MEDIA RELEASE For immediate publication

LEARN ABOUT THE SINGAPORE STORY IN A MONUMENTAL WAY

New educational initiatives to nurture the next generation of heritage and monument lovers

SINGAPORE 15 AUGUST 2012 – Singapore is home to 64 national monuments and witness to some of the most significant moments in history. For instance, the oldest Jewish synagogue in Southeast Asia is right here in Singapore and the House of Tan Yeok Nee, built in 1882, is the last remaining residence of traditional Southern Chinese style in Singapore. 2 Learn about these and more as the Preservation of Monuments Board (PMB) launches a set of new educational initiatives to raise awareness of Singapore‟s national monuments, especially among children, with a focus on experiential and place-based learning. 3 The PMB is launching its first ever children‟s publication on national monuments, titled The Fearless Twins and the Magical Kaleido: A Narrow Escape, the My Mascot and Me photo story competition, and 12 new Monumental Walking Trails, all of which are part of PMB‟s growing school engagement strategy to nurture the next generation of heritage and monument lovers. The Fearless Twins and the Magical Kaleido 4 The first children‟s book on national monuments, The Fearless Twins and the Magical Kaleido is a time-travelling adventure by twins Toby and Tammy, and their fun-loving Uncle Al. Targeted at children between the ages of 5 and 9, the book can be used as a teaching tool for primary school teachers to teach English using Singapore-based sources. Lower primary students will be captivated through the use of illustration and story-telling to enthuse their imagination with stories of Singapore‟s history and heritage. My Mascot and Me 5 Organised especially for primary school students, the My Mascot and Me photo story competition encourages children to visit national monuments, take a picture at the monument with their own mascot, and write a short story inspired by the visit. Parents could use this to spark their children‟s curiosity and inculcate creative-writing skills. Monumental Walking Tours 6 Presented with distinct storylines and unique perspectives, PMB‟s Monumental Walking Tours cast our national monuments in a new light, weaving in stories of Singapore‟s diverse immigrant communities. These tours will feature national monuments, some of which have never been opened to the public before.

12 new tours conducted in English will be introduced from 18 August onwards and offered weekly for the rest of the year. Leading the tours are PMB‟s adult volunteer guides who have a strong background and interest in heritage. 7 Said Ms Jean Wee, Director of the PMB, “Our national monuments have tremendous potential to both educate and inspire, and PMB‟s education and outreach initiatives have been designed to tap this potential, through place-based learning, or as primary sources and authentic sites of nation building as well as our broader history.” 8 Through these outreach initiatives, PMB hopes to develop greater public interest and appreciation for Singapore‟s 64 national monuments. More information on the upcoming events can be found in the Annexes, and also on PMB‟s website at www.pmb.sg.

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For media queries, please contact: Sharon Cheong Manager, Corporate Communications National Heritage Board DID: +65 6332 5401 Email: sharon_cheong@nhb.gov.sg

Lynn Xu Asst Director, Corporate Communications National Heritage Board DID: 6332 3623 Email: Lynn_Xu@nhb.gov.sg

About the National Heritage Board The National Heritage Board (NHB) was formed on 1 August 1993 under the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts (MICA). Its mission is to foster nationhood, promote identity building, and champion the development of a vibrant cultural and heritage sector in Singapore. As the custodian of Singapore‟s heritage, NHB is responsible for telling the Singapore story, sharing the Singaporean experience and imparting our Singapore spirit. Through the national collection, NHB curates heritage programmes and presents exhibitions to connect the past, present and future generations of Singaporeans through a shared experience. NHB manages the national museums, Heritage Conservation Centre, National Archives of Singapore and Preservation of Monuments Board. About the Preservation of Monuments Board The Preservation of Monuments Board (PMB) is the national authority responsible for identifying, preserving and protecting Singapore‟s monuments. PMB‟s administration of the preservation gazette is complemented by its outreach objectives to promote a renewed appreciation and understanding of monuments and their history, and encourage the public to enjoy them as sites of memory that convey a sense of place, identity and belonging. PMB‟s educational and public outreach efforts include school and public tours, special programmes and activities at the monuments. PMB was formed in 1971, and has been an institution under the

