[SG60 Special] From Bottles to National Treasure: Singapore’s Recycled Fortune Merlion Roars to Life This SG60

Hi Huneybees,

SG60 is in full swing, and while there’s been a burst of all things local, one special creation truly caught my eye... and heart. Meet the Fortune Merlion, Singapore’s very first 3D-printed collectible made entirely from recycled plastic bottles! 

Brought to life by homegrown art toy brand Uniplay (nurtured by sustainability pioneers Unigons), this isn’t just an adorable keepsake; it’s a meaningful symbol of national pride with an eco-conscious twist. And yes, it’s officially recognised by the Singapore Book of Records too!

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♻️ From Waste to Wonder

Each 18cm-tall Fortune Merlion figure is lovingly crafted using 30 recycled PET bottles, which means over 1,800 discarded bottles have been given a second life through this 60-piece blind box collection. Talk about turning trash into treasure!

This incredible creation was made possible by a 100% local dream team:

• Yeo’s contributed used PET bottles from their popular drinks 
• PlasticTinkers handled the 3D-printing wizardry 
• Greenfinity, part of Unigons, transformed the plastic into high-grade filament 

And here’s the fun part - each Fortune Merlion comes in 10 vibrant colours, is individually numbered, and packaged with eco-friendly materials plus a certificate of authenticity. But they’re more than just adorable figurines; these little lions are packed with meaning! 

Each one features magnetic charm elements that symbolise values like wealth, longevity, and romance, with a playful magnetic “bubble” at the mouth representing flowing water, which is a cheeky, auspicious nod to abundance and prosperity.

Even the serial numbers get a clever twist! Those so-called “unlucky” numbers like 4 or 14 are reimagined with positive Chinese wordplay, giving the design a thoughtful, culturally rich touch. Smart and super cute, don’t you think?

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A Collector’s Dream with Purpose

The Fortune Merlion was designed by Joe Chua, co-founder of Unigons and Uniplay, who got inspired during his travels in Europe and the Middle East. He noticed how tourist keepsakes overseas were shifting towards sustainable design, and he knew Singapore could do the same.

“Singapore saw over 15 million tourists last year, but how many souvenirs tell our story and help the planet?” Joe shared. “The Fortune Merlion is proudly made here and made from what we usually throw away.”

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Where to Get Yours

You can get your hands on this exclusive collectible starting 25 July 2025 at BLAXK by ActionCity, one of Singapore’s most iconic toy retailers. And here’s a fun bonus - ActionCity is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year too, so it’s the perfect time to drop by and pick up a piece of local creativity and culture! 

But that’s not all! Keep your eyes peeled for the Pop Toy Show 2025 that's happening at Marina Bay Sands from 22 to 24 August, where Uniplay will be unveiling a special edition Fortune Merlion just for the event! I’m eager to see what it looks like! 

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[UPDATE] Final Drop & Sneak Peek of the Next Edition!

Following the buzz around the Fortune Merlion’s first drop, there are some new exciting updates to share!

The original 60-piece blind box series is nearly sold out, with just 15 units left, and they’ll be released exclusively to walk-in customers at BLAXK by ActionCity on 25 July. If you’ve been eyeing one of these eco-collectibles, this is your last chance to snag one from the first-ever batch!

To celebrate the occasion, a certificate presentation ceremony will be held to recognise the Fortune Merlion as Singapore’s first 3D-printed collectible made from recycled plastic bottles, as awarded by the Singapore Book of Records. This will happen at 11 AM on 25 July, alongside a special preview of Uniplay’s next drop - the Fortune Merlion “LoveSG” edition!

You can meet the creators from 11 AM to 12:30 PM, hear the story behind the design, and get a first look at the next evolution of this iconic art toy. The “LoveSG” edition is now open for online pre-order on Uniplay’s website, and in-person pre-orders begin on 25 July too. Collection for this new version will start from mid-August, just in time for National Day!

