Calendar of Events

LATEST EVENTS

22, 23, 29, 30 Aug & 5, 6 Sep 2025

8.30pm - 8.45pm

Exterior Stairway (Level 2),

National Archives Building

Free Admission This is a walk-in programme. Registration is not required.

Nila’s Shimmering Shores: A Pop-Up Storytelling | AT SG 2025

About the Programme

Be captivated by outdoor storytelling sessions at the Exterior Stairway of the National Archives of Singapore! Listen to a now-senior Sang Nila Utama as he shares tales from his youth – when he chased a golden deer, sailed through a storm and met a lion on a distant shore.

Continue the imaginative journey with hands-on craft activities at the Children’s Museum Singapore carpark and interactive installations along Fort Canning Rise.

Perfect for families and young adventurers, experience Nila’s Shimmering Shores at the Singapore Night Festival's Children’s Zone, spanning Children’s Museum Singapore, National Archives Building and Fort Canning Rise.

About the Performers

An ensemble led by Gloria Tan, an experienced theatre director and educator celebrated for directing immersive shows for children on the autism spectrum for over 10 years at Republic Polytechnic’s The Republic Cultural Centre. Known for her work in inclusive and sensory theatre across Asia and beyond, Gloria creates meaningful performances that embrace diverse needs.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Sat, 23 Aug 2025

7.00pm - 8.00pm

Oldham Theatre, Level 3

National Archives Building

Register HERE

Archives Unlocked | From Jurong Island to Selat Sembilan

This talk draws from Socio-Cultural Heritage of Jurong Island and its Former Offshore Islands, a NHB Heritage Research Grant project that utilsed archival maps, oral histories, and GIS visualisation to trace the lived experiences of island communities (including, Malay, Teochew, Orang Suku Laut and others) before the formation of Jurong Island. Using materials from the National Archives of Singapore—such as 19th-century hydrographic charts, oral history recordings, and declassified government documents—Dr Hadi Osni examines how place names, ecological knowledge, and kinship ties offer alternative ways of remembering and representing these maritime landscapes. The talk highlights how archival materials can be recontextualised through memory mapping and participatory research.

About the Speaker

Dr. Hadi Osni is a curator at the Malay Heritage Centre under Singapore’s National Heritage Board. His research focuses on architectural and urban history, community heritage, and spatial memory in Singapore’s built environment. He is Co-Investigator of the NHB-funded project Socio-Cultural Heritage of Jurong Island and Former Offshore Islands (2023–2025), where he led oral history, archival, and GIS research to document the lives of former island residents. The project culminated in the From Jurong Island to Selat Sembilan exhibition at the NUS Museum.

The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of the National Heritage Board and/or any government agencies.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Sat, 23 Aug 2025

8.15pm - 9.00pm / 9.15pm - 10.00pm

Atrium, Level 3

National Archives Building

Register HERE

The Tiger Hero: A Puppetry Adaptation of the Classic Chinese Novel Water Margin

About the Programme

Join us as we bring the legendary tale of martial arts master Wu Song to life! Follow him on his thrilling journey across Jingyang Ridge, where he encounters a ferocious man-eating tiger. Can Wu Song handle the beast while under the influence of wine?

Performance Highlights:

Fun and interactive: A lively show that actively engages the audience.

For seniors: Relive the nostalgia of traditional hand puppetry performances once enjoyed during street festivals.

For the young: A delightful and interactive experience that sparks meaningful conversations between children and their parents or grandparents.

This performance will be conducted in Chinese. English subtitles will be available.

About the Performers

Paper Monkey Theatre is a Singapore-based theatre company that blends traditional Asian puppetry with contemporary storytelling. Founded by Benjamin Ho, it creates engaging performances for children and families, nurturing cultural appreciation and creativity. The company is renowned for its innovative puppetry works, educational programmes and vibrant productions that celebrate heritage and imagination.

The performances are co-presented by the National Library Board and HeritageSG. NLB hopes to inspire the discovery of hidden stories and facets of Singapore’s past from the collections of the National Library and the National Archives of Singapore.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Fri, 29 Aug 2025

8.15pm – 9.15pm

Archives Reading Room, Level 2,

National Archives Building

Sat, 30 Aug 2025

7.30pm – 8.30 pm / 8.45pm – 9.45pm

Atrium, Level 3,

National Archives Building

Register HERE

The Monkey King and the Uproar in the Dragon Palace (Nanyang Edition)

About the Programme

The story begins after Sun Wukong has completed his journey to retrieve the scriptures, and is now back in Huaguo Mountain enjoying his leisure. However, Sun Wukong learns that ever since he took the Golden Cudgel, the Dragon Palace has fallen into chaos and the Dragon King has gone missing. When he arrives at the seashore, Sun Wukong is shocked to find the ocean severely polluted. He soon discovers that all of this is the wicked scheme of the Poison Lord!

