The Republic of Singapore Yacht Club (RSYC) marked its 200^th anniversary with a Bicentennial Charity Gala Dinner in the club’s Nautica Ballroom.

The milestone event was graced by Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, and attended by over 130 guests including club members, sponsors and distinguished guests, raising funds in support of the President’s Challenge.

Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore

Founded in 1826, RSYC commemorated its rich heritage through an evening reflecting tradition and a longstanding commitment to service, tracing its journey alongside Singapore’s seafaring story as it evolved into a distinctly Singaporean and multicultural institution.

The programme opened with a Bicentennial tribute video, followed by welcome remarks by Balakrishnan B, Commodore of the RSYC.

Balakrishnan B, Commodore of Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

In honour of the club’s enduring legacy of service, fellowship and contribution to the wider community, President Tharman officiated the unveiling of the RSYC Bicentennial Plaque and the ceremonial cake-cutting. He was joined by Balakrishnan and other RSYC Committee members, as well as Desmond Lee, Minister for Education and MP for West Coast-Jurong West GRC.

The gala also marked the opening event of RSYC’s year-long bicentennial programme, designed to

drive member engagement through a series of sporting and social activities held throughout 2026.

The ceremonial cake-cutting

It also brought together significant figures who have shaped the club across generations including Edward Wong, Managing Director of AWP and architect of RSYC’s current clubhouse following the club’s relocation to its present premises in 1999.

Francis Lee was also honoured as RSYC’s first Singaporean Commodore (appointed in 1985) and for playing a pivotal role in redefining RSYC as a national club with an international membership, while championing initiatives that strengthened sea sports development, professional training and the preservation of the club’s history.

Desmond Lee, Minister for Education and MP for West Coast-Jurong West GRC

The highlight of the evening was a charity auction, featuring a curated selection of rare and exclusive items including a one-of-a-kind RSYC Bicentennial Commemorative Pure Gold Coin, limited-edition Bicentennial Pure Silver Coins and a rare 60-year-old Martell Cognac – one of only 12 in the world – presented in a Baccarat crystal decanter.

RSYC raised a total of S$326,692 through the gala dinner and auction, and all proceeds were directed towards The President’s Challenge – a national movement launched in 2000 by RSYC’s former Patron, the late President S R Nathan, to rally Singaporeans to build a more caring and cohesive society, and support communities in need.

RSYC presented a cheque for S$326,692 to The President’s Challenge 2026

Later in the evening, a cheque presentation was followed by a post-dinner heritage exhibition showcasing key milestones from the club’s long and distinguished history. As a token of appreciation, all attendees were presented with a specially produced RSYC Bicentennial commemorative gold-plated coin as a door gift.

Balakrishnan said: “As we mark 200 years of the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club, this bicentennial milestone reflects our enduring maritime heritage and the values that have shaped the club generations. We are honoured to commemorate this historic occasion through a meaningful initiative in support of the President’s Challenge, reaffirming RSYC’s long-standing commitment to contributing positively to Singapore’s community.”

Looking ahead, RSYC will continue to build on its heritage as a premier institution, honour its seafaring legacy and chart its next chapter through milestone occasions and activities that contribute meaningfully to national causes and Singapore’s future.

The Bicentennial Charity Gala was made possible with the support of Platinum Sponsors Royal Salute Scotch Whiskey and Martell; Gold Sponsors Asiatic Fire System, Marina Technology and Construction, Nippon Paint and OCBC; and Silver Sponsors AWP Architects, Cloudable Solutions and Sindcon. Neo Garden served as the Official Caterer, with Adidas as the Official Merchandiser.

rsyc.org.sg

RSYC 200^th Anniversary: 2026 Events

Feb 7:               Bicentennial Charity Gala Dinner

Mar 27:             Back to School Social Night

Jun 13:             RSYC Recycled Boat Race

Jul 18-19 & 25:  RSYC Regatta 2026

Aug 22-23:        RSYC Commodore’s Day 2026

Sep 19-20:        Optimist Knockout Championship 2026 (Silver Fleet)

Sep 26-27:        Optimist Knockout Championship 2026 (Gold Fleet)

Oct 9:               RSYC Beerfest 2026

Oct 18:             RSYC Fishing Tournament 2026

Nov 14:             RSYC Charity Cruise 2026

Dec 4-5:           Christmas & Boat Light-Up 2026

Dec 31:             New Year’s Eve Countdown Party