Honouring our Patrons of the Arts

Good evening, it is my pleasure to be with you this evening for the Patron of the Arts Awards 2020 ceremony.

I am glad that in my first arts event as Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, we can recognise the strong support and generous contributions of patrons towards the arts in Singapore. These contributions help us to sustain growth and development in the arts, and the partnerships between arts groups and donors are key to the sustainability of our arts ecosystem, especially during this challenging period.

COVID-19 has changed how we create, consume and engage with the arts and culture. The arts community will need to transform and adapt quickly so that they continue to connect effectively with their audiences, and also cultivate new ones. MCCY and NAC are committed to supporting our arts community during this period, such as through the $55 million Arts & Culture Resilience Package which helps to protect livelihoods and position the arts community to seize opportunities when the current situation improves.

We are also partnering agencies such as MSF, NCSS and Tote Board, and working closely with our stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of technology and digital capabilities; leading the way for innovative ideas for content creation and presentation. We seek our patrons' continued support in our journey to build a more resilient community, so that our arts sector will be well-placed to thrive in the new normal.

Through the arts, we can bring diverse communities together, and deepen our understanding and commitment to this nation we call home. To the patrons we honour this evening - thank you very much for believing in the value and positive impact the arts can have on Singapore. Let us continue to champion the arts together, and affirm its critical role in our society.

Have an enjoyable evening, and thank you very much.