Fathership understands that the unidentified individuals dressed as clowns and loitering outside certain primary schools were part of a marketing campaign by Speech Academy Asia.

The individuals were handing out flyers to invite parents for a free trial at the academy.

Speech Academy Asia specialises in public speaking for children.

A parent told Fathership that his wife and daughter, who is in Primary 2, were approached by one such clown outside Angsana Primary School in Tampines on Sept 15.

In another school, the "clowns" allegedly asked children to follow them, according to Tao Nan School principal Poh Qinyu in a letter to parents seen by Fathership.

Company apologise

The company behind the clowns spotted in the Marine Parade area has apologised for the panic its costumed employees had caused, and put a stop to its marketing effort.

Mr Kelvin Tan, the director of Speech Academy Asia, told Fathership that the school’s marketing team, dressed as clowns, had visited the neighbourhood to promote its courses.

He apologised sincerely for the commotion caused.

“There was no evil intention behind the costumes and we sincerely apologise for it,” he said. “We will not do it again.”

Mr Tan said that the clowns had not approached children or asked them to follow them.

“Our employees wouldn't go around saying such things,” he added.

The clown sightings had caused a stir within the neighbourhood and in online communities.

The police on Monday (Sept 20) confirmed that multiple reports had been lodged and advised members of the public to stay away from strangers and to report any suspicious persons or activities to the police.

Editor’s note:
Fathership has retracted the email sent to Progress Singapore Party inquiring about PSP's involvement. Initial reports suggested that the clowns were part of the party’s routine estate walkabouts.