Celebrating Cultural Heritage: Singapore Honors Guardians of Tradition

In a vibrant tribute to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Singapore’s multicultural identity, five individuals and businesses were recently recognized for their dedication to preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage. On April 2, 2025, the National Heritage Board (NHB) presented the Stewards of Intangible Cultural Heritage Award to a rangoli artist, a Chinese tea master, a Malay drum maker, a Peranakan jeweler, and a Teochew pastry shop. The ceremony, held at the National Gallery Singapore, underscored the city-state’s commitment to safeguarding its diverse cultural practices for future generations.

A Canvas on the Floor: The Art of Rangoli

Among the recipients was Madam Vijayalakshmi Mohan, a 66-year-old rangoli artist whose intricate designs have adorned doorsteps and public spaces in Singapore for decades. Rangoli, a 5,000-year-old Indian folk art, involves creating symmetrical and geometrical patterns on the floor using materials like colored rice powder or marble dust. Traditionally, these ephemeral designs last only a day or two, symbolizing renewal and auspiciousness. Madam Vijayalakshmi, who learned the craft from her mother in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, has dedicated her life to sharing this art form since moving to Singapore in 1992.

“In South India, we do a white-colored design called ‘kolam’, and we do patterns based on mathematical principles and geometrical designs” she explained. Her journey in Singapore began with a memorable, if windy, debut at a rangoli competition in 1993, where her depiction of the Hindu god Ganesha was blown away before judging. Despite the setback, she persevered, later co-founding Singa Rangoli with her husband in 2015. Her company innovates by using contemporary materials like CDs and pistachio shells, making the art accessible to all. “I feel that the recognition that comes with this award can tell the youth that they, too, can be involved and try to learn the art” she said.

Brewing Connections: The Legacy of Chinese Tea

Another awardee, Mr. Kenry Peh, represents the fourth generation of tea masters at Pek Sin Choon, a family-run Chinese tea shop established in 1925. Based in Chinatown, the 55-year-old samples over 100 cups of tea daily to perfect blends that supply 80 percent of Singapore’s bak kut teh eateries with the distinctive Nanyang tea. With over 100 varieties, including “da hong pao” and aged “pu erh”, sourced from China, Taiwan, and Indonesia, his shop is a treasure trove of flavors and traditions.

“To us, tea is not just about the flavor or fragrance; it is more than a beverage. It is about people coming together and interacting with each other over a cup of tea” Mr. Peh reflected. Having started helping at the shop as a preschooler, he took over at 29 and now conducts tea appreciation workshops to spread this cultural practice. Grateful for the NHB recognition, he hopes to further share Singapore’s tea story with the world.

Beating a New Rhythm: Reviving Malay Drums

Mr. Mohamed Yaziz Mohamed Hassan, co-founder of Nadi Singapura, was honored for his innovative approach to Malay drumming. The 50-year-old has spent decades teaching younger generations not only how to play traditional instruments like the “kompang” and “rebana”, often seen at Malay weddings, but also how to make and repair them. His ensemble, started in 2011, transforms static drumming into dynamic performances with rhythmic movements and singing, aiming to make the art form appealing to youth.

“Many drummers in Singapore are Malay, but they do not want to hold a Malay drum because they think it is not cool” he noted. By incorporating modern materials and tuning mechanisms, Mr. Yaziz has modernized these instruments while preserving their cultural essence. His workshops in schools and public spaces ensure the skills are passed on. “This award is not only for me, but also for the Malay traditional drummers and for the future generations who want to be a part of this scene” he added.

A Shared Legacy

The other recipients, Peranakan-style jeweler Thomis Kwan and Teochew pastry shop Thye Moh Chan, similarly embody the spirit of cultural preservation through their crafts. Each awardee received a $5,000 cash prize (approximately US$3,750 as of April 2025) and eligibility for a project grant of up to $20,000 (approximately US$15,000) to further their work. They will also showcase their heritage at NHB festivals and programs, amplifying their reach.

Since its launch in 2019, the NHB award has recognized 22 individuals and organizations across five cohorts, reflecting Singapore’s dedication to its intangible cultural heritage. These traditions—ranging from art and music to food and craftsmanship—form the invisible threads that connect communities in a rapidly modernizing society. As Madam Vijayalakshmi, Mr. Peh, and Mr. Yaziz continue their work, their stories inspire a renewed appreciation for the past, inviting all to