Terence Ho Wee San
Singapore
“I hope that artists and arts groups can make good use of the funding and grants in these difficult times, move on with fortitude and continue to innovate and create. I believe that the community will emerge stronger and more united after COVID-19. The development of arts and culture would also be different from before.”
“Thank you, Speaker. I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the reply. I have three supplementary questions. One, in view of the cancellation of SIFA, are there any plans to turn this into a #SGUnited Digital Arts Festival, by making the arts accessible and available?”
“Two, If we can have Singapore degrees in other subjects, why not the Arts? Three, the quality of the teaching and curriculum at NAFA, Lasalle and Intercultural Theatre Institute are recognised by overseas Universities.”
“Therefore, I urge the government to explore further – and perhaps turn the signing of MOU with our foreign partners into concrete and solid action plans, an instrumental role in expanding Singapore's cultural soft power to increase our presence and space.”
“I hope that the Government will consider exercising greater flexibility and adopt a more targeted approach in the administration of CMF. For example, besides providing matching funds for donations, the Government could perhaps consider providing matching funds based on proceeds from performances and ticket sales.”
“Local arts group Finger Players will be presenting in March this year an inclusive performance to audiences with disabilities through the usage of close captioning and audio description.”
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“I hope that artists and arts groups can make good use of the funding and grants in these difficult times, move on with fortitude and continue to innovate and create. I believe that the community will emerge stronger and more united after COVID-19. The development of arts and culture would also be different from before. We will need new engines and new concepts to create a new world. I hope we can bring online audiences to concert halls and theatres. After artists have returned to the stage, I believe they will be able to create more inspiring programmes. This is because arts can provide spiritual nourishments, lift people's mood and warm their hearts. We will definitely conquer COVID-19, start a new life accompanied by beautiful music and artistic creations, and unite as one people to march towards prosperity and progress. I support the Fortitude Budget. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] (In English): I am in support of the Fortitude Budget.”
“The enhanced Job Support Scheme has enabled many art groups and artists to maintain their livelihood during the outbreak and continue to create artworks and surprises, so that people can continue to enjoy arts performances online. For example, Singapore Chinese Orchestra staged the Tutti Singapore percussion performance; Singapore Symphony Orchestra uploaded SSOPlayOn! series, and Singapore Chinese Music Federation gathered 30 Erhu players to present a performance called "Towards a Brighter Future" in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Singapore-China diplomatic ties. Dingyi Music Company, Siong Leng Musical Association, Nan Hwa Opera and the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre have also created many online stay-home performances. They use advanced digital technologies to bring arts onto various social media platforms, so that their audiences can enjoy wonderful concerts and performances free at home. There are more than 10 million online viewership to-date. During this period, many enthusiastic supporters are paying special attention to the vulnerable groups by giving them donations and support. This is good. I feel that freelancers in the arts and cultural sector will need our help too. The existence of our local arts and cultural community is the spirit and hope of the society. This group of people will not be the first to come to people's mind to help. Their livelihood is not easy in the first place, and made worse by the outbreak. The support they received is far from enough, and this reflects the fundamental cultural attitude of a society. In this regard, we need a wider definition of arts and broader arts recognition among our people, so that more people are willing to support and promote arts and spread its values.”
“The $55 million ACRP seeks to protect the arts and culture eco-system and will provide support and opportunities for our cultural organisations and practitioners until the end of the year, while encouraging the development of longer-term capabilities that will help the community emerge stronger after COVID-19. I have four suggestions. One, cultivate concert virtual exposure acquired by the expanding digital consumers of arts to actual engagement. Two, capability building should revamp and remodel in the strategic marketing area to bring headcounts for the various arts form, especially for ticketed events. Three, digital culture pass to encourage pay-per-view digital concert and even purchasing of live concert tickets when we allow concert to be staged at the concert hall. Four, more can be done to commission and collaborate with the private and public sector to utilise collective resources for the arts presentation in a more effective way. Arts are the engines of togetherness and collective sense-making. A lost in cultural eco-system would be harder to re-cultivate than to restore anything. In Mandarin, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to thank Deputy Prime Minister Heng and his team for always having the livelihood of artists and arts group in their heart. The Government pays great attention to the arts and the cultural sector, making arts an indispensable spiritual nourishment during the outbreak. NAC and Lianhe Zaobao worked together to launch the Zaobao Recital Series comprising four online programmes, including Chinese music, vocals, classical chamber music and literature reciting. Netizens have responded warmly to these online programmes.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I thank Deputy Prime Minister Heng and his team for always having arts in his heart and making arts possible and vibrant, even during this COVID-19 situation. I also want to thank the colleagues in MCCY and the National Arts Council (NAC) for their dedication and commitment to keep arts going strong. They work tirelessly to render support in this difficult period. As at 22 May 2020, NAC has supported more than 850 artists and arts groups, funded more than 60 digitalisation projects and reached over 6.2 million online views. If we take into consideration of the other online digital programmes by the arts groups, we should reach more than 10 million online viewers as today. Singapore Chinese Orchestra's digital efforts has seen six series, more than 130 contents uploaded, and a total of more than one million viewership to-date. Singapore Symphony Orchestra's SSOPlayOn! series, the Siong Leng Musical Association and the Nam Hwa Opera have brought their art onto several social media platforms for all to enjoy. The theatre groups live-stream their performances and the Esplanade partners with SISTIC to provide pay-per-view tickets to achieve self-sustained model for online performances. In these difficult times, we need the arts and culture to uplift our spirits. I hope the artists and arts groups can tap on the Fortitude Budget to sustain works, spread positivity and make arts as an essential for everyone in the new normalcy. They can explore and tap on the Enhanced Jobs Support Scheme, SEP Income Relief Scheme, COVID-19 Support Grant and the Arts and Culture Resilience Package (ACRP).”
“This could be packaged as Singapore Arts, and serve as a potential form of cultural influence and soft power for Singapore. I believe, Sir, as long as our arts groups work together, we can definitely ride out this difficult period. 6.27 pm”
“I hope that the arts groups and artists can make good use of the funds and turn this crisis into opportunities, be more creative and use digital technology to make miracles. At the same time, individuals should also upgrade and learn, and be prepared for the future as early as possible, so that when the time is ripe, they can realise their full potentials. Here, I have four suggestions. IMDA can consider expanding the “Stay Healthy and Go Digital” campaign and promote the arts online. By doing this, different local arts activities can be broadcast online, and citizens can enjoy arts and spiritual inspiration. We can bring physical activities online and create a Digital Arts Festival, so that this platform can be an outlet for quality arts performances to boost morale during this difficult period. Second, NAC can consider stepping up efforts and provide support to help freelance art workers access more job opportunities. This would include commissioning new works, recording new audio or video productions. These support packages could help arts workers weather the storm and enable them to attract audiences back to theatres and shows with better arts works, to pay back to the society after this pandemic. Third, the Government can also work together with Giving.sg to promote arts giving. We should encourage audiences to donate ticket refunds from the cancelled events to art groups to help them tide over this difficult period so that they can produce better quality programmes in the future. Fourth, we could create a portal Arts.sg to bring all performances, recordings, arts courses and lectures together, and tap on larger platforms, such as SG United, to broadcast, so that appreciating and learning arts can become the people's inspiration and hope during this outbreak.”
