Singapore HeritageFest 2024 – 1st to 26th May

Get ready for exciting galore and diverse range of programmes, such as offshore tours to kelongs and kampongs, ghostly encounters with the spookier parts of our heritage, exploring old schools and heritage hotels, also a secret “undisclosed” experience, and many more!

Singapore’s rich built heritage includes 75 National Monuments, over 7,000 conserved buildings and structures, and many more other historical sites and landmarks such as bridges, reservoirs and cemeteries, which may not be commonly associated with the term! Through SHF 2024 workshops, tours, trails, exhibitions and other activities across (and beyond the usual norm) Singapore, SHF festival goers will get to experience the history, heritage, culture and stories behind these buildings, sites and structures, packed with its own unique culture and heritage of the communities that live, work and play in and around them. 

SHF Festival Director David Chew said, “Singapore’s buildings, sites and structures – our built heritage – are more than just brick and stone. They hold the stories and experiences of diverse communities past and present, and it is the people and their stories that bring these spaces to life. They are showcases of the rich, unique culture and heritage that Singaporeans share, and we hope that many will have fun at the exciting offerings this year and discover new facets of our heritage at the same time. Ultimately, we hope that SHF will inspire Singaporeans to join us in celebrating and safeguarding our heritage together.” 

Together with more than 80 community partners, SHF 2024 celebrates the richness of Singapore’s built heritage which you can explore by foot, on bus and even on a boat. For the first time, local heritage brand Yeo’s will be an Official Partner of SHF. At SHF 2024, we will see the launch of Yeo’s special edition Orchid Chrysanthemum Tea, which will feature packaging designs inspired by an image of the Vanda Miss Joaquim in our National Collection.

Let’s Explore Stories of our Built Heritage 

With over 120 exciting and diverse programmes at SHF 2024. are you ready to start exploring stories of our built heritage? Where and how do I start? 

HOMEGROUND: We Built This City

A signature SHF offering, Homeground installation for 2024 is laid out on the lawn of a National Monument, the National Museum of Singapore, and pays homage to Singapore’s rich built heritage. 

HOMEGROUND: We Built This City will cover the themes of Nature, Commerce, Community, Residential and Governance, highlighting the intricate connections that have moulded Singapore’s architectural identity over the decades. There will be five displays that detail the evolution of Singapore’s public housing, and a landmark of Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bandstand gazebo at Singapore Botanic Gardens. 

SHF is also proud to receive Yeo’s support for its signature HOMEGROUND: We Built This City installation. Other new partners include DP architects, which designed HOMEGROUND and they will be presenting a series of tours of Singapore’s downtown area.

Amazing lineup of SHF 2024 Programmes

Here are some of the amazing lineup of SHF 2024 programmes! New SHF programmes – Walk, ride or even paddle to explore our built heritage.

Hop-On, Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Experience: Come onboard the Hop-On, Hop-Off (HOHO) BUs Experience and embark on a journey of Singapore’s buildings and landmarks through historical precincts such as Little India and Bras Basah.Bugis, and discover the history and beauty of our built heritage at every stop.

Island Boat Tour + Kelong Visit by Let’s Go Tour: Cruise the northeastern waters of Singapore, learn about the history of its surrounding islands, and visit one of the the last remaining belongs in Singapore. 

My Bay Experience History Wanderers: Paddle through Singapore’s urban reservoir and get exclusive access to hidden corners of the Marina Basin on a kayak tour.

Kampong Gelam Photo Walk: Architecture on Film by Syahmi Hashim & Julina Khusaini: Embark on a photo walk at Kampong Gelam and capture the allure of the traditional precinct on film.

Malay Kampong Heritage Tour: Join Wan, a descendant of Pulau Ubin islanders, on an exploration of the Ubin Orang Pulau community and Singapore’s last surviving Malay kampong.

37 Emerald Hill Site Tours: Discover stories of Straits Chinese communities here. They are the first-ever public tours of the former home of Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (SCGS), led by former teachers and students familiar with the premises. 

Living Architecture: Conservation Tours at NUS Baba House: Participants will visit a 19th-century Straits Chinese home and learn about the conservation efforts that went behind the restoration of the NUS Baba House in 2007. 

Closing Weekend Block Party: Let the good times roll at SHF Closing Weekend Block Party with food, craft, and music performances on the lawn of the National Museum of Singapore, replicating the communal experience of celebrations and festivities at shared residential spaces.

SHF Celebrates 40 years of Total Defence

Unveiling South Beach Singapore: From Military Might to Modern Marvel: Participants can uncover fascinating stories behind the architectural gems at South Beach, from their days as part of a military strong hold to their transformation into a vibrant modern hub. Participants will gain exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to level 11 of South Beach Tower for breathtaking views, and enjoy a refreshing, specially crafted cocktail as part of the programme. 

40 Years of Total Defence with the Navy: Celebrate 40 years of total defence with the Navy with special edition guided tours of the Changi Naval Base and Navy Museum. Visitors can get a taste of Singapore Navy life and learn about Singapore Navy traditions with sailors past and present. 

A Taste of Outfield Camp: Heritage in a Mess Tin: Sample an outfield camp experience and prepare for a “route march” to SAFTI Military Institute all in one day.

Dive into Singapore’s Maritime Heritage

Dive into Singapore’s Maritime Heritage with Singapore Maritime Discoveries, organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. 

Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour: Experience Singapore’s maritime past, present and future at the Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour, which will highlight the industry’s rich maritime heritage, the impacts on our daily life, and how Singapore continues to thrive as a global hub port and international maritime centre.

Maritime Heritage Trail and Maritime Evolution Trail: Discover Singapore’s early maritime history on the Maritime Heritage Trail, and learn about the progress of our modern maritime industry on the Maritime Evolution Trail.

Raffles Lighthouse: Set sail on a journey of discovery through the Singapore Strait and visit the Raffles Lighthouse, a historic beacon which has over 168 years of maritime history. 

Echoes of 1959: Singapore River Tour – Time-travelling storytellers take participants on a captivating theatrical tour along Clarke Quay and bring forgotten stories of a street hawker, a secret society member, and a coolie to life on Echoes of 1959: Singapore River Tour.

Discover unique haunts in Singapore

For those who are interested in the paranormal, you can discover unique haunts in Singapore during SHF 2024.

Haunted History: Armenian Street – Fort Canning:  Explore the stories lurking beneath the veneer of modern Singapore, where anecdotes of ghostly encounters have been passed down through generations in Haunted History: Armenian Street – Fort Canning. Embark on a walking tour from the Peranakan Museum, and hear haunting tales of the area around Armenian Street and Fort Canning Hill. 

Dark Changi, The Walking Tour: Take a walk on the dark side and explore the rich history, abandoned buildings and spooky tales that lie hidden in plain sight at Changi. Dark Changi, The Walking Tour offers two experiences: Heritage and Hantu: A Twillight Tour of Changi’s heritage and abandoned buildings in the fading evening light, and Walk with Hantu: Changi where notorious sites set the scene for lore and legends to come alive through the haunting accounts of eyewitnesses. 

SHF 2024 programmes highlight

Although there is an extensive and diverse list of SHF 2024 programmes, there are two particular programmes that caught my attention and I would like to highlight to all my readers!

Undisclosed by SHF: Join a mystery tour organised by SHF, the only catch is – they won’t tell you where you are going.

NUS ArClab (https://www.arclabnus.com/)

The NUS Architectural Conservation Laboratory (ArClab) is part of National University of Singapore’s Department of Architecture. ArClab is into cutting-edge cross disciplinary research and collaboration across digital conservation technology, material sciences, and building aesthetics. 

