Why use a Yearly Theme? How to Choose a Yearly Theme?

I am inspired by Fernando Gros “How to choose a Yearly Theme”, this is my 7th year writing and announcing a Yearly Theme (since 2020), an approach that I personally feel that it’s more forward looking for a new future, a new era of working, thinking and how we connect as an individual, as a collective, society and the world. It’s not that goal settings or setting resolutions are no longer popular or useful, they still have a purpose and it still works for some people or industries.

Recap of previous Yearly Themes

Before I announce my Yearly Theme 2026 for my photography, travel, creative and heritage, let me bring you back in time, looking at my previous Yearly Themes through a recap below:

• Yearly Theme 2020: Striving to Excel 
• Yearly Theme 2021: Recovery and Rejuvenation 
• Yearly Theme 2022: Onward 
• Yearly Theme 2023: Explore
• Yearly Theme 2024: Ignite
• Yearly Theme 2025: Create

Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) – “Reframe”

Now, announcing my Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) – “Reframe”.

Why “Reframe”?

First and foremost, my TGH Photography and Travel portal/blog is celebrating 20 years of visual storytelling in April 2026 (this website started on 10 April 2006). Secondly, my TGH Photography business is entering into its 10th year in January 2026 (photography business started in January 2017).

I chose this theme “Reframe”, something that I can relate closely to, celebrating two milestones in 2026 for my photography, visual storytelling and content creation, reflecting on my past two decades, my journeys, ups and downs, achievements, growth and development. 

Thereafter, looking ahead into future, how can I improve, change and adapt my forms of visual storytelling and content creation in a ever changing digital era of social media and AI, as well as, how can I place my visual stories collection into a new frame or a different frame, that I would like to share more with my clients, followers and supporters.  

How am I going to “Reframe” my visual storytelling in 2026?

Photography / Heritage / Creative

Be more personal and heart-warming visual stories in heritage, culture and arts

Through gaining more experiences, interactions and connections in 2025 with fellow creatives, artists, visual storytellers, and subject matter experts from other genres, I learned a lot from them through their inspirations, creative and artistic works. 

In 2026, I hope that I am able to create good opportunities for cross/interdisciplinary content creation, collaborations and possible special projects, continuing to produce more heart-warming visual stories in heritage, culture and arts.

I also feel it’s time to revisit and re-explore my personal photography further and deeper from my usual styles and approaches of my visual storytelling. That’s where “Reframe” theme comes into play, it might just open a new genre or direction for me.

Publishing 20 years of visual storytelling selected works/projects into zines 

One of my planned celebrations for my 20 years of visual storytelling is to produce different zines from my 20 years archives of visual stories and photography. It’s time to bring some of my heritage documentation projects to life, into a physical print.

Travel

At the start of this year 2026, I would not go into any travel plans or destinations that I would want to go. I would love to break the duck and finally go on overseas holiday adventures, restarting my travel writing and travel photography. 

On the local travel side of things back home in Singapore, with this “Reframe” theme, I would look at different sectors or areas of interests to share more unique and interesting travel stories in Singapore for both locals and overseas travellers visiting Singapore. 

Thank you for your support and encouragement! 

To my family, relatives, friends, followers and supporters who supported me through my visual storytelling, photography, technology writing, social media marketing, especially those that make the effort to read, not assuming thinking you know everything about me, or my business model operations, and making the effort to know more and understand, without judgement or putting me down, I sincerely thank you for your support and encouragement!

Year 2026 will have new and different levels of stress, pressure and challenges. I will adapt and “Reframe” my mind, heart and soul, change and adapt accordingly when different situations arise.

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Thank you everyone, my family, relatives, supporters and followers on my visual storytelling and content creation journey over the years. The last quarter of Year 2025 had been very stressful for me as I had to handle medical related matters in my family (and that would be ongoing for a while).

I would take the month of January 2026, to consolidate, reorganise, reflect, plan and strategise for 2026, going to reflect on my year 2025, my upcoming Photography / Visual Storytelling / Content Creation Themes and Plans for January 2026 article would give more updates on my plans and things to do, my Yearly Theme 2026, plans for celebrating two key milestones, namely 20 years of TGH Photography and Travel portal/blog (since April 2006) and my 10th year for my TGH Photography business (since January 2017). 

On the other hand, I also have my family matters to take care of in 2026 as well, as well as resolving my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog website issues.  

Since I didn’t head out on New Year Eve 2026 to photograph the countdown fireworks, I would be using an old photo, from my NDP2025 fireworks photography to welcome Year 2026, and also to wish all my family, relatives, friends, followers and supporters a Happy New Year 2026!

The post Happy New Year 2026! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

If you have read my Key Updates December 2025, you would read about my past few months had been really stressful and pressurising for me. December 2025 is mainly consolidation, reorganisation on family matters first, before other areas. I haven’t really been out taking Christmas light up or festive photos, or even my own personal photography. Thus I am reposting my Hokkaido Christmas Tree photo (taken in 2016) again.

I would take some time off to let my personal visual storytelling play the role of photography therapy as I seek to let my writing, photography and publishing zines to guide me through this tough period.     