How will Sun Wukong rescue his friends and the Dragon King? Come watch the show to find out!

Performed in Malay, Mandarin and Chinese Dialects with English subtitles.

About the Performers

Ombak Potehi is a collective of multiethnic young people who have tried to revitalise the endangered Potehi glove puppet theatre in Penang, Malaysia. The group of young people studied the art of puppet manipulation, narration and music from the traditional troupe, Beng Geok Hong Puppet Show, in Penang. The group has made Potehi accessible to people of races, genders, ages and income levels and to promote the sharing of cultures among the diverse people of Malaysia.

The performances are co-presented by the National Library Board and HeritageSG. NLB hopes to inspire the discovery of hidden stories and facets of Singapore’s past from the collections of the National Library and the National Archives of Singapore.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Sat, 30 Aug 2025

7.00pm – 10.00pm

Archives Reading Room, Level 2,

National Archives Building

Free Admission This is a walk-in programme. Registration is not required.

Island Crafts | AT SG 2025

About the Programme

Try your hand at coaster weaving and leather bookmark stamping with Beadbadwolf at this drop-in craft buffet session that lets you pick from plenty of assorted materials to make your own art piece! You can exercise your creativity on your own or ask for guidance from the instructors present to help you craft a beautiful keepsake. This programme is suitable for children and teens aged 9 to 16.

About the Programme Partner

Beadbadwolf Studio was founded in 2015 by Cheryl Tan, who trained in fashion design and worked as a visual merchandiser before becoming a textile artist. Beadbadwolf Studio offers various art and craft workshops, craft buffet sessions, DIY kits and more at its location in Stamford Arts Centre.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Fri, 5 Sep 2025

8.30pm – 10.00pm

Archives Reading Room, Level 2,

National Archives Building

Free Admission This is a walk-in programme. Registration is not required.

Jom Kenal Pulau! (Let’s Get to Know the Islands!) Activity

About the Programme

This family-friendly educational booth introduces participants to the language, culture and knowledge of the Orang Laut and Orang Pulau communities through an interactive learning experience. Learn words commonly used by Singapore’s Southern Islanders through a game of

Pulau Lingo! Engage your senses by identifying indigenous plants and molluscs important to islander cuisine and traditional medicine through smell and touch.

About the Facilitators

Orang Laut SG is a collective dedicated to bringing light to the traditions and cultures of the Orang Laut/ Orang Pulau community. Driven by the goal of claiming the narrative of the Southern Islands, the collective advocates for the cultural preservation of the Orang Laut/Pulau culture through the reclamation of heritage spaces and highlighting unique traditions of the Orang Laut/Pulau community, such as maritime craftsmanship, cuisine and spiritual practices.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Sat, 6 Sep 2025

8.30pm – 9.30pm

Oldham Theatre, Level 3,

National Archives Building

Register HERE

Rentak Pulau, Bunyi Hati (Island Rhythm, The Heart Echoes)

About the Programme

This panel sharing explores the celebratory traditions of Singapore’s islander communities, from music and dance to storytelling. These practices have been an integral part of island heritage, marking festive occasions and strengthening communal bonds. Through the lived experiences and ongoing efforts of former islanders and their descendants, the sharing will highlight how these traditions continue to evolve, serving as both a form of cultural expression and a means of sustaining identity in a rapidly modernising landscape. Hear from community members who lived the memories and those working to keep them alive.

About the Speakers

Kasmun Bin Hj Abd Karim is a former islander of Pulau Sudong. As a young man, he was part of a Joget Dangkung troupe that played during festive gatherings on the island. They were well known for their distinctive attire and lively presence. As formal Joget Dangkung groups are now difficult to find in Singapore, Kasmun is a living repository of the vibrant memories and rich culture of the cultural performance.

Cik Nasir Abdullah is a practicing traditional ghazal musician from Pulau Samulun. He spent his youth travelling and playing music across islands for celebrations such as weddings. Currently, he leads the multigenerational band Orkes Melayu Mutiara.

Asnida Daud is a performer and educator who grew up on Pulau Sudong. Through poetry, storytelling and music, she breathes new life into the stories of her ancestors. She has performed her work in local productions at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, as well as international art festivals.

Firdaus Sani, a fourth-generation Orang Laut/Pulau descendant, founded Orang Laut SG in 2020 to preserve the heritage of Pulau Semakau. He advocates for indigenous voices, and representation in education and public discourse. Firdaus delivered a TedxYouth talk on sustainability, participated in the Singapore Writers Festival, and performed his work at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.

About All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025

All Things Singapore (AT SG) 2025 invites you to dive into the enchanting world of Singapore’s islands. Experience dynamic performances that reimagine island life, interactive installations that celebrate nature and island communities, and insightful programmes that uncover rich stories and legacies. Journey through our islands’ vibrant spirit with a unique blend of arts, history and creativity at the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. So, join us for All Things Singapore 2025, where heritage, arts and culture come alive after dark.

