Public voting for Jubilee Baby Gift items begins

SINGAPORE - The public has now until May 15 to vote for five items they would like to see in the Jubilee Baby Gift, which will be given out to all Singaporeans born next year as part of the country's 50th anniversary celebrations.

The National Population and Talent Division (NPTD) announced in a statement today that 15 items have been shortlisted from some 6,500 suggestions given by members of public earlier this month.

The items on the shortlist are: baby sling, multi-functional shawl, diaper bag, baby clothes set, hooded towel with bath toy, bibs set, sippy cup, baby feeding set, baby rattle, baby book, wooden toy, baby growth chart wall stickers, scrapbook for baby memories, family photo frame and special medallion/coin.

The NPTD said that this mix of items incorporates three elements: "Care" for the baby, "Celebrate" the baby and family bonding and "Commemorate" the baby's birth.

In drawing up the shortlist, a five-member advisory panel took into account feedback from focus group discussions, like the need to ensure that the costs of the items are reasonable. The panel also decided not to include perishable items and those that might not be suitable for all babies, such as milk powder and diapers.

The final set of items will be announced in the middle of the year. Voting takes place online at www.nptd.gov.sg/jubilee.

huizhen@sph.com.sg