I know today 25th December 2025 is Christmas Day, here’s my festive gift shopping wish list if any of my kind-hearted friends are thinking/planning to get some gifts for me, it can be a 2-in-1 gift combo: Christmas (December 2025) and Birthday (January 2026) gift combo!

• DJI Neo 2 
• Smart Watch 
• Toy camera (Kodak Charmera) 
• Canon RF lenses
• Compact sized APS-C camera

Thank you very much for the support and encouragement that some of you folks had showered upon me in my recent update. Wishing all a Merry Christmas 2025 and Happy Holidays with your family, loved ones and friends!

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60 Years of Diplomatic Relations between Singapore and Malaysia, as well as Singapore and Thailand

This special exhibition is the first collaboration between SCCC with the High Commission of Malaysia and the Royal Thai Embassy Singapore, to commemorate the establishment of 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Malaysia, as well as Singapore and Thailand.

According to Mr Alvin Tan, CEO/SCCC: “There is no better way to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and the two countries than with a photography exhibition on traditional kopitiams which can be found in all three countries. This is because kopitiams not only represent a common cultural experience shared by our three countries, they also symbolise the warm ties between our countries that endure even with the passing of time.” 

Mrs. Chonlatee Chanrachakul, Charge d’Affaires a.i. from Royal Thai Embassy Singapore said: “Kopitiams are more than just coffee shops; they are the enduring social pulse of our communities and a testament to the rich, interwoven cultural heritage of Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. This exhibition, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations, invites everyone to savor the shared taste of Nanyang coffee and kaya toast—a sweet reminder that our deep history and warm friendships are beautifully brewed together.”

24 B&W Photographs of various Traditional Kopitiams in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand

This exhibition features 24 black-and-white photographs of various traditional kopitiams in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, taken by award-winning travel photographer and write Lester V. Ledesma over a period of more than a year.

This series of black and white photographs of traditional kopitiams honours the region’s vibrant kopitiam culture. They are well-cherished and well-loved community gathering spaces, enduring icons of Southeast Asia lifestyle. 

Lester shot the photographs on black-and-white film using vintage cameras as a timeless tribute to the iconic yet humble kopitiam that we in Southeast Asia loved so much, authentically capturing the character, raw charm and kopitiam lifestyle, beautifully showcased across the different 24 black-and-white photographs on display.

Photographer Mr Lester V. Ledesma shared: “I started this project in early 2024 at a humble Singapore coffeehouse, with a roll of black-and-white film and a 70-years-old rangefinder camera. Brewing Nostalgia is my way of celebrating what has been part of my life in the two-plus decades that I’ve lived in Singapore and I am thankful to SCCC for their support in showcasing our rich, authentic and truly homegrown coffee heritage.” 

Nostalgic Memories – Planning to Re-Explore my Old Places and Traditional Kopitiams 

Looking at the different traditional kopitiams in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, it brought back nostalgic memories of my childhood and travel days. The rustic, old school, laid back kopitiams, with their iconic wooden furniture, white marble table top, sipping my Nanyang kopi, with kaya bread toast and soft boiled eggs. 

In Singapore, there aren’t many traditional kopitiams around, most of them have changed with the modern times. Although I have visited some of the remaining traditional kopitiams in Singapore at North Bridge Road, Tanglin Halt and Lengkok Bahru, I have yet to check out the kopitiams at Jalan Benaan Kapal and Jalan Minyak. 

This is the time to reignite my nostalgic memories to re-explore those traditional kopitiams and old places in Singapore. 

As for those traditional kopitiams in Malaysia and Thailand, I will definitely keep a lookout for them when I travel and visit both countries again.

Brewing Nostalgia: Kopitiams in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand Special Exhibition

• Venue: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, Concourse, Level 1
• Dates: 3rd December 2025 to 30th April 2026
• Admission: Free

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SCCC presents Healing Heritage

Healing Heritage will be held from 1st October 2025 to 22nd February 2026 at SCCC Creative Box  at Level 6, this interesting, unique and immersive exhibition invites you to visit, explore and learn how TCM has evolved over the years in Singapore, blending tradition with innovation and staying relevant in today’s modern lifestyles.

Supported by Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Associations and Singapore Chung Hwa Medical Institution, Heeling Heritage highlights milestones in TCM’s development in Singapore, the impacts on the community, and how they are adapting to modern society. Through a diverse range of interpretive displays, historical artefacts, interactive experiences, and stories of medical organisations and brands, visitors can discover how TCM has evolved while remaining true in its cultural heritage as a living tradition in Singapore.

Discover TCM in Healing Heritage though five zones 

Tracking the Healing Journey

When and how did TCM in Singapore get started? Follow and track the Healing Journey, learn about TCM’s development in Singapore, from the early 19th century medical halls to its journey today recognition in today’s healthcare system. 

Some of the milestones include the founding of Thong Chai Medical Institution in 1867 and the recent inclusion of acupuncture under Medisave.

Encountering the Neighbourhood Healer 

This might be a familiar sight for some of us here, a nostalgic feeling on visiting your neighbourhood medical hall with its classic wooden cabinets and drawers of herbs. In this zone, enter into a recreated medical hall, similar to the ones that you visited (yourself, or with your parents or grandparents). 

