Over 40 years ago, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) first organised International Museum Day on 18 May 1977, which was celebrated by museums worldwide. Its purpose was to raise awareness of the function of museums, how they are ‘an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and […]

Little is known about the origins of Mother’s Day, celebrated on the second Sunday of May, despite its widespread observance throughout the world. Although usually regarded as a day to appreciate the contribution and devotion of a mother to her family, its bears greater significance. In 1908, Anna Maria Jarvis, the founder of the modern […]

  To what extent do internet technologies play a role in political elections? The 2011 Singapore General Election (GE2011) has often been hailed as an “Internet Election”, ushering in a new era where mass participation through social platforms on the internet amplified oppositional politics and voices. While opposition legislative representation in Singapore had never exceeded […]

On 25 April 2006, the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) was set up as part of the National Research Foundation (NRF), a department of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The SAB serves as a multi-disciplinary arm of the NRF, with expertise in broad areas of technology so as to better advise the PMO on areas of […]

The Speak Good English Movement (SGEM) launched on 29 April 2000. The campaign painted Singlish as an impediment to procuring greater economic and social benefits. However, recently there have been attempts to revive and promote Singlish as a cultural marker of Singaporean identity. Professor Robbie Goh (NUS Department of English Language and Literature) breaks down […]

On 18 April 2005, the Singapore government announced its plan to develop two casinos in Singapore, one on Sentosa island and the other in the district of Marina Bay. This controversial decision was made despite strong and persistent opposition from the public. In defense of its plan, the government hailed the move as one necessary […]

While digital platforms can facilitate timely information exchange as well as civic engagement, they can also be used to manipulate opinions and behaviour, spread panic and to amplify divides. Indeed, instant messaging platforms are double-edged swords, manifested clearly amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. Dr Natalie Pang (NUS Centre for Trusted Internet and Community and NUS Department […]

World Water Day is observed annually on March 22 to celebrate the importance of water. More importantly, it serves as a day to raise awareness on water issues, advocate for sustainable water use and distribution, and inspire people to make better use of water. These objectives are targeted through initiatives such as advertising, discussions, and […]

In 1961, the International Theatre Institute (ITI) initiated World Theatre Day on 27th March, now celebrated by theatre practitioners, fans, and schools across the world. Each year, an outstanding figure in theatre or a person who is outstanding in heart and spirit from another field is invited to share their reflections on theatre and international […]

  Since the 1950s, Singapore’s mangrove extent has declined by more than 90 percent. However, because of the growing concern of climate change and the instrumental role that mangrove forests can play in protecting human infrastructure on land, the government has announced plans to restore them. In ‘Restoring mangroves to protect coasts, reduce warming’ by […]