[Coming Soon] Lost & Found: How We Remember Invites Us to Revisit Our Memories at Singapore Art Museum

Hi Huneybees,

Memories are funny things, aren't they? Some stay with us for years, while others slowly fade, only to resurface when we hear a familiar song, recognise a scent or stumble upon an old photograph.

But have you ever wondered what happens to the stories that are never recorded, or the memories that gradually disappear as the world around us changes?

This November, Singapore Art Museum (SAM) invites us to explore these questions through its latest exhibition, Lost & Found: How We Remember, running from 27 November 2026 to 18 April 2027 at SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark.

Bringing together works by 16 artists from Asia, the Asian diaspora and beyond, the exhibition explores the many ways memories are preserved, retold and sometimes forgotten.

And if there's one thing I've come to appreciate about contemporary art, it's how an artwork can make us reconsider something we've always taken for granted. In this case, something as personal and universal as our memories.

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The Final Chapter of SAM's Lost & Found Series

For those who have been following Singapore Art Museum's exhibitions, How We Remember marks the concluding chapter of Lost & Found (2023–2026), a four-year project exploring what an archive can be and the different ways artists document experiences that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Over the years, the series has explored memory through several creative approaches.

In 2024, the Sea Chanty Project examined how songs can carry stories and cultural knowledge, while Embodied Archive explored how experiences and memories can be expressed through bodily movement.

The project also brought together research, conversations and shared reflections through Rings and Lost & Found: Assembly in 2026.

Now, How We Remember brings these conversations together, inviting visitors to consider how memories survive across generations, communities and changing environments.

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Beyond Looking at Art: Activities to Explore at SAM

What makes a museum visit even more memorable for me is when there are opportunities to interact with the ideas behind the artworks.

Alongside the exhibition, SAM will be organising guided tours, artist activations and workshops, with several activities inviting visitors to become part of the remembering process.

Lost & Found: Learning Station
Location: Level 1, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark

If you missed the earlier chapters of Lost & Found, the Learning Station offers a chance to revisit them through hands-on activities. Visitors can explore music videos from Sea Chanty, participate in a writing exercise inspired by Embodied Archive and even create their own zines inspired by Assembly.

And here's one activity that definitely caught my attention: a special layered stamp designed by artist Budi Agung Kuswara, inspired by his artwork Wildly Convenient. You know I can never resist a good stamping activity! There's something satisfying about collecting an impression that becomes a little keepsake of the experience.

Exercises in Recounting by Pixie Tan
Location: Level 1, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark

Have you ever wondered how a conversation can become an archive? Artist Pixie Tan explores this through Exercises in Recounting, a take-apart zine developed from conversations and reflections gathered during Lost & Found: Assembly, a two-day symposium held in April 2026.

During the symposium, Tan created a participatory installation titled An Expanded Edit, where visitors could write, photocopy and exchange their thoughts. These contributions became a collective record of the conversations and encounters that took place.

Drawing from these materials and her own reflections, Tan has created a zine featuring four encounters inspired by presentations from the symposium. What makes this particularly interesting is its format. Rather than simply reading the publication from beginning to end, visitors can remove and explore its pages individually.

It's another reminder that an archive doesn't always have to be something formal or fixed. Sometimes, it begins with an ordinary conversation and the thoughts we choose to share. The zine will be available as a resource at the Learning Station.

Tactile Discovery Bag with Audio Descriptions
Location: Level 1, Ticketing Counter, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark

SAM will also offer tactile discovery bags with audio descriptions to support different ways of experiencing the exhibition. Visitors can collect a bag from the ticketing counter and scan the QR code outside Gallery 1 to begin their exploration.
*The resource is open to everyone, with priority given to visitors with visual impairments.

Artist & Curator Tour with Singapore Sign Language Interpretation
Date: 28 November 2026, 3pm–4.30pm

For those who enjoy learning about the stories and creative decisions behind an artwork, the opening weekend will feature a special artist- and curator-led tour.

Visitors can hear directly from the exhibition's curators and participating artists about their creative processes and approaches to documenting personal and collective histories. Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) interpretation will be available throughout the session.

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I'm definitely looking forward to experiencing the artworks in person and discovering which ones will leave me with something to think about long after leaving the gallery.

What about you, Huneybees? Is there an object, photograph or even a song that instantly brings back a special memory? Maybe it's time to revisit those little treasures and the stories behind them.

This article is an exhibition preview based on information released by Singapore Art Museum. I'll share more personal impressions after experiencing the exhibition.

