The Singapore Bicentennial is a fresh approach to the Singapore story, because it deviates from the much publicised founding by Raffles, the Japanese Occupation, and Singapore's economic miracle.”
The significance of the Singaporean Bicentennial
The Singapore Bicentennial is a fresh approach to the Singapore story, because it deviates from the much publicised founding by Raffles, the Japanese Occupation, and Singapore's economic miracle. History is not only about great men and great events, but also communities, which constitute the plural society of Singapore.
By documenting personal memories of Singaporeans, we raise awareness of another dimension to the Singapore story. Readers will hear tales of Singapore from the perspective of Singaporeans with their anecdotes and stories, and see these come to life in artefacts, monuments and landscapes – things that tie us to this island we call home.
Future aspirations for Singapore and Singaporeans
For me, I would love for the study of Singapore literature to be made compulsory in schools. The Singapore Bicentennial is a reflection of how our nation came to be, how far we have come, and how we can go forward together. So what better way than to introduce to students literary texts from our local canon?