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Small But Mighty: A New National Icon

The Fortune Merlion is more than a toy — it’s a symbol of what a sustainable Singapore can look like. Uniplay and Unigons are already working on future collaborations with other local brands to keep this eco-art movement going strong. From art toys to everyday products, they’re building a circular design ecosystem that’s proudly made right here in SG.

Whether you’re a toy collector, a Merlion fan, or someone who loves eco-friendly design, the Fortune Merlion is definitely one to watch (and own!).

Find out more:

• unigons.com/uniplay | instagram.com/unigonsplay/
• actioncity.com.sg

Let’s celebrate SG60 with meaningful mementos that make a difference! Are you ready to bring a Fortune Merlion home? 

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Singapore National Day NDP 2024 Fireworks: Best Viewing Spots

Hi Huneybees,

Photo Credits: https://www.ndp.gov.sg/

Get ready for a dazzling fireworks display over Marina Bay starting at 7:30 PM on 9 August 2024, marking the National Day Parade (NDP) 2024 highlight. The celebrations continue on 10 August 2024, with fireworks lighting up the heartlands of Bishan, Punggol, Yishun, Paya Lebar, and Buona Vista.

Best views of the NDP 2024 fireworks in Marina Bay

• Collyer Quay
• Esplanade
• Helix Bridge
• Merlion Park
• The Promontory @ Marina Bay
• Open-air area in front of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
• The Lawn @ Marina Bay

These areas are expected to be crowded, so plan to arrive early and bring plenty of water. If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider Marina Barrage or Bay East Garden. While these locations are further from the main action, they provide ample space to enjoy the fireworks show and you can even have a little picnic party with friends and family whilst waiting for the fireworks.

Photo Credits: https://www.ndp.gov.sg/

Fireworks at NDP Heartland Celebrations

Prefer celebrating closer to home? Join the NDP Heartland Celebrations on August 10, 2024, from 4 PM to 9 PM. The festivities will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display. Enjoy carnival games, family-friendly activities, live performances, and more at these five locations:

• Open field opposite Bishan Circle Line MRT Station (Exit D)
• Punggol open field beside Waterway Point
• Open field beside FutsalArena @ Yishun
• Open field next to Paya Lebar Quarter 1
• Open field next to Buona Vista MRT Station

*Tickets are required for the NDP Heartland Celebrations. For more details and to secure your tickets, visit the official website.

Don't miss out on celebrating National Day with your community! Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable day filled with fun, games, and of course, stunning fireworks at the NDP Heartland Celebrations. Be sure to snag your tickets early and save the date for August 10, 2024. Majulah Singapore!

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The Merlion Makes A Special Appearance On 'We Bare Bears' This National Day!

Hi Huneybees,

Get bear-y excited as a new episode of Cartoon Network’s hit series 'We Bare Bears' surprises their Singapore viewers on National Day. Our city’s icon, the Merlion will make an unexpected appearance in the Asian premiere of “Lil’ Squid” on August 9.

Thank you Cartoon Network, We Bare Bears and Daniel Chong for mentioning and celebrating our Nation's big day with us. Our Merlion looks so realistic and majestic in the cartoon as we follow the three baby bear brothers on an adventure. They build a submarine and explore the depths of an aquarium to reunite a lost squid with his family.

The Merlion’s cameo happened because of a recent trip to Singapore by the show’s creator Daniel Chong. The Burbank-based animator, whose parents are Singaporean, visited the country last year to front the Imagination Studios workshop, a local initiative by Cartoon Network to inspire creativity among kids.

Enjoy the little snippet above, can't wait to catch the full episode on National Day. What about you?

Happy Birthday Singapore! Cheers to my fellow Singaporeans!

Cartoon Network is available on SingTel TV CH226 and Starhub TV CH316, as well as on the Cartoon Network Watch and Play app.