Lost & Found: How We Remember
📍Level 1, Gallery 1, Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark
📆 27 November 2026 – 18 April 2027
🎫 General admission applies; free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents
🌐 Singapore Art Museum – Lost & Found: How We Remember

For updates on guided tours, workshops and artist programmes, you can follow Singapore Art Museum on their socials too.
● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/singaporeartmuseum
● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/singaporeartmuseum
● TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@singaporeartmuseum
● YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAMtelly

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Halloween 2026 at Museum of Ice Cream Singapore: Free Upgrades, Spooky Treats & More!

Hi Huneybees,

This Halloween, Museum of Ice Cream (MOIC) Singapore is serving up more than just unlimited ice cream! From 21 October to 1 November 2026, expect spooky challenges, Halloween-exclusive flavours, creepy-crawly toppings and even a complimentary ticket upgrade if you turn up in costume!

Here's what's brewing at MOIC this Halloween.

Dress Up for a FREE Premium Admission Upgrade!

Guests who purchase General Admission tickets can enjoy a complimentary upgrade to Premium Admission when everyone in their group arrives dressed in full Halloween costumes. Whether you're going as a family of vampires, a coven of witches or your favourite horror movie characters, make sure the whole squad is dressed for the occasion to enjoy the upgrade!

Pumpkin Spice, U-BOO and... Mealworms?!

Halloween wouldn't be complete without some unusual treats!

MOIC is introducing two limited-time ice cream flavours:

• Pumpkin Spiced Latte – A cosy, autumn-inspired flavour with warming pumpkin spice notes.

• U-BOO (Ube) – A playful Halloween take on the sweet, nutty purple yam flavour.

But here's where things get interesting. Would you dare to top your ice cream with dried mealworms?! 👀 MOIC is offering SFA-approved dried mealworms from InsectYumz as an optional soft-serve topping. A little extra crunch, anyone?

Trick-or-Treat with a Twist!

What's Halloween without a little trick-or-treating?

For an additional $5, guests can purchase a Trick or Treat Bag and collect sweets from four designated ice cream stations around the museum.

But there's a catch! Before claiming your treats, you'll need to draw a challenge card and complete a spooky task.

You might find yourself:

• Letting out your best horror movie scream!

• Dancing to Michael Jackson's Thriller.

• Telling a one-minute ghost story to one of MOIC's costumed guides.

Who knew earning candy could be this entertaining eh? With unlimited ice cream, colourful installations and plenty of Halloween fun, MOIC is definitely the sweet spot for families and friends looking for a playful way to celebrate the spooky season.

🍨🍨🍨🍨🍦🍦🍦🍦🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🍦🍦🍦🍦🍨🍨🍨🍨

Halloween at Museum of Ice Cream Singapore
📍 Museum of Ice Cream Singapore, 100 Loewen Road, Dempsey, Singapore 248837

📆 21 October – 1 November 2026

Halloween Specials:

• Free Premium Admission upgrade for fully costumed groups with valid General Admission tickets

• Limited-time Pumpkin Spiced Latte and U-BOO ice cream flavours

• Optional dried mealworm toppings

• Trick-or-Treat Experience at an additional $5 per bag

Tickets: tickets.museumoficecream.sg

For more updates, follow @museumoficecreamsg on social media.

So.... what will you be dressing up as, or are you brave enough to try the mealworm toppings? 🎃

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ART SG 2027 First Look: Immersive Art, Better Worlds and What to Expect

Hi Huneybees,

Singapore Art Week is turning 15 in 2027, and one of its major highlights, ART SG, will be returning to Marina Bay Sands from 22 to 24 January 2027, with a VIP Preview and Vernissage on 21 January.

Now in its fifth edition, ART SG continues to bring together contemporary art from Singapore, Southeast Asia and beyond. And while the full lineup of participating artists and galleries has yet to be revealed, the first announcement has already given us a few reasons to look forward to next January!

From an immersive art experience in a former rice warehouse to an exhibition exploring what makes a better world, here's what has caught our attention so far.

 Pinaree Sanpitak presented by Ames Yavuz at ART SG 2026.
(Image Creidt: ART SG)

1. When Art Becomes a Shared Experience

One announcement that particularly intrigues us is an offsite exhibition by acclaimed Thai artist Pinaree Sanpitak, presented in collaboration with Artspace Sydney. Titled How We Hold What's Possible. Movement II, the immersive exhibition will take place at 72-13, a former rice warehouse that is now home to T:>Works.

What makes this interesting is that the exhibition isn't just about looking at artworks. The space will also host communal meals, performances, workshops, music and conversations, inviting visitors to experience art through shared activities and human connections.

We're curious about how these different experiences will come together. Could something as simple as sharing a meal become part of an artistic experience? The full programme will be announced closer to January, but this is definitely one we'd love to explore!