“Two, the NAC could consider giving more support for the freelance artists and musicians in the arts community, through commissioning new works, whether arts, music or productions to help weather the storm together, and potentially attract audiences back to theatres and shows. And we hope to engage artists and arts groups in the making of the public campaign video to battle the COVID-19. Three, the Government could consider working with Giving.sg platform to encourage audience to give more donations for the arts. The platform could configure a page for the arts community as a whole, on top of the current organisation feature. For instance, the refund from recent cancellations of arts concerts and activities could be donated to the particular arts group, or to the arts community as a whole. Four, to create a platform portal Arts.sg to bring and consolidate all the Singaporean artists’ works on board to share and market to sell spread awareness of Singapore’s arts scene. This could be tapped on as a potential form of cultural influence and soft power. I understand that there are existing portals, such as MusicSG and Hear65, but often they struggle with maintaining audienceship and readership. I hope more support could be given to these platforms. In Mandarin, Sir. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] First, I would like to thank the Government for setting aside an additional $55 million to the arts and culture sector. In times of crisis, many countries will cut arts funding first. However, in Singapore, we actually increased it! From this, we can see that the Government attaches great importance to the arts.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, firstly, my heartfelt thanks to the Government and Deputy Prime Minister Heng for the announcement of the top-up of $55 million as the Resilience Budget for the arts and culture sector to save jobs as well as to encourage arts groups to improve their skills and go digital. In times of crisis, many countries’ arts funding are the first to experience a cut. However, in Singapore, the arts and culture sector received more funding to help improve their skills and ease expenses amid the COVID-19 outbreak. I am heartened by this move and strong emphasis on our vibrant arts scene in Singapore. I hope that the arts groups and artists can tap on the Resilience Budget to build capabilities, to be self-sustained and well prepared for the future season to come. They can explore options such as upskill and upscale digital capabilities, such as online marketing and programming to share, spread and sell arts works across the boundary. The funding can be maximised to help arts companies pick up necessary competencies in digital content strategy, search engine optimisation, online syndication and licensing. I have four proposals. One, to digitalise arts activities and roll out a Digital Arts Festival so that this platform could be the outlet for quality arts performances. For example, IMDA‘s Stay Healthy, Go Digital campaign encourages Singaporeans to “buy online, pay online and learn online”. So why not promote “Arts online”? Inter-agencies efforts, for example, the National Arts Council (NAC) and IMDA could work together to stage a “SG United” Arts Festival online.”
“Thank you, Speaker. I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the reply. I have three supplementary questions. One, in view of the cancellation of SIFA, are there any plans to turn this into a #SGUnited Digital Arts Festival, by making the arts accessible and available? Two, whether more can be done to engage our local freelance artists and arts groups for the future SIFAs and for other art events to make the local artists and arts companies as the preferred choice for programming? Three, can SIFA also explore to work with the Giving.sg to encourage online giving to the arts, such as turning the refund of tickets into donation and that could also apply to other arts companies?”
“One, can the National Arts Council help provide rental rebates, for arts group housed at Goodman Arts Centre and Stamford Arts Centre, to name a few. This will help to tide the arts groups through this difficult period of low attendance and cancellation of their shows. Two, can there be introduction of shared services among the arts groups, in terms of Professional Services such as legal advice, audit and accounting services? This can help reduce the expenditure of the arts groups. 12.00 pm The synergy of arts space can integrate, interest and ignite the collaboration among arts groups and utilise resources to the fullest. The arts bring diverse communities together. Amidst the challenging periods again, I am certain that the local arts community will continue to do their part to rally Singaporeans. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] As arts groups grow, they will need more space for practice, rehearsals, and storing props and stage sets. With limited land space in Singapore, there are not many places that can be used for arts groups. I hope we could do the following: First, Government Ministries can engage in inter-Ministerial discussions on how to increase space allocated for culture and arts. Second, during the current COVID-19 outbreak, I hope that we can consider granting rental rebates to arts groups, so that they can focus on rehearsals as usual, and not lose the drive to perform due to loss of income because of cancellation of performances. My wish is that the dance will continue, the music will not stop playing, and we can live life as per normal. Quality Arts Productions for Underserved”
“Arts groups now and in the future will require a significant amount of space to express their creativity and store their props and sets. The arts space will help artistes and arts groups to grow and we need to keep up the growth of the arts group. With limited land space in Singapore, it is increasingly difficult to increase the gross floor area (GFA) of the arts community. Do we have a short, mid and long-term plan to cater to the growing needs and create space synergy for the arts? Earlier on in September 2019, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng announced that arts freelancers will have an arts resource website, and will also have dedicated working spaces. In my previous speeches, I proposed that the Government can consider a central shared warehouse for the arts community, where props and sets can be stored, shared or reused. This is one of the ways we can do our part to save the Earth from climate change, reducing wastage and disposal issues. In addition to that, perhaps the Government can consider including shopping malls and even unused national monument space, to cater for arts use. For instance, Wild Rice is housed within Funan and Singapore Dance Theatre is housed within Bugis+. We can integrate arts and culture within malls, to further increase the audiences’ reach. Furthermore, as the world continues to face challenges during this outbreak, the local arts community is doing their part to rally Singaporeans. For example, the Theatre arts groups came together, to promote and share about each other’s’ upcoming productions. These are heartwarming gestures. To battle the virus together, I propose the following.”
“In my previous speeches, I suggested that the Government exercises greater flexibility and adopt a more targeted approach in the administration of the Cultural Matching Fund (CMF). For example, aside from providing matching grants according to the amount of funds raised, the Government could perhaps consider providing matching grants according to performances and ticket sales. To help arts groups tide over this difficult period, I hope the Government can review the disbursement of CMF by: First, the Government can consider launching a relief package to help arts groups overcome the current difficulties by increasing the ratio of CMF from 1:1 to 1:2. This will help to increase funding for cultural and arts groups, who can then use the funds to tide over this period. Second, the Government can consider increasing project and production grants for arts groups, so that they can come up with exciting programmes to attract audiences. Bringing back audiences to performances cannot be done overnight. However, I believe that if arts groups unite together and go all-out to attract audiences, the crowd will come back, and the entire arts scene will be rejuvenated. How to canvas for donations and sponsorships beyond Government funding is the greatest challenge faced by most arts groups. We hope to nurture more fans of the arts, including those who appreciate the arts and those who are willing to sponsor arts activities. This is the hope of many arts groups. I also hope that arts groups can attract new audiences, who will eventually become advocates for the arts, and that all arts performances will enjoy such good ticket sales that only standing room will be left. Space Synergy for the Arts (In English): My second cut.”
