Hj Kusen Bin Hj Siraj and Nurul Aida Zakaria
Hj Kusen Bin Hj Siraj:
My name is Hj Kusen Bin Hj Siraj. I was born in 1937, in a kampung in Batu Pahat. I came to Singapore in 1950 when I was 17 years old in search for a better life, armed with only prayers and hope.
In Singapore, I worked at the Asia Foundation as a gardener cum jaga. Jaga was a term for security guard during that time. I worked during the day and I attended night school. I cycled every night to school. When raining season, flooding was a common sight. Roads were flooded, car stalled and I have to skip school. The Asia Foundation recognised my diligence and commitment in my work and in my studies. They recommended me to Singapore American School (SAS), where I worked for 40 years until my retirement age. I received a long service award, a watch and $10k.
The racial riot in the 60s was one of the saddest moments in the history of Singapore. People were afraid to go out of their homes, and a curfew was implemented. Luckily the swift action of the Singapore Police Force managed to restore peace and order.
In 1970, I bought my Lambretta Scooter. I ride in my scooter visiting relatives and friends to keep in touch. Two of my favorite hangouts are the satay club at the Esplanade, where a plate full of satay is served on your table when you arrived, but you are only charged for the number of satays you ate when you are leaving. The other one is the open-air Lee Kong Cinema at Bukit Timah. There is no air-con inside, only rows of long stone benches. The roof is only fisherman-like netting, where you get a full view of the sky. When it rains during a show, it leaves patrons scrambling for cover.
Looking back, I feel Singapore is a country full of opportunities, wealth and happiness. I am very grateful and sincerely thanked the government for their vision and hard work in building this nation. I know and I believe that the welfare of every Singaporean will be in the utmost interest of the government, and therefore the legacy of success and achievements will always continue…
Nurul Aida Binte Zakaria:
My name is Nurul Aida Binte Zakaria. I was born in 2004, in the advanced KK hospital in Singapore. I live in a HDB flat with my parents and siblings.
I started preschool when I was 4 years old and attended primary school in Radin Mas. I am doing my first year in Singapore Polytechnic after completing my ‘O’ Levels. Apart from Singapore Poly which is a 20 min train ride, the rest of the schools are just a walking distance from my home.
One of my favorite school events is Racial Harmony Day celebration, where we get to wear other races' traditional costumes. It was fun wearing the cheong-sum and sari as well as trying various dishes from different cultures. It helped me get to know more about the different cultures in Singapore.
Even with my busy schedule, I am in constant contact with my friends and relatives. The advancements in technology has made communicating over long distances much easier. During school breaks, I often meet up with my friends to have some outdoor fun activities such as swimming or skating at the swimming complex or skatepark where I stay.
Looking at how my great grandfather first came to Singapore with nothing and finally achieving his dream as well as raising a happy family, it has truly inspired me to always give my best at everything I do and never give up. I shall make good use of the convenience that is now laid down for me to achieve greater success for myself and my country. The legacy that my great grandfather left for me will be a legacy that I shall continue to leave for the next generation…
