MDDI gives 1998 song a new spin with modern day remake

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), in partnership with Hogarth Worldwide, has released a heartwarming Chinese New Year (CNY) music video celebrating the joys of friendship and the importance of aspirations and kindness during the festive period.  Launched in line with Singapore's 60th birthday celebrations, the two-minute music video showcases the latest rendition of “细水长流” (Friendship forever), a song originally written by Singapore Cultural Medallion recipient Dr Liang Wern Fook in the 1980s.

The latest rendition features singers Joi Chua and Leelian Chua, who had previously performed the song in 1998 as part of the “Sing Singapore” movement. The video shows the two musicians celebrating CNY with peers from various ethnicities and backgrounds, taking part in activities such as guitar-playing and arts and crafts. 

Don't miss: Gov.sg celebrates found family and community in CNY film

To highlight their longstanding friendship, the music video also featured a flashback to talent show in 1990 where the two seemingly performed the song in their schooling days. The clip then cuts back to the Joi Chua and Leelian Chua in the present, performing the same song on stage to their fellow peers to usher in the Lunar new year. 

Spreading the festive spirit, former prime minister Lee Hsien Loong shared the music video on Instagram, noting that it was one of his favourite Xinyao (Singapore Chinese folk songs) songs. 

"As we celebrate with families and loved ones, let’s also remember the less fortunate in our midst, and those going through a tough patch during this festive period. Let’s continue to show kindness and compassion, and build a society where no one is left behind," said Lee. 

Emphasising the spirit of giving, Gov.sg has also prompted Singaporeans to give back and make a difference in their community with its "SGSHARE" campaign. According to the website, the national regular giving programme is in conjunction with SG60 to rally the nation to support communities in need. 

"With your collective giving, we can empower communities in need in Singapore to live with dignity in a caring and inclusive society," the website read. 

Mark Wong, chief executive officer of Hogarth Worldwide, APAC said: "We're deeply honoured to contribute to this significant campaign that celebrates both Chinese New Year and SG60. It beautifully captures our cultural heritage while marking an important milestone in Singapore's journey."

Heartwarming videos seem to be the trend for brands across the country this CNY. Late last week, FairPrice unveiled a CNY campaign titled "Love prospers in the little things" to illuminate the traditional values of harmony, connection and appreciation. At the heart of the integrated campaign is a brand film, which weaves together the often-overlooked small exchanges and moments of love, shared between family, friends and strangers during the festive season.

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