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Melt The Heat Away With Leeu SG's Merlion Ice Pop

Hi Huneybees,

When it comes to Singapore representing food, one might think of Laksa and Hainan Chicken Rice, now we have a new iconic dessert to call as ours too! Something to cool down in the sweltering warmth comes the Merlion Ice Pop and Esplanade Ice Cream by Leeu SG.

So, the Merlion Ice Pop (S$4.80), is endorsed by the Singapore Tourism Board (Of course right?!) and just as its name is a patriotic Merlion shaped strawberry and vanilla-flavored ice cream on a popsicle stick. It is not overwhelmingly sweet and reminds me a lot of strawberry cheesecake slurpie style!

My favourite ice cream would be the Esplanade Ice Cream (S$11.80), inspired by Singapore's durian shaped building - The Esplanade, where Leeu SG resides. Instead of being on a popsicle stick, this special ice cream comes in a pie crust base and it's made from fresh durian and shaped like one too!

Leeu SG - which means “lion” in the South African language of Afrikaans is the baby of husband-and-wife team of Jenn Wei Yeo and Valerie Liu. Leeu SG's creations are carefully hand-crafted using top-grade ingredients and are made in small batches to ensure quality and consistency throughout.

Aside from the 2 mentioned signature items, another eye-catching item on the menu is the strikingly pink and blue hued Fish Tail Soft Serve (S$6.80). You can choose from plain or charcoal flavoured taiyaki (fish tail) base - that has mochi inside, making it so chewy and yummy to pair with the soft serve on top. What's special is the blue ice cream. It is made from the trendy health food - Blue Majik. There is a very subtle hint of saltiness, that I find goes well with the sweet, warm fishtail bite base.

If you are looking for some thirst quenchers, Leeu has also a variety of milk or soda-based ice cream floats (S$6.80). 

A mini sample version of The Purple Fantasy

The Sentosa Breeze and The Red Dot features fizzy fruity soda base topped with soft serve; The Zouk-Out Cure has a yuzu lemon ginger soda base that can shake that hangover from last night; The Purple Fantasy is a taro smoothie served with the most adorable sprinkles on top of the soft serve, whilst The Old Timer is pandan milk topped with beancurd instead of a soft serve. It definitely brings back loads of childhood memories as well as a ton of Asian flavour.

In celebration of Leeu SG’s official opening, all visitors to the store can enjoy the signature Merlion Ice Pop and Esplanade Ice Cream at promotional prices: the Merlion Ice Pop is available at S$3.80 (U.P. S$4.80); while the Esplanade Ice Cream is available at S$8.80 (U.P. S$11.80). Unicorn floats are also available at $1 with every drink purchased!

Leeu SG
Address: The Esplanade Mall, #02-07, 8 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039802
Opening Hours: 12pm to 10pm daily
Instagram Page: @leeusg
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/leeusg/

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Hang Out With We Bare Bears At Sentosa This March Holiday

Hi Huneybees,

The March School Holiday is here is if you are looking for somewhere to hang out with your friends or bring the kids out to, why not hang out at The State of Fun - Sentosa? Especially for those fans of We Bare Bears *hi 5*, Ice Bear, Pan Pan and Grizzly; will be waiting for you at Palawan Beach.

They will first greet you in the form of a 50-feet tall inflatable stack of the 3 bears as you step into the beach and as you proceed, there will be a sea of over 300 inflatable Ice Bear, Pan Pan and Grizzly waiting for you to snap up your insta-worthy moments. 

There's also various We Bare Bears photo points across the island, be sure to spot them and snap a selfie with your favourite bears. 

Other than hanging out with We Bare Bears,  Palawan Beach is also transformed into Singapore’s largest inflatables playground! From 10 to 18 March (10am to 6pm daily), bouncy castles, inflatable slides, traversing walls, and obstacle courses are set to delight the young and young–at-heart at this mega playground!

