Donors abseil down Merlion for good cause

SINGAPORE - More than 100 individuals from the general public stepped off the edge of The Merlion's mouth at Sentosa and abseiled down the local icon to raise awareness and funds for a children's charity.

This first-ever abseil of The Merlion is organised by Outward Bound Singapore (OBS), and supported by Sentosa and outdoor gear provider X-Boundaries.

35-year old teacher Tan Ai Lay said, "The scariest part was leaving the edge when I suddenly felt all on my own and terrified. I realized the children we're raising funds for must feel the same growing up alone and without their parents. I hope to encourage these children to stay strong and positive."

Mike Barclay, Chief Executive Officer of Sentosa Development Corporation said Sentosa is delighted to support Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) in this event.

"Above all, we are pleased that Sentosa's Merlion Tower is being used as a platform for contributing to this group of deserving children."

James Wong, Chief Executive Officer of Life Community Services Society said the event would give the charity a boost.

"Our heartfelt thanks to OBS for choosing Life Community as their adopted charity. We see great synergy between us. We exist to empower mainly disadvantaged children, at-risk youths and their families through care and mentoring.

Together with OBS, we hope to harness their energy and channel it into positive outcomes," he said.

OBS Alumni - students from various schools who have completed their OBS programmes - also returned to raise funds through the sale of handicrafts and make a difference to the beneficiaries.

16 year-old Delancy Chen said the experience was worth forgoing his weekend swimming sessions.

"It's not everyday that you get to abseil The Merlion. It's a very unique experience for a good cause. I think this event is very meaningful, and I hope that the money raised for Life Community will help them with befriending and development programmes."