Learn how family-run businesses adapted to changing times. Visitors can also try an interactive herb-matching game to learn about remedies hands-on. Check out the drawers too and the herbs on display. Does all these invoke nostalgia inside you, especially for those who are familiar with TCM medical halls?

Building Benevolence through Community

Discover the roles that charitable institutions and professional organisations in supporting healthcare during epidemics and raising standards through education and research. Exhibits include traditional acupuncture needles and early journals like Medical Monthly (Yiyao Yuekan)

Transforming Tradition Through Innovation

Even TCM has transformed itself through innovation, evolving with our modern life, from halal-certified remedies, to digital diagnostic tools and even vending machines. 

Have you heard of canine acupuncture? If you haven’t, check out how TCM can be adapted and applied in veterinary care. 

Sustaining a Living Heritage 

Learn and experience how TCM has underwent changes and innovations over time, continuing to be a part of everyday life, from medicinal cuisine and herbal products to social media outreach by young TCM physicians such as THE TCM FOLKS. 

Before you finish, discovering and learning about TCM, a conversation kiosk further invites you to reflect on your own encounters with TCM. 

According to Alvin Tan, CEO of SCCC: “With Healing Heritage, we hope to focus on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a system of medicine and as a form of intangible cultural heritage, and to showcase TCM’s contributions to the Chinese community and to society. We also hope to highlight TCM’s impact and use beyond the Chinese community, and to raise public awareness of how TCM has endured, evolved and become part of Singaporeans’ everyday life.”

My TCM Healing Heritage Stories

Looking back when I was a young kid, I don’t understand much about TCM, my encounters were mainly the strong aroma from the different kinds of herbs from a traditional medical hall. 

Drinking tonic soup made from those TCM herbs wasn’t a great experience as it was really bitter, There is a Chinese saying, “苦口良药”, it took me probably a few decades before I was able to understand and appreciate those bitter traditional Chinese soup. Nowadays, I am able to enjoy the medicinal cuisine dishes, although some of the TCM drinks are still really bitter and a challenge at times for me to drink it, even though it’s good for my health. 

My personal thoughts and views are that TCM is highly under-rated and under appreciated by many of us (I am guilty of this). This Healing Heritage exhibition presented by SCCC is really enriching and informative, showcasing the rich history, heritage, culture and importance of TCM from its origins to our modern society today.

Share this Healing Heritage presented by SCCC to your family, relatives and friends, make it an extended family outing to this exhibition, and share your nostalgic TCM Healing Heritage stories.

Healing Heritage Exhibition Information

• Date: 1st October 2025 to 22nd February 2026
• Venue: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre Creative Box, Level 6
• Price: Free

The post SCCC Presents Healing Heritage: Story of TCM in Singapore appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Noguchi Coin is Japan’s trusted curator of rare and high-quality collective coins, they are recognised for its leading online platform, and extensive range of internationally renowned coins. This landmark launch brings Noguchi Coin’s passion for numismatics beyond Japan, introducing Singapore’s collectors and enthusiasts to a world of exquisite coins sourced globally from trusted mints in Canada, Austria, and beyond.

Noguchi Coin x Jewel Singapore Collaboration Coin

An exclusive Jewel x Noguchi Limited-Edition Commemorative coin was launched on 19th September 2025, there are only 100 pieces available at $88 (inclusive of GST), created specially and available only at the Singapore pop-up store.

This special and exclusive coin design features Jewel Changi Airport’s world-renowned Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall on Earth and an emblem of Singapore’s identity as a crossroads of the world. More than just an iconic landmark, the Rain Vortex represents the flow of commerce, culture, and innovation, drawing people together in harmony under one roof.

This Noguchi Coin x Jewel Singapore Collaboration Coin celebrates Singapore’s role on the global stage while also reflecting its own philosophy, connecting tradition with the future, Japan with Singapore, and collectors with enduring value.

World-Class Coins at Accessible Prices

Noguchi Coin is dedicated to making high-quality world-class coins collectibles at accessible prices without compromising on its authenticity and rarity. They source directly from official local channels in countries such as Canada and Austria, and reducing unnecessary distribution layers and labour costs. Noguchi Coin ensures that their customers receive the highest quality coins at the most competitive prices.

Besides the limited-edition coin, Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport will also feature a selection of GST-exempt coins, making them even more attractive to collectors and investors in Singapore. 

These include internationally recognised bullion coins such as the Vienna Philharmonic, Canadian Maple Leaf, Britannia, Australian Kangaroo, Chinese Panda, American Eagle, South African Krugerrand, and more, all valued for their purity, liquidity, and global reputation.

A Milestone for Collectors in Singapore

The Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport marks Noguchi Coin’s first step into Southeast Asia. They are now strategically located in one of Singapore’s and also the world’s most recognisable landmarks, and a gateway for international travellers. A milestone for collectors, the rare opportunity to access exclusive coins at GST-exempt prices, appealing to both local enthusiasts and global visitors. 

If you are into coin collection, heritage and cultural enthusiasts, or lovers of exquisite design, the Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport will be of great interest to you, they offer a rare chance to view and own coins that are not normally available in Singapore. 

Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport

• Dates: 4th September to 4th December 2025
• Time: 10am to 10pm daily
• Venue: Jewel Changi Airport, Level 1, (Outside Imperial Treasure)

For more information on Noguchi Coin, please visit https://noguchicoin-jp.com 

Instagram: @nuguchicoin.en 

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Mid-Autumn Family FUN (MAFF) 2025

Mid-Autumn Family FUN (MAFF) 2025 is taking place over the weekend of 4th to 5th October 2025, this festival will feature a total of 27 diverse programmes, taking place in SCCC and Singapore Conference Hall (SCH) – This is the largest line-up of programmes for MAFF since its launch in 2023.

Key Highlights of MAFF 2025

Moongazing with Monday Bruce 

One of the key highlights of MAFF 2025 will be Moongazing with Monday Bruce, cute and adorable art installations at SCCC’s Roof Garden, they are five giant illuminated inflatables of Monday Bruce, the main rabbit character from a popular series of collectible blind boxes. They will be on display from 11th September to 30th November 2025, 10am to 10pm daily, at SCCC’s Roof Garden.

Remember to bring your lantern out for Moongazing with Monday Bruce! Pose for photos with Monday Bruce with your lanterns! Here are some photos that I took on how you can possibly interact with Monday Bruce with your lanterns! 

Show us your creativity and fun and share them with SCCC and SCO! Remember to tag SCCC and SCO, hashtag #MAFF2025 #MidAutumnFamilyFun #SINGAPO人 #SCCC #SingaporeChineseCulturalCentre 

Ancient Moon, Present Light

Another key highlights of MAFF 2025 will be SCO’s Ancient Moon, Present Light concert, they are allowing children under six years old – for the first time – to enjoy an evening of moonlit tunes. Under the baton of Associate Conductor Moses Gay, the concert will showcase a variety of familiar festive pieces for children and those young at heart to learn more about the world of Chinese orchestral music.

There are many more exciting and fun lineup of MAFF 2025 programmes, here are some other programme highlights that would be of interest to you:

Parent-Child Workshops

Great for families with children, a series of interactive hands-on sessions for parent-and-child or grandparent-and-children pairings to experience soap-making, tea-whisking and traditional Chinese medicine scented pouch making.

Rabbit’s Brew House

An experiential tea house at SCCC’s Multi-Purpose Hall bringing together mooncake sampling and tea tasting, crosstalk and Hanfu dance performances, Hanfu sharing and photo-taking, cellophane lantern-making and Chinese knot-making activities. 

Play It Chill 

Visitors can catch free performances and activities at SCCC’s Level 1 Concourse. They are suitable for all ages, ranging from drumming acts by Drum Feng, storytelling, poetry reciting to lantern riddles and fan painting.

MAFF 2025 Bingo Game 

Visitors to SCCC and SCH and participate in a bingo game that encourages you to explore various venues within the premises. By completing different MAFF 2025 activities – from performances to workshops and character hunts – visitors can collect stamps and redeem exclusive prizes, such as silkscreen printed tote bags in partnership with STPI and Munchi pancakes. 

No More Blues under the Moon

Head to SCCC’s Roof Garden, relax and unwind under a starry night, enjoy the breathtaking views while listening to acoustic renditions of your favourite Mandopop hits by artiste Jarvis Quek, and also moon and star gazing with the NUS Astronomical Society.

Wan Qing Yuan: A Journey Through History and Heritage – Travelling Exhibition

Check out Wan Qing Yuan travelling exhibition on a Journey Through History and Heritage. Discover the stories of Wan Qing Yuan, that once served as the residence of prominent local figures and witnessed significant historical events. Visitors can also participate in the stamping activity to create their own multi-layered postcard.

Mr Alvin Tan, CEO of SCCC, adds: “Through the festival, we hope to transform our Centre into a festive hub where families and friends can get together and celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival in uniquely Singaporean ways, and in doing so, inject more cultural vibrancy into the CBD.” 

Come on down to MAFF 2025 on 4 & 5 October 2025!

MAFF 2025 is open to the public, this exciting and fun festival event offers a wide range of both free and ticketed programmes, ideal for families with children, to know more about Mid-Autumn Festival. For more information on MAFF 2025, the full list of programmes, ticketing and registration details, please visit https://singaporen.sg/festivals/mid-autumn/familyfun 

For eligible Singapore Citizens, you can use the SG Culture Pass credits to offset ticket costs for eligible MAFF 2025 programmes! 

Spread the word, Pass-It-On and Pay-It-Forward, tell your family, relatives, and friends about MAFF 2025 taking place on 4th and 5th October 2025! Come on down, enjoy and have a great Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 Celebrations at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre!

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NUSPS Montage 2025 Photo Competition

When NUSPS announced the theme for NUSPS Montage 2025 photo competition, “Singapore in Focus 2025: Past, Present, and Future”. This theme caught my attention, that sounds something close to my heart. 

A fitting theme for 2025 as Singapore is celebrating her SG60 celebrations. Since I am working on my personal SG60 visual storytelling / photography project, why not I enter Montage 2025 and give a go, and see how I would fare?

With that in mind, I started digging through my photography archives, choosing 5 photographs for submission to Montage 2025 photo competition.

NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar 

The NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar was held on 23 August 2025 at NUS Shaw Foundation Alumni House, they have invited the following speakers that are subject matter experts in their respective fields of photography.

• Daryl Yeo – Beauty of the Untamed (Wildlife and nature photography insights from the field)
• Bob Lee – Art of Storytelling through Photography (Emotion, narrative, and the power of images)
• Chris Ambler – Gone in a Flash (Mastering lightning and night photography)
• Celestia Tan – Capturing Style: Mastering Fashion Photography (Techniques and trends in fashion shoots)

As a wildlife photographer and travel photographer myself, hearing and viewing Daryl’s wildlife photography adventures were an inspiration and information gathering, especially on destinations for wildlife photography adventures and also which camera bodies and lenses that I should be lusting for. 

Bob’s art of storytelling is a masterclass in its own right, one of the best visual storytellers using emotions, narrative and power of his photographs to tell his amazing and heartwarming stories to the world. As a visual storyteller myself, a huge inspiration and how I can improve myself in telling my visual stories.

Chris’s lightning photography is very insightful and helpful. I first met him during Canon PhotoMarathon 2025, great to catch up with him again during NUSPS Montage 2025. I finally got to learn his lightning photography tips, and I hope to produce more lightning photos whenever I get the chance.

Fashion photography is a genre that I have to admit, I don’t have the flair for fashion industry, even though I can relate to the portraiture and lighting aspects of fashion photography. Hearing Celestial’s insightful sharing on the world of fashion photography, from a mood board to plan your fashion photography shoot, doing fashion research and getting inspiration. While I am probably not going to get into fashion photography, I learnt something from Celestia’s sharing, that would be helpful should I assist fashion or lifestyle photographers in their photography shoots. 

Not a winner but I got a photograph on display

The winning entries for NUSPS Montage 2025 were on display at Montage 2025 Seminar, together with the other top entries for this photo competition. Congratulations to the winners of NUSPS Montage 2025 photo competition! 

Although I didn’t win any prizes at Montage 2025 photo competition, I did have a photograph printed on display at NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar. 

Overall, a small consolation and recognition, this was also a good experience for me participating in Montage 2025 photo competition, a great NUSPS Montage 2025 seminar lineup of speakers, and last but not least, catching up with friends from Canon Singapore and photographer friends from various photography groups in Singapore, friends from the former Canon EOS World community, KOMMUNITY, and SG Storm Trackers.  

Alright, it’s time to continue my visual storytelling journeys. 

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Inspired by 1987 National Day Theme song “We Are Singapore”

Inspired by the lyrics of the beloved 1987 National Day Theme song “We Are Singapore”, 2025 SG60 celebrations programmes are thematically curated to honour the people, values and stories that have shaped Singapore over the years.

Chung May Khuen, Director of the National Museum of Singapore, said, “The National Museum has long been a space where Singapore’s history and identity are explored, celebrated and reimagined. This SG60, it is especially meaningful for us to welcome visitors to join us in reliving the stories and values that form our identity as Singaporeans. Inspired by the song “We Are Singapore”, which speaks to our spirit of determination and immense pride in the country we’ve built together, our largest National Day celebrations aim to honour our shared past and invite the community to participate in shaping the stories we continue to tell.” 

Telling the Singapore Story through Light and Bricks in the lead-up to National Day 2025

Singapore’s SG60 celebrations at NMS are starting in July 2025 with two eye-catching activities telling the Singapore story through light and bricks in the lead-up to National Day 2025.

Canvas of Light: Our Nation’s Journey 

The crowd favourite National Day Light-Up will finally make a return on NMS facade from 18th July to 9th August 2025 with Canvas of Light: Our Nation’s Journey. This year’s iconic projection offers a refreshed visual experience with stunning light art, and in a tribute to Singapore’s resilience and unity, visitors can watch Singapore’s story unfold across NMS historic building facade through a captivating dance of light and colour.

Canva of Light: Our Nation’s Journey

• Time: Daily | 7:30pm – 12am
• Location: Front Lawn, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge

Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick

LEGO fans in Singapore rejoice! You CANNOT miss this! You MUST visit Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick, showcase at the Stamford Gallery, celebrating Singapore’s community creativity and national heritage through play. 

Inspired by the Flows of People section in the NMS commemorative SG60 exhibition, Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City, this showcase brings Singapore’s satires to life through a mix of building bricks and innovative digital installations and experiences.

Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick is presented in collaboration with The LEGO Group. Immerse yourself into this large-scale diorama of iconic Singaporean elements, intricate LEGO builds of Singaporean’s favourite local food, and LEGO artworks by students of the Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC) that depict historical and modern scenes inspired by our iconic Singapore River.

Whether you are a young or young at heart LEGO fan, I reckon you will love this Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick! It’s truly Uniquely Singaporean stories that many of us here can relate with, take your time to observe the Uniquely Singaporean characteristics, history, heritage, culture and modern anime/mecha/toys world! 

Singapore’s Biggest LEGO Mural

When you visit Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick, you can contribute to a one-of-a-kind LEGO mural that aims to set a new Singapore Book of Records title for Singapore’s Biggest LEGO Mural ever created in the country. Visitors are invited to play a part of this record-breaking moment by completing the final section of the mural, with each added brick being a tribute to Singapore’s enduring community spirit, creativity and national pride.