Discover more at go.gov.sg/atsg2025

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Sat, 6 Sep 2025

1.00pm – 2.30pm

Oldham Theatre, Level 3,

National Archives Building

Register HERE

[LOLA] Voices of Singaporeans: Personal Stories Through Oral History

Join us for an inspiring session featuring four extraordinary individuals who have deposited their life stories with the National Archives of Singapore’s Oral History Centre. Well-known names from the worlds of sport, business, and entertainment, they will share defining moments, personal struggles, and hard-won triumphs that have shaped their lives. Discover what drives them, learn about their current projects, and hear about the dreams and goals they have set their sights on.

About the Panellists

Rahimah Rahim is a renowned singer and actress in the local music scene, and one of the most popular local entertainers of the 1970s and 1980s. She has released 12 albums over the course of her career. In 2021, she was awarded the Cultural Medallion, Singapore's pinnacle arts award, by the National Arts Council. She is one of the featured performers at this year’s National Day Parade.

Dr. Benedict Tan is an Olympian in the Asian Games (1994) and four-time consecutive Southeast Asian Games (1989, 1991, 1993, 1995) Gold medallist in sailing. He is a Hall-of-Famer and three-time Singapore Sportsman of the Year. After competing in the 1996 Savannah Olympics, Dr Ben Tan retired from competitive sailing and now sails (including kiteboarding) recreationally. He took up marathon running recreationally in 2002, competing in more than 20 marathons to date, including all six World Marathon Majors (Boston, Berlin, London, New York, Chicago, and Tokyo). Apart from running Ben also kitefoils, wakefoils, skis and scuba dives.

Currently, Dr Ben Tan is a Senior Consultant sports physician and Head of SingHealth Duke-NUS Sport and Exercise Medicine Clinic (SSMC). He was awarded the Exercise is Medicine (EIM) Global Leadership Award in 2024 and the Ministry of Health Distinguished Senior Clinician Award in 2024, and the SingHealth Distinguished Visionary Leader Award in 2018.

Koh Seng Choon is the founder of Project Dignity, a social enterprise that runs Dignity Kitchen, a hawker training school and food court that employs people with disabilities and other disadvantaged individuals. He was named The Straits Times Singaporean of the Year for 2024 for his work in this area.

Canagasabai Kunalan, known as C. Kunalan, is a retired Singaporean sprinter, relay runner, former footballer and educator, widely regarded as one of Singapore's greatest ever athletes. Named Sportsman of the Year in both 1968 and 1969, Kunalan is a 20-time South East Asian & Asian Games Medallist.

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Sat, 6 Sep 2025

3.00pm – 4.00pm

Oldham Theatre, Level 3,

National Archives Building

Register HERE

[LOLA] Archives Unlocked | Do You See What I See: Mining Historical Details From Old Photographs

A picture paints a thousand words. What stories do old photographs of Singapore tell us? From once familiar sights and scenes to vanishing trades and changing fashion, we invite you to rediscover and rethink Singapore of yesteryear.

Join Senior Manager Lu Wenshi and Senior Archivist Ronnie Tan as they delve into the National Archives of Singapore’s (NAS) photograph collections, which feature different genres from studio to street photography. They will also offer insight into how archivists glean details about history from archival records.

For a sneak peak of the photographers covered in the talk, check out this BiblioAsia article: A Tale of Two Cities: Singapore Through the Lens of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler!

About the Speakers

Lu Wenshi is a Senior Manager with the National Archives of Singapore, who has an innate interest in photographs, old and contemporary. She oversees the speeches and press release collections, content curation and crowdsourcing for the Archives Services Department.

Ronnie Tan is a Senior Archivist with the National Archives of Singapore, who has a keen interest in photography and history. He was previously a Senior Manager (research) with the National Library Singapore, where he conducted research on public policy, library-related topics as well as historical research, including the Malayan Emergency (1948-60) and military history.

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Sat, 6 Sep 2025

10.00am - 10.30am / 2.30pm - 3.00pm

Screening Room Level 2

Former Ford Factory

Register HERE

Step into Singapore’s wartime history with two compelling short film screenings of Battle for Singapore and The Trials of War. These powerful documentaries offer poignant reflections on the nation’s resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit during one of its darkest periods.

10.00am – 10.30am: Battle for Singapore

This documentary traces the dramatic timeline of the Fall of Singapore during World War II. It highlights key dates in the Battle for Singapore, using archival photographs and video footage. The film also features interviews with a bomb attack witness, the wife of a late Malay Regiment soldier, and a former Australian machine-gunner.

2.30pm – 3.00pm: The Trials of War

During the Japanese Occupation, numerous atrocities were committed yet many of those responsible went unpunished, despite the formation of a War Crimes Commission. This documentary features testimonies from individuals who witnessed the war crimes trials and others who endured immense suffering during the Occupation.