And when night falls, from 7:45pm, there will be special screenings of We Bare Bears episodes at Palawan Green, where you can enjoy the company of Grizz, Pan Pan and Ice Bear under the stars.

And for dinner, enjoy grilled delights at the BBQ by the Beach during these movie nights! Ala carte prices start from $5.

More Free Activities

Besides FunFest 2018 with We Bare Bears and the beachside activities, there are plenty of other fun (and free) sides of Sentosa to explore and experience. Children between the ages of 3 to 10 years old will enjoy the swashbuckling fun at the free Palawan Pirate Ship water playground.

And in celebration of the International Year of the Reefs, there will be a “The Fun Odyssea” programme happening on 17 & 18 March where you can learn all about marine animals and science with lots of hands-on activities.

No matter adults or kids, you will be entertained by the cheeky antics of parrots, the playful behaviour of macaques and the majesty of birds-of-prey at Animal & Bird Encounters at the Palawan Amphitheatre.

For those who prefer a little more quiet time, you can opt to travel back in time and head over to Fort Siloso. Take a walk on the Fort Siloso Skywalk, a treetop trail set 11 storeys up into the heart of Fort Siloso and start your exploration of the preserved coastal fort. You can also embark on a journey to uncover the island’s wild side at Sentosa Nature Discovery. Trek along jungle paths and experience a Sentosa filled with chirping birds and singing cicadas.

Don't miss out on the great deals!

Exclusive Mastercard® Card Offers

Mastercard® card holders enjoy up to 50% off at participating dining outlets, attractions, hotel packages in Sentosa. Visit www.sentosa.com.sg/Mastercard for more information.

Islander Members’ Nights Out at Universal Studios Singapore

Meanwhile, if you are not already a Sentosa Islander member, it is time to be one in order to enjoy a members-only night out at Universal Studios Singapore, happening on 9 and 17 March 2018. Simply purchase either an Islander Individual Membership and one Universal Studios Singapore ticket at S$35, or an Islander Family Membership and two Universal Studios Singapore tickets at S$70 – while stocks last!

The Islander Membership also entitles guests to a whole year of free admission into Sentosa, exclusive invites to Sentosa events, and up to 50% off participating attractions, food and beverages, shopping, and hotel stays! More details are available at https://store.sentosa.com.sg.

All locals and local residents enjoy complimentary entry* into Sentosa via the Sentosa Express or when they drive in during the March school holidays.
*For entry via the Sentosa Express, tap your EZ-link card to enjoy free admission. 
Vehicles with locally registered in-vehicle units (IU) can simply drive through for free.

So head down to Sentosa this March school holidays to enjoy Sentosa’s unique offerings as a family!

For more information, please visit https://www.sentosa.com.sg/megafun.

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MEGA FUN From Dusk Till Dark This June At Sentosa

Hi Huneybees,

As we step into the last lap of the June Holidays, it's time to wrap it up with MEGA FUN, soaking up the sun at Sentosa - The State of Fun. There's tons to see and tons to do for you to spend full days with your friends and families!

I will suggest starting the fun at the Palawan Beach, have a splashing good time with mega inflatables across the whole beach amidst foams, slides, pools and walls. With free admission to the Mega Inflatables Playground, you can look forward to plenty of bouncing and sliding down giant inflatables including Singapore’s largest inflatable slide which measures 10m in height (three storeys), diving into a mega ball pool with more than 200,000 balls, wandering through an inflatable maze, and go ahead and challenge yourself on the traversing wall and balancing beam while having loads of water-oriented fun.

And if you are tired out at the outdoor Mega Inflatables Playground at Palawan Beach, parents can chill whilst the kids can play at the the iconic Palawan Pirate Ship, where gushing fountains, splashing water, slides and a pirate-head which sends buckets of water downwards at regular intervals to thrill everyone.

Photo Credits: Sentosa Development Corporation

Be sure to also spot the Bubbleologist that's roving around Palawan Green at 3pm and 5pm. You will be amazed by bubbles of all shapes and sizes! 

