National Museum of Singapore Celebrates 60 Years of Independence with New Exhibitions

Celebrating 60 Years of Singapore's Independence at the NMS

In a notable homage to Singapore's rich cultural and historical tapestry, the National Museum of Singapore (NMS) has launched two significant exhibitions to mark the nation's 60th year of independence. These exhibitions not only showcase the crucial milestones in Singapore’s journey from a settlement to a modern global city but also invite visitors to engage deeply with the country’s vibrant past over the last 700 years.

New Exhibitions: An Invitation to Explore

The two new highlights are titled Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time and Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City. Guests can kick off their visit with Singapore Odyssea, located in the stunning Shaw Foundation Glass Rotunda. This permanent gallery recently re-opened as part of ongoing renovations at the museum, designed to be an engaging multimedia introduction to Singapore's history.

Upon entering, visitors will be greeted by a striking LED globe, which features a two-minute light show mapping out the maritime routes that have historically connected Singapore to the world. As they embark on their journey through the gallery, guests can experience a chronological exploration of key moments in Singapore's history via visual wall projections and immersive soundscapes.

A highlight of the exhibition is a digital waterfall curtain that showcases significant historical events while presenting various myths surrounding the beginnings of Singapore. The innovative use of RFID wristbands allows attendees to 'adopt' one of nine magical companions inspired by Singapore's native wildlife, guiding them through the exhibition’s treasures and unlocking hidden facets of the nation's history.

Unfolding the Story of Singapore

Following Singapore Odyssea, visitors are invited to delve into Once Upon a Tide, which runs until October 9, 2026. This exhibition focuses on how the sea and rivers have shaped Singapore—from a bustling 14th-century port to its evolution into a global powerhouse today. It features over 350 artifacts from the National Collection, with the narratives divided into five thematic sections that reveal different aspects of Singapore's development through interactive storytelling.

Guests can discover the deep roots of the island through historical maps, witness early trading activities along the Singapore River—once a lifeline for the nascent settlement—and even participate in the Sampan Challenge, a fun activity that allows visitors to ferry 'passengers' across the river.

The final section offers a tribute to Singaporeans and organizations making a mark globally, inviting reflection on national identity. Throughout the exhibition, participants can respond to thought-provoking questions via their RFID wristbands, revealing one of four avatars that reflect their values and aspirations, contributing to a collective vision for Singapore’s future.

An Immersive Journey Through Time

These exhibitions cohesively intertwine to provide an immersive journey, allowing visitors to explore, experience, and reflect on Singapore's historical evolution. The NMS not only commemorates Singapore's past but also plays a crucial role in fostering understanding of the country's diverse heritage among residents and tourists alike.

This initiative exemplifies the museum’s commitment to the community in celebrating significant milestones and promoting historical consciousness. For more detailed information and updates, visitors can check the National Museum's official website or follow their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Photos and additional media related to the exhibitions can be viewed at the following links: Images