S.E.A. Focus 2026 at ART SG.
(Image Credit: S.E.A. Focus)

2. Can Art Help Us Imagine a Better World?

Returning alongside ART SG is S.E.A. Focus, a platform dedicated to Southeast Asian contemporary art.

For its ninth edition, curator John Tung introduces the theme Better Worlds, inviting us to consider how technology, connectivity and human relationships are shaping the world we live in. It's an interesting question, especially when we're living in an age where technology makes it easier than ever to connect with one another.

But does being more connected necessarily mean we're creating a better world?

Portrait of John Tung. Photo by Arabelle Zhuang.
(Image Credit: S.E.A. Focus)

Contemporary art has a way of encouraging us to look beyond what's physically in front of us and question the ideas behind it. We're looking forward to discovering how artists from across Southeast Asia will interpret this theme and perhaps challenge the way we see our increasingly connected world.

With S.E.A. Focus returning to Marina Bay Sands alongside ART SG, visitors will once again have the opportunity to discover both platforms at the same venue.

Commonwealth and Council at ART SG 2026.
(Image Credit: ART SG)

3. Discovering New Artistic Voices

Of course, part of the excitement of visiting an art fair is discovering artists and artworks we might not otherwise encounter. ART SG 2027 will see the return of several initiatives that help support and introduce artistic talent.

The ART SG FUTURES Prize Presented by UBS will once again recognise an outstanding emerging artist from the fair's FUTURES sector with a US$10,000 award.

Meanwhile, the TVS Initiative for Indian and South Asian Contemporary Art returns with South Asia Insights, featuring a dedicated pavilion and curator-led programmes.

The SAM ART SG Fund also returns with S$250,000 to acquire international contemporary artworks for the Singapore Art Museum's collection, making these works accessible to the public through future exhibitions and programmes.

While these initiatives may sound more relevant to the art industry, they also contribute to the diversity of artistic perspectives that visitors can discover. And who knows? We might just come across an artist whose works leave us thinking long after we've left the fair.

TAEX at ART SG 2026.
(Image Credit: ART SG)

So, Is ART SG 2027 Worth Looking Forward To?

It's still early days, and there's plenty more to be revealed. But what intrigues us about this first announcement is how ART SG 2027 appears to be extending the art experience beyond simply viewing artworks.

From gathering over shared meals to questioning what a better world might look like, there's a recurring idea of art as something that connects people, encourages participation and sparks conversations.

And that's something we're looking forward to experiencing for ourselves!

The participating artists and galleries for ART SG and S.E.A. Focus are expected to be announced in November 2026, so we'll have a clearer picture of what to expect then.

For now, ART SG 2027 is definitely on our radar as we start planning our Singapore Art Week adventures!

ART SG 2027 Event Details

• Date: 22–24 January 2027

• VIP Preview and Vernissage: 21 January 2027

• Venue: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

• Featuring: ART SG and S.E.A. Focus

• Ticketing: Details to be confirmed

Stay tuned for more announcements as we get closer to Singapore Art Week 2027!

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Singapore Writers Festival 2026: Must-See Highlights, Authors & Ticket Info

Hi Huneybees,

Festival Director Yong Shu Hoong speaking at SWF 2026 Festival Reveal.
(Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, Courtesy of Arts House Group)

Singapore Writers Festival (SWF) 2026 returns from 13 to 22 November 2026 for its 29th edition, and this year's theme, Hidden in Plain Sight, feels especially intriguing.

What if some of the most interesting stories are the ones that have been right in front of us all along? The festival invites us to look closer at the stories we encounter, question the assumptions we carry and discover perspectives that might change the way we understand the world around us.

Organised by Arts House Group and commissioned by the National Arts Council, SWF 2026 brings together more than 300 writers, speakers and moderators across over 200 programmes, covering everything from fiction and crime mysteries to journalism, documentary filmmaking, games, architecture and more.

Making this year's Festival even more special is that it marks Festival Director Yong Shu Hoong's final edition at the helm, bringing another chapter of SWF's journey to a close.

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(Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, Courtesy of Arts House Group)

Who's Coming To SWF 2026?

This year's line-up brings together some pretty exciting Singaporean, regional and international voices, including Amitav Ghosh, Tan Twan Eng, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Ruha Benjamin, Rachel Smythe, Robin Stevens, Shuang Xuetao, Kamala Chandrakirana, Yuvan Chandrasekar, Jeremy Tiang and Jemimah Wei.

There are also conversations that venture beyond literature into some very current issues.