“Chairman, arts giving. Amid the evolving of the COVID-19 outbreak, the arts community brings people together, spreads love and positivity. In my previous speeches, I mentioned that I believe that a more targeted and well-defined Culture Matching Fund (CMF) policy can help small, medium arts groups in Singapore enjoy the benefits. To battle the economy downturn, I propose to review and reconsider the CMF. One, can the Government consider launching a Relief and Recovery Measures to Arts Group by providing 1:2 matching grant instead of 1:1? This is a period for all arts groups; with the sudden cancellations and postponement of shows, arts groups are predicted to experience a deficit within the period. Two, will the Government also consider providing more for the project and production grant, such as the Tote Board Arts Fund so as to allow the arts groups to work on recovery plans to bring back audiences and call back artistes for future performances? More help is definitely needed to bring back audiences and assure them that the shows will go on. The COVID-19 outbreak has an impact on the worldwide economy and it takes time for the outbreak to settle down. I believe that there is a need to path a recovery route for all arts groups and is vital and to make the arts vibrant and accessible to the public again. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] During this trying period, operations of arts groups have been seriously affected. The sustainability of arts and cultural groups require strong Government support, and also sponsorship and donations from corporates, foundations and individuals who recognise the importance of arts and culture.”
“Two, If we can have Singapore degrees in other subjects, why not the Arts? Three, the quality of the teaching and curriculum at NAFA, Lasalle and Intercultural Theatre Institute are recognised by overseas Universities. MOE should allow a system to let Singapore academics and industry practitioners recognise the quality and approve the award of degrees. As an aspiring Arts Nation, I believe that we should have our own Arts University.”
“I would also like to suggest that MOE engage local artists and Cultural Medallion recipients during the process of curriculum planning, in order to design an arts curriculum with a stronger local flavour. This will help promote local arts and culture. We must make arts and culture accessible, and ensure that the essence of Singapore’s arts and culture is passed down from generation to generation, creating a sustainable ecosystem for the arts. Arts University (In English): My second cut on Arts University. The Arts University will serve the purpose to fill up jobs in the market contributing to the employability of these graduates. By transforming and upgrading our art academies, this will draw local and overseas talents into enrolling into these institutions. Graduates from the Arts University can contribute not only to the arts and creative industry, but they are able to bring Singapore into a more competitive design and creative market in the global economy. From a survey, "Passion" was the most critical factor that drew workers to the arts sector; it is also the main reason why these workers remained in the sector. Arts workers also saw themselves as contributing positively to the arts and the wider society through their work. For example, the Government can consider developing a research centre with the future University, to grow our creative industry in performing arts and visual art. We have to nurture our local talents. These efforts will help create vibrancy in the arts scene, heighten motivation among the expected. In conclusion, Singapore should be mature enough now as a country to give its own degrees in the Arts. Why should we depend on Universities in other countries to say how good our teaching is?”
“At the same time, an education in and through the arts helps students appreciate other cultures and develop Singapore pride. In Mandarin, Chairman. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Arts can stimulate curiosity and encourage creativity amongst students. Besides the teaching of knowledge, schools are also involved in the character education and holistic development of students. Therefore, making arts classes part of the curriculum for every student is a component of holistic education. When youths display talent and aptitude for the arts, we can provide more professional training platforms for them, with the hope that they will become world-class artists in the future. In order to develop local artistic talents, we should promote local arts through education. I hope MOE will consider including more local arts resources in the planning of music and art curriculum in schools. I also hope MOE will consider inviting past recipients of the Cultural Medallion and Young Artist Award to share their creative journeys and experience. These inspirational teaching materials and personality profiles could become the cradle from which the next generation of artists can be nurtured. In addition, there are many artistic historical buildings in Singapore. As the teaching of music and the arts should not be confined to the classroom, schools can consider organising field trips for students to visit these historical buildings, to stimulate their interest and enhance their cultural knowledge. Arts groups can also conduct dialogues and workshops for students to interact close-up with artists.”
“Chairman, as part of holistic education, our students are exposed to arts programme, music and aesthetics lessons. While there is a good range of arts programmes in schools today, they are largely ad hoc and may not be part of a longer term vision for how the arts can play a more integral role. From the existing music syllabus, there is currently no mention and teaching of Singaporean compositions, local composers, musicians and artistes in the music curriculum. For example, there are 126 Cultural Medallion recipients, but how many of our younger generation are aware of their achievements and are inspired by their works? Furthermore, can MOE consider to include and introduce our ethnic traditional instruments during music lessons? If we do it strategically and interestingly, this could lead to the interest to participate in the school band and orchestra. And, provide a pipeline to build a vibrant performing arts ecosystem in the school. Music and arts curriculum should not only be held within the classrooms. Teachers and students should step-out to indulge in the atmospheres of the arts at the different locations. Therefore, I propose for MOE to consider. One, allow our students to pay visit to national arts companies, watch theatre shows, musical performances and even concerts. Arts groups and companies can host these students on one-hour learning journeys. Two, involve artist and musicians in curriculum planning; allow them to have dialogue sessions and conversations with the community and arts sector, to build a robust curriculum. Arts exposure at any early age continues to be important, supports the holistic development of the child, seeds the development of future audiences while increasing the social commons.”
“Therefore, I urge the government to explore further – and perhaps turn the signing of MOU with our foreign partners into concrete and solid action plans, an instrumental role in expanding Singapore's cultural soft power to increase our presence and space. Cultural diplomacy can help to broaden and deepen our bilateral relations with other countries at the people-to-people level. I will like to suggest that the government could consider deploying MFA resources in taking charge of the arts and culture in mission, such as a Culture Attaché or in other words, a culture diplomat. It makes for deeper and more direct relationships with our friends in the region. This helps to strengthen our networks with our foreign partners, strengthen Singapore’s position as a valuable collaborative partner. We are a small country and must allocate our resources well – yet also have an effective network of overseas missions. We seek to bring the voice of Singapore Arts to the world.”
“Chairman, cultural diplomacy. In today's uncertain geopolitical landscape, soft power is key for small countries like Singapore; cultural diplomacy offers a human way for countries to see eye to eye and build meaningful, strategic and sustained cultural partnerships with other nations. For instance: Singapore and Australia have agreed to strengthen cultural cooperation by building on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Arts and Culture that both countries signed in June 2015. We have established an Australia-Singapore Arts Group to increase collaboration between our artists, arts groups and cultural institutions. MFA and MCCY jointly established a fund of up to S$5 million over a period of five years to support Singapore artists, arts groups and performers to profile their works in Australia. As this MOU is going to expire soon, are there any plans to further it? This year also marks Singapore and China’s 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Both countries signed nine agreements, which covered areas like customs clearance, intellectual property management, education, innovation and communications, as well as smart city development and exchange views on 'excellent' state of relations, back in October last year. Despite the current evolving COVID-19 outbreak, are there any plans in the second half of 2020, to consolidate a list of arts and culture events to mark the 30 years of relationship? On this note, I would like to highlight that our arts and culture groups have been flying our flag overseas proud and high. Through cultural diplomacy, Singapore can project global influence and enhance relations with our foreign partners.”
“I hope that the Government will consider exercising greater flexibility and adopt a more targeted approach in the administration of CMF. For example, besides providing matching funds for donations, the Government could perhaps consider providing matching funds based on proceeds from performances and ticket sales. I believe that this would help many small to medium-sized arts groups, such as the Siong Leng Musical Association, Nam Hwa Opera and Singapore Traditional Arts Centre, so that they can benefit from CMF despite limited fundraising resources. Arts knows no boundaries in terms of age and background, everyone can enjoy the arts. Arts help to build confidence, enhance one’s image and attractiveness. Looking ahead, I hope that culture and the arts will continue to bring diverse communities together and contribute to a more cohesive society. (In English): I am in support of Budget 2020.”
