Opening of the first dedicated centre for archaeology and ICH in Singapore and Asia

A very good afternoon to everyone,

1. I am happy to join you today as we mark a significant milestone in our heritage sector with the opening of ArCH Square. This is the first dedicated education and outreach centre for archaeology and Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), not just in Singapore, but in our region.

2. ArCH Square builds on the National Heritage Board’s (NHB) ongoing efforts under Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0, to strengthen our shared identity, and build a vibrant heritage ecosystem.

   1. It will provide Singaporeans with greater access to our archaeology collections and our living heritage. The younger generations will have access to our shared past, and better understand what it means for them today.

   2. It is also a space that will nurture future generations of researchers, practitioners and cultural bearers, who will ensure that our traditions and knowledge are not only retained, but will continue to evolve.

3. You might wonder how HeritageSG (HSG) and NHB came to feature both archaeology and ICH under one roof. While archaeology studies our past through material culture and ICH is steeped in tradition, both disciplines are deeply relevant to who we are today.

4. Let me share an example:

   1. Not far from here, during excavations at the Istana Kampong Gelam, archaeologists uncovered a simple brown uri pot – the same one that will be displayed at ArCH Square. Uri pots are traditionally used in the ritual burial of umbilical cords. It’s a symbolic practice that honours the human body and reminds us of our connection to the earth. This artefact, buried centuries ago, offers an insight into the history of rituals that continue to be practised today. The pot from centuries past tells us that practices we observe today have deep, enduring roots in our community's heritage.

   2. By exploring artefacts and living heritage together, Singaporeans can better understand the rich histories behind our communities and our nation.

5. Most importantly, community lies at the very heart of ArCH Square. This reflects our commitment to putting “we” before “me” even as we safeguard our heritage. Throughout the planning phase, HSG and NHB engaged extensively with heritage stakeholders and practitioners to ensure that the space will serve their needs.

6. This collaborative spirit will continue to shape the centre’s features, displays and programming model, recognising that safeguarding our heritage is a collective responsibility. This is a space built not just for the community, but with the community, and by the community.

   1. During the conceptualisation of this space, we consulted key stakeholders such as the Kampong Gelam Alliance (KGA), who is also here with us today. These community voices did not just inform our plans – they fundamentally shaped the DNA of ArCH Square, from its exhibition philosophy to its community spaces.

   2. For example, the workshops that have been lined up are led by Singapore's own heritage practitioners and archaeology professionals, who are passionate about sharing their craft and stories.

      1. This weekend, we can all look forward to Mekar: Movement, Motif, and Memory – featuring a Javanese dance performance and a batik- tying workshop with practitioners Sharifah Jasni, and dancer Nani Rahman.

      2. We have also dedicated a space within ArCH Square for practitioners, heritage businesses, and entrepreneurs, to come together to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and nurture a vibrant community of practice.

7. With these initiatives, ArCH Square will serve as a key platform and enabler in the fields of archaeology and ICH – inspiring partnerships that extend beyond our shores. The centre intends to partner with international institutions, organisations, and academics, to foster knowledge exchange and resource sharing in archaeology and ICH. This would support and reinforce capability and capacity building for both industries.

8. To conclude, I would like to congratulate HSG and NHB on the successful launch of ArCH Square. It is an invaluable addition to Singapore’s museum and heritage landscape. As its name suggests, ArCH Square will serve as a bridge that spans the breadth of Singapore’s heritage, connecting our archaeological discoveries with our living traditions. I hope that Singaporeans will visit, participate, and help shape the next chapter of our shared heritage together.

9. Thank you all and have a good afternoon ahead.