Playing BIG takes on a literal meaning in Sentosa, photo buffs can exercise their creativity with upsized photo props, including two-metre tall giant deck chairs and mega pinwheels on Palawan Beach, and be the envy of your social media friends with these unique backdrops.

Whilst waiting for the night to fall, go to the island's many selections of food cafes and restaurants to fill up those empty stomachs. Children will also find dining delights with exclusive menus and special discounts just for them. With over 120 dining options in The State of Fun, everyone is sure to find something to delight their palette.

Then, head over to the Merlion for the dazzling Merlion Magic Lights! show. The iconic and ever-popular light and music show returns this June with a newly curated June holiday-themed showcase. You can see the Merlion waking up to rainbow colours, showcasing what encases FUN within the island alongside with the fun accompanying music.

Be sure to catch it daily from 2 June to 9 July, starting at 7.45pm, with 30-minute show intervals until 9.15pm. Two additional shows will be held on weekends, eve of public holidays and public holidays.

Alternatively, you can also choose to round off your day at The State of Fun with movie nights on Palawan Green. Back by popular demand, a series of family-friendly blockbusters will be featured from Thursdays to Sundays between 8 and 25 June, starting from 7.30pm.

Photo Credits: Sentosa Development Corporation

But, the fun do not just end there. There's still tons to see and tons to do alongside the Mega Deals at various attractions and eateries! You can rediscover Fort Siloso at the newly revamped Surrender Chambers, walk through the Fort Siloso Skywalk (a treetop trail set 11 storeys above ground), get upclose and personal with birds, insects, wildlife and plants at the Sentosa Nature Discovery or the free performance at Animal & Bird Encounter where exotic parrots, mischievous macaques and majestic birds-of-prey delight with tricks and antics.

Photo Credits: One Faber Group

From 12 June to 2 July, the Singapore Cable Car will also feature a special escape game in collaboration with The Escape Artist. Taking the escape game outdoors, participants will have to race against time and solve challenging puzzles against the stunning backdrop of Sentosa Island, while traversing the on-island Sentosa Line.

For programme schedule and promotions available or information on Mega Fun at Sentosa and updates on Sentosa’s June programme line-up and promotions, go to www.sentosa.com.sg/megafun or call through Sentosa's hotline at 1800-SENTOSA (7368672).

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Gone Red & White For Singapore's 50th Birthday

Hi Huneybees,

How was your SG50 celebration weekend? It's back to work day in a few more hours and I'm really gona be missing those few days where I could go out to stretch those muscles and spend some quality time with my hubby.  :)

Anyway, back to Singapore's Birthday - 9th August. We spent the day doing things Singapore related in red and white style and the very first thing I did was to brush my teeth with The Real Red toothpaste by Pearlie White.

It is a proudly made in Singapore oral care brand and with the lion head symbol, you know they will be bringing in smiles to Singaporeans all over the island. An early minty breath is definitely a must to kick start such a wonderful day!

Then, it comes down to dressing up. I had initially wanted to flash those unique one-piece-only SG50 x DEPRESSION T-Shirts and couple them with hubby, but in the end, hubby still insisted on being the "red" pair.

It was pretty ironic we both wore something comic fans would love, but hey, that's what makes us a couple eh?  :*

Though we had planned to head on out to go catch the NDP'15 airshow and fireworks, but for fear my back could not take it, we decided to stay home to catch the parade on TV. I wished that I could have done more, given that it was such a memorable day, being Singapore's 50th afterall.

It was a pity to have missed seeing the planes zipped by and the specially created SG50 fireworks right before my eyes.

Anyway, these were taken when I was passing by Kallang the other day, when the Black Knights were doing a rehearsal for NDP. This was as close as I could get to this year's celebration. Guess I can only hope for next year... :(

So, how did you spend your National Day? 

Do share your photos if you were at NDP LIVE! :P

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