From books about Singapore’s notorious gangster Sam Hua to arts institutions that continue their legacy or brands renowned in cosmeceuticals, this year’s winners of Singapore Prize have made an impactful statement with their published works. Now in its 21st year, this prestigious accolade recognizes exceptional publications that promote reading promotion, enrich Singaporean cultural heritage and offer motivation for writers, readers and the general public alike.
On Saturday (Oct 25), Minister for Communications and Information Lawrence Wong will present the winning titles at a ceremony at the National Museum of Singapore. Established to mark Singapore’s 50th anniversary in 2014, this is the only literary award dedicated solely to Singapore history and will now mark its fifth edition.
John Miksic was one of the previous winners, winning in 2021 with his book Singapore and The Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800. This work synthesised 25 years of archaeological research to reconstruct 14th-century port city that served as an essential link between East and West at that time.
Not limited to books, the prize has also been given out for fictional works across other mediums like movies and comics – like 12 Years a Slave – including movies and comics such as 12 Years a Slave. Kishore Mahbubani, senior advisor (university and global relations) at NUS has stated there may be plans to broaden eligibility criteria in future; such historical accounts can often more effectively engage people than straight facts do.
Last week, local author Sonny Liew’s graphic novel Charlie Chan Hock Chye earned three Eisner awards – widely considered to be the Oscars of comics – from industry luminaries. The work explores some of the controversial events that helped form Chinatown in 1987 such as strikes and riots, detention of leftist activists, and an alleged Marxist plot.
Homegrown companies such as StarMed Specialist Centre and Coliwoo were recognized at this year’s Singapore Prize as Promising Brands, while suicide-prevention agency Samaritans of Singapore received the by-invitation Special Merit award recognizing organizations with outstanding branding and public outreach efforts. We hope that their successes serve as an example for other homegrown businesses to invest further in branding and marketing activities to thrive even amid today’s challenging business environment.