The silat warriors stood poised. The instructor watched in the stands, looking on eagerly as the warriors took their poses. “The young kids are at the bottom tier,” a lady in the stands patiently explained, pointing at the three-tier stage. “The older kids are on the middle tier and the adults on the top tier.”

It was a late Saturday afternoon. The weather was becoming cooler as compared to the early afternoon heat, and the sounds coming from the field reverberated around Bedok Camp II. Stepping into the camp, one’s eyes were inevitably drawn to the elaborate stage set up on the field. Amidst the sight of the silat participants all in position on the three tiers and the thundering sounds of them running across the wooden boards, one might have been forgiven for thinking that NDP 2008 had come early.

“I feel proud performing in front of millions, showing my appreciation for Singapore.” says Nurindah, panting after an afternoon of running around, participating in the rehearsal. Sporting a red shirt and showing youthful vibrancy, she is one of the many young participants from the Singapore Silat Federation taking part in NDP 2008. Pride features too on the minds of Haiqal and Yayat, two beaming young men. Haiqal feels “happy and proud” of this chance that comes “once in a long time”. Yayat, who participated with the People’s Association in 2003, finds it “more meaningful this time round, doing it with something I am passionate about – silat.”

Noraini, also a second-time participant, is equally excited. She quips, “I last participated when I was in school and now, I already have children of my own. I have come a long way, and I am looking forward to the NDP!” To her, the “multi-racial understanding which leads to unity” is the really motivating aspect of Singapore. Yayat and Haiqal agree. “We are 4 million strong behind everyone who represents Singapore. As we perform, they are together up front with us, and are part of the celebration too!” says Yayat with a grin. Haiqal emphasises bonding. “We put aside our differences and come together to celebrate.”

Looking forward, Noraini and Yayat hope that Singapore looks into developing “local talent”, which they maintain we have lots of, especially in “the sports and the arts”. The optimistic nature of Singaporeans is never lost on these four. Noraini exclaims “Thank God I am born in Singapore!” when asked how she feels about the country whose birthday she is celebrating. Haiqal, on the other hand, looks at the resilience of Singaporeans. “Despite our small size, we never fail!” he says with a smile.

Before long, the smell of pizza filled the air as dinner awaited the participants after hours of hard work. From the sights and sounds of the rehearsal, the participation of Silat in this year’s NDP, only their first in the history of NDP, will be one to look forward to. “Happy Birthday Singapore, don’t forget to invite Silat next year!” they say amidst laughter, running to grab their delicious smelling pizza. Vibrancy in the dynamism of youth indeed.