By Joy Fang

IF YOU are a Singaporean or permanent resident aged 60 and above, you could be among 1,000 lucky readers to visit the Singapore Zoo from Thursday to Sunday - for free.

This is thanks to Dr Madeleine Chew, the 37-year-old managing director and founder of MW Medical, a Singapore health-care firm which specialises in home medical services.

She forked out about $50,000 from her own pocket to buy the tickets as a gesture to celebrate the International Day for the Elderly.

Inspired to take action after interacting with elderly patients in the course of her work, Dr Chew said her aim is to get senior citizens to become more active.

"Many elderly people prefer to remain at home and not venture out. They need encouragement to take this first big step," she said.

She believes that interaction with the community would help the elderly maintain their mental, physical and social well-being.

Those who are interested in the zoo visit can call 6250-0625 up to Friday from 9am to 5pm to register for a ticket and choose their dates.

Tickets, which will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, can be collected at any ticket booth at the zoo on the entry date.

An identity card is needed for verification.

Inform the counter staff that you have registered with MW Medical when collecting your free ticket.

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