For SHF 2024, ArClab has talks & workshops, tours & trails. During the media preview, I got to visit ArClab and got to know more about them. They are definitely worth a look at, if you are into heritage conservation and architecture. 

Lenses of the Past at Capitol Singapore & CHIJMES 

Capitol Singapore and CHIJMES are participating in SHF 2024, not only do they have promotions for festival goers to check out, they have activities and an exhibition too.

Our Storied Past: Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea

Enjoy an amazing and delicious afternoon tea experience at the Lobby Lounge at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore with its 5 course Afternoon Tea. After your Afternoon Tea, start your exclusive walking tour to explore the history, heritage, culture, architecture and stories of Stamford House and Capitol Building. Next, take a short walk to CHIJMES and continue to learn about this National Monument.

Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea Experience 

Dates: Every Wednesday and Saturday from 1st May to 26th May

Time: 

• 15:00 – Afternoon Tea experience at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore
• 17:00 – Guided Heritage Tour of the The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, followed by CHIJMES 
• Weekdays at S$52++ per person
• Weekends at S$58++ per person

For more information, please visit https://www.kempinski.com/en/the-capitol-singapore/meetings-events/singapore-heritagefest-20242 

Legacy Lens Kit

Photography and heritage enthusiasts would love this Legacy Lens Kit! It’s limited edition, 10 lens cards in a vintage camera pouch! Walk around Capitol Singapore or CHIJMES historical landmarks shown on the lens cards, align the outline on each lens card to the real-life structure and take a photo!

For more information on Legacy Lens Kit, please visit https://chijmes.com.sg/happenings/singapore-heritagefest-legacy-lens-kit/ 

Lenses of the Past: Heritage Exhibition 

At CHIJMES, don’t miss the giant retro camera display for you to take photos for your Instagram and TikTok! Check out the Lenses of the Past: Heritage Exhibition on the history, heritage, culture and stories of CHIJMES.

Thereafter, you can have your happy hour drinks, lunch or dinner at CHIJMES with their promotions in conjunction with SHF 2024.

Visit https://chijmes.com.sg/ for more information!

Let’s go explore Singapore’s stories of our Singapore’s Built Heritage!

This Singapore HeritageFest 2024 is packed with an amazing and diverse list of programmes to celebrate Singapore’s rich history, heritage, culture, architecture and stories. Pack your backpack, pack your camera, rally your family, loved ones and friends, let’s go explore Singapore’s stories of our Singapore’s Built Heritage!

For more information on Singapore HeritageFest 2024, please visit https://www.sgheritagefest.gov.sg/ 

The post Singapore HeritageFest 2024 – Let’s Explore Stories of our Built Heritage appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

These art prices join over 2,500 artworks from world-renowned museums and galleries, including Louvre Museum, The Met, the Van Gogh Museum, the National Gallery Singapore, and many others. With the matte display feature on Samsung’s The Frame TV, the texture of the on-screen display provides a realistic art experience that turns art into a showpiece, bringing art galleries into your home. 

Samsung x NHB Partnership

The collection for Samsung Art Store is jointly curated by Samsung and NHB. The 10 artworks selected were representative of the National Collection, which serves to connect the past, present, and future generations of Singaporeans. The curated artworks are deemed best to be displayed on a 4K display like The Frame TV.

The collection includes ‘The Esplanade from Scandal Point’, a painting by John Turnbull Thomson which depicts our National Monument the Padang as a centre of social life as far back as the 19th century, and ‘View of Read Bridge at Clarke Quay’, a work by pioneer water-colourist Lim Cheng Hoe featuring the iconic Singapore River. Other notable historical works include ‘View of Raffles Place’ and ‘View from Government Hill’ – depicting Singapore in its early days – and ‘Bird on Fence’. 

Ms Chang Hwee Nee, Chief Executive Officer, NHB, said: “Our National Collection tells the story of Singapore’s past and present, for our future. As the custodian of Singapore’s heritage, NHB aims to raise a greater awareness of, and deepen appreciation for, these national treasures. Our collaboration with Samsung introduces a new and additional touchpoint for Singaporeans to enjoy the National Collection through its Frame TVs. It is akin to having these beautiful masterpieces digitally displayed in our homes, which will hopefully inspire more to visit our museums to see them in real life.” 

Dennis Jang, President, Samsung Singapore said: “We believe that art should not only inspire, but also inform and educate. With the introduction of the National Collection in the Art Store, our users will be able to appreciate art, and learn more about the history of Singapore. Such collaboration truly shows how technology can bring art and history to more individuals, and the significant role our Art Store plays to bring such monumental pieces to the homes of future generations.”

Samsung and NHB are planning to explore the expansion of the collection in the Art Store, they plan to create awareness of other artworks in the National Collection.

Samsung Unbox & Discover 2024 – A New Era of AI TVs

At Samsung Unbox & Discover 2024 – A New Era of AI TVs launch event held at the iconic Jewel Changi from 28 to 30 March 2024 whereby Samsung Electronics unveiled 2024 line-up of new AI TVs and sound systems. Not only were consumers got to view and know more about Samsung’s 2024 new AI TVs, they also got to view and know more about the Samsung and NHB partnership to bring Singapore’s Cultural Heritage to Samsung The Frame TV. 

More information on Samsung’s new 2024 AI TVs and sound systems can be found on my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog article: Samsung Electronics unveiled 2024 line-up of new AI TVs and sound systems. 

Bespoke Lifestyle Products that elevate every lifestyle

In year 2024, The Frame TV’s new Art Stream feature gives users a taste of the Art Store’s diverse collection by providing them with 20 free hand-selected artworks each month. The Art Mode also features enhancements, including Pantone Validated certification where colour accuracy is ensured with artworks displayed. In addition, users can be ensured of lower energy usage with Art Mode as the picture frequency in 2024 Frame TV is reduced from 120Hz to 60Hz when the mode is active, resulting in 10% energy savings (1). 

New Music Frame

The new Music Frame, is an audio solution that complements The Frame, they can seamlessly blends into the environment as a modern picture frame, allowing users to customisation options with their favourite photos, while also serving as a sound device. When paired with Samsung 2024 TVs, the Music Frame users can play sound from both the TV and sound device – a unique feature called Q-Symphony. As a standalone speaker, the Music Frame pairs via Bluetooth with other devices such as a mobile phone.

In a collaboration with Disney, the Frame TV and Music Frame will have 4 special Disney-themed designs for the Frame bezel and Music Frame panel. This limited-edition bundle is available for purchase at the Samsung Online Store, Samsung Shop App, and major consumer electronics retailers. 

For more information on Samsung Samsung’s new 2024 AI TVs and sound systems

For more information on Samsung Samsung’s new 2024 AI TVs and sound systems, pricing and availability, please visit Samsung website https://www.samsung.com/sg/ 

Notes:

(1) This feature applies to the 55’’ display and above  

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MHC Hari Raya Open House AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 Theme: Food

The theme for MHC Hari Raya Open House 2024 is food. This year’s programmes will serve up a buffet of programmes, activities and displays showcasing the culinary traditions and intangible cultural heritage practices related to Hari Raya. The AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 programme highlights include a cooking demonstration with MasterChef Singapore finalist Chef IIya Fadhly, Teh Tarik making workshop by Tarik.SG, and a larger-than-life food replicas of iconic Hari Raya dishes such as mutton biryani, sayer lodeh, and assorted kueh. 

There are also other exciting programmes at this special edition MHC Hari Raya Open House which will explore the influences and commonalities between Malay and Indian culture, such as 

• Taste of Heritage: Nasi Tomato, Ayam Bakar and Begedil & Soto Pani Puri with Chef Ilya
• Threads of Unity: Unravelling Shared Textile Traditions Between India and the Nusantara,

On top of all this, there will also be upbeat dance and musical performances, such as the medley of nostalgic Raya songs performed with traditional instruments, spreading the festive cheer of Hari Raya.

AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 Highlights

Ruang AidilFEASTri

• Date: 19 – 28 April
• Time: 10am – 6pm
• Venue: Lobby, IHC
• Admission is free

Delectable Designs: Henna Art & Fuse Beads Keychain Making with Hennaflair and Senikraf

• Date: 27 & 28 April
• Time: 10am – 6pm
• Venue: Lobby, IHC
• Admission is free

AidilFEASTri Munch & Crunch Corner

• Date: 27 & 28 April
• Time: 11am – 5pm
• Venue: Lobby, IHC
• Admission is free

Cultural Rhythms: Rentak x Raya with SMU Rentak

• Date: 27 April
• Time: 10.30am – 11am
• Venue: Street Stage, IHC
• Admission is free

Cultural Rhythms: An Afternoon of Dance with Alif-Alliance, ASWARA, Mayoora Dance Group and Permata Seni Budaya

• Date: 27 April
• Time: 4.30pm – 5.15pm
• Venue: Street Stage, IHC
• Admission is free

Don’t Spill the Teh: A Teh Tarik-making Workshop with Tarik.SG

• Date: 27 April
• Time: 11am – 12.30pm
• Venue: Activity Room, IHC
• Admission: $15

Tales from the Nusantara : My Mother’s Kitchen with Shahril Samri from Pantunism

• Time: 11am – 12.30pm
• Venue: Level 3, Permanent Gallery, IHC
• Admission: $16 (parent-child pair), $8 (additional child)

Threads of Unity: Unravelling Shared Textile Traditions Between India and the Nusantara with Hafiz Rashid, aNERDgallery and Wild Dot

• Date: 27 & 28 April
• Time: 3pm – 5pm
• Venue: Permanent Galleries & Seminar Room, IHC (Meet at Lobby)
• Admission: $20

Discovering The Blue Mosque of Singapore: Heritage Tour of Malabar Muslim Jama-ath Mosque

• Date: 27 April
• Time: 2pm – 3.30pm
• Venue: Offsite
• Admission: $5 (refundable deposit)

Joget & Jamu with Nur Raihan and Dana Safia

• Date: 28 April
• Time: 10am – 11.30am
• Venue: Street Stage, IHC
• Admission: $10

Kuih-licious Creations: A Miniature Kuih Raya Workshop with Sherry’s Minis

• Date: 28 April
• Time: 11am – 2pm
• Venue: Activity Room, IHC
• Admission: $25

Cultural Rhythms: Joyful Melodies with Sheer-Nas & Friends

• Date: 28 April
• Time: 12pm – 12.45pm
• Venue: Street Stage, IHC
• Admission is free

Cultural Rhythms: Gema Ghazal with Orkes Melayu Mutiara

• Date: 28 April
• Time: 4.30pm – 5.15pm
• Venue: Street Stage, IHC
• Admission is free

Taste of Heritage: Nasi Tomato, Ayam Bakar and Begedil & Soto Pani Puri with Chef Ilya Nur Fadhly

• Date: 28 April
• Time: 5pm – 6pm
• Venue: Activity Room, IHC
• Admission: $10

Visit https://malayheritagecentre.peatix.com to register for the above AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 programmes on a first-come-first-served basis.

Mark it down on your calendar, spread the word, and Pass-It-On, celebrate a special edition of MHC Hari Raya Open House, at the AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 from 27th to 28th April 2024 at IHC.

Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) Special Edition Open House –  AidilFEASTri Festival 2024 

• Dates: 27 to 28 April 2024
• Location: Indian Heritage Centre (IHC)
• Website: www.malayheritage.gov.sg 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malayheritage 
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/malayheritage 

Hari Ray related content on NHB heritage portal roots.gov.sg 

• Intangible Cultural Heritage: Hari Raya Puasa – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/ich-landing/ich/hari-raya-puasa)
• Intangible Cultural Heritage: Weaving Ketupat – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/ich-landing/ich/weaving-ketupat)
• Intangible Cultural Heritage: Making and Wearing of Baju Kurung – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/ich-landing/ich/making-and-wearing-of-baju-kurung)
• Stories: Geylang Serai Market & Food Centre – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/stories-landing/stories/Hawker-Centres/Geylang-Serai-Market-Food-Centre)
• Collection: A stamp celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1002233)
• Collection: Brass ‘roti jala’ mould presser – (https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1072285)

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HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat: Festival Race

Starting from Haig Road Market and Food Centre, race participants will embark on a journey exploring through Katong-Joo Chiat. Along the way, you have to unravel hidden clues and complete challenges that will uncover the Katong-Joo Chiat neighbourhood’s rich heritage, history and culture. Guiding you through every step of the way are the friendly virtual mascots: Void Deck Cat and Hannie the HAN sparrow.

The first 5 teams to cross the finishing line will win vouchers and cash prizes (1) kindly sponsored by HiddenSG, i12 Katong, The Federation of Merchants’ Associations Singapore and Heartland Enterprise Centre Singapore!

Can I still go on HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat game after the festival race?

If you are unable to join during the festival race period, the HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat game will still be available after the festival race for those who are interested to play at your own pace. Tickets are priced at S$9.90 and this includes a surprise F&B item along the way!

What is the HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat all about?

The HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat is one of the programme highlights of NHB’s Heritage Activation Nodes: Katong Joo Chiat (HAN@K-JC) launch festival held from 20th to 21st April 2024.

Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of activities organised in collaboration with over 20 community partners and heritage businesses in the area, at various locations around the Katong-Joo Chiat neighbourhood. 

For more information on HAN@K-JC and HiddenSG @ Katong-Joo Chiat, please visit https://go.gov.sg/nhb-han 

A preview of HiddenSG Race @ Katong-Joo Chiat 

I went for a media preview for this HiddenSG Race @ Katong-Joo Chiat, it was a fun and interactive amazing race, Singapore Heritage edition. This unique heritage race is interactive, the questions have its own unique style of making us unravel the clues and completing the challenges. 

For myself who has been photographing and documenting in the heritage sector, this amazing race style game is refreshing for me in how we can approach, embrace and reach out Singapore’s history, heritage, and culture through technology and new media, to a wider community from the young to the seniors, attracting and getting more people to discover and know more about Singapore’s history, heritage and culture.

Although I don’t live in the East side of Singapore, the recent NHB Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat launch, and recent photography assignment location in Katong-Joo Chiat, brought me to Katong-Joo Chiat district for the fourth time in two months. 

Here are some tips that I would like to share with you when you embark on this interactive HiddenSG Race @ Katong-Joo Chiat:

• Wear comfortable attire and shoes, you are going to walk and walk!
• Observe the rich heritage and culture in the Katong-Joo Chiat neighbourhood
• Take the chance to learn about the rich heritage, history and culture of Katong-Joo Chiat district
• Bring your water bottle! Remember to hydrate!
• Remember to bring your umbrella or poncho, you never know when it might rain!
• Be safe, watch out for traffic and people when crossing the roads/walking
• Last but not least, enjoy and have lots of fun with your group of family and/or friends!

Information on HiddenSG Race @ Katong-Joo Chiat

• Date: 20th April 2024
• Meeting Point: Haig Road Market and Food Centre
• Timing: 1pm
• Price: S$10*
• Register here: https://go.gov.sg/nhb-han 

Notes:

• Covers up to 5 participants. You can play individually or in a group of up to 5 people for the same price. Please bring a phone with internet access and WhatsApp, wet weather protection, and a water bottle. 
• (1) 1st Prize: $300 KLIK vouchers (i12 Katong app voucher) & cash prize of S$500; 2nd and 3rd Prizes: $250 cash prize each; 4th and 5th Prizes: $100 cash prize each.

