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Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth
Parliamentary Matters

Efforts to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage of the Kusu Island pilgrimage

4 November 2026

Sectors

Arts & Heritage

Response to parliamentary questions on Government’s efforts to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage of the Kusu Island pilgrimage.

*3380. Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth in view of declining attendance at the annual Kusu Island Pilgrimage, whether the Ministry will work with relevant agencies and religious stakeholders to develop initiatives to revitalise the pilgrimage and encourage participation by younger Singaporeans.

2384. Mr Fadli Fawzi: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth what actions, if any, will be taken by the National Heritage Board and other related agencies to safeguard the traditional pilgrimage to Kusu Island as a recognised element in relation to Singapore’s Intangible Cultural Heritage inventory.

Response:

  1. The Government recognises the cultural significance of the annual Kusu Island pilgrimage, a longstanding tradition that forms part of Singapore’s rich and diverse heritage.  

  2. The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) supports the pilgrimage through logistical arrangements, including event guides, tentage, lifeguards and medics.

  3. To raise awareness and appreciation of Kusu Island’s heritage, including among younger Singaporeans, the National Heritage Board (NHB) included the pilgrimage in Singapore's Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2018. NHB and the National Library Board (NLB) have also published online resources documenting the history and traditions associated with the pilgrimage. Most recently, NHB featured the legends of Kusu Island in its programming and art installations in the 2026 Singapore Night Festival.

  4. There are also community-led efforts to sustain and transmit Kusu Island’s cultural heritage, such as Siong Leng Musical Association's annual Nanyin performances during the pilgrimage season. NHB will continue to partner different community stakeholders to enhance the outreach and awareness of the Kusu Island pilgrimage.