Amitav Ghosh will look at the stories societies tell about our planet's future, while Stephen Witt dives into Nvidia and the making of an AI powerhouse. Ruha Benjamin, meanwhile, examines the hidden biases shaping technology and society.

But one of the biggest additions this year has to be...

 Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Ovidia Yu and Seo Mi-ae
(Image Credit: Martin Dee & Arts House Group)

🔎 NEW: Crime & Mystery Takes The Spotlight

Okay, mystery lovers, this one immediately caught my attention.

For the first time, SWF is introducing a dedicated Crime & Mystery Spotlight, and honestly, what genre could fit Hidden in Plain Sight better?

The programme looks at how clues, assumptions, history and shifting perspectives can reveal what lies beneath the surface.

Old Crimes, Fresh Takes brings together Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Jean Tay and Ovidia Yu to explore how historical events and archival material can be transformed into crime fiction.

If you're fascinated by what goes into creating a convincing villain, The Making of a Serial Killer sees Seo Mi-ae, Rueben Dass and Jocelyn Suarez unpack how they create compelling killer characters on the page.

Agatha Christie fans can check out Still Killing It: Agatha Christie's Enduring Legacy, where Robin Stevens and Louise Hegarty discuss why the Queen of Crime continues to influence mystery writing today.

Meanwhile, Crime, Memory and Moral Ambiguity brings Shuang Xuetao and Jeremy Tiang together to explore how crime and thriller conventions can open conversations about memory, precarity and contemporary life. Definitely one section I'll be keeping an eye on! 👀

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My SWF 2026 Must-Go Pick: Step Inside The House Of Tan Yeok Nee

If I had to pick one experience that immediately stood out to me, it would probably be The Last Mansion Standing: Uncovering the House of Tan Yeok Nee.

Instead of simply hearing about history inside a theatre, you'll actually get to explore the restored House of Tan Yeok Nee, with architectural historian and author Yeo Kang Shua leading participants through the historic Teochew mansion and uncovering the people and stories that shaped it.

I love experiences like this because you're not just listening to a story. You're physically stepping into the place where part of that story unfolded. It also feels so perfectly aligned with Hidden in Plain Sight. How many of us have passed historic buildings around Singapore without knowing the stories hiding behind their walls?

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Off the Record with Janet Tay and Tan Twan Eng
(Image Credit: The Photo Lab & Lloyd Smith)

Stories We Don't Always Talk About

Some of the Festival's most interesting conversations also look at the stories that aren't always openly discussed.

In What the Family Doesn't Say, Amitav Ghosh, Jemimah Wei and Balli Kaur Jaswal explore the sacrifices, memories and histories carried across generations.

Then there's Off the Record with Janet Tay and Tan Twan Eng, which brings the longtime friends and former lawyers together for a more candid conversation about writing and life beyond their public personas.

These are the kinds of sessions I think fit this year's theme particularly well because sometimes what is "hidden" isn't a mystery waiting to be solved. It can simply be the experiences and conversations we don't usually see.

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Chatchavan Suwansawat & Caris Avendaño Cruz
(Image Credit: Room Magazine Issue191 & Jett Cruz)

Exploring Southeast Asia Through Stories

SEA xChange returns to put Southeast Asian stories and perspectives in focus, bringing together literature with architecture, folklore, migration and everyday life.

Featured voices include architect and writer Chatchavan Suwansawat from Thailand and author Caris Avendaño Cruz from the Philippines.

Programmes explore everything from beliefs and superstitions in regional fiction to Southeast Asian architecture, journalism in the Malay world and how migrant and local writers experience the cities they live in.

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At the SWF 2026 Festival Reveal
(Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, Courtesy of Arts House Group)

Celebrating Singapore's Multilingual Literary Landscape

Another important part of SWF is its celebration of Singapore's different languages and literary traditions.

This year's Chinese, Malay and Tamil programmes are shaped by guest curators Chan Cheow Thia, Muhammad Ilyia Kamsani and Neelakandan Sivanantham, connecting Singapore writers and audiences with voices from the wider region.

Among the programmes is the Mandarin-language Writing Fiction to Remember and Heal, featuring Teoh Hee La, Wang Zhanhei and Hon Lai Chu, exploring how fiction can preserve memories and help us make sense of change.

Royal Syair and Journalism in the Malay World looks at the intersection between classical Malay poetry and contemporary journalism, while Echoes in Art and Ink: Rediscovering Little India's Hidden Stories brings writers Uma Kathir and Krishnasamy Subramaniam together to explore stories from the communities of Little India.

There's also Yuvan – The Essence of Poetry, where Indian writer Yuvan Chandrasekar explores how poetry can resonate across time, countries and languages.

