Telling the Chinatown story: STB

Telling the Chinatown story: STB

We thank Mr Edwin Feng for his suggestions ("Bring Chinatown's history to life"; Oct 19).

The rich history of Chinatown, and its evolution from Chinese migrant settlement to vibrant heritage district, has always been integral to the Chinatown story. This rich narrative is currently captured in our Chinatown Heritage Centre, and will be further strengthened when the centre is enhanced next year.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) also partners various precinct stakeholders to develop experiences centred on our heritage. For example, we co-developed themed walking tours with the Chinatown Business Association to help visitors discover Chinatown at a deeper level. These tours are offered at the Chinatown Visitor Centre, which is itself a platform for visitors to learn more about Chinatown and its offerings.

Festive celebrations, such as those of Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, are other ways through which we have been showcasing our culture and heritage. In addition to street light-ups, bazaars and cultural performances, there are community activities and programmes where youth volunteers lead walking trails and contribute content on social media.

As with other efforts to promote our vibrant heritage, the STB is mindful of the critical need to allow Chinatown to develop its own identity and character organically, so that the eventual experience will remain authentic and appealing to both locals and visitors alike.

Poh Chi Chuan

Director of Cultural Precincts and Tourism Concept Development

Singapore Tourism Board


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