“Although everybody is feeling anxious amidst the outbreak, healthcare workers braving the storm deserve special support and care from the community. The music video by SCO received a "like" from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong who said he was glad the arts community is doing its part to rally Singaporeans to fight the outbreak and is able to continue performing for the public by going online. The value of arts in the daily lives of Singaporeans has also been recognised. During this extraordinary period, arts groups have sought to encourage and unite the nation, as well as pay tribute to healthcare workers, through arts and music. In times of crisis, arts and culture can uplift spirits. For example, last weekend, SSO performed two sold-out concerts; two young Erhu musicians Wang Qin Kai and Wu Fu Jun also performed to a full-house audience last night. I personally attended this concert and am heartened to see the huge turnout. The music does not stop, and life must go on! In the Budget Statement announced recently, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat shared that the Government will set aside $20 million to top up OSF and extend the fund to 2025. This is to encourage Singaporeans from a wider range of domains to initiate and launch more meaningful community projects. The Government will set aside $250 million to boost efforts involving community partnerships, with $20 million earmarked for OSF top-ups to encourage more ground-up community initiatives. The sustained development of arts groups is not only dependent on strong Government support, but also the support of companies and foundations that identify with them, as well as the active participation, sponsorship and donation of our people.”
“Perhaps, the Ministry can consider matching not only for funds raised, but also for earned income, such as the ticket proceeds. This would help many of the smaller-scale arts groups with less fundraising power to be able to tap on the matching fund. I will share more during the COS debate. Mr Speaker, Sir, in Mandarin. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Arts have always played an important role in defining Singaporeans' cultural identity. With the increasing number of artists and people involved in arts groups in Singapore and a vibrant arts sector, every Singaporean is able to enjoy the arts. The COVID-19 outbreak has sparked worldwide concern and impacted public life. With the DORSCON outbreak alert level raised to Orange, many Singaporeans inevitably felt anxious. Quite a number of arts performances were also cancelled or postponed. In an attempt to uplift public spirit amidst the outbreak, local chamber music group Ding Yi Music Company held a digital concert on Valentine's Day to spread positivity to frontline healthcare workers and members of the public who are feeling uneasy. In fact, online platforms have become a channel for many arts groups which seek to be heard. The National Arts Council also launched a video with the theme "Stay Strong, Don't Kancheong" on 20 February, with many local artists joining in the video to boost the morale of Singaporeans. The video has been well-received. In addition, SCO produced a heartwarming music video in a tribute to healthcare workers battling the COVID-19 virus at the frontlines. The music video, featuring one of Singapore’s national songs "Home", was brimming with emotions.”
“Giving to the arts and culture has been significant in the past few years. For instance, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat shared that the Government will set aside $250 million to boost efforts to partner the community in projects during the recent Budget announcement. This includes the $20 million that will be used to top up the Our Singapore Fund (OSF), which supports projects in the social and community domains initiated by citizens. The Fund will also be extended for five more years from this year. I am heartened by the news and I thank the Government for putting aside this sum of money to boost community partnership and efforts, to bring forth more opportunities for all and to empower the arts. Since OSF was announced in Budget 2016, I understand that it has committed nearly $4.3 million to more than 240 ground-up projects in areas ranging from heritage to sports. This Fund continues to help create access and opportunities to arts of different forms and engage Singaporeans of all ages. The arts build a more cohesive society and I wonder how this Fund can be further extended to help arts and culture companies and enterprises to bring more Singaporeans together, groom and grow attendance and participation for the arts. The COVID-19 outbreak has also an impact on the worldwide economy. Economists believe that the growth of the economy has slowed down and, in the case of a downturn, it would have an impact on arts giving and sponsorship. I believe that a more targeted and well-defined Cultural Matching Fund (CMF) policy can help small, medium arts groups in Singapore to enjoy the benefits. To battle the economic downturn, I propose to review and reconsider CMF. This could be a long-term measure, instead of a short-term or mid-term measure.”
“Ding Yi Music Company held a very first digital concert Together We Stand with local artistes, and our Minister for Community, Youth and Sports Grace Fu sang in the finale piece. It was a touching and inspiring piece to battle COVID-19. Prime Minister Lee also shared a special music video of "Home", performed by the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) in tribute to our healthcare and frontline workers, on both his Facebook page and Instagram. In his post, he mentioned that he was glad the arts community is doing its part to rally Singaporeans during the outbreak, including the National Arts Council. They produced a very interesting and inspiring video called "#StayStrong and #DontKancheong" video, which involved many local artists and they shared what they have been up to and what they have to say to Singapore. Other than tapping on online platforms and social media, some arts groups and individuals continue to perform and bring the audiences some encouragement and positivity. When a group of people see others appear calm and able to appreciate the arts, it reinforces a sense of peace and chill in the community. This is more positive and encouraging than seeing one another rushing to buy daily necessities like rice and toilet paper and develop a sense of panic. Just over the weekend, SSO organised two full-house concerts at The Esplanade. Just last evening, two young gentlemen – Wong Qin Kai and Goh Shunta – held a recital, "The Erhu Works" which I had the honour of attending; I was there at the performance. This is the flyer. And it was almost full house, even during this trying period. I hope such examples will inspire more to come forward to build a more caring, cohesive and confident society, together.”
“Speaker, Sir, the arts have always played an important role in defining our nation's cultural identity in Singapore. The arts bring diverse communities together. For the arts to remain sustainable and accessible for all in Singapore, giving plays a vital role to allow arts to live strong, develop and grow. Amid the evolving coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak, the arts community brings people together, spreads love and positivity. My colleague in the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SSO, Chng Hak-Peng, shared "three reasons why the arts in general, and classical music concerts in particular, are essential even during times of crisis for a modern and complex society like Singapore", in The Straits Times on 25 February 2020. The arts is an essential part of life. As shared by Hak-Peng, firstly, it is important to maintain an environment of normalcy as life goes on. Secondly, music feeds the soul. And it re-energises and allows audiences to breathe. Lastly, the arts help us to cope with uncertainty. Allow me to quote him in his article, "For me, this is like building our psychological resilience. The arts help you to surrender yourself to the unknown, and the beauty of a piece of art or music reinvigorates your belief that, as human beings, we have the ability to transcend today’s problems and attain greatness." The current measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 have led to a number of shows and performances being cancelled or postponed. This has spurred arts groups to consider creative alternatives, such as digital performances, to bring some comfort during this trying time.”
“Besides traditional media, content creators for mainstream radio stations and TV channels can even work hand in hand with the social media team for wider reach. These are critical for audience development and the development of our arts scene. Lastly, foster and further the collaboration between CCs and schools. CCs gather people of different ages and backgrounds together. Hence, it is a good place to promote arts, allowing community arts to join hands with school arts. The establishment of alumni arts groups will be a win-win situation for multiple parties, for example, symphony orchestras, Chinese orchestras, dance groups and theatre groups. The CCs can be the extension and complement of the school arts scene, providing a good arts platform for the residents. With more collaboration opportunities, arts groups can exchange ideas, work and explore together, and become more creative. This will make the whole arts scene more vibrant and dynamic. It will take a long time to build an arts ecosystem. We should not only bring arts to the people, but also allow Singapore’s arts community to groom more top-notch arts professionals. To that end, we must build a vibrant community arts ecosystem. (In English): With the mainstream media’s support, having shared resources for performing arts of different genres, as well as partnership between community arts groups and schools, these help to achieve synergy to build a vibrant community arts ecosystem.”
