Local sporting, public transport history in spotlight at this year’s Singapore Heritage Fest

Apart from learning more about iconic sporting landmarks such as Katong Pool and Jalan Besar Stadium, festival-goers can also try out some sports, such as Silat, Indian martial art Silambam, and parasports like goalball and para-canoe.

Silambam has been practised in Singapore since the 1950s, but nearly died out in the 2000s, until The Kalari Academy was formed to start teaching the sport to more people.

Ms Vedagiri G, artistic director of The Kalari Academy, said: “We hope to revive it and bring it back for the youth of today (and) to bring it forward as well. So we really hope that this platform will invite people to be more aware about the existence of this art, hereon.”

MAKING HERITAGE MORE RELEVANT

There will also be a “Homeground” installation at the National Museum of Singapore, with works featuring elements of 10 NHB heritage trails through different neighbourhoods, along with storytelling sessions, craft activities and quizzes.

By featuring everyday objects and activities, the festival hopes that visitors can connect with these aspects of the country’s heritage.