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Changi Heritage Trail

The Changi Heritage Trail by NHB features 23 heritage sites and six heritage trail markers, they will tell you the stories of Changi through the memories of its community, tracing its evolution across different eras, and shed light on Changi’s cultural, social, economic and military heritage over the centuries. Visitors on the Changi Heritage Trail will get to explore iconic landmarks and discover the diverse narratives of Changi, from the hardships endured by prisoners of war during the Japanese Occupation to the vibrant mix of cultures of the kampongs and communities in the Changi area. 

Mr Alvin Tan, Deputy Chief Executive (Policy & Community), NHB, said: “Through our heritage trails, NHB hopes not only to showcase the unique history of neighbourhoods, but to also leverage our trails to bring heritage closer to the community; facilitate community participation through the contribution of stories and photographs; enhance place identity; and in this case, encourage Singaporeans to explore Changi and rediscover its unique charms.”

Coastal lifestyle

Changi’s coastal area, fishing and other maritime activities shaped the economy, society and cultures of the kampongs in Changi. For the communities of Kampongs Ayer Germuroh, Mata Ikan and Beting Kusah, fishing was their livelihood, as were kerkarang (coastal foraging) and the making of kaput (lime-based whitewash). All these activities required deep knowledge of the seascape, weather patterns and monsoon winds, that were passed down through generations and they formed the foundations of many aspects of community life. The fishermen of Changi coast generally head out to sea after dusk, returning in the mornings, bringing the villages to life. 

Sun, sand and sea of Changi – Singapore’s Lido

During Singapore’s colonial era, the sun, sand and sea of Changi transformed into Singapore’s Lido. The Lido di Venezia in Italy is known for its fresh air and forested environment. Changi was a popular leisure destination for its quiet and clam beaches, cool sea breeze, and this was also the point for those who wished to sail to nearby islands or favoured fishing locations. 

Changi developed into a resort feel for the colonial society, this was highlighted by European visitors, as recorded in a diary entry from 1860 that detailed a visit to Changi: “Changhee is a sort of Singapore Brighton – a place where everyone goes for a picnic. It only consists of a few small fishermen’s huts, a government traveller’s bungalow, and another bungalow a little higher up belong to a Joint Hock Company.” 

A wooden bungalow known as Change Hut was constructed, this made Changi a popular location for the colonial society for their holidays due to its picturesque surroundings. With this popularity, more bungalows were constructed in the area, with private investors renting them out as resorts, further cementing Changi’s reputation as a leisure spot as Singapore’s Lido.

Changi’s military history and heritage 

After the 1920s, Changi went through significant transformation to become a strategic military and penal hub. Sembawang, located in the northern part of Singapore was confirmed as the location for United Kingdom’s (UK) new naval base back then, they needed another site for a cantonment (military quarters) and artillery emplacements to house troops and guns that would protect the naval base. 

Given the strategic location of Changi overlooking and commanding the eastern approach to the Johor Strait, as well as its distance from the city and major residential areas. Changi was chosen and a natural choice to play her role in the defence of Singapore. 

The Gillman Commission was established in 1927 to plan and develop the Changi Cantonment. Thereafter, the UK War Office began acquiring land in Changi and transforming the landscape to make way for concrete gun emplacements, airfields, hangars, barracks blocks and other facilities. 

Changi Prison came after the development of Changi Cantonment. They were built in response to overcrowded conditions at Pearl’s Hill Prison and Outram Prison in the early 1930s. Changi Prison would eventually house Western civilians and prisoners of war during the Japanese Occupation.

Hearing heartfelt stories of Changi’s history, heritage, culture and living

During the media tour of Changi Heritage Trail, we met people that were associated with Changi’s history, heritage, culture and living, hearing the heartfelt and wonderful stories of Changi.

At Sree Ramar Temple, Mr Thalapathi K.V, a temple volunteer, he shared quite a lot of interesting stories about his memories of Changi. The points that he shared with us that enlightened me were Sree Ramar Temple was facing East, there were two water elements in front of the temple down the road, Sungai Changi, followed by the sea/coastal area (Changi Beach Park) after the river. He also spoke about the connections and significance of the statues of Buddha and Guan Yin in the temple, about the communities in Changi, his childhood days playing around the neighbourhood, the multi-cultural communities and the kampong spirit. 

At Changi Sailing Club/Changi Boardwalk, overlooking the coast and sea, Mdm Isiah Majid, a former resident of Kampong Ayer Gemuroh also shared a lot about her childhood memories of Changi, “[The atmosphere at the beach was] just like a fish market, with people [gathering around each] boat to buy their fish. It’s a joyful moment, with children swimming and [playing] in the sea… while the adults are bargaining for their fish.”

If you are travelling to Changi Airport by car or bus on the road or your plane is landing at or departing from Changi Airport, you can’t miss the iconic Changi Airport Control Tower. At Changi Airport Terminal 1, we heard Mr Joshua Woo sharing priceless photos and memories of his late father, a former contractor that was involved in the building of the Changi Airport Control Tower.

Beyond the history, heritage, culture and tangible aspects of cultural heritage, these are great examples of our intangible cultural heritage, the life experiences, oral history and memories of Singapore.

My personal nostalgia memories of Changi 

When NHB launched its newest heritage trail, the Changi Heritage Trail, I was excited to retrace back my nostalgia memories, starting from my teenage days of visiting Changi Village, starting off with a long bus ride on bus service no.2 from Chinatown to Changi Village, followed by taking a bumboat across to Pulau Ubin for camping and hiking when I was a Boy Scout. I remembered going for hikes with our map and compass (no smartphones and maps app in our era) and one of the hikes led us to Changi. 

Thereafter, serving my full-time National Service, starting off at as a recruit at Pulau Tekong and we recruits during my time had to board a slow boat (if you know, you know) from a jetty in Changi to Pulau Tekong (not like today when they can take a ferry), I can’t forget watching the night sky from the slow boat and thinking when can I get back to mainland Singapore again. 

Continuing on into my adult years, even though going to Changi can be a quite a bit of travel for me staying at the western part of Singapore, I do enjoy heading to Changi once a while, on a road trip along the former Changi Coast Road, watching the planes landing at Changi Beach (and doing aviation photography), taking sunset photographs (a great spot for taking beautiful sunsets in Singapore) at Changi Boardwalk or Changi Beach Park. Not to forget wildlife and travel photography around the Changi Village area. 

You don’t have to worry about food and drinks at Changi Village, from the hawker centre, cafes and restaurants, there are different food and beverage options for you to choose from, to relax and enjoy and have a good time there. Before the days of cafes and restaurants coming to Changi Village, it’s the hawker centre for us, the nasi lemak is one of my favourite!

That part of Changi has a rustic and slower pace of life packed with rich history, heritage, culture and food, that you might not envision in a hectic and fast paced modern cosmopolitan Singapore. The growth, development and transformation of Changi, from coastal living and fishing, into a leisure destination, later into a strategic military district, and today a world famous international airport sits in the Changi district. 

Why not experience Changi for yourself, learning and experiencing its early days, coastal life transforming into the modern Changi international air hub of today. See and experience how Changi still retains its rustic charm, history, heritage, culture and natural surroundings. Come explore Changi on National Heritage Board’s newest heritage trail – Changi Heritage Trail.

How can I embark on the Changi Heritage Trail and explore Changi?

Changi Heritage Trail features three thematic routes:

Bungalows and Beaches in Changi (1 hour with public transport) – 4km

This route will bring you to explore the bungalows, sailing and beach clubs, and chalets in Changi. 

