Learn more about the origins of Chinese culture in Singapore and how it has developed over the years through various zones and activities in the interactive exhibition SINGAPO人: Discovering Chinese Singaporean Culture. Located on the second level of the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, it was first opened in March 2020 and has now been transformed into an inaugural permanent exhibition for Singaporeans of all ages. The exhibition consists of 5 zones, each with different interactive activities for visitors to explore.
Left image credit: SCCC
Right at the very start is the exhibit’s first zone and first Instagram-able spot, where you can stand under the coloured lights and get a shot of your shadows blending together into one another. Not only are the merged shadows aesthetically pleasing; they also represent the blending of the three crucial aspects that shape culture in society.
Don’t worry if you miss it though, because every single zone is just as photogenic as the rest. Remember to check out what others have done using the hashtag #Singapo人 to get more inspiration for the ‘gram!
Aside from that, you’ll be able to learn about the history of the various ethnic groups who first arrived on our shores, and how the amalgamation of their cultures shaped and evolved into the unique Chinese Singaporean culture we have today.
Image credit: SCCC
Then, get transported back into 60’s Singapore in the second zone, designed with old, salvaged doors and letterboxes reminiscent of Singapore’s residential buildings in the early days. Here’s a tip: don’t leave any stone unturned here, as you’re bound to find surprises hiding in some of the drawers, doors and shutters.
Next, move on to the third and fourth zones to learn more about the beliefs and traditions of the different dialect groups, as well as how Singlish came to be through the unification and integration of all the various races and languages of our multicultural society.
And when your legs need a rest, sit down and feast your eyes on the colourful projection show that celebrates our vibrant hawker culture. After that, challenge your friends in a virtual game of identifying and making local drinks to see who’s the better kopitiam uncle (or aunty)!
Finally, marvel at how far our unique Singaporean culture has come and watch as a futuristic conveyor belt transports internationally renowned brands, figures and icons that all trace their roots back to Singapore. You might even be surprised at some of them!
Each visitor is given a personalised RFID tag at the entrance of the exhibition, along with a pair of gloves for sanitary purposes. Look out for designated spots around the exhibit to scan your RFID tag and answer trivia questions. At the end of the exhibit, you can print or mail yourself a personalised report card to see how you fared in comparison to other visitors.
And the best part of it all? Admission is completely free! No prior registration is required.
The Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre is just a 7-minute walk away from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. Free guided tours are also offered on a first-come-first-serve basis, limited to 10 participants so head on down now!
Opening Hours:
10am – 8pm on Tuesdays to Sundays
2.00pm – 8.00pm on Mondays
For more information, you may refer to their website here.
This article was brought to you by Trisha Ling. An aspiring writer who loves exploring culture and the arts.