National Heritage Board since 2009. To date, PMB has gazetted 64 structures as national monuments. For more information on PMB, please visit www.pmb.sg. Supported by:

Annex A

THE FEARLESS TWINS AND THE MAGICAL KALEIDO: A NARROW ESCAPE

Synopsis Take a ride with Toby, Tammy and their fun loving Uncle Al. Armed with an incredible magical device, the twins swop back in to Singapore in 1935. Set against the backdrop of Singapore‟s most awe-inspiring buildings, the twins end up with an adventure they didn‟t bargain for, but can‟t escape from. Will they solve the mystery of the spinning clock tower? Can they fight off the fierce flames of a huge fire? Will they escape in time? Read on to be thrilled by this story of courage, friendship and fantasy! The 46-page book is aimed at, but not limited to, children aged 5 to 9. RPP: $16 Available at all major book stores

About the writer & illustrator Shekinah Linn, writer “The Fearless Twins and the Magical Kaleidoscope: A Narrow Escape” is Shekinah Linn‟s second children‟s book. Linn is very appreciative of PMB for giving her the opportunity to write about our National Monuments. The writer, who believes in fairies, pixies and dwarves, dabbles in an endless smorgasbord of artistic pursuits. Tan Seow Wei, illustrator Seow Wei is a graduate from LASALLE College of the Arts with Bachelors of Arts (Hons) Painting has won a number of awards including Winston Oh Travelogue Award in 2007, Georgette Chen Scholarship in 2006, and Tan Tze Chor Art Award in 2003. She has illustrated two books to date – The Watchtower Warrior and The Fearless Twins and the Magical Kaleido. She has also participated in various group exhibits such as Intrinsic at The Esplanade Jendela Space, and Air Conditioned Recession: A Singapore Survey at VWFA, and Go Figure at Fost Gallery. Seow Wei currently teaches Art at Temasek Polytechnic.

ANNEX B

MY MASCOT AND ME PHOTO STORY COMPETITION

My Mascot and Me Photo Story Competition is a nation-wide contest for primary school students to learn about monuments and practise story-writing. To participate, students have to visit a national monument, take a photograph of themselves (with a mascot of their choice) and submit the photo with an original short story (of not more than 450 words) about them and the monument. Prizes will be awarded to the best and most creative stories in each category (lower and upper primary level). The entry form may be downloaded at www.pmb.sg. The competition runs until January 2013. Prizes First Prize: $350 Book vouchers Second Prize: $250 Book vouchers Third Prize: $150 Book vouchers

ANNEX C

MONUMENTAL WALKING TOURS PMB‟s highly popular weekend walks to National Monuments, Monumental Walking Tours will feature 12 new tours over August and September, led by new adult volunteer guides who are passionate heritage enthusiasts keen to share the beautiful architectural features of these treasured buildings and the history surrounding these places. As these guides reveal hidden gems of Singapore‟s past on location, history will truly come alive. For the first time, tours outside the civic and cultural district will be offered, giving more Singaporeans an opportunity to get up close to a monument.

Date Tours will commence on 18 August.

Admission $5 (adults) and $3 (students and senior citizens)

Capacity 20 pax per tour

Duration 1.5 hours (approx)

Attire Comfortable clothes and walking shoes

Language English

Website Please visit www.pmb.sg for tour synopsis and schedules.