War and Peace in Changi (1.5 hours with public transport) – 7.6km

For those into history and heritage, this route brings you to explore the history of different military buildings in Changi with this route, including Changi Prison, Changi Chapel and Museum, and the former Changi Cantonment.

Gateways and Communities in Changi (2 hours with public transport) – 12km

On this route, you can find more about the communities of Changi and the places in which they lived, worked and played.

For more information on Changi Heritage Trail

For more information on Changi Heritage Trail, please visit https://go.gov.sg/roots-changi-heritage-trail, you can download the Changi Heritage Trail’s companion guide and map, time to start exploring! This map will also be made available in all four languages from June 2024. Limited copies of the companion guide will also be available at Siglap Community Club, Changi Chapel and Museum, and Asian Civilisations Museum. 

The post Explore Changi on National Heritage Board’s newest heritage trail appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Street Corner Heritage Galleries Scheme

For those who might not be too familiar or heard about Street Corner Heritage Galleries previously. What is the Street Corner Heritage Galleries Scheme all about?

The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme by the National Heritage Board (NHB) started off in Balestier in 2020, followed by Kampong Gelam in 2021, Little India in 2022 and Chinatown in 2022. The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme is an excellent way to celebrate and document the rich experiences of heritage businesses, this scheme aims to foster a deeper appreciation for heritage in everyday spaces.

Under this scheme, NHB works closely with interested owners of heritage businesses with at least 30 years of history to co-create “mini-museums” to showcase the history, heritage, culture and stories of their businesses and trades, through the displays of historical documents, photographs and artefacts.

A brief history of Katong-Joo Chiat district

You would probably know Katong-Joo Chiat from pictures of the colourful pre-war Peranakan shophouses, that attracts not only locals to head there for a photo shoot. Our international friends have also make their way into Katong-Joo Chiat district for its charm, beauty and colourful blend of old and new, from its colourful pre-war shophouses in the neighbourhood, the diverse communities co-existing with modern shopping malls and hip cafes. 

There are rich history, heritage and culture elements in Katong-Joo Chiat, waiting for you to discover them behind those heritage businesses in Katong-Joo Chiat. Each has their own story of resilience, innovation and intergenerational piety. What are some of the stories and insights into heritage businesses in this vibrant Katong-Joo Chiat precinct? What are some of the lesser-known anecdotes behind those classic delicacies to inspirational tales of intergenerational support and cooperation? 

Why not take a walk and explore Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, discover and find out more about them?

Six Participating Businesses for Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

NHB is launching Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat with six participating businesses: 

• Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah
• Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House
• Kim Choo Kueh Chang
• Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant
• Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh
• D’Bun

Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0 – Empowering the Community 

This Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat is an expansion of the scheme, as part of the NHB’s ongoing efforts under the Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0, to empower more Singaporeans to get involved with the celebration of our heritage and support heritage businesses and crafts. The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme provides curatorial support and assistance in terms of research and content development, and funding for the fabrication of showcases. 

NHB will also work closely with the heritage businesses to develop programmes that complement the showcases, and provide opportunities for them to participate in key NHB events to increase awareness of their businesses and offerings. 

What can the public look forward to? From guided trails and workshops that will showcase the Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat during NHB’s inaugural Heritage Activation Nodes (HAN), that will be launched in Katong-Joo Chiat district and various precincts from this year as part of NHB Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0. The HAN provides opportunities for the community to develop and implement projects that will increase the number of heritage touchpoint in the heartlands and celebrate the distinctive heritage of their neighbourhoods. 

Mr Gerald Wee, Director, Education and Community Outreach, NHB said: “We have been encouraged by the success of the pilot Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme over the past three years. Feedback from the business owners has been positive and we hope this expansion of the scheme will allow more heritage businesses to showcase their stories and heritage, and to benefit from increased public awareness and support.”

A short tour of Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

During the media session, we took a short tour of the Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat district. Starting off at Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant, next was Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah, Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House and Kim Choo Kueh Chang.

Although it was a short session at each location due to time constraints, we heard stories from the  people behind the those heritage businesses. Although I had explored Katong-Joo Chiat quite a fair bit over the years for heritage, history and arts related events and activities, as well as doing photography shoots at various locations in the iconic Katong-Joo Chiat, hanging out at the Katong Square Lifestyle & Vintage Market by The Retro Factory, there were still many stories that I am hearing it for the first time about Katong-Joo Chiat district. 

As I don’t stay in the east side of Singapore, and I am not too knowledgable about Peranakan cuisine, I didn’t know about the history and legacy of Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant until that day when I stepped into the premises for the start of the media event for Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat. I would love to visit and try their authentic Peranakan cuisine after trying out some of their delicious kueh and light bites that they prepared for the media event. 

Next up was Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah. I heard about them previously, now I got to visit their store and hearing them share their history, stories and journeys. I love to eat popiah, I am going to check out their website, see which popiah skin or popiah sets to order, and plan a popiah eating gathering.

Visiting Kim Choo Kueh Chang at Joo Chiat Place, the original location and also its main factory, it was not the same as their East Coast Branch where I visited a few times over the years whenever there were events held in the Katong-Joo Chiat district. We were given a tour of their factory during our media tour, hearing them share about KIm Choo Kueh Chang history, stories and journeys. 

On a personal note, it was good to meet Mr Lim of Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House again, I met him a few years back, thanks to Victor, a senior in Scouting, also a heritage enthusiast that I met at Katong Square Lifestyle & Vintage Market, for introducing him. 

The four Street Corner Heritage Galleries in Katong-Joo Chiat district that we visited, all had their own unique history, stories and journeys, from one generation to the next. I would like to invite you to explore and check them out during your exploration of Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, whereby you can learn more about their origins, how they continued to thrive and grow over the years.

For more information on Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

If you like to know more information on Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, please visit https://go.gov.sg/schgkatongjoochiat 

The post Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

What are the exciting programmes and activities taking place at SYSNMH during Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2024? Let me share more information below:

Prosperity All Year LONG (Supported by local toy designer and artist Ziqi)

• Date: 16 January – 25 February 2024
• Time: 10am – 7pm daily (Last admission at 6:50pm)
• Admission: Free

One of the widely practised and cherished customs by the Chinese community worldwide associated with Chinese Lunar New Year is putting up bright and colourful festive decorations at home and at the workplace to usher in the Lunar New Year. At SYSNMH, they are honouring this cherished tradition by decorating its building and compound with auspicious decorations and plants, as well as its annual lawn installation. When you visit SYSNMH, you can’t miss the big, cute, adorable and colourful Mononoke Dinos! 

Titled “Prosperity All Year LONG”, this year’s lawn installation is a collaboration between SYSNMH and local toy designer and artist Ziqi. This features the designer’s popular character, Dino, reimagined and redesigned in a collaboration with Japanese artist Yasu (EBINEKOYA).

The Monooke Dinos are dressed in auspicious colours, red and orange! They are a modern interpretation of the mythical dragon, and as with dragons, they symbolise success, strength, nobility, abundance and good luck! Moreover, the presence of twin dragons represents a “doubling” of opportunities and good fortune in the year ahead.

Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration 2024 at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall

Chinese Lunar New Year 2024 falls on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February. Come on down to SYSNMH and enjoy Lunar New Year Celebration festivities! 

