The singapore prize is awarded to publications that have made a significant contribution to Singapore’s history and culture. The inaugural prize was won by archaeologist John Miksic for his book, Singapore And The Silk Road Of The Sea, 1300-1800. This year’s shortlist includes seven works, including the novel Sembawang by Kamaladevi Aravindan. The book looks at the story of a suburban neighborhood in Singapore’s political upheavals, and is an alternative to the usual picture of history dominated by a selection of big movers and shakers, says NUS Asia Research Institute distinguished fellow Kishore Mahbubani.
The award comes with a cash prize of $100,000, an online platform to promote the book, and the opportunity to present it at a national book festival. Winners will also receive a special recognition and a trophy.
In this edition of the singapore prize, the jury has opted for resonance as the winning theme, which means the panel has looked at the way a work resonates with its readers. The organisers say this is partly because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to an increased awareness of people’s own relationships and connections with others. Five writers were shortlisted in two categories, including Clara Chow, the first in the program’s history to be shortlisted in English fiction and English creative nonfiction, as well as Chinese poetry.
WOHA Architects won the Architecture category for their senior housing project Kampung Admiralty, which was designed to be a modern expression of Singapore’s heritage and spirit. The development consists of two 11-story blocks, and is designed to foster inter-generational bonding and active aging.
It was built for the government-linked Housing and Development Board, and features an array of facilities to encourage intergenerational interaction. A sheltered corridor links the blocks, and the building is topped by a sky garden with views of the city skyline. The design has also won a number of other awards.
This is the fourth year of the singapore prize, which was launched in 2015 and offers a total of SGD 100,000 ($7,915) in cash prizes. The winners are announced at a ceremony in October. The shortlist is compiled by NUS’s Centre for Singapore Studies and is judged by a panel comprising NUS faculty members and experts in their fields.
Prize promotions and competitions are not considered gambling in Singapore, as they do not lead to a direct purchase of goods or services. However, there may be tax implications for businesses and individuals participating in such events. To ensure compliance with gambling regulations, all prizes must be approved by the Gambling Commission. Those not complying face a fine of up to SGD 10,000. In addition, they can also be ordered to cease operations. Those in the gaming industry should consult their legal advisors for more information. The disciplinary authority will also consider whether to take a tougher stance against offenders. In the event of a serious offence, they may be banned from the gaming industry altogether.