Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong officially kicked off the 2026 Hari Raya Light Up at Wisma Geylang Serai on 14 February, signalling the start of a month‑long Ramadan bazaar that will run through the holy month and culminate on Hari Raya Aidilfitri on 21 March.
The launch, held under a canopy of colourful lights, drew more than 1,000 attendees despite a sudden downpour, according to a Straits Times report. Over 500 stalls will line the precinct, offering everything from traditional Malay delicacies to contemporary fashion, while digital‑payment partners such as Grab and Shopee introduce incentives to boost online transactions.
Key Highlights of the Light‑Up and Bazaar
- More than 500 stalls operating from 14 February to 21 March.
- Grab Dine Out users enjoy a 5 % discount on purchases, plus a $3 voucher after spending at least $10 at three different stalls.
- Shopee hosts daily livestreaming sessions from 8 p.m. To midnight, giving vendors a digital showcase.
- The event is anchored by the theme “We Celebrate Together,” underscoring Singapore’s multicultural harmony.
Cultural Significance – Geylang Serai’s Heritage
Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Acting Minister‑in‑Charge of Muslim Affairs, highlighted Geylang Serai’s role as the historic heart of the Malay and Muslim community. He noted that the precinct has long been a hub of “gotong‑royong” – community cooperation that preserves Malay language, cuisine and traditions.
During the ceremony, he observed families of varied backgrounds mingling: Chinese elders sampling rendang, Indian shoppers bargaining for baju kurung, and Malay families sharing festive greetings. “When we light up Geylang Serai, we illuminate not just the physical space, but the bonds that unite us as Singaporeans,” he said, echoing the event’s inclusive spirit.
Economic and Social Impact
The partnership with Grab aims to encourage digital payments, a move the government sees as vital for a cash‑less future. The 5 % discount and voucher scheme are designed to drive foot traffic to participating stalls while rewarding consumers for adopting e‑payments.
Meanwhile, Shopee’s livestreams provide small‑scale vendors with exposure to a wider online audience, potentially expanding their customer base beyond the physical bazaar. Organisers anticipate that the combined offline‑online approach will generate modest economic uplift for stallholders and reinforce Singapore’s reputation as a vibrant, digitally‑enabled market.
What’s Next for the Ramadan Bazaar?
The bazaar will remain open throughout Ramadan, offering daily activities such as charity drives, community iftar gatherings and cultural performances. Officials have not announced any changes to the schedule beyond the confirmed end date of 21 March, when the lights will dim to mark the arrival of Hari Raya.
Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong’s presence at the launch underscores the government’s commitment to fostering social cohesion through shared celebrations. As the lights continue to sparkle across Wisma Geylang Serai, residents and visitors alike are invited to experience the blend of tradition and modernity that defines Singapore’s multicultural tapestry.
Stay tuned for updates on the bazaar’s daily programmes and further community initiatives. Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below, and spread the word by sharing this story.
For official details, see the Prime Minister’s Office announcement and the full Straits Times coverage.
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