A permanent structure, symbolising Singaporeans' commitment to racial harmony and social graciousness, was unveiled by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew yesterday evening.

Located at Bishan Active, the 9-feet tall star-shaped structure contains pledges made by Singaporeans to live in harmony as one gracious society.

The nationwide pledge drive was launched on July 1, 2009 as part of the month-long National Orange Ribbon Celebration (NORC) on racial harmony.

In a short span of 18 days, a total of more than 150,000 pledges were received from Singaporeans of all ages, race and religions. The online platform of the pledge drive attracted a significant number of positive messages from young Singaporeans.

Mr Zainudin Nordin, Mayor of Central Singapore District and Chairman of OnePeople.sg said "the pledge drive presented an opportunity for all Singaporeans to show that we are a gracious society. I am touched by the wave of people who readily came forward to share how deeply they valued racial harmony and the ways in which they were committed to uphold these values. It was a rallying call by the people for harmony to last forever in Singapore."

As Singapore would be hosting the world's first Youth Olympic Games in 2010, NORC 2009 also promoted sports as a means of bridging people regardless of race and religion.

Themed "Many Races, One Gracious Community", NORC 2009 connected many Singaporeans with the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship and Respect.

It highlighted Singapore's cultural diversity, encouraged active participation in community outreach programmes and raised greater awareness of sports and our athletes.

Singaporeans who have yet to make their pledges and wish to show their support for the National Orange Ribbon movement can still do so online at http://orangeribbon.onepeople.sg/2009.

The online pledge drive will continue up to the Singapore Youth Olympic Games in August 2010.