This prize, administered by the Department of History at NUS, aims to build interest in Singapore’s past while making its complexities and nuances accessible to non-academic audiences. Additionally, it recognizes works that help reinterpret and contextualise its history within an Asian framework – this year’s shortlist features books about ordinary Singaporean family lives that disproves any notion that history only records big movers and shakers; another book by Kamaladevi Aravindan tracks residents across five decades within an estate community – both shortlisted books
In June, the winner of the 2024 Singapore Prize will receive a cheque worth up to S$50,000 and a gold medallion from Temasek Foundation, while other finalists and merit winners each receive cash prizes of up to S$30000 each and an award cheque for S$20k. This award is open to any non-fiction work relating to Singapore history published within two years in English, Mandarin or Tamil and published between 2011 and 2019.
Professor Miksic’s award-winning book is the first in a series that delves into how Singapore became what it is today and its role within Asia. According to Prof Miksic, this is a radical reinterpretation of regional history; drawing upon literary records, archaeological finds, surveys conducted across multiple regions as well as interviews with descendants of early pioneers.
NUS has offered the Singapore Prize since 2014 as part of its efforts to generate greater interest in Singaporean history among non-academic audiences. It is one of many initiatives undertaken by NUS to raise awareness of Singapore, including preparations for centenary celebrations this year.
Last month, Prince William graced the green carpet at an awards ceremony in Singapore to showcase this year’s Earthshot finalists and innovations such as solar-powered dryers that reduce food waste and cleaner ways to use electric car batteries – showing hope in our fight against climate change. Other celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Lana Condor and Donnie Yen and Nomzamo Mbatha attended to celebrate winners from Earthshot 2016.
These awards, supported by the National Arts Council, recognize arts practitioners from local communities who have shown professional maturity over an impressive body of work and have significantly contributed to advancing artistic scenes in their region. The 132 winners representing film, literary arts, performing arts and visual arts will be honored at a gala dinner on June 15th. Each artist will receive a trophy, stipend and the opportunity to exhibit their works at a public exhibition held at Esplanade Theatre. This year marks the fifth time this prize has been presented, and for the first time it will include multimedia works like films and comics in addition to books. Winners will be selected by an expert jury panel comprising artists, art historians and curators and is open to Singaporeans and permanent residents of all ages.