Halimah Yacob now thinks twice about patting children's heads after Roxy Square incident

In a video posted on CNA's social media on Wednesday (Aug 19), the former president shared that she used to pat children on the head as a gesture of affection.

"I used to do that all the time. Now, I have to constantly restrain myself and I'm very scared," she said. 

"I mean, it's a sign of endearment, like you like young children, especially when you are very old."

She was speaking at the launch of two new active ageing centres in Tampines.

Her remarks came after the recent incident at Roxy Square, where a 73-year-old food stall operator was shoved to the ground for patting a young girl's head.

The police said that a 40-year-old man had been identified in connection with the incident, adding that investigations were ongoing.

'Why are they segregated?'

In her speech, Halimah also highlighted the importance of inter-generational interaction, noting that keeping different generations apart could leave seniors feeling isolated.

Seniors are naturally integrated with younger family members at home, including their children and grandchildren, she said.

"Why.... when it comes to community spaces, are they (seniors) compartmentalised, segregated?" Halimah asked. 

"I don't think that's good for their emotional, mental or physical well-being."

The 71-year-old shared that she has seen many seniors who are happy to see young children and talk to them.

Community spaces should encourage people of different generations to interact, adding that meaningful activities could help foster stronger bonds between them, she said.

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