“Siong Leng Musical Association, Ding Yi Music Company, Indian dance groups and Malay modern dance groups are located at the centre. In September 2019, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng announced that arts freelancers would have an arts resource website, and there will be two co-working spaces. In addition to these, perhaps the Government can consider a chamber music recital hall and piano rooms with sound insulation facilities in the music centre. In the dance and theatre centre, we can have a black box and a dance studio and even a common storeroom for props which can be reused. This will help reduce wastage and is environmentally friendly. We can set up a shared warehouse to house props and sets. By doing so, spaces can be used more efficiently and sustainably, and it is good for the environment by cutting wastage. Kill two birds with one stone. Secondly, reconsider and revisit the plan to reinstate the arts radio and TV channel. The mainstream media can play an important role in promoting different arts genres. Hence, I suggest that we revisit the plan to reinstate the arts radio and TV channel. In 1997, NAC established Passion 99.5 FM to support our Singapore music. Unfortunately, sponsorship and advertisement income dropped due to the economic downturn, and it was shut down in 2003. However, things are different today. According to data released by MCCY on 31 January 2019, the number of arts performances has risen from around 7,700 in 2011 to more than 9,500 in 2017. I think with the increase in number in arts events and attendance, we ought to deepen the reach of our performances and productions through the mainstream media.”
“Three, to foster and further the establishment of community arts groups with school, institutions, alumni and students. Partnership among schools, institutions and community arts groups establishes a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem. Community Clubs (CCs) can provide the space to support these alumni arts groups. With these arts groups housed in the CCs, they can regularly engage in activities and perform, contributing back to the larger community. The potential of working together among the arts groups is limitless. With more collaboration opportunities, this will encourage and inspire these arts groups to reach the pinnacle of excellence. However, I understand that a few CCs have closed down the arts groups housed in their venues. So, where will all these groups go to? In Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Deputy Speaker, since the Arts Council launched the SG Arts Plan, the number of arts professionals and arts groups has been increasing continuously. With a thriving arts scene, people of all ages can enjoy arts. Based on these developments, I hope the Government can better integrate resources and create more shared spaces so that we can further develop a vibrant arts ecosystem. I have three suggestions. Firstly, a one-stop arts house allowing professional resources to be shared. A recital hall, a dance studio and a black box for theatre performances can be put under one roof. Audiences just need to visit one location to watch different genres of arts performances. This is not only convenient in terms of location selection, but also conducive for interaction and exchange. The Stamford Arts House is a multidisciplinary arts centre with a focus on traditional arts. It has drawn traditional arts groups to base there.”
“In addition to this, perhaps we can also consider a central shared warehouse for the arts community, where props and sets can be stored, shared or reused. This is one of the ways we can do our part to save the Earth from climate change, reducing wastage and disposal issues. Two, to reconsider and revisit the plan to reinstall the arts radio and television (TV) channel. Traditional media, such as the radio and television, still play an important role in sharing content and informing the public. We used to have an arts radio station – Passion 99.5 FM. Back then, the NAC launched this radio station on 31 December 1997 to increase awareness of the arts and provide the arts community with a public voice. It featured magazine programmes on arts and culture. However, the station was shut down in December 2003 because its listenership was too small to attract sustained sponsorship and advertising revenue to cover its operating costs. Today, we have an increasing number in arts events and attendance. We ought to deepen and further the reach of our performances and productions through the mainstream media. There is now a larger number of performing arts events offered over the years. According to data released by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) on 22 January 2019, the numbers have increased from around 7,700 in 2011 to more than 9,500 in 2017. Also, more than 11 million attended non-ticketed arts and cultural events in 2017, an increase of nearly 20% from the year before and the highest turnout in seven years. The content creators from mainstream radio stations and TV channels can even work hand in hand with the social media for audience development purposes and wider audience reach.”
“Deputy Speaker, Sir, Building a Sustainable and Vibrant Community Arts Ecosystem. The arts strive to enrich the individual, encourage self-expression, while at the same time seeking to reach out, communicate and bring people together. The National Arts Council (NAC) Arts and Culture Nodes at various venues island-wide energise and excite Singaporeans. A wide array of quality arts programmes, for people of all ages and walks of life, are available. With the SG Arts Plan in place, the arts scene has been thriving, as artists chart professional careers and arts groups grow in strength. I have three recommendations to build a sustainable and vibrant community arts ecosystem. One, to build under-one-roof performing arts housing for music, dance and theatre. Sharing resources, putting the same genre of performing arts under one roof. For example, different hubs that are specifically designed for the music, theatre or dance groups will allow the groups to effectively share resources and rehearsal spaces. The Stamford Arts House is a multidisciplinary arts centre with a focus on traditional arts. Currently, the centre houses various professional arts companies of different art forms. The Government can consider this: a shared acoustically treated recital hall for the orchestra and ensemble, a black box for theatre performances, dance theatre with treated flooring and height for dance companies. This will re-energise the building, and audiences just need to visit one particular location to watch the performance of a particular art form. Earlier on, in September 2019, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng announced that Arts freelancers will have an arts resource website and will also have dedicated working spaces at Goodman Arts Centre and Stamford Arts Centre.”
“Other than MRHA, I do recommend that the Government implement “culture studies”. The study of culture and heritage, cultural elements of each race and religion allows Singaporeans to learn, understand and appreciate the different groups. Just like Social Studies lessons in schools, the culture studies lessons, integrated into students’ curriculum, could be a platform for discussions on the similarities and differences between each race and religion, thus fostering deeper connections and friendships among Singaporeans. These thought-provoking lessons aim to enhance understanding, as well as empathy. In Singapore, the friendship and tacit understanding of different ethnic groups in our country did not happen overnight. They are fundamentally based on accumulated experiences, interactions and understanding and are built on mutual trust and good relations. And this valuable social asset must continue and get passed down to the future generations. In conclusion, updating MRHA is a move which will strengthen and focus efforts to maintain religious harmony in Singapore, yet we should also keep motivating religious groups to do bonding and cultural events and practices. The implementation of culture studies classes, through concerted efforts, will also aid in maintaining peace and harmony in Singapore.”
