The prize recognizes outstanding Singaporean publications and aims to foster reading, appreciation of our history and heritage, and an increased knowledge of Singapore as a nation. It awards book-length works on any subject related to Singapore’s past that span all time periods or themes related to Singapore history, both from local authors as well as those writing from outside.
This year, the Singapore Prize expanded in scope and reach, adding a translation category for literary works with historical themes as well as expanding submission categories. Furthermore, they reopened the award to include fiction manuscripts that contain clear historical elements allowing authors who had not been shortlisted before to apply.
At this year’s Singapore Prize, the People of Good awards returned with a brand-new Leaders of Good (Adults) category – providing recognition to individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to society. In keeping with President’s Volunteerism & Philanthropy Awards, these awards offer recognition of those whose outstanding efforts have enhanced society as a whole.
Dr Sushilan Vasoo was recognized for her tireless efforts in creating sustainable support systems and encouraging senior volunteerism through initiatives with organizations like Allkin, Down Syndrome Association and ACE Seniors. Her leadership and dedication has contributed greatly to shaping Singapore’s philanthropic landscape, as well as pioneering best practices in social service delivery.
Khir Johari’s The Food of Singapore Malays: A Gastronomic Travel Through The Archipelago is an epic work, taking 14 years from conception to publication and weighing in at 3.2 kg, which took 14 years from conception to publication and won 2024 prize for non-fiction. Judges found its “near unbeatable in its sassy confidence and universal appetite”, as well as its call for gender and linguistic reclamation “searing”.
Prof Rajan Bhattacharya, chair of the prize panel, noted: “This year’s shortlist submissions are particularly impressive in that many address some of the essential questions for Singapore history such as where our nation began and who our first ancestor is.”
This year’s prize included two special commendations that did not carry cash awards: Reviving Qixi: Singapore’s Forgotten Seven Sister Festival by Lynn Wong and Lee Kok Leong and Theatres of Memory: Industrial Heritage Of 20th Century Singapore by Loh Kah Seng, Alex Tan, Koh Keng Wee and Tan Teng Phee.
Camp Cacti was recognized in the City of Good category for their collaborations with CapitaLand Hope Foundation and Yellow Ribbon Singapore to assist vulnerable children overcome personal obstacles while developing socio-emotional resilience. Through this initiative, over 200 children have benefitted from improved cognitive and social skills.