Auspicious Lion & Dragon Dance Performance

• Date: 10 February 2024
• Time: 10am – 11am
• Admission: Free

God of Fortune Visit

• Date: 10 February 2024
• Time: 10am – 12am
• Admission: Free

Lunar New Year Admission

• Date: 10  & 11 February 2024
• Time: 10am – 5pm (Last admission at 4:30pm)
• Admission: Free

Wan Qing Festival of Spring Open House

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024
• Time: 10am – 7pm
• Venue: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
• Admission: Free admission with some ticketed activities 

Workshops

Dragon’s Beard Candy Making Workshop 

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 11.30am
• Admission: $12 per pax

Parent-Child Mythical Creatures Bag Making Workshop (Supported by A2+rt Studio) 

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 1pm – 2.30pm 
• Admission: $24 per parent-child pair 

Dragon Lantern Making Workshop (Supported by traditional craftsman, Jimm Wong)

• Date: 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10am – 12.30pm 
• Admission: $18 per pax 

Children Lion Dance Workshop (Supported by Martial House)

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 3.30pm – 4.30pm, 4.30pm – 5.30pm 
• Admission: $12 per pax 

Children Festive Chinese Drums Workshop (Supported by Martial House)

• Date: 18 February 2024 
• Time: 3.30pm – 4.30pm, 4.30pm – 5.30pm 
• Admission: $12 per pax 

Purchase tickets for the above workshops via https://wanqingyuan.peatix.com 

Free Activities 

Storytelling Sessions: Tales of Lunar New Year Festival (Supported by Speak Good English Movement and Speak Mandarin Campaign) 

• Date: 17 February 2024 (Mandarin), 18 February 2024 (English) 
• Time: 11.30am – 12.30pm, 2pm – 3pm 
• Admission: Free 

Drop-in Craft Station: Lunar New Year Festival Inspired Crafts (Supported by River Valley High School) 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Drop-in Craft Station: Chinese Calligraphy Try-Out 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Drop-in Activity Station: CNY Mini Games 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Live on the Lawn: Hakka Qilin Dance by Yan Wong Cultural Troupe Singapore 

• Date: 18 February 2024 
• Time: 1.45pm – 2pm 
• Admission: Free 

Live on the Lawn: Lunar New Year Family Fun Contest 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Live on the Lawn: SCO goes to Wan Qing Yuan (In collaboration with Singapore Chinese Orchestra) 

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Live on the Lawn: Chinese Wind & Percussion Music by Reverberance (Supported by Reverberance) 

• Date: 18 February 2024 
• Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free 

Festive Snacks, Mandarin Oranges & Tea Tasting 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 6.30pm 
• Admission: Free, limited quantities available. 

Let’s Celebrate with Uncle Ting: Lunar New Year Activity Kit 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 10am – 7pm 

Guided Tours & Trails

Touring Temples: In Search of Dragons and other Mythical Creatures 

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 10am – 1pm 
• Admission: $20 per pax

Balestier Heritage Food Trail 

• Date: 17 February 2024 
• Time: 10.30am – 11.30am 
• Admission: $12 per pax 

Permanent Galleries Guided Tour 

• Date: 17 & 18 February 2024 
• Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm (Mandarin), 3pm – 4pm (English)
• Admission: Free; limited spaces available. 

Purchase tickets for the above workshops via https://wanqingyuan.peatix.com

Festive Giveaway 

Lunar New Year Hongbao Giveaway (Supported by National Heritage Board)

• Date: From 12 January 2024 onwards
• Time: 10am – 5pm (closed on Mondays)

If you are keen to get hold of the limited edition SYSNMH hongbao for free, simply visit the Memorial Hall, follow the SYSNMH Facebook or Instagram page, and verify at the visitor services counter from 12 January 2024 onwards. Limited to the first 50 visitors per day (1 pack per person) and available whilst stocks last! 

Visit https://go.gov.sg/MRHongbao2024 for more information about the MR Lunar New Year Hongbao campaign 2024. 

For more information and updates about Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2024, please visit SYSNMH’s website (https://www.sysnmh.org.sg/en) and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/sysnmh) throughout the festival period.

Wishing all a Happy Chinese Lunar New Year 2024 in advance! May the Year of the Dragon 2024 be a year of great health, wealth and prosperity for you and your family! 

The post Celebrate Year of Dragon at Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2024! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

I want to collect the NHB Museum Roundtable Hongbao, how should I go about doing it?

From 12th January to 9th February 2024, visitors can collect a set of exclusive red packets at any of the 43 participating museums, heritage institutions, and galleries. Each visitor is entitled to one set of high red packets from any of the venues, while stocks last.

The Char Yong (Dabu) Association Heritage Hall, a new member of the Museum Roundtable (MR) will also be participating in the campaign for the first time. Four other MR members will also be returning this year, the Republic of Singapore Air Force Museum, the Singapore Navy Museum, the Singapore Maritime Gallery, and the Singapore  Sports Museum. 

Limited Edition Collector’s Box Set

There is a popular limited edition Collector’s Box Set! It’s back again! It comes as a large gift box with its own custom-designed bag. Each box contains 2 complete sets of the 43 red packet designs presenting the participating MR members, as well as en exclusive design from the National Heritage Board, making a total of 88 (Huat ah!) pieces of hongbaos! The red packet designs in the box set also have a distinct orange background and feature dragons with subtle colour differences.

The Collector’s Box Sets are priced at $108 (nett) and will be available for purchase only at the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall. Interested collectors can

1.  pre-register to purchase at a specified time slot on 20th and 21st January 2024, which is encouraged, or
2. walk-in to purchase on a first-come, first-served basis on 27th January 2024. Pre-registration opens on 10th January 2024, 10.00am, at mrhongbao.eventbrite.com.

There will be 450 Collector’s Box Sets available for sale, with the majority reserved for pre-registered sales on 20th and 21st January 2024, and the remainder for walk-in purchases on 27th January 2024. Regardless of the mode of purchase, each member of the public is limited to the purchase of one box set per NRIC number, on a first-come, first-served basis.

I Love Museums’ Facebook Page Giveaways

There are two online giveaways that will be held on the “I Love Museums” Facebook Page (https://www.facebook/com/ILoveMuseums), offering members of the public an opportunity to win the Collector’s Box Set or a set of the red packets.

First giveaway (Between 12th and 22nd January 2024)

The first giveaway will be held between 12th and 22nd January 2024, and will require participants to visit participating venues and take a photograph of themselves with the red packets they collected at the museum. Participants are required to share these photographs in the comments section of the giveaway post and leave a comment on which exhibit/artefact they found interesting during their visit. A total of 10 winners will be selected at random the receive  the Collector’s Box Set.

Second giveaway (Between 30th January and 6th February 2024)

The second giveaway will held between 30th January and 6th February 2024, and requires participants to leave a comment on the “I Love Museums” Facebook Page on their favourite aspect of this year’s Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign. There will be 50 winners selected at random to receive a full set of all 43 Museum Roundtable red packets.

Check out the passion and support of hongbao collectors!

At the recent NHB media announcement for the Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign 2024, we met passionate hongbao collectors with their hongabo collections, their stories behind their  loyal support for NHB Museum Roundtable Hongbao.

Ms Yap Siew Luan, a red packet collector from Johor Bahru, Malaysia said: “I have been collecting red packets since 2003 and have participated in the Museum Roundtable Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign since 2015. I first learned about the campaign through friends and have been very fortunate to have also developed long-lasting friendships with other collectors throughout the years. 2024 is also a special year as it is my Zodiac year. While it is a challenge to collect all the different red packets from the various participating museums, I typically aim to collect as many red packets as I can during my short visits to Singapore on weekends.” 

Who’s behind the cute Dragon design for Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign 2024?

You saw the cute and unique Dragon designs on the hongbaos for this MR Hongbao Campaign 2024. Who’s the artist/designer behind this? 