“Strengthening our social cohesion is a shared responsibility for all races and religions. Everyone plays a part to safeguard our way of life and keep one another safe. The IRCCs are interfaith platforms in every constituency, formed to promote racial and religious harmony. The work of IRCCs is instrumental in strengthening our social cohesion and supports the SGSecure movement. At present, the IRCCs deepen people's understanding of the various faiths, beliefs and practices through interfaith and inter-ethnic themed activities, such as heritage trails, interfaith talks and various ethnic and religious celebrations. Throughout these years, all races and religions live harmoniously together, with understanding and respect for one another. Our religious groups play an important role. For example, the Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF) seeks to promote culture, education and social welfare. They, too, help to groom the future generation and founded schools, childcare centres, youth groups and so on. SBF awards annual Bursary Awards to needy students in primary and secondary school and junior colleges regardless of race or religion and this benefits students from all backgrounds. Also, initiatives, such as “Water For All” and guided mosque tours for non-Muslims, are testament to Masjid Al-Istighfar’s commitment to serving the community at large and strengthening interfaith relations. YMCA organises many local and overseas community services. In 2018, they accumulated more than 90,000 hours; the local community services clocked 31,740 hours and overseas services clocked 64,840 hours. The volunteers served and impacted all members of the community, regardless of race, language or religion. And there are many more examples.”
“Just like Social Studies lessons in school, I think Culture Studies will help Singaporeans to better understand a particular culture and better communicate with people from other races. These lessons can be thought provoking as well, inspiring us to learn from one another. They can make us more considerate and understanding. When we interact with people from other religions, we should accommodate one another. The friendship and understanding among our different races in Singapore are not formed overnight. Instead, mutual trust and good relations are built over years through common experiences and interactions. These valuable social assets must be passed down to the future generations. In conclusion, MHRA must be kept up to date. Religious leaders, community leaders and Singaporeans must work together to build a united Singapore. The implementation of Culture Studies can aid this process. This goes in line with our pledge: We, the citizens of Singapore, Pledge ourselves as one united people, Regardless of race, language or religion, To build a democratic society based on justice and equality, So as to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation. (In English): Deputy Speaker, Sir, Singapore is a multiracial society. As Singaporeans, we observe that followers of different religions exercise understanding and tolerance. MRHA is the law that was enacted in 1990 to help authorities prevent friction and misunderstanding among religious groups. However, with the proliferation of social media, one with ill intention may use it to divide Singaporeans. As such, we need to keep this law up to date and I am in support of this amendment Bill. However, beyond supporting, I believe there are more can be done.”
“They have always been accommodating, which sets a key tone for social stability. For example, the Singapore Buddhist Federation seeks to promote cultural education and groom the future generation. They also founded schools, childcare centres and Buddhist youth groups. Through its bursary awards, the Federation provides various social services to needy students from different races. The Federation spares no effort in promoting religious harmony and plays an important role in maintaining Singapore's racial and religious harmony. These activities help to strengthen bonding amongst Singaporeans and build a common identity. The Al-Istighfar Mosque at Pasir Ris provides guided tours to non-Muslims and introduced an initiative called "Water For All" to benefit different races and religions, and to deepen the understanding among one another. The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) organises many local and overseas community services. In 2018, they accumulated more than 90,000 hours. The volunteers have made an impact on all members of the community, regardless of race, language or religion. There are many more such examples. Besides MHRA, we can still do more. I recommend that the Government include Culture Studies in our education curriculum. To respect and understand one another is the foundation of a united Singapore, especially because we are a multiracial, multi-religious society. Integrating Culture Studies into students' curriculum will allow students to study the similarities and the differences between different cultures, providing a platform for different races to interact with one another.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, maintaining religious harmony in Singapore. In Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Singapore is multi-religious and multiracial society. For many years, Singaporeans have witnessed different races and religions co-existing harmoniously, but we cannot take it for granted. MRHA was enacted in 1990 to lay out fundamental principles in a multi-religious society so that different religions can co-exist peacefully. According to the Act, the Government has the power to take actions against those who instigate hatred among religious groups, issue ROs and forbid them to make speeches to religious groups or distribute publications. The Act also established the PCRH which provides information and reports to the Government in relation to religious harmony matters. As time changes, ill-intended radicals can make use of the various new media to create xenophobia, and extremist groups will even stage terror attacks to stir up social unrest. What is unsettling is that terrorism is also threatening Singapore. According to statistics from MHA, the past few years have seen a rising trend of radicalisation. The Government is aware of this worrying trend and has taken more measures to prevent the problem from getting worse. Hence, I agree that MRHA must be kept up to date to safeguard Singapore's religious harmony. We must work together to maintain and strengthen our religious harmony. We have also set up the IRCCs to strengthen social cohesion and expand our contact network. MCCY set up SGSecure Community Network two years ago to support the SGSecure movement, helping IRCCs grassroots' work. Over the years, Singapore's different races and religions have been living peacefully together.”
“Eleven-year-old Chloe Chua is the junior champion of the Menuhin International Violin Competition in 2018. Fifteen-year-old Chen XinYu was admitted into the NAFA School of Young Talents at the age of six. When she turned eight years old, XinYu won nearly all the First Prizes in the National Chinese Music Competition organised by NAC. All these are our young Singaporeans, and we should continue to track their performances in the local and international arts scenes. These young budding talents are the future of our arts scenes, and we will need more of them. What does the future hold for international arts winners in Singapore? To cultivate full-time artists and retain them, we need to have a clear career pathway, leading them into a national arts flagship company after graduation. We will need the Government, such as MOE, MCCY, NAC, the universities, colleges and art groups to strengthen their core and emphasis on the importance of outstanding artistic development. The arts scene in Singapore is evolving. Not only seeking more Singaporeans to engage and participate in the arts, I urge the Government to rethink and re-offer, at the national level, how Singapore can achieve arts excellence and fly our Singapore flags high in the international scenes. Not only do we need artistes; we need to have qualified teachers, managers and directors to keep the arts scenes vibrant and to foster the sustainability of the arts sector. In conclusion, I would like to recommend that the Government upgrade and transform arts institutions, such as NAFA and Lasalle, into a full-fledged arts university, establish a robust ecosystem to develop top-notch artists, and nurture local artists to serve better in the national arts flagship companies.”
“I believe that there is a need to redefine our arts ecosystem, so as to provide a greater platform for professional artistes, artistic directors and arts managers. We do have many top-notch artists, Cultural Medallion and Young Artist Award recipients. NAFA has nurtured 13 recipients of the Cultural Medallion. Another 14 of their alumni have been presented the Young Artist Award. Also, many of their alumni have gone on to make their mark in the professional arts scene in Singapore and abroad. Lasalle, too, has her fair share of Cultural Medallion recipients. Perhaps we could recognise our Cultural Medallion recipients more during National Arts events, and work closely with the different National Arts Flagship Companies to groom and identify younger talents, then pass on the knowledge from one generation to the next. Many of them started their music journey since young. They were nurtured by dedicated teachers and supportive parents. We will need to establish a robust ecosystem to develop top-notch artists and management, who are equipped with strategic and critical thinking to groom and nurture the next generation of artists. In achieving excellence, clear career pathways, programmes and platforms need to be in place, also leading them to join national arts flagship companies. This ecosystem needs to be sustained. Lastly, young Singaporeans in the arts scenes and future international award winners. In fact, we do already have young talented individuals in the arts scenes. Wong Kah Chun was the first Asian to win the prestigious international Gustav Mahler Conducting Competition in 2016. Violinist Kam Ning has gone on to perform all over the world, both as soloist and chamber musician. She was the Second Prize winner at the Queen Elizabeth Competition in 2001.”
