The singapore prize is given to an outstanding publication that makes a significant contribution to Singapore history. It is open to any book-length work in English that covers a particular period, theme or field of Singapore history or that contains a significant element on the subject.
The prize was established in 2014 to mark Singapore’s 50th anniversary. It is supported by a grant from the National Heritage Board and hosted by NUS. The first winner, archaeologist John Miksic’s book Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800, made its mark by revealing to readers what the island might have looked like during this era and highlighting its links with the rest of Asia.
This year’s shortlisted publications are an eclectic mix, ranging from a biography of a well-known Indian poet to histories on Malaysian migrants and their families here. One work, by Kamaladevi Pillai, presents historical events through a layperson’s eyes, while another examines a specific historic event from the point of view of an ordinary citizen.
Professor Kishore Mahbubani, senior advisor (university and global relations) at NUS, said there are plans to broaden the scope of the prize. “We may expand it to include works in other mediums such as movies, fiction or comic books, because sometimes stories are more effective when they are told through other media,” he said.
During his visit, the heir to the British throne will meet Singaporeans and learn about how local organizations are working to protect and preserve the planet. He will also try his hand at dragon boating and join the United for Wildlife summit, which brings together law enforcement agencies, business leaders and conservationists to discuss how to better coexist with wildlife.
In a speech to his guests, the prince will also highlight the importance of tackling climate change, and the need for nations around the world to work together to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. He will also call on all of us to help make a difference, and encourage people in his audience to take part in the Earthshot Prize, a new initiative that will reward innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change.
The prince will be in Singapore to host a series of events as part of the inaugural Earthshot Week, which begins on Monday. He will also take part in the Singapore leg of the International Panel on Sustainable Tourism.
The prince’s trip to Singapore is a follow-up to his visit last year for the launch of the Earthshot Prize, which is backed by his Royal Foundation charity. This year’s event will feature a summit with top innovators, a celebrity line-up and local activations to drive home the message that we can all do our bit to solve this crisis. The heir to the British throne and his wife, Princess Catherine, will also travel to Australia and South Africa later this month. He is currently on a four-week tour of Asia and the Pacific.