Grace Fu gave a speech at the launch ceremony and officially launched the exhibition together with Singapore Agro-Food Enterprises Federation (SAFEF) Vice-Chairman Mr Lee Eng Keat (representing the industry) and 8-year-old Raisya Irdina (representing our future generation consumers).
Promoting food safety and food security
Besides learning about the evolution of Singapore's food landscape over the past 65 years, visitors to the exhibition also got a chance to learn about food safety tips and how they can do their part in food supply resilience.
Through fun and educational games as well as informative panels, visitors gained valuable insights and practical tips into food safety practices which they can apply in their daily lives e.g. safe food practices at home and when shopping for groceries.
SFA also showcased how it taps on technology and innovations to enhance responsiveness and operational efficiency. Key features include the use of body-worn cameras for food inspections and investigations to improve effectiveness when carrying out duties, as well as the mobile laboratory which visitors could tour to better understand its advanced food testing and diagnostic technologies.
SFA showcased its body-worn camera and mobile laboratory during the public exhibition
Supporting local produce
Local food production plays a crucial role in Singapore's food security, serving as a vital buffer during times of need. Visitors to the exhibition learnt how they could play their part in supporting local produce and farmers, by identifying and purchasing local produce with the red and white SG Fresh Produce logo. The SG Farmers' Market, organised by the Singapore Agro-Food Enterprises Federation, also offered visitors an opportunity to experience the freshness of locally harvested produce.
Visitors to the SG Farmers’ Market were able to buy freshly harvested local produce, experienced cooking demonstrations with local produce, and participated in a lucky draw to win farm-to-table dining vouchers.
The event marked a significant milestone that not only celebrates our past achievements, but also emphasises the need for collaboration in ensuring our food future. Let us all continue to play our part in writing the next chapter of our Singapore Food Story for future generations of Singaporeans!