Selected sessions will offer live interpretation and digital translation, opening up more opportunities for us to join conversations beyond the languages we're most familiar with.

SWF 2025 Stories Across Generations x SMRT Trains Launch - Festival Director, Yong Shu Hoong (Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, courtesy of Arts House Group)

SWF Homage Looks At How Singapore Stories Travel

At the heart of this multilingual focus is SWF Homage, which turns its attention to literary translation for 2026.

The programme traces how Singapore literature has travelled across languages and borders, from the 18th and early 19th centuries right up to the present day.

Beyond translation-focused programmes, there will also be an interactive microsite and public installation travelling to libraries and community spaces beyond the Festival's main venues.

It's an interesting reminder that Sing Lit doesn't exist within just one language or even within Singapore. Our stories can take on completely new lives when they're translated and discovered by readers elsewhere.

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At the SWF 2026 Festival Reveal.
(Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, Courtesy of Arts House Group)

📚 SWF Isn't Just About Sitting Through Talks

This is probably the part I'd highlight for anyone thinking, "But I'm not really a literary festival person..." There's quite a bit happening beyond the usual author panels!

Festivalgoers can take part in literary walks, mystery-themed experiences, games, interactive storytelling, salon nights, pop-up presentations and writing challenges around the city.

There's Poetry Game Night with Ella Frears, where chance-based prompts become part of the writing experience, while The Salon with Pooja Nansi at COMO Cuisine pairs an intimate literary conversation with a culinary setting.

Reading by the River sounds like one of the more chill options, inviting us to slow down, browse, read and connect by the Singapore River.

And through SWF Encounters, there will also be Book Doctor sessions, book clubs and pop-up activities leading up to the Festival itself.

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SWF 2025 Lawn in front of The Arts House.
(Image Credit: Moonrise Studio, courtesy of Arts House Group)

Something For Families & Young Readers Too

SWF isn't leaving the younger bookworms behind either.

At SWF Playground, Robin Stevens and Jessica Townsend come together for Girls Who Don't Follow the Rules, discussing the rebellious heroines at the heart of their stories.

Families can get hands-on with Bring Your 'Chou Chou' Day!, where children create illustrated stories with Singapore author and illustrator Quek Hong Shin.

There's even Treasure Hunting in Dunhuang, a parent-child treasure hunt presented together with the Asian Civilisations Museum.

For those aged 13 to 25, Youth Fringe gives young participants opportunities to develop skills in curation, moderation and marketing.

One programme that sounds especially fun is Storytelling Shiok!: The Value of Humour, led by Suffian Hakim and developed by Youth Curator Lim Yuxuan, exploring how our distinctly Singaporean sense of humour can shape storytelling.

Meanwhile, SWF Classroom's The Ending Is Yours: An Exhibition invites students aged 10 to 18 to follow a trail of clues and write their own ending to a mystery. Selected works will then be showcased for the public to vote on.

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Festival Director Yong Shu Hoong
(Image Credit: Arts House Group)

Yong Shu Hoong's Final Chapter At SWF

SWF 2026 also marks the end of Yong Shu Hoong's tenure as Festival Director, making Hidden in Plain Sight quite a fitting theme for his final edition.

As a writer himself, Yong describes literature as having the ability to help us look beyond the façade and discover deeper meanings and perspectives. He also connects this year's theme to the world we're living in now, where AI and scams can increasingly blur the line between what appears true and what actually is.

And I think that gives Hidden in Plain Sight an interesting relevance beyond books.

It's about questioning what we see, looking at familiar things differently and perhaps noticing stories and perspectives we've overlooked before.

Singapore Writers Festival 2026 Ticket Prices

Singapore Writers Festival 2026
📅 13 – 22 November 2026
Festival Pass: $30
Youth Pass: $15

Festivalgoers can enjoy 20% Early Bird Savings from 29 September to 18 October 2026 or use their SG Culture Pass credits to experience the Festival. Festival Passes and single-ticket programmes are available at the Festival website, with admission to all Festival Pass programmes on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Students, seniors and NSFs can also enjoy 20% concession savings from 19 October to 22 November 2026. Separately ticketed programmes start from $15, with Festival Pass holders enjoying 20% savings on selected programmes.

Do note that admission to Festival Pass programmes is on a first-come, first-served basis.

More information on the authors and programmes can be found at https://www.singaporewritersfestival.com/. You can also follow the festival's social media @sgwritersfest on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Telegram, and use our hashtags #sgwritersfest and #SWF2026. 

What Will You Uncover At SWF 2026?

With more than 300 voices and 200 programmes, SWF 2026 isn't just about meeting famous writers or listening to people talk about books.