To register, please email nhb_nationalmonuments@nhb.gov.sg the following info: - Name of tour - Your name, age, NRIC and contact number Slots available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Schedule of Tours

S/N Name of Tour Date and Time

1 Singapour, Je t’aime! Unknown to many, the French contributed towards the development of early colonial Singapore. They established the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Singapore; the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Chapel, one of the few remaining cloistered convents in the world; and Caldwell House, a colonial bungalow. Appreciate Renaissance and Gothic architecture with accompanying accounts of French priests and nuns who once worked within these compounds. The tour will also introduce other fascinating French characters who made their mark on Singapore history. Monuments covered: Cathedral of the Good Shepherd and former CHIJ Chapel and Caldwell House (now CHIJMES)

18 Aug 2012, 10-11.30am

2 Of Saints and Stars Gain illuminating insights into Singapore‟s religious and film history – from pious priests and dedicated Christian leaders who were shining examples of community service, to the glamorous stars of the 1930s who once graced Singapore‟s first air-conditioned cinema at Cathay Building. At the same time, learn about various architectural styles such as Romanesque, Gothic and Art Deco that are featured in these monuments.

25 Aug 2012, 10-11.30am

Monuments covered: St. Joseph’s Church, Prinsep Street Presbyterian Church and the former Cathay building

3 Dust to Dazzle Visit three of Singapore‟s much-loved monuments in the historic Civic District: the former Tao Nan School (present-day Peranakan Museum), the former St. Joseph‟s Institution (present-day Singapore Art Museum) and the former Raffles Library and Museum (present-day National Museum of Singapore). Listen to stories about the buildings and their remarkable transition from dusty schoolrooms and showcases to dazzling museums and galleries which are 21st-century heritage spots that uphold Singapore‟s history. Monuments covered: Former Tao Nan School (now the Peranakan Museum), former St. Joseph’s Institution (now Singapore Art Museum) and the former Raffles Library and Museum (now National Museum of Singapore)

25 Aug 2012, 3-4.30pm

4 Mosques of the Royal Quarters Walk among the colourful shophouses of Kampong Gelam, which was home to Malay royalty, and be awed by the beautifully ornate architectural features of Hajjah Fatimah Mosque and Sultan Mosque. Discover how the designs of the mosques have been influenced by the Islamic faith as well as Singapore‟s multicultural make-up. At the same time, listen to the stories that revolve around this vibrant district and be introduced to the gelam tree, after which this iconic neighbourhood was named. Monuments covered: Sultan Mosque and Hajjah Fatimah Mosque

1 Sept 2012, 10-11.30am

5 A Tale of Two Communities in Telok Ayer This tour centres on two historical buildings at the Telok Ayer Basin – Ying Fo Fui Kun and Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church. While they served different dialect groups in the Chinese community, both monuments are similar in their altruistic contributions to Singapore in the 19th and 20th centuries. Besides exploring the architectural features and artefacts of these two buildings, be regaled by songs from the communities, fascinating accounts of Chinese secret society rituals and stories about hideouts from Japanese troops during WWII. Monuments covered: Ying Fo Fui Kun and Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church

1 Sept 2012, 10-11.30am

6 Diaspora – Armenian and Jews in Singapore In 19th-century Singapore, a small number of Armenian and Jewish traders and merchants settled here and set up places of worship. This tour through the Armenian Church, the oldest Christian church in Singapore, and the Maghain Aboth Synagogue, the oldest Jewish synagogue in Southeast Asia, provide insights on these two communities who thrived through enterprise and hard work. Learn

9 Sept 2012, 10-11.30am (Sunday)

more about prominent Armenians and Jews in Singapore such as the Sarkies brothers (the Armenian founders of Raffles Hotel) and David Marshall (Singapore‟s first Chief Minister, who was Jewish). Note: Identification details are required for entry into the synagogue. Monuments covered: Armenian Church and Maghain Aboth Synagogue

7 Home Away from Home This tour will take you to the heritage buildings founded by three of the largest Chinese dialect groups in 19th-century Singapore: Thian Hock Keng temple by the Hokkiens, Ying Fo Fui Kun by the Hakkas and Fuk Tak Chi by the Cantonese. Learn how these three buildings served as community centres for early Chinese immigrants, and how their architectural features reflect the beliefs, values and aspirations of these pioneers for their descendants. Monuments covered: Thian Hock Keng temple, Ying Fo Fui Kun Non-monument covered: Fuk Tak Chi