Digital River Stories

Inspired by the creations in the Stories of Singapore showcase, visitors are invited to actively participate in Digital River Stories, an engaging digital experience designed in partnership with MID Pro Group to foster creativity. Using their personal mobile devices, visitors can unleash their artistic talents through a digital colouring activity and share their hopes and desires for the future of Singapore. Once completed, these artworks can be seamlessly submitted to a dynamic digital wall, where they will come to life and join a vibrant and ever-evolving interactive background.

Play with LEGO at LEGO Play Box 

For the young builders, you can engage in free play to create items inspired by the exhibition. 

Mini LEGO Orchid Workshop

When you are visiting Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick, drop by during the following days and time slots to craft your very own LEGO orchard to bring home a moment of your visit!

Saturdays and Sundays, 19th – 20th July | 26th – 27th July | 2nd – 3rd August |

• Time: 2pm – 5pm
• Saturday 9th August 
• Time: 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 5pm
• Note: Materials for each slot are limited, on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick

• Time: Daily: 10am – 7pm
• Location: Stamford Gallery, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge. Entry may be restricted when the gallery is at capacity.

Grand Finale Celebration on 9th August 2025

4 levels of National Day Celebrations – each representing a line from NDP 1987 theme song, We Are Singapore.

Basement Level – There was a time when people said that Singapore won’t make it…

Visitors can participate in hands-on experiences that pay homage to Singapore’s maritime past, centred around Singapore’s early history as the capital of the Straits Settlements.

National Day Colour Competition 2025

• Time: 10am – 1pm
• Location: Gallery Theatre, Basement Level
• Price: Free of charge (subject to a refundable deposit of $10 per child)

Interactive Storytelling: The River Road

• Time: 3pm – 3:45pm & 4:30pm – 5:15pm
• Location: Gallery Theatre, Basement Level
• Price: $12 per adult-child pair (incl. GST)

Create & Float: Make Your Own Boat

• Time: 10am – 11am (priority slot for people with disabilities) | 11am – 12pm & 1pm – 5pm (for public)
• Location: Canyon: Basement Level
• Price: Free of charge

Level 1 – This is my country, this is my flag…

Visitors are invited to celebrate elements that make us uniquely Singaporean, with activities that spotlight cultural keystones such as our beloved Singlish dialects and the iconic kopi and kaya toast Singapore breakfast ritual.

Waves of Wisdom: A Human Library Experience

• Time: 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 4pm 
• Location: Reunion, Level 1
• Price: $5 per pax (including GST), includes pastry set from Cafe Brera (consisting of 1 pastry and 1 beverage)

Heritage in a Cup: The Art of Kopi and Kaya

• Time: 10am – 12pm 
• Location: The Salon, Level 1
• Price: $32 per pax of $60 per pair

Can Draw Anot?

• Time: 3pm – 4pm
• Location: The Salon, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge

Mirror, Mirror: Interactive Photo Booth

• Time: 10am – 5:30pm 
• Location: Longer Concourse, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge 

Writings on the Wall

• Time: 10am – 7pm
• Location: LED Wall, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge 

Our Singapore, Our Canvas – A Community Artwork

• Time: 10am – 12pm & 3pm – 5pm
• Location: Front Lawn, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge

Percussion performance by Green Drumming

• Time: 5pm – 5:15pm (arrive by 4:50pm) 
• Location: Front Lawn, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge

Live Telecast of NDP

• Time: 5:30pm – 8:30pm (sit by 5:15pm) 
• Location: Front Lawn, Level 1
• Price: Free of charge

Level 2 and 3 – We Are Singapore, Singaporeans…

Designed to highlight pivotal moments in Singapore’s path to independence, visitors can look forward to a heritage hunt showcasing the museum’s artefacts, batik activities featuring beloved icons, and more.

The Hunt @ MNS

• Time: 10am – 12:30pm & 1:30pm – 6pm (final registration at 5pm, and redemption counter closes at 6pm)
• Location: Glass Atrium (near the Donor Wall), Level 2
• Price: Free of charge

Reach Out for the Stars: Craft Activity

• Time: 10am – 11pm (priority slot for people with disabilities) | 11am – 12pm & 1pm – 5:30pm (for public)
• Location: The Platform, Level 2
• Price: Free of charge

Drop-in Batik Activity

• Time: 10am – 11pm (priority slot for people with disabilities) | 11am – 12pm & 1pm – 5:30pm (for public)
• Location: Glass Atrium (near the Glass Rotunda), Level 2
• Price: Free of charge

Hats off to SG! Craft Station

• Time: 10am – 11pm (priority slot for people with disabilities) | 11am – 12pm & 1pm – 5:30pm (for public)
• Location: Outside Explore Room, Level 3
• Price: Free of charge

Watch NDP 2025 live on the National Museum of Singapore front lawn

At the end of the day, as you and your family are wrapping your festivities at the National Museum of Singapore, families are invited to gather on the National Museum’s Front Lawn for a relaxing picnic under the stars for a live screening of the National Day Parade 2025 from 5:30pm onwards. 