You could uncover the secrets of a historic mansion, dive into the mind of a crime writer, discover Southeast Asian folklore, hear stories in another language, play literary games, bring the kids on a treasure hunt or simply sit beside the Singapore River with a good book.

Because sometimes the most interesting stories aren't hidden somewhere far away.

We just need to look a little closer at what's been Hidden in Plain Sight.

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Singapore History Gallery Reopens with Stoney: 700 Years of History, Nostalgia & New Experiences!

Hi Huneybees,

When was the last time you visited the National Museum of Singapore? Well, here's a good reason to make another trip! After its first full revamp, the museum's flagship Singapore History Gallery is officially reopening on 10 October 2026, just in time for the museum's 139th anniversary celebrations.

And this isn't simply a history lesson filled with old photographs and artefacts. With seven immersive zones, never-before-seen historical treasures and interactive multimedia experiences, the revamped gallery takes us on a journey through more than 700 years of Singapore's history, from our early maritime beginnings to the bustling city we call home today.

From Zubir Said’s piano to the Great Singapore Workout and our favourite nightlife memories, the revamped Singapore History Gallery brings Singapore’s past to life through the stories of the people who shaped our nation, including everyday Singaporeans like you and me! And the best part? We even get to share our own reflections and imagine what Singapore’s future could look like, because our stories are part of its history too!

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Seven Zones, 700 Years and Plenty of Stories to Discover

The Singapore History Gallery continues the journey that begins at Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time in the Shaw Foundation Glass Rotunda. From there, visitors can explore seven chronological zones, each revealing a different chapter of our nation's story.

Fluid Beginnings (1300s–1800s) takes us back to Singapore's early maritime history, when our island was already connected to a bustling regional trading network. Look out for treasures recovered from a 14th-century shipwreck, a newly commissioned jongkong boat model and, of course, the mysterious Singapore Stone!

Moving into Colonial City (1800s–1930s), discover how Singapore developed into a thriving port city as merchants, migrants and labourers arrived from across Asia. There is even an interactive experience where you can try lifting and pulling a recreated rickshaw. Time to find out just how tough life was for our forefathers!

The mood takes a more sombre turn in Fall of the Fortress (Late 1930s–1940s), which explores the Japanese Occupation and the experiences of those who lived through the war. Through personal belongings, historical photographs and interactive installations, we get a glimpse of the struggles, sacrifices and resilience of that generation.

One artefact I'm particularly excited about is in Towards a New Identity (1950s–1960s). For the first time, visitors can see the actual piano on which Zubir Said composed our national anthem, Majulah Singapura! The gallery also recreates Lee Kuan Yew's televised press conference announcing Singapore's separation from Malaysia, offering an opportunity to reflect on this defining moment in our history.

Next, Becoming Singapore (1960s–1980s) brings us into the era of rapid industrialisation, public housing and changing lifestyles. From factory workers' everyday belongings to a restored HDB lift and a recreated void deck, this section shows how Singaporeans adapted to a rapidly transforming nation.

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OMG, Are Our Childhood Memories Museum-Worthy Already?!

Now, this is where things get especially nostalgic!

Being Singaporean (1980s–1990s) celebrates the food, fashion, films, sports and nightlife that shaped our growing national identity. Walk through an Orchard Road-inspired passageway, explore Singapore's hawker culture through an interactive Hawker Table and relive some iconic moments from our younger days.

Remember the Great Singapore Workout? There is even a station featuring archival footage where you can join in!

It's funny how the things we grew up with have now become part of Singapore's history. Suddenly, we're not just visiting a museum. We're seeing bits and pieces of our own lives on display!

Finally, Looking Global (2000s–Present) brings us back to modern Singapore. Catch photographer Keith Loutit's spectacular timelapse, The Lion City 2012–2026, which compresses nearly 15 years of Singapore's transformation into just two and a half minutes.

The gallery also explores Singapore's global connections, technological achievements and the changing meaning of belonging in a city that never stops evolving.

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Your Voice Becomes Part of Singapore's Story

One of the most meaningful additions to the revamped gallery is its new voice input stations.

As we travel through the different zones, we're invited to share our thoughts and personal reflections on the stories presented. These contributions come together in a cinematic finale, where visitors' voices help create a collective vision of Singapore's future.

Imagine seeing a skyline of tomorrow shaped by the hopes, beliefs and aspirations of everyday Singaporeans! It's a lovely reminder that history isn't just something we read about. We're all part of Singapore's ongoing story, and the decisions we make today will shape what future generations remember.

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Meet Stoney, the National Museum's Adorable New Mascot!