15 Sept 2012, 10-11.30am

8 Pillars of the Chinese Community Singapore‟s early colonial period was marred by poor working conditions and social unrest. Fortunately, three institutions stepped up to provide medical care, protection and support to Chinese immigrants regardless of their dialect group. In this tour, learn how the former Thong Chai Medical Institution provided medical consultation and herbal remedies to the poor for free, how Tan Si Chong Su mediated conflicts within the Chinese community and provided education for children, and how the former Chinese Protectorate looked out for the well-being of coolies and prostitutes. Monuments covered: Former Thong Chai Medical Institution, former Ministry of Labour Building (now Family and Juvenile Court) and Tan Si Chong Su

22 Sept 2012, 3-4.30pm

9 The Spirit of Saving Lives Three national monuments that lie within the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) compound bear testament to this country‟s medical history – the College of Medicine Building, Tan Teck Guan Building and Bowyer Block. Be inspired by the generosity of members of the Chinese community such as Tan Jiak Kim, as well as passionate doctors such as Lim Boon Keng, who dedicated their lives to laying the foundation of Singapore‟s medical education and healthcare system. At the same time, learn more about SGH‟s role during the Japanese Occupation. Monuments covered: College of Medicine Building, Bowyer Block and Tan Teck Guan Building

29 Sept 2012, 3-4.30pm

10 A Walk of Faith

30 Sept 2012, 10-11.30am

Visit two historical places of worship – Hong San See Temple on Mohammed Sultan Road and Chesed-El Synagogue on Oxley Rise – to gain a deeper understanding of how they instilled a sense of belonging amongst Singapore‟s early immigrants. Learn more about the societal contributions made by individuals who worshipped at the respective buildings and the symbolism of religious architecture, and see how these contributions are evident even till today. Note: Participants will be required to climb steps at Hong San See Temple. Identification details are required for entry to the synagogue. Monuments covered: Hong San See Temple and Chesed-El Synagogue

(Sunday)

11 Those Catholic School Days Early missionaries to Singapore came from thousands of miles away to a place they had never seen, and devoted their lives to tend to the spiritual needs and education of the people here. Visit two former Catholic mission schools that are now preserved for very different functions. Explore the gorgeous compounds, relive what school life might have been like and hear about famous alumni who went on to make significant contributions to Singapore. Monuments covered: Former St. Joseph’s Institution (now Singapore Art Museum) and former CHIJ Chapel and Caldwell House (now CHIJMES)

12 Tales of the Survivors During World War II, Japanese troops occupied the House of Tan Yeok Nee while using the former Cathay Building to broadcast wartime propaganda. Later, during the Konfrontasi period of the 1960s, MacDonald House was bombed by Indonesian commandos. Discover how these three buildings are witnesses and survivors of Singapore's tumultuous past as well as Singapore‟s development: for instance, the House of Tan Yeok Nee is the last remaining traditional Chinese courtyard house in Singapore. Monuments covered: MacDonald House, former Cathay Building and House of Tan Yeok Nee

New National Monuments featured in Tours 1) Prinsep Street Presbyterian Church Date of gazette: 12 Jan 2000 Address: 77 Prinsep Street, Singapore 188649 Once known as the Straits Chinese Presbyterian Church, the Church was renamed Prinsep Street Presbyterian in the post-war years. The Church was also where the first Company of the Singapore Boy‟s Brigade was founded in 1930. The Church‟s most distinct features are its red-brick façade and the raised brickwork used to form its tower and belfry.

