Raymond Tan

Passing it on: A multi-generational legacy of cleanliness

_{Photo Caption: Father-son moment – Raymond and Rubeus standing side-by-side on the basketball court.}

Seventeen-year-old Rubeus Tan founded Basketball Société Courageuse, a recreational basketball team, to give youths like himself the opportunity to enjoy the sport outside of school. He roped in his father, Raymond Tan, 45, to sponsor the team and double up as a youth mentor, guiding the team of 15 players to be responsible young adults through basketball and to excel at what they enjoy. What began as an avenue to quench their thirst for the sport soon transformed into an initiative that fosters environmental and social responsibility among youths.

_{Photo Caption: Full team group shot after the match with Rubeus (top-left) and Raymond (right).}

The name Société Courageuse reflects the team’s deeper values. “I wanted it to be a safe space where kids can play freely without fear – to have the courage to be themselves and not let fear hold them back. Many of these boys are judged by grades, but here, they learn that their worth isn’t defined by academics alone,” Raymond shared. He added that this same courage extends beyond the court and school life, empowering the youths to stand up for what is right, even in small acts like keeping their surroundings clean. The team’s core values originate from a multi-generational journey of civic-mindedness and an innate sense of responsibility for our environment – values passed down from father to son.  

_{Photo Caption: Raymond coaching his players as they listen closely.}

Raymond’s commitment to cleanliness stems from his upbringing. His father, a humble ice-cream seller, would sweep the surroundings and pick up litter without hesitation. He instilled and nurtured this sense of environmental responsibility in Raymond, making it his second nature. As a young rugby player, he led by example, cleaning up after matches and encouraging teammates to do the same. "Cleanliness is in my DNA," Raymond said. reflecting on how he has since passed down his father’s teachings to his own son.   

_{Photo Caption: Rubeus picking up litter after the game.}

Today, Rubeus’ team also initiates litter-picking activities after every game, leaving the court cleaner than when they stepped in. For him, this came naturally – an instinct shaped by years of watching his father’s example. Rubeus’ cleanliness efforts soon caught on, with the rest of the team joining in, exemplifying how one small action can have a ripple effect and inspire others.

“Taking ownership of my surroundings came naturally to me. Since childhood, my father has taught me to be environmentally conscious through simple actions, from returning trays after meals to never littering, my teammates also do it willingly with no questions asked,” said Rubeus. He emphasised that education starts at home, with parents playing an impactful role in teaching our shared responsibility for a clean and hygienic Singapore. Our children are the future of tomorrow, and the ball is now in their court to continue keeping Singapore clean.

As Singapore commemorates SG60, Raymond and Rubeus hope the nation continues its legacy as a clean and green city.  “Did we mention that Mr Lee Kuan Yew is our role model? My Grandpa, my dad and me, “said Rubeus with a grin.

Cleanliness isn’t just a habit - it’s a part of the Singapore identity, part of our DNA. And with every piece of trash picked up and every court left spotless, the Tans prove that the simplest actions can build a lasting legacy.