“These are already reputable institutions. However, more can be achieved. For instance, as the first pre-tertiary arts school in Singapore, SOTA's programme allows students to take one arts subject, in addition to the usual academic subjects taught in mainstream schools. At the end of their six-year programme, students graduate with an International Baccalaureate diploma. However, it was reported in May 2017 that only three in 10 SOTA graduating students went on to pursue arts-related university courses. An article then raised questions about the effectiveness of SOTA's programmes in preparing students for a career in the arts. As an aspiring Arts Nation, I believe that we should have our own Arts University. By transforming or upgrading our arts academies, this will draw local and overseas talents into enrolling into these institutions. At present, we do partner prestigious universities overseas, send our students overseas on exchange programmes to broaden their horizon. All these are important. Competitive benchmarking is ambitious and it will help one to grow and learn more about their competitors. We have to nurture local talents. Thus, these efforts will help create vibrancy in the arts scene, heighten motivation amongst the arts practitioners and, in the process, spark off friendly contests to achieve excellence. I urge the Government to explore the possibilities of transforming our arts academies like NAFA and Lasalle into a full-fledged Arts University. Two, establish a robust ecosystem to develop top-notch artists. Singaporeans can be proud of our artists and arts groups winning international awards and being featured at leading arts venues and festivals around the world.”
“The award structure revamp was put in place by MOE to emphasise enjoyment of the arts rather than the pursuit of awards. This has provided access and opportunity, increasing the participation rates in performing arts. For students who are more talented and seek deeper engagement in arts, there is the Artist-In-School Scheme. This scheme supports sustained partnerships between Singapore Arts Professionals, such as musicians, dancers and writers, to co-develop customised arts experiences that deepen students' engagement in and through the arts. The arts can play a significant role in culture-building, community life and city planning. As society becomes more diverse, the arts can help deepen understanding and bridge differences across communities. I believe that artistic excellence and creating access and opportunities to arts for the masses are two different tracks. Therefore, I have three recommendations. One, explore the possibilities of transforming our arts academies into a full-fledged Arts University. The arts must energise and excite Singaporeans, bring people together and reflect what Singapore represents to a global community. In Our SG Arts Plan, one of our key strategic thrusts was "Singaporeans are empowered to create, present and appreciate excellent art". But where will our creators of excellent art come from? In pursuit of access and opportunities to arts, we should not forget we ought to reach the pinnacle of excellence. In order to groom our own local pool of artists and talents, we ought to have reputable arts institutions. We already have the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at NUS, founded in 2003; the arts institutions Laselle College of the Arts founded in 1986, NAFA established in 1938, and SOTA founded in 2008.”
“It has been heartening to observe agencies from different sectors across the Government, arts and cultural companies and enterprises coming together to introduce a series of arts and culture programmes for Singaporeans of all ages. As we focus on creating access and opportunities to arts of different forms and also engaging in a deeper and more sustained appreciation of arts, I believe that we should all come together to achieve artistic excellence that inspires. The arts have always played an important role in defining our nation’s cultural identity in Singapore. The arts bring diverse communities together. The arts scene has been thriving as artists chart professional careers and arts groups grow in strength. And the SG Arts plan maps the NAC's priorities over the next five years to bring Singapore’s arts development to new heights. Our arts community has also achieved significant success with distinctive works that have resonated with audiences both locally and overseas. These are in pursuit of arts excellence. And these local talents are our nation’s pride and define our nation's distinctive identity. In schools, our students are exposed to arts programmes as part of their holistic education. Be it music lessons or aesthetics lessons, these are part of a student's curriculum. Also, the NAC's Arts Education Programme provides all students with access to quality arts education experiences. In terms of co-curricular activities (CCAs), students can choose the Arts CCAs, where they have opportunities to take part in the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Presentation as well as the annual SYF Celebrations. In 2012, the SYF Central Judging was rebranded as a SYF Arts Presentation.”
“I suggest that the Government could consider upgrading NAFA and the Laselle College of the Arts into a full-fledged arts university. This will enable the arts students to further their arts study at the tertiary level in Singapore and be recognised. Next, while promoting arts, we should constantly seek new heights. How can we groom future professional artists for our flagship national arts groups? For these arts professionals, we need to provide them with a more flexible learning framework and environment, and a specialised career path. After graduation, they will be able to work at our national arts flagship companies. With a steady supply of professional artists, arts managers and researchers, our local arts ecosystem will be greatly improved. Thirty-two-year-old Wong Kah Chun won a gold award at the 5th Gustav Mahler Conducting Competition. In 2018, 11-year-old Chloe Chua won the junior champion of the Menuhin International Violin Competition. Recently, 16-year-old Lu Jie Ling won "the Singapore Champion" at the Singapore International Ballet Competition. Their talents were developed and recognised at international arts scenes. Singapore has the ability to groom these arts talents, and we need to create more such future award winners. The Government, the Ministry of Education (MOE), the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), schools and arts groups need to attach importance to developing the ecosystem for arts excellence. While urging more Singaporeans to attend arts activities, we should also rethink and explore how we can develop arts excellence. We should not only let arts be down-to-earth but also let Singapore artists and art works shine at the international stage! (In English): In English, please.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, achieving arts excellence in Singapore. In Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin) [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.]: Achieving arts excellence in Singapore. In recent years, the Government, arts companies and enterprises have been working together to organise many arts and cultural activities for people of different ages and background. I think that beyond introducing and promoting arts, we should work towards achieving arts excellence. Besides growing our local arts audience and arts lovers, we need to groom more top-notch arts professionals, so that the entire arts scene can be more vibrant and diversified! Arts play an important role in defining our national cultural identity. Growing the local arts audience is one of the priorities in the National Arts Council's (NAC's) SG Arts Plan. From Independence to now, our arts and culture scene has been developing very fast, and arts promotion has also achieved marked results. In our schools, besides knowledge and skills, allowing students to access arts through art classes is part of our holistic education to fully develop their character. Arts can stimulate curiosity and creativity in our students. For students who are more talented, we need to provide them with a more professional training platform so that, one day, they can become one of the world’s top artists. In order to groom our own local artists and talents, we should develop and have our own arts university. Currently, there are several well-resourced arts schools that provide good quality arts education, such as the School of the Arts (SOTA), the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Laselle and Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at the National University of Singapore (NUS).”
“To create unique and forward-looking works in a multicultural society, we must think about and work towards tapping on our strength of "harmony in diversity" and endearing arts to the public. Third, as society matures and the populace becomes more educated, I hope the Government can increase the communication and be more transparent when making sensitive decisions, so that people can have a deeper understanding. Hold dialogues if necessary. I hope the Government can realise that art performances and production need a wider space for imagination to fully represent the essence and diversity of their content. Arts groups and artistes must build a high level of cultural confidence, cultural awareness and cultural responsibility, with the prerequisite of ensuring national harmony and safety. Arts and culture can be a centripetal force, allowing people from the different ethnic communities to work together to build a uniquely Singapore multicultural society so that Singapore can become an endearing and liveable home for everyone! (In English): Artistes and arts groups can make arts as an integral part of everyone's everyday life, bringing together people of different races, religions and backgrounds, and creating a shared understanding across our various communities. As we say, "We cannot touch music, but music can touch you." I hope the artistic expression and imagination created by our artistes and arts groups can bring people together as a nation, uplifting our spirits.”