Of course, a major reopening calls for a new friend, and the National Museum has a rather charming one waiting for us!

Meet Stoney, the museum's new mascot inspired by the Singapore Stone.

His story begins when he awakens along the Singapore River without any memory of where he came from. Determined to find his true kin, he sets off on an adventure around modern Singapore before finally finding his way home to the National Museum.

How cute is that?!

During the reopening celebrations, visitors can look forward to meet-and-greets with Stoney and snap photographs with his larger-than-life installation on the museum's lawn. And if you love collecting cute souvenirs, there's even a Stoney keychain plush available at Museum Martket by Abry for $13.90 from 10 October onwards.

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Celebrate the Museum's 139th Anniversary with Stories of Everyday

The reopening also kicks off Stories of Everyday, the National Museum's 139th anniversary celebrations, happening from 10 to 18 October 2026.

Beyond exploring the revamped gallery, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities inspired by the everyday experiences of Singaporeans across generations.

Browse ceramics, stationery, accessories and food at The Living Archive: A Living & Design Market by Of Wonder Wander, or step into The National Living Room, an interactive installation featuring nostalgic household objects and personal stories that transform a house into a home.

There will also be performances, heritage talks, roving historical characters and community music jamming, along with contemporary dance performance Searching Blue《寻蓝》 by T.H.E Dance Company.

With so much happening, the anniversary celebrations make a great excuse to plan a museum date or spend a nostalgic afternoon with family and friends.

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A New Chapter for the National Museum of Singapore

The Singapore History Gallery's reopening also marks the completion of the National Museum's three-year restoration works. But there's still more to look forward to!

The Level 2 Life in Singapore Galleries are scheduled to reopen in early 2027, in time for the museum's 140th anniversary.

What I love about the revamped Singapore History Gallery is how it reminds us that our nation's identity isn't shaped only by major historical events or famous figures. It's also found in our everyday experiences, the places we grew up in, the food we share and the memories we create together.

As Singapore continues to evolve, so do our stories. Whether you're revisiting familiar childhood memories or discovering something new about our history, there's a little piece of Singapore waiting for everyone here.

So, Huneybees, come take a journey through time, share your reflections and discover how we're all part of Singapore's ever-evolving story. And don't forget to say hi to Stoney!

Singapore History Gallery Reopening 
📍 National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
📅 Gallery reopening: 10 October 2026
🎉 Stories of Everyday anniversary celebrations: 10–18 October 2026
🌐 National Museum of Singapore

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Rakuten Kobo September Afterparty: eReader Deals and 5 Books Worth Reading

Hi Huneybees,

You know that feeling when you're so engrossed in a book that you almost miss your MRT stop? Or when you tell yourself "just one more chapter" before bed, only to realise it's already way past midnight?

That's the magic of a good book. Sometimes, all we need is a little escape from our busy schedules, whether it's during our daily commute, a lunch break, or those precious quiet moments before bedtime.

And if you've been thinking about getting an eReader or adding a few more titles to your digital bookshelf, here's a little something for you!

Rakuten Kobo is bringing us its September Afterparty from 21 to 30 September 2026, with discounts on selected eReaders, a S$40 eBook coupon with every eligible Kobo device purchase, and a selection of books to inspire your next read.

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Which Kobo eReader Suits Your Reading Style?

Not all bookworms read the same way. Some of us love squeezing in a few pages whenever we can, while others prefer curling up somewhere comfortable and getting completely lost in a story. Whether you're a casual reader, someone who loves annotating books, or simply looking for a convenient way to bring your favourite stories everywhere, there's a Kobo eReader worth considering.

Kobo Clara Colour – For Readers Who Love a Splash of Colour

If you're always carrying a book around, the Kobo Clara Colour might be your kind of reading companion. With its compact 6-inch colour E Ink display, you can enjoy colourful book covers and highlighted passages without having to carry physical books everywhere.

It's particularly handy for those MRT rides when you manage to grab a seat and have a little reading time to yourself.

September Afterparty promotional price: S$234.40 (U.P. S$259.90)
That's 10% off, plus a S$40 eBook coupon to get you started on your next read!

Kobo Libra Colour – For Readers Who Love Making Notes

Are you someone who highlights meaningful quotes, scribbles down thoughts, or finds yourself reflecting on something you've just read? The Kobo Libra Colour features a larger 7-inch colour E Ink display and supports the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing you to annotate passages and jot down ideas while reading.

I can see this being particularly useful for readers who enjoy non-fiction, self-development books, or simply want to keep track of those little thoughts that pop up while reading.

