TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Museum of Singapore is one of the country’s oldest museums. With a rich history and several renovations over the years, it continues to offer visitors a glimpse into Singapore’s past.
The Oldest Museum in Singapore
According to TimeOut, the building initially served as Raffles Library and Museum. Established in 1849, it was a hub for knowledge and the preservation of historical artifacts. The architecture, reflecting British colonial neo-classical style, remains iconic and representative of the colonial era.
As the collection grew and more space was needed, the library was transformed into a museum with neo-Palladian architecture, opening its doors in 1887. Originally called Raffles Museum, it housed zoological specimens from the Malay Peninsula.
In 1960, the museum's name was changed to the National Museum, and after a renovation in 2006, it became known as the National Museum of Singapore.
The Museum's Current Collections
After the zoological specimens were moved to the Zoology Department at the University of Singapore (now the National University of Singapore) in 1972, the museum refocused on history, culture, and art.
Its permanent collection includes the exhibition A Voyage of Love and Longing, which highlights William Farquhar’s historical natural images of 19th-century voyages in the Malay Archipelago. The museum also showcases the Singapore History Gallery, which covers the nation’s history from the 14th century to the present day.
Visitors can also explore the Glass Rotunda, surrounded by the natural trees of Fort Canning, where an immersive installation brings 69 of Farquhar's images to life with 3D animation. The main gallery displays numerous historical artifacts and films, with a seven-hour audio narration accompanying the experience.
Visiting the National Museum of Singapore
The museum is located at 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897. Visitors using the MRT can get off at nearby stations: Bras Basah, Dhoby Ghaut, or City Hall. The entry fee for foreign tourists is S$10 (approximately Rp127,400).
Special discounts are available for students or visitors over 60, offering half-price tickets. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 07:00 PM locak time, with the last registration 30 minutes before closing. For more details, visit the National Museum of Singapore’s official website.
Muhammad Rifan Prianto contributed to the writing of this article.
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