The best heritage centres in Singapore

Located at the historic Istana Kampong Gelam, this museum traces the history of the Malay community from the days of the earliest settlers and the sea-faring might of the Bugis villagers to the golden years of the Malay entertainment industry. The Centre is a vital heritage institution for the Malay community in Singapore. It features six permanent sub-galleries spread over two levels, including the history of Kampong Gelam and contributions made by various Malay pioneers. 

The Indian Heritage Centre is the first in South-east Asia dedicated to the Indian community's diverse heritage. With a glowing glass façade inspired by step-wells that are commonly found in South Asia, the centre has a wealth of artefacts that are dotted around five galleries – including jewellery, stone sculptures, costumes, wood carvings and vintage suitcases used by Indian immigrants. They document and explore the history and culture of Indians, especially in relation to Singapore, all the way from the 1st century to the present day.

In the 19th century, Kreta Ayer was a settlement for early Chinese immigrants. It became famous for the vibrant cultural arts scene that emerged as a result of the Chinese opera troupes and art and music associations that took root there. Now, the district is the heart of modern-day Chinatown

Co-curated by NHB and the Kreta Ayer Community Club (CC), the 100sqm Kreta Ayer Heritage Gallery serves as a platform to showcase the rich history of the Kreta Ayer and Chinatown areas. It features a new interactive heritage gallery led by students from Anderson Secondary School and Gan Eng Seng School. The gallery displays objects, photographs and personal effects contributed by intangible cultural heritage practitioners and former residences.

Here’s a building that stands as a proud reminder of Chinatown’s storied past. Located within three beautifully-restored shophouses on Pagoda Street, the Chinatown Heritage Centre has recreated the original interiors of its shophouse tenants in the 1950s, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of Chinatown's early residents.

Heightening the experience are ambient soundscapes and audio conversations that evoke the buzz of those bygone days. Visitors can trace the footsteps of Singapore's early pioneers and discover the personal stories of those who made Chinatown home.

The newly upgraded Eurasian Heritage Gallery gives an insight into the lives of the Eurasian community in Singapore. Located in the Eurasian Community House in the heart of Katong, the gallery showcases the community's most prominent personalities, the history of Eurasians in Singapore, and its culture – which includes weddings, traditional outfits, and cuisine, among others.