2) Former Thong Chai Medical Institution Date of gazette: 28 June 1973 Address: 50 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059803 This two-storey structure is one of the few remaining non-religious Southern Chinese style buildings that is still standing. This was an important site for the Chinese especially in the early 1900s as a place where the poor could receive medical treatment. It was also a venue for guild and political meetings. 3) Tan Si Chong Su Date of gazette: 19 Nov 1974 Address: 15 Magazine Road, Singapore 059568 Tan Si Chong Su is the ancestral temple and assembly hall for the Tan clan, a leading merchant family. Constructed by Tan Kim Cheng (eldest son of Tan Tock Seng) and Tan Beng Swee (son of Tan Kim Seng), the temple follows the architectural style of the Quanzhou Fujian temple. The intricate craftsmanship and ornate decorations reflect the prosperity and prominence of this clan. 4) Chesed-El Synagogue Date of gazette: 18 Dec 1998 Address: 2 Oxley Rise, Singapore 238693 The Chesed-El, which means „Bounty of God‟, was the second synagogue to be built in Singapore. Wealthy Jewish businessman Manasseh Myer constructed it to cater to the growing Jewish community that had outgrown the Maghain Aboth Synagogue. 5) Hong San See Temple Date of gazette: 10 Nov 1978 Address: 31 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 238975 This temple on Institution Hill used to have a view of the sea, making it a prime spot according to Chinese geomancy. Built by Hokkiens from the Lam Ann district in the Fukien Province of China. The temple has intricately carved granite columns and its roof ridges and eaves have jian nian (cut and paste) ornamentation and plaster relief work. 6) MacDonald House Date of gazette: 10 Feb 2003 Address: 40A Orchard Road, Singapore 238838 MacDonald House was the first large office building constructed in the post-WWII years. Built in a neo-Georgian style, its most outstanding architectural feature is its red-brick façade. The building was also the site of a terrorist bombing that killed three and wounded 33 in 1965 during the Indonesian Confrontation. 7) Former Cathay Building Date of gazette: 10 Feb 2003 Address: 2 Handy Road, Singapore 229233 Cathay Building was the swankiest building in town in 1973. Standing at 17 stories tall, it was Singapore‟s first skyscraper and the first public space to be air-conditioned. Its Art Deco façade, designed by Frank Brewer has been preserved in memory of its glamorous past. 8) House Of Tan Yeok Nee

Date of gazette: 19 Nov 1974 Address: 207 Clemenceau Avenue, Singapore 239925 Built as the home of wealthy 19th century businessman Tan Yeok Nee, this house was regarded as one of the four grand Teochew mansions in Singapore. Although it is now the Asian campus of the Univeristy of Chicago Booth School of Business, it remains a good example of a traditional Teochew style residential building that is rarely seen today. 9) Maghain Aboth Synagogue Date of gazette: 27 Feb 1998 Address: 24 & 26 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187950 The Maghain Aboth Synagogue, which means „Shield of our Fathers‟ in Hebrew, is the oldest surviving synagogue in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The two-storey neoclassical building faces west towards Jerusalem. 10) College Of Medicine Building Date of gazette: 2 Dec 2002 Address: 16 College Road, Singapore 169855 This building was an impressive home for the King Edward VII College of Medicine, established in 1905. An imposing presence, the building has a row of 12 heavily fluted Doric columns, behind which is a row of 11 enormous doors. The bas reliefs depicting the Allegory of Healing across its façade were made by Italian sculptor and architect Cavalieri Rodolfo Nolli. 11) Bowyer Block Date of gazette: 11 Nov 2009 Address: 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168751 The Singapore General Hospital reopened in 1926 with three additional blocks, the Upper, Middle and Lower blocks – to provide more beds for the hospital. Only the Upper Block, renamed Bowyer Block, remains today. This block which has a distinctive clock tower was renamed in honour of Dr J.H. Bowyer, the Chief Medical Officer of the hospital who died during the Japanese Occupation. It currently houses the SGH Museum. 12) Tan Teck Guan Building Date of gazette: 2 Dec 2002 Address: 16A College Road, Singapore 169855 This two-storey building was the first permanent home for Singapore‟s first medical school. Funded by a donation from successful rubber planter Tan Chay Yan, the building is named after Tan‟s father, Tan Teck Guan. During WWII, the Japanese used the building‟s laboratory to develop biological warfare weapons.