Admission details and More Information

Admission to Stories of Singapore: Building Our Heritage, Brick by Brick showcase is free of charge. 

On 9th August 2025, all visitors can enjoy free admission to the National Museum of Singapore. Admission will include entry to the National Museum’s latest installation, Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time, housed in the iconic Shaw Foundation Glass Rotunda – the first of the National Museum’s permanent galleries that will reopen on 8th August 2025. 

Visitors can also visit the Singapore History Gallery before its closure on 17th November 2025, with its last day open to the public on 16th November.

For more information, please visit the National Museum of Singapore Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Come on down to the National Museum of Singapore and celebrate SG60 National Day Celebrations!

An exciting line-up of SG60 National Day 2025 Celebrations awaits you and your family, loved ones and friends at the National Museum of Singapore! Come on down and have a great SG60 National Day Celebrations at the National Museum of Singapore! 

The post Exciting line-up of SG60 National Day Celebrations awaits you at the National Museum of Singapore! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City

Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City, runs from 24 May 2025 to 9 October 2026. This special exhibition anchors on Singapore’s maritime connections,  inviting visitors to discover and learn more about Singapore’s maritime history and heritage, how the sea and river have shaped Singapore’s evolution from a bustling 14th century port to a global maritime powerhouse of today. 

Featuring over 350 artefacts from the National Collection, the exhibition traces the constant flows of people, goods, and ideas from around the world that have ben collectively won the rich and diverse fabric of our nation, with centuries of history under its belt to its present day. This also further reflects our shared journey over the years and commitment to build a shared future.

Chung May Khuen, Director of the National Museum of Singapore, said, “As we celebrate SG60, Once Upon a Tide offers a timely opportunity for us to reflect on our nation’s remarkable journey of progress and transformation that is shaped by its connections in the region and beyond. These values of openness and interconnectedness remain relevant and crucial today, as we constantly adapt and innovate to navigate a landscape that is highly globalised and increasingly turbulent. We hope this exhibition will inspire Singaporeans to think about the collective future they envision for our nation.” 

Ms Tan Su-Yin, Senior Director (Grants), Tote Board, shared: “Tote Board is honoured to play a role in commemorating Singapore’s 60th year of independence through our support of various SG60 programmes. At the heart of these celebrations is Once Upon a Tide, which chronicles Singapore’s remarkable transformation. The exhibition is a testament to our collective achievements and the unwavering spirit that has defined Singapore’s progress over six decades. Through our support of Once Upon a Tide and other SG60 initiatives, Tote Board continues our commitment to fostering social cohesion and celebrating our shared heritage. These programmes provide platforms for Singaporeans to come together, reflect on our journey, and strengthen the bonds that make our society uniquely Singaporean.” 

Ashmita Acharya, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking at HSBC Singapore, said, “As Principal Sponsor of Once Upon a Tide, HSBC is proud to play a part in celebrating Singapore’s remarkable growth from a small fishing village to a global financial powerhouse –a journey we’ve been a part of since opening our first branch here along the busy port of Singapore 148 years ago. Our support of this exhibition underscores our continued commitment towards fostering meaningful international connections, partnering businesses, and opening opportunities that contribute to the next chapter of the nation’s growth at this pivotal moment in history.” 

Five Immersive Sections in your Journey of Discovery at Once Upon a Tide

There are five immersive sections in this special exhibition, each represents different aspects of Singapore’s evolution that are brought to life through experiential storytelling. Let’s begin your voyage journey into Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City.

First Section – Always on the Map

In the beginning, travel back in time to discover and learn Singapore’s deep historical roots and its prominence on a regional and global scale, long before the arrival of the British in 1819. Observe the maps on display inside this section, learn about how much of Singapore’s neighbouring waters were surveyed and drawn on those maps, prior to the arrival of the Sir Stamford Raffles and the East India Company into Singapore in 1819.

There are key artefacts on display inside this first section, showcasing Singapore’s strategic position at a crossroads of global flows, as one of the key port settlements in the Malay World and Chinese trade networks. 

Second Section – The River Road

As you continue travelling through history and time inside Once Upon a Tide, sail through the history of Singapore River. How important is Singapore River in Singapore’s maritime history and heritage? The evolution of Singapore River also mirrors the economic development of Singapore.

Singapore River played key roles in Singapore’s maritime trade routes, with known trading settlements along the Singapore River. Over the centuries, the Singapore River played a vital role in shaping Singapore’s transformation into a global trading hub, from coaling to shipbuilding industries, becoming an icon of Singapore’s growth and progress. 

There is a Sampan Challenge for visitors to take on! Come and “row across” the Singapore River!

Third Section – Expanding Horizons

For a small island country, Singapore grew bigger through land reclamation, as she has to constantly deal with land scarcity. Through land reclamation, this allows the widening of further development and growth, and also reshaping Singapore’s relationship with the sea.

There is a digital slider map that you have to experience it for yourself, you can visually trace and view the changing coastlines of Singapore across the centuries, from the colonial times to modern Singapore today.

Forth Section – Flows of People

Singapore’s identity is built on the bedrock of multiculturalism. Flows of People pays tribute to individuals that laid the hard work and foundations for Singapore’s development into a modern cosmopolitan city, from the early settlers to modern workers of today. 

