Govt won't neglect arts and sports

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MR LAWRENCE Wong, who will become Acting Minister for the new Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) on Nov 1, has given his assurance that the arts and sports will be "vital aspects" of the ministry's work.

Said Mr Wong, who is currently Senior Minister of State for Education, and Information, Communications and the Arts: "I will do whatever I can to secure even more resources for the arts and sports."

Speaking to reporters outside the Mica Building in Hill Street yesterday, he said: "We will build up the arts and sports, not just as a means towards community or nation building.

"Arts and sports are important areas for our people and our society, and they have intrinsic value in their own right."

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister's Office announced the formation of three new ministries on Nov 1, after two existing ministries are restructured. This was announced in a statement, along with another regarding a Cabinet reshuffle.

The new ministries are the Ministry of Social and Family Development, MCCY and the Ministry of Communications and Information.

They are the result of a redistribution of functions from the existing Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts and Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports.

Following the announcements, concerns on whether the Government would neglect the arts and sports were raised.

MCCY is tasked to look into nurturing the arts and sports and engaging youth, as well as fostering social cohesion. Mr Wong called the formation of MCCY "very timely, especially as our social fabric becomes increasingly diverse".

Mr Wong said his plans over the next few months include meeting those in the arts and sports communities, youth groups, as well civic and community volunteers.

He said: "My first message to them is to assure them that we will continue with our commitment in the areas of interest under their respective (areas), and help them to continue fulfilling their aspirations and goals."