Meet Carlos Puentes, 36 year-old designer from Barranquilla, Colombia who has designed and illustrated for many national and international brands and clients, the designer for Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign 2024. He said: “Through working on this campaign, I have learnt much more about Singapore’s museum sector and am impressed with its diversity!” (His Instagram account is @cpuentesdesign).

Mr Goh Chour Thong, Director (International and Museum Relations), NHB, said: “NHB has truly enjoyed 10 years of partnering with Museum Roundtable members for the Hongbao Campaign, and working with them to adapt the design of the Chinese zodiac animal for the year to reflect each of their unique characteristics. We are very encouraged that the hongbaos as well as the limited collectors’ editions have continued to be popular with the public and sought after by collectors, and helped grow visitorship and appreciation of the offerings at each of the participating Museum Roundtable members. We certainly hope this year’s hongbaos featuring the cute and versatile dragons designed by Colombian artist Carlos Puentes will be no different!”

For more information on the Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign 2024, you can visit the following link: go.gov.sg/MRHongbao2024. 

The post Usher Year of the Dragon 2024 with Cute and Hot Hongbao Designs from Museum Roundtable! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Before we take our trail adventure exploring, discovering and rediscovering AMK town via he refreshed NHB Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail, let’s start with a bird’s eye view of AMK town and its surroundings from Blk 710. How different would the landscapes and surroundings of AMK, the nearby neighbouring towns, were like as compared to the 1989 when Queen Elizabeth II visited on her tour of Ang Mo Kio at Block 710? 

New stories of AMK’s town history and heritage 

The NHB refreshed Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail tells new stories of AMK town’s history and heritage. Through fresh research and community interviews, these have allowed the refreshed trail to delve deeper into AMK’s transformation from an area of plantations and farming land to a thriving residential and commercial hub.

This refreshed trail has reveal lesser-known facts about its landmarks, and uncover more tales of the men and women who live and work in AMK. The Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail was first launched in 2011, it is part of NHB’s ongoing efforts to document and promote distinct histories and memories of different areas in which Singaporeans live, work and play, deepening our understanding of the Singapore story.

New marked sites and thematic routes

The refreshed Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail covers 40 heritage sites and features 10 heritage markers. These include 13 new sites, as well as two new markers at the 

1. Church of Christ the King – the only Catholic church in AMK
2. Liuxun Sanhemiao, a joint temple formed by three temples – Sam Ann Fu, Longxuyuan Jinsuiguan, and Hong San Chin Huat Temple Association – which originated rom the former Lak Xun Village in Yio Chu Kang. 

This trail also features three newly curated thematic routes exploring different aspects of AMK’s heritage, including Iconic Landmarks, Hidden Heartland Gems, and Scenic Fringes. 

These new markers join a list of sites that are a part of AMK’s unique story, including the 21-hectare AMK Town Garden West, the largest town garden project by the Housing & Development Board (HDB) at the time of its completion in 1983. The AMK Town Council was the first such council in Singapore that was established in 1986, and Block 259, also known as the “Clover Block”. the first and only block of circular HDB flats.

Mr Gerald Wee, Director (Education and Community Outreach), NHB, said: “Since the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail was launched in 2011, we’ve been working closely with the Ang Mo Kio community, and have uncovered interesting new facts and stories about the town’s history and heritage, such as the cache of artworks by Chinese artist Xu Beihong which was hidden in Chong Boon Chinese School in Lelong Pah village, near today’s Serangoon Garden, during the Japanese Occupation. By refreshing the trail, we hope that Singaporeans will gain a deeper appreciation of this quintessential Singaporean heartland, and residents will be imbued with a greater sense of pride and belonging.”

The AMK Community Spirit

This refreshed Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail incorporates contributions from former and current residents of AMK to showcase the diverse aspects of the town through the perspectives of people from different walks of life, cultural backgrounds and faiths. AMK in its early days has been known for its strong kampong spirit of neighbourliness. 

Karen Albuquerque, a long-time resident of Ang Mo Kio who contributed to the refreshed trail, recalled: “The neighbourly relations were very strong and close. During festivals, we would visit each other and kept a look out for one another. My mother even left a set of our keys with one of my neighbours!”

From a rural area to an iconic heartland town

AMK became a town of many firsts as it evolved from its rural origins. It was one of the first estates built by HDB, this made AMK an ideal testing ground for different architectural styles, building methods, and pilot initiatives. Block 259 in AMK, is also known as the “Clover Block” for its resemblance to the plant when viewed from above, resulted from this. This block stands as the only block of circular public housing flats in Singapore, and is now an icon in the neighbourhood. 

AMK also served as a pioneer for the concept of town councils, a name that we are familiar in today’s Singapore. This idea was first raised by Lim Boon Heng, then Member of Parliament for Kebun Baru in 1984, with the goal of providing residents greater autonomy over how their estates are managed, and to nurture a stronger sense of ownership and identity. 

Launched in 1986, AMK Town Council became the first of its kind after a successful pilot programme, leading to the passing of the Town Council Act in 1988.

Hidden gems in AMK

There are hidden gems in AMK neighbourhood that the locals in AMK would know. This refreshed NHB trail brings visitors on a journey to explore them, revealing new stories and information about the town’s landmarks. 

Church of Christ the King

One such institution is the Church of Christ the King, the first and only Catholic church in AMK. Officially opened on 26th September 1982, the church houses two significant religious objects, an icon of the Mother of Perpetual Help on its facade, and a start of Christ the King, sculpted in 1956 in Kerala, India on its front balcony.

Ang Mo Kio Joint Temple

The Ang Mo Kio Joint Temple was constructed in 2011, unites the heritage of three temples from former villages in AMK: Gao Lin Gong, Kim Eang Tong and Leng San Giam. 

With the redevelopment of AMK in the 1970s, the three temples came together to establish a joint temple to secure the lease for the site it currently stands on. When you visit the Ang Mo Kio Joint Temple, keep a lookout for the intricate carvings on the building’s pillars and facade that were handcrafted by artisans in China, and a carved wooden stand within the Gao Lin Gong temple commissioned in 1888 to mark the temple’s founding. 

It is one of the two joint temples in AMK that houses temples from different kampongs in the area, the other being the aforementioned Liuxun Sanhemiao.

A closer look at AMK community stories

Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club

The locals would know this place, in more recent decades, an iconic spot well-loved by many is the Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club. This location serves as the a community gathering spot for bird keepers and enthusiasts from all over Singapore. Known as Singapore’s largest bird singing and display arena, the Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club was originally established by three Zebra Dove enthusiasts residing in AMK. 

In 1987, they applied to erect poles to expand the club’s capacity for more bird enthusiasts to join them. At the present moment, this venue can accommodate more than 1,000 cages and regularly hosts bird singing competitions. Among the club’s founders is Mr Teng Leng Foo, who also operates a traditional bird cage making business at Block 159, located next to the arena.  

Hidden cache of artworks by Chinese artist Xu Beihong

In the refreshed Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail, lesser-known stories of AMK town, such as the hidden cache of artworks by Chinese artist Xu Beihong, which used to be located in Chong Boon Chinese School in Lelong Pah. He was renowned for his ink paintings of horses and birds, Artist Xu had organised an exhibition to raise funds for the Sino-Japanese war when the Japanese invaded Malaya in 1941. 

To evade surveillance, Artist Xu’s associates, active in anti-Japanese efforts, arranged for him to take shelter at Lelong Pah. His collection of art tools and artworks were carefully sealed in ceramic vats and buried near the school. After the Japanese Occupation, these vats were retrieved and left to air-dry for over two months in the school before being returned to Artist Xu.

When you embark on your refreshed NHB Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail, you can expect to dive deeper into such stories like these inside the companion guide.

How can I discover/rediscover Ang Mo Kio? 