“(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Making Arts and Culture for Harmony. Singapore's racial harmony did not come easy. Cultural diversity is our valuable spiritual wealth. A Zaobao report on 24 March 2019 pointed out aptly that "by seeking agreement while shelving differences, Singapore uses the advantage of a multicultural society to draw on one another's strengths and build resilience among its citizens, so that it can face challenges brought about by an increasingly polarised world, with confidence." Arts and culture play an important role in social cohesion by allowing communities of different races, backgrounds, religions and languages to have a common space to continue, combine and create valuable works based on their ethnic culture. Different ethnic groups have different cultural identities; we must first respect and understand one another before we can reach consensus in values. Hence, I have three points to make in this area. First, I hope that Government Ministries and public agencies can coordinate and communicate better. Before performance licences are granted, agencies must do in-depth studies and consult professional opinions. Agencies should also conduct more dialogues to understand from the organiser the content and nature of the performance. We must work together to avoid last-minute cancellations because this will lead to mistrust in the relevant agency and people will question its authority. I hope the relevant agencies can make it clear what is allowed and what is prohibited, so that more arts companies can have a better understanding and take proactive measures when planning their future performances. Second, we need more space for creative expression and challenge the boundaries so that arts can flourish and sublime.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, let me first start by saying it is clear we must manage hate speech and curb messages that can damage our social fabric. The multicultural diversity in Singapore is something precious we need to protect. Music that promotes hate against one group and potentially divides society need to be tightly regulated. I have three points to make. One, as someone leading an arts company that presents concerts here and overseas, I would like to make a suggestion that the agencies responsible for licensing content coordinate better. Decisions made must be communicated earlier, so that show organisers can make the necessary plans without incurring unnecessary expenses. Last-minute changes of decisions are also not ideal and should be kept to a minimum. Two, while we make sure that we regulate hate speech and protect our social fabric, we also need to make sure that we do not end up reducing the space for creative expression and imagination. Creative expression does need space to flourish and a willingness to challenge boundaries. While we must be responsible for what we say or do in the public arena, we also need to understand creative expressions often should not be taken literally. Three, as society matures and the populace becomes more educated, I hope the Government can continue to focus on helping citizens make informed decisions and appreciating the diversity of creative expressions. In the sphere of arts, culture and entertainment, there will always be a diversity of world views and values represented. I trust my fellow citizens. I am sure Singaporeans want to keep the diversity of choices they now have, even as we shield the vulnerable and the young from hateful and divisive messages. In Mandarin, please.”
“They can play an instrumental role in expanding Singapore’s cultural soft power to increase our presence and space. Could the Minister please provide us with an update on what are we doing on this front? ASEAN Unity”
“On this note, I would like to highlight that our arts and culture groups have been flying our flag overseas proud and high! Sri Warisan Som Said Performing Arts, founded by Cultural Medallion recipient Mdm Som Said, will be performing at our National Day celebrations in Melbourne; the Theatre Practice is going to bring Liao Zhai Rocks! to the Shanghai Culture Square this March as part of their music season; Ding Yi Music Company is going to the China ASEAN Music Festival in May, too! The SCO is also heading to Europe on our international tour this year. This is in line with the National Arts Council's SG Arts Plan, where we aspire to position Singapore globally, where arts and culture icons and works are appreciated by audiences at home and abroad. Our rich cultural heritage and history should also be actively profiled. Through arts, cultural diplomacy, Singapore can project global influence and enhance relations with our foreign partners. Singapore’s rich and diverse multicultural heritage is one of the defining traits of our country and of our identity as Singaporeans. It can also help foster unity, pride and cohesion among our people as it reminds us of our links to society, as well as to the region and the world. Cultural diplomacy, which profiles these similarities, as well as our uniqueness, can help to broaden and deepen our bilateral relations with other countries at the people-to-people level. It makes for deeper and more direct relationships with our friends in the region. This helps to strengthen our networks with our foreign partners, and Singapore's position as a valuable collaborative partner in the region. Mr Chairman, we are, after all, a small country and must allocate our resources well, yet also have an effective network with our overseas missions.”
“Mr Chairman, cultural diplomacy. In Mandarin first. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Arts and culture can become Singapore's soft power to open windows of the world. With the support from the Government, enterprises and various funds, the Singapore arts and culture brand has formed its unique style in the international arena. Arts and culture play a very important role in diplomacy among countries. Local arts groups, such as Theatre Practice, the Siong Leng Musical Association, the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO), Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Singapore Dance Theatre, have all been invited or sent to perform at renowned international arts festivals on many occasions. Going forward, I hope more local arts groups can be invited to perform overseas through strategic MOUs signed between our Government and other countries. I hope this kind of performances can be sustained, so that it can improve the standard of our arts and cultural groups which may one day match that of top overseas arts groups. (In English): In today’s uncertain geopolitical landscape, where aggressive and hard strategies may do more harm than good, soft power is key for small countries like Singapore, where it is even more important to rely on our positive attraction and persuasion to increase relevance to the international community, gaining support for our agenda. Soft power is a critical foreign policy tool, and I think we can do more to leverage our soft power, especially through arts and culture. Singapore is a harmonious society with a rich and diverse multicultural heritage. Establishing Singapore as a cultural presence in the region can add another dimension to our bilateral accounts.”
“Local arts group Finger Players will be presenting in March this year an inclusive performance to audiences with disabilities through the usage of close captioning and audio description. I firmly believe that the use of technology can not only improve efficiency in commercial field but also serve communities from different backgrounds better. We can do more for the vulnerable by the use of technology. This will bring arts and culture closer to people and allow people with different backgrounds to have a chance to come into contact with the arts. Lastly, I hope the Government, arts groups, IHLs, tech companies and researchers can work together or even start a research foundation to promote digital innovation in the arts and culture scene. The concurrent development of the arts and culture in the digital age can enrich the soul of the nation and make Singapore more efficient. Budget 2019 will lead us into the future and build a strong and united Singapore together. I support Budget 2019.”
“To lead in the future, Singapore must innovate, develop and cultivate more tech talent so that we can face the challenges of this fast-changing digital world. The Government will also equip small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with capabilities to stay relevant and go towards digitalisation and automation. As Singapore moves towards high-end technology development, arts and culture can play an important role in showcasing our inner world and are closely tied to our social life. Various digital arts developments will not only provide people with rich mental nourishment but also allow arts and culture to captivate the public through more advanced technology and multiple channels. This can be an effective tool to popularise and elevate arts and culture. Digital technology has also spurred many artists to achieve breakthroughs into a new world, allowing them to create more influential works of art. In this era of technology innovation, local arts groups are sparing no efforts to create surprises using digital technology. The use of digital technology has made their shows and performances more attractive. The National Museum has introduced the Digimuse initiative to enhance visitor experience by combining technology with arts and has attracted close to 90,000 visitors. The Singapore Chinese Orchestra and Zaobao.sg launched the first digital Chinese orchestra concert in the world in 2017 so that audiences around the world can all enjoy the music from the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. The 2019 International Arts Festival incorporated new technology elements into the stage setting which has not only increased the interactions between performers and audiences but also created a new narrative.”