A Multi-Sensory Celebration Highlighted by a Record Number of Tan Chay Bing Bursary Awards
[5 October 2025] – The Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) celebrated a night of inclusivity and empowerment for their visually impaired (VI) clients on Saturday, 4 October 2025. As part of the evening’s festivities, a record 57 recipients were awarded the Tan Chay Bing Bursary, one of the highest intakes since its inception. This event was held in conjunction with the International White Cane Day commemorated annually worldwide on 15 October.
Held at SAVH’s premises, the event brought together over 800 clients with visual impairment,
caregivers, volunteers, partners, and members of the public in a festive Mid-Autumn themed carnival that celebrated inclusivity, resilience, and community.
SAVH was honoured to welcome Mr Chee Hong Tat, Minister for National Development, as Guest-ofHonour. In his opening address, Minister Chee highlighted the significance of International White Cane Day in promoting accessibility for persons with visual impairment, and the community’s vital role in building an inclusive society.
He said: “International White Cane Day is an important platform to raise awareness about inclusion and accessibility for persons with visual impairment. It reminds us that a truly inclusive society is one where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully and contribute meaningfully. The white cane is not just a mobility aid – it is a powerful symbol of independence, dignity, and the determination to navigate the world with confidence.”
A highlight of this year’s IWCD celebration, the Tan Chay Bing Bursary Award provides financial assistance to VI students or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Administered by SAVH, the Tan Chay Bing Bursary Award is made possible through the support of the Tan Chay Bing Education Fund and SAVH. The Fund was established by the wife of the late Mr Tan Chay Bing – eldest son of philanthropist Tan Kah Kee, in his memory.
Beyond financial support, the awards celebrate the determination and achievements of students who pursue their education in the face of challenges. During the award presentation, SAVH client – Ms Penny Poh, a mother of two of this year’s bursary awardees, shared how the bursary would ease her family’s financial pressures and allow her sons to focus on their studies. Guests were also treated to a moving rendition of ‘Canon in D’ by Mr Oscar Lim, a young award recipient whose talent on the keyboard reflects the spirit of resilience the award seeks to nurture.
Over 20 stalls offered food, merchandise, and inclusive sensory games, added vibrancy to the evening. Themed “A World Without Limits: Exploring the Senses,” this year’s celebration invited guests to engage with the world through the perspectives of the visually impaired via thoughtfully designed inclusive games.
Proceeds from IWCD 2025 will go towards training, resources, and initiatives to empower
independence and opportunities for the visually impaired. With the support of the Tote Board’s Enhanced Fund-Raising Programme, every dollar raised will be matched by 40% (capped at $100,000), significantly amplifying the impact of contributions.
More than just a celebration, International White Cane Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the
transformative role education and community support play in shaping a more inclusive future for the visually impaired.