September Afterparty promotional price: S$332.20 (U.P. S$369.90)
Enjoy 10% off and receive a S$40 eBook coupon with your purchase.
The Kobo Stylus 2 is sold separately.

Kobo Clara BW – For Readers Who Just Want to Get Lost in a Story

Sometimes, we don't need anything fancy. Just a comfortable reading experience and a story good enough to keep us turning the pages. The Kobo Clara BW keeps things simple with its glare-free E Ink Carta 1300 HD screen and ComfortLight PRO, which allows you to adjust the brightness and colour temperature.

It's a practical choice for readers who prefer the classic black-and-white reading experience, especially when winding down at the end of a long day.

September Afterparty price: S$229.90
While there's no additional 10% discount on this model, you'll still receive a S$40 eBook coupon with your eligible purchase.

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5 Books to Add to Your Kobo Reading List

Of course, getting an eReader is only half the fun. The real excitement comes from deciding what to read next! Whether you're in the mood for something thought-provoking, a little romance, or a thriller that keeps you guessing, Kobo has curated five titles to suit different reading moods.

1. Situated by Angela Duckworth – When Your Surroundings Shape Who You Become

Have you ever wondered how much of your success is really down to personal effort, and how much is influenced by the people and environment around you? In Situated, Angela Duckworth, the author of Grit, explores how our surroundings, relationships and everyday situations can influence our behaviour and achievements.

It's an interesting perspective, especially when we're so often told that determination and hard work are all we need to succeed.

Why pick it up? If you enjoy books that challenge how you think about personal growth, this could be one to add to your list. 

2. The Lunch Break Investor by Thomas Chua – Making Time to Learn About Investing

Let's face it, between work, family and everything else happening in our lives, finding time to learn something new can be challenging. In The Lunch Break Investor, Thomas Chua introduces an approach to understanding businesses and building a long-term investment portfolio, even with a busy schedule.

And perhaps that's the appeal of this book. You don't necessarily need to dedicate hours every day to start learning about investing.

Why pick it up? If you've been wanting to understand investing better but don't know where to begin, this might be a useful addition to your reading list.

3. The Courage to Be Ordinary by Ichiro Kishimi – Is It Okay to Just Be Yourself?

We're constantly surrounded by messages telling us to be better, achieve more and stand out from the crowd. But what if there's nothing wrong with simply being ordinary?

In The Courage to Be Ordinary, Ichiro Kishimi explores the idea of letting go of the pressure to be exceptional and learning to find confidence and contentment in being yourself. It's a refreshing thought, especially in a world where we're constantly comparing our achievements and milestones with everyone else's.

Why pick it up? For those moments when you need a gentle reminder that life isn't always a competition.

4. Verity by Colleen Hoover – For Those Who Love a Dark, Twisty Thriller

Now, if you're looking for something that might keep you reading way past bedtime, Verity could be the one.

The story follows Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who accepts a job completing a bestselling book series for an author who can no longer finish it. But while going through the author's notes, Lowen discovers a disturbing manuscript filled with secrets that were perhaps never meant to be revealed.

As she becomes increasingly involved with the family, the line between truth and deception begins to blur.

Why pick it up? If you enjoy psychological suspense, unsettling secrets and stories that leave you questioning everything, this one sounds right up your alley.

5. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood – When Fake Dating Gets Complicated

Sometimes, all we want is a fun romance to help us unwind after a long day.

In The Love Hypothesis, PhD candidate Olive Smith finds herself in a fake relationship with professor Adam Carlsen after trying to convince her best friend that she's dating someone. What starts as a pretend romance becomes increasingly complicated when genuine feelings begin to develop.

And really, isn't that the fun of a fake-dating romance? We know things probably won't go according to plan, but we still want to see how everything unfolds!

Why pick it up? If you're in the mood for witty romance, unexpected chemistry and a little escapism, this might be your next read.

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A Little Treat for First-Time Kobo eBook Buyers

New to Kobo? Here's another reason to start building your digital bookshelf!

Enjoy 30% off your first eBook purchase with the promo code AFTERPARTY30, valid until 31 October 2026.

*The offer is available to first-time eBook buyers only, and exclusions apply.

You can browse eBooks on Kobo Singapore or explore eReaders and accessories at Rakuten Kobo's official Lazada store.

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There's Always Time for Another Good Story

I think one of the nicest things about reading is that we don't always need to set aside an entire afternoon to enjoy it. Sometimes, it's those little moments that count. A few pages on the train, a chapter during lunch, or a little quiet time before bed.

And with so many different genres to explore, there's always another story waiting to be discovered.

So, which of these five books would you pick up first? Would you go for something thought-provoking, a suspenseful thriller, or a light-hearted romance?

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