Serangoon TCM Centre: 
This year’s Mid-Autumn celebration at KWSH was a particularly dazzling one. One lantern, two, three… 32 Kong Ming lanterns rose gently into the night sky, lighting up our compound and becoming the evening’s brightest attraction.
On 19 September, KWSH earned a place in the Singapore Book of Records for the “Largest Kong Ming Lanterns Display”. It was more than a record-breaking moment. It marked a new chapter in a Mid-Autumn tradition that KWSH has cherished for more than a decade.
A Mid-Autumn Tradition That Began in 2012
Kong Ming lanterns have long been a much-loved part of KWSH’s Mid-Autumn celebrations. The tradition began in 2012, when KWSH first released Kong Ming lanterns as part of our festivities. What started as something new soon became a highlight everyone looked forward to, with Kong Ming lanterns becoming the signature sight of each Mid-Autumn celebration. In 2015, as Singapore celebrated her 50th birthday, KWSH marked the occasion with a giant Kong Ming lantern as a special birthday tribute to the nation. Measuring 3 metres high and 2.5 metres wide, it was the largest Kong Ming lantern in Singapore at the time.
From a new idea to a familiar sight every Mid-Autumn Festival, the lanterns have witnessed countless celebrations at KWSH and become part of many happy memories shared by our residents, their families, community members and supporters. This year, in the presence of Guest of Honour Ms Tin Pei Ling, Member of Parliament for Marine Parade–Braddell Heights GRC, and Special Guest Mr Shawn Loh, Member of Parliament for Jalan Besar GRC, 32 Kong Ming lanterns made history, officially putting this beloved KWSH tradition into the record books.
Every Lantern Carries a Wish
What makes Kong Ming lanterns so captivating? Perhaps it is not simply the sight of dozens of glowing lanterns lighting up the night, but the wishes and blessings that each one carries.
Each year, most of the lanterns displayed around our grounds are made possible through the generous support of donors. In that sense, this year’s 32 Kong Ming lanterns also symbolise the many years of support KWSH has received from our donors. Just as Mid-Autumn Festival is a time of warmth and togetherness, the glow of the lanterns reflects the care and kindness that our supporters have shown toward our residents, patients and seniors.
In other words, what lit up the night sky was not just 32 Kong Ming lanterns. It was 32 symbols of kindness, generosity and love.
A Lively Celebration for All Ages
The lanterns may have stolen the spotlight, but there was plenty more happening throughout the evening! This year’s Mid-Autumn celebration took on a livelier carnival atmosphere, with more food and game stalls for residents, families and members of the neighbouring community to enjoy. There was something for everyone, whether you came for a bite, a game, a stroll around the grounds or simply to soak up the festive atmosphere.
The ever-popular Lotus Wishing Pond also made a return, giving donors a chance to set sail their wishes afloat on lotus flowers. It is another heartwarming tradition that has become part of KWSH’s annual Mid-Autumn celebrations.
Over on the stage, the evening was just as lively. Performers from different generations took to the stage, from senior singers to children as young as six years old. With everyone showing off their talents in their own way, the performances brought an extra dose of intergenerational energy and warmth to the celebrations.
A Story That Continues to Shine
With 32 Kong Ming lanterns setting a new Singapore record, this year’s Mid-Autumn celebration was certainly one to remember. But beyond the record, what makes the moment special is the journey behind it. For more than a decade, the Kong Ming lanterns have risen into the night sky year after year. The message behind them has remained the same: to bring light, warmth and care to the people we serve.
May every lantern continue to light the way and bring hope, joy and blessings to every life touched by KWSH.