NHB’s various heritage trails are excellent, informative, friendly and easy to use travel guides for both locals and overseas visitors who would like to explore the Singapore heartlands of living, history, heritage, culture and living. If you like to embark on your NHB AMK Heritage Trail (refreshed), here are three newly curated thematic routes that you choose from.

(1) Iconic Landmarks (1.5 hours with public transport, 5.5km)

Taking public transport in AMK district, this route brings you to the iconic buildings and sites of AMK new town, the 7th housing town built by HDB – which range from distinctive blocks to landscaped parks.

(2) Hidden Heartland Gems (1 hour and 45 minutes with public transport, 7.5km)

This route brings you to explore overlooked gems in AMK, and relates interesting facts about them and lesser-known community stories.

(3) Scenic Fringes (2.5 hours with public transport, 12km)

For this scenic route, it brings you to explore the outskirts of AMK, revealing another side of the new town and its surroundings.  

Where can I find more information on Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail? 

If you like to embark on your very own Ang Mo Kio rediscovery adventure, you can download the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail companion guide and map from NHB’s heritage portal, roots.gov.sg. 

For those who prefer a printed copy of the guide and map, they will also be available in limited quantities at various locations, including Asian Civilisations Museum, Cheng San-Seletar Community Club, Teck Ghee Community Club, Kebun Baru Community Club, Yio Chu Kang Community Club, and NHB HQ at Stamford Court.

Check out this video highlights of the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail here: https://go.gov.sg/angmokioheritagetrail 

Explore Singapore’s History, Heritage, Culture, and Stories with NHB Heritage Trails

Whether you are a local or an overseas visiting Singapore, I would like to invite you to check out NHB’s curation and collection of Heritage Trails that you can embark on to explore a different, unique and engaging travel experiences in Singapore that you might not know about.

Visit NHB’s heritage portal, ROOTS – https://www.roots.gov.sg/nhb/trails, for more information and collections of NHB Heritage Trails. 

Happy exploring Singapore through NHB’s Heritage Trails collection!

The post Rediscover Singapore on the refreshed NHB Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

SYSNMH Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival Open House 2023

SYSNMH Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival Open House 2023 is taking place on the weekend of 23rd and 24th September 2023 from 10am to 6:30pm. There are many exciting programmes and activities line-up for you and family to visit, soak in and enjoy Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 at Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival 2023!

General Manager of SYSNMH Winston Lim said: “For our well-loved lantern installations, we tap on relatable themes such as this year’s larger-than-life pandas, to appeal to a wide audience and encourage more people to join in our cultural festivities. Through our ongoing special exhibition Connections Across Oceans: Early Chinese Mutual Aid Organisations, we have been working very closely with various clan associations, and are excited to continue to bring onboard more cultural partners to enrich our celebrations. Together, we hope to enliven our offerings for more visitors to learn about Chinese culture.”

An iconic pair of cute Panda Mid-Autumn Paw-trait 

You can’t miss them when you visit SYSNMH! They are an iconic pair of cute Panda Mid-Autumn Paw-trait! This year’s special installation is titled, “A Mid-Autumn Paw-trait”, featuring two big and adorable giant panda lanterns. Just like a typical giant panda, one is sitting down in a relaxed position, while the other is in a stretching stance at SYSNMH lawn from 29th August to 1st October 2023, 10am to 9pm daily.

This is a collaboration made “paw-sible” through a collaboration with toymaker 52TOYS Panda Roll series and World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore (WWF-Singapore). The Mid-Autumn Paw-trait is SYSNM 9th outdoor installation, they convey SYSNMH wish for every Singaporean to enjoy a “panda-stic” Mid-Autumn reunion. 

More importantly, this iconic pair of cute Panda Mid-Autumn lanterns serve as an acknowledgement of past and ongoing wildlife conservation efforts, and also celebrating the reclassification of giant pandas from endangered to vulnerable statues by the IUCN Red List.

Workshops

There is a host of exciting and fun workshops for you and your family to join. Check out the listings below!

Parent-Child Recycled Panda Lantern Making Workshop

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 12pm
• Admission: $24 per parent-child pair

Melodies in Motion: Hokkien Songs & Rhymes Workshop

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 1pm to 2:30pm
• Admission: $10 per pax.

Tales in Melodies: Teochew Songs & Rhymes Workshop

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 3:30pm to 5pm
• Admission: $10 per pax

Parent-Child Hakka Abacus Seeds Making Workshop

• Date: 24th September 2023
• Time: 3:30pm to 5pm
• Admission: $38 per parent-child pair

Escape Game Activity

• Lost in Time: The Case of the Missing Researcher
• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 11:30am to 1pm, 1pm to 2:30pm (Sunday only), 2:30pm to 4pm, 4pm to 5:30pm
• Admission: $8 per pax, group of 4-5 recommended

Check out my story that I published earlier on my Escape Game adventure at SYSNMH! 

Free Activities

Public Talk – Singapore’s Secret Societies in the 19th century and its Evolution

• Date: 24th September 2023
• Time: 10am to 11:30am
• Admission: Free (limited spaces available, on a first-come, first-served basis)

Storytelling sessions: Tales of Mid-Autumn Festival 

• Date: 23rd September 2023 (Mandarin), 24th September 2023 (English)
• Time: 11:30am to 12:30pm, 2pm – 3pm
• Admission: Free

Drop-in Craft Station: Mid-Autumn Festival Inspired Crafts

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

Drop-in Craft Station: Chinese Calligraphy Try-Out

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

Drop-in Activity Station: Language Game Fun

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

Live on the Lawn: Mid-Autumn Family Fun Contest

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 3pm to 4pm
• Admission: Free

Live on the Lawn: Dialect Culture Performances I

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 5pm to 6pm
• Admission: Free

Live on the Lawn: Dialect Culture Performances II

• Date: 24th September 2023
• Time: 6pm to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

Live on the Lawn: Lantern Riddles Guessing

• Date: 24th September 2023
• Time: 5pm to 6pm
• Admission: Free

Mooncake, Pomelo & Tea Tasting

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free (limited quantities available)

Teochew Mooncake Sampling 

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free (limited quantities available)

52TOYS Blind Box Sale Booth

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore Booth

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free

Children Activity Booklets Giveaway

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10am to 9pm

Guided Tours & Trails

Teochew Cultural Trail

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10am to 1pm
• Admission: $20 per pax.

Balestier Heritage Food Trail

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 11:30am (English), 11:30am to 12:30pm (Mandarin)
• Admission: $12 per pax

Special Exhibition Guided Tour

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 10:30am to 11:30am (Mandarin), 1:30pm to 2:30pm (English)
• Admission: Free (limited spaces available)

Permanent Galleries Guided Tour

• Date: 23rd September 2023
• Time: 2:30pm to 3:30pm (Mandarin), 3pm to 4pm (English)
• Admission: Free (limited spaces available)

<For the above ticketed activities, you can purchase tickets via www.wanqingyuan.peatix.com>

SYSNMH Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival Open House 2023

Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH)

• Date: 23rd & 24th September 2023
• Time: 10am to 6:30pm
• Admission: Free admission with ticketed activities 

Follow SYSNMH on social media

• Website: https://www.sysnmh.org.sg 
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sysnmh/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sysnmh/ 

Wishing all a Happy Mid-Autumn Festival 2023! 祝大家中秋节快乐！

Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 is coming soon on 29th September 2023. Let me wish everyone a Happy Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 in advance! Hope you all have a panda-stic” Mid-Autumn festival and reunion with your family and loved ones!

祝大家中秋节快乐！

* A TGH Photography x Canon EOS R6 Mark II Explorer Series Production * 

The post Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival Open House 2023 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.