Reply to TODAY on Bamboo Straws and Post-NDP Trash Collection

In planning for the NDP Funpack, the NDP Executive Committee works closely with sponsors to include a range of sustenance and interactive items. All items are inspected prior to being packed into the Funpacks.

To encourage sustainable practices, reusable bamboo drinking straws that can also be used as clappers during the NDP were included in this year's Funpacks. As the straws are made from natural materials, they vary in colour, texture and straightness. These straws have been tested by an independent local laboratory to comply with the requirements of the Singapore Food Regulations.

To promote cleanliness around the Padang, volunteers were stationed at collection points around the Padang and dispersal routes to encourage spectators to dispose their trash and deposit recyclables such as water bottles. Despite the higher number of spectators present at this year's NDP, the total trash collected was lower than previous years.