This exhibition aims to trace the story of giving in Singapore from its founding in 1819 until the present.

Officially accredited as a Singapore Bicentennial commemorative activity, the exhibition highlights five significant eras that demonstrate the evolution of Singapore’s philanthropy-scape and the different facets and mechanisms of giving:

– 19th century colonial era (1819 – 1900) Efforts were focused on primary needs such as building places of worship, burial and basic healthcare

– Early 20th century colonial era (1901 – 1945) Asian women philanthropists gained prominence and grassroots philanthropy emerged to support communal purposes, including relief efforts during WWII and the Japanese Occupation

– Post-war reconstruction and nationalism era (1946–1965) Relief work by local broad-based volunteer welfare organizations in reconstruction and alleviating social problems fostered a greater sense of belonging that cut across ethnic lines

– Nation-building era (1966–1999) During the development of the nation’s economy, volunteer groups and services sprang up to provide social services to those in need, while the government supported by introducing structures to better co-ordinate philanthropic donations and activities

– Professionalization and global-giving era (2000–present) Philanthropy had grown into an ecosystem comprising national bodies, private sector donors and the community

Venue: Temasek Shophouse, 28 Orchard Road, Singapore 238832

Hours: Weekdays 08:30 am – 09:00 pm
Weekends and Public Holidays 11:00 am – 05:00 pm

When: 21 Aug - 31 Oct 2019,

By: n/a