For this section, it examines the living experiences of the people who built our nation, provided transport services, those that defended Singapore, and those that cared for others within society. Through intimate audio and video testimonials, visitors can hear directly from them, and be inspired by members of these communities. 

Check out the photographic artefacts and personal mementos, offering insights into the various trades, and also a slice of the diversity of those that helped to build the nation of today’s Singapore.

Fifth Section – Making Waves

At the finale section, Making Waves is dedicated to giving spotlight to Singaporeans, homegrown businesses and organisations that make waves and headlines globally, across the areas of diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, innovation and hub development from 1965 to the present day.

On the wall of this section, there is a quote/question, “How do we define success today? What does it mean to make an impact on the world?” Check out the stories of Singaporeans trailblazers who travelled on the road less travelled, redefining success and shaping an ever-evolving Singaporean identity on the world stage.

Don’t miss the Singlish words that make it into Oxford Dictionary, our favourite local cuisines celebrated around the world, celebrate Singapore’s uniqueness that gained international recognition. Do take part in an interactive Singlish quiz to test your knowledge of Singaporean language that has become a cultural marker of pride.

There is a diverse range of artefacts that document Singapore’s achievements across various fields that are on display, they are tangible reminders of Singapore’s global prominence. From athletes Joseph Schooling, Maximilian Maeder, Shanti Pereira, and Loh Kean Yew, to pianist Margaret Leng Tan, and filmmaker Eric Khoo, among others. 

If you are inspired by the stories and artefacts inside this section, you are invited to contribute objects and stories as part of National Museum’s Collecting Contemporary Singapore initiative that returns this year, with a focus on “Wave Makers”.

Your contributions will help National Museum of Singapore build up their collection and tell more diverse stories of Singaporeans who make us proud globally. For more information on this public call, please visit National Museum of Singapore website. 

Shaping Your Future: What does the future hold? What paths will Singapore take?

Before you exit the exhibition, you are invited to reflect and share, on how Singapore’s identity and definition of success have evolved over time through an RFID-based personalised experience. 

The questions are spread across the exhibition sections, and you van use the RFID wristbands collected at the start of the exhibition to answer them.

At the end of the exhibition, visitors will be assigned one of four avatars based on their response throughout the experience. Each avatar reflects one’s individual values, priorities, and aspirations for Singapore’s future. They also contribute to a larger cityscape visual that represents the collective vision of the future of Singapore, co-created by all who participated. 

Get Curious! Building Our Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore Children’s Season is a highly anticipated event, returning with Get Curious! Building Our Singapore, designed as a complement to Once Upon a Tide. 

Introducing younger visitors to the builders of Singapore

This year’s Children’s Season continues the journey for discovery for young visitors, especially on the themes of people who built Singapore, and how Singapore continues to build her identity and “Make Waves” internationally, in tandem with the Once Upon a Tide exhibition sections four and five, Flows of People & Making Waves.

This year’s Children’s Season edition features an interactive installation and an intergenerational showcase – Get Curious! Building Our Singapore and Our Mama Shop showcase. 

The installation invites children to explore how different communities contributed to the growth of Singapore. At the Our Mama Shop showcase, children can connect and learn more about our common Singapore identity and uniquely local cultural elements. 

My Personal Journey across Once Upon a Tide

This journey across into Once Upon a Tide was a very enriching and learning experience for me. The content and curation goes a lot deeper and further than what learn in our history books in school, and the time before Sir Stamford Raffles arrival in 1819.

In the first section, this was an area of great interest to me. What was Singapore like before the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819? That’s so much more to learn about Singapore’s history!

For those who love reading and analysing maps of all kinds (navigation, topographical etc), Once Upon a Tide will definitely interest you greatly, as it has done for me. Just by walking through the maps from the first section to the fifth section, you can see for yourselves how much Singapore has transformed over the centuries. 

A worthy and fitting theme, Once Upon a Tide is a rich and intense history, heritage and cultural exhibition to mark Singapore’s (SG60) 60th anniversary celebrations, how Singapore is making waves around the world, even though we are a young and small country (by land size). 

Once Upon a Tide and Children’s Season Information and Admission Details

Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City

• Venue: National Museum of Singapore, Exhibition Gallery 1 and 2, Basement Level 
• Date: 24 May 2025 – 9 October 2026
• Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm daily (last ticket sales at 6pm, last gallery admission at 630pm)

Admission Fee: 

• Free admission for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents
• Tickets range from $18 (Concession) to $24 (Tourists and non Permanent Residents)

For more information, please visit https://go.gov.sg/onceuponatide 

Get Curious! Building Our Singapore

Entry to Get Curious! Building Our Singapore installation and showcase are free for all. Some programmes are ticketed. 

• Date: 24 May – 29 June
• Opening Hours: 10am – 12:30pm, 1:30pm – 6pm daily
• Venue: Gallery Theatre Foyer, Basement

Our Mama Shop Intergenerational Showcase

1. Date: 24 May – 29 June
2. Opening Hours: 10am – 12:30pm, 1:30pm – 6pm daily 
3. Venue: The Salon, Level 1

For more information on Children’s Season, please visit https://go.gov.sg/nms-cs2025 

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