SINGAPORE : Residents of two East Coast condominiums - Lagoon View and Laguna Park - resolved their four-month dispute over security matters involving a connecting gate.
The MP for Joo Chiat, Mr Chan Soo Sen, was instrumental in getting both sides to meet over a warm and friendly dinner on Tuesday.
He felt that communication was key to resolving the issue.
And this was achieved with a little music.
Mr Chan said: "We had karaoke, they had a little singing competition, each side sent one person to come up and sing, then they duet, then they formed a choir. At that point of time, I knew communication has gotten through and I'm really very happy the matter is resolved to both sides' happiness, and satisfaction."
Even though the gate was not mentioned at the dinner, Laguna Park Management Committee decided, afterwards, to open it at 8am on Wednesday, to residents' delight.
"I bring the kids to the playground very often. So now, we don't have to walk one big round."
"It is actually feasible for them to open it because the residents find it very hectic to come all the way to the shops here."
"You know now I can do my dry cleaning and the supermarkets. It is much better."
"Convenient for everybody. You can buy things or visit friends easily."
Both condominiums also agreed to form a joint working committee to look into matters like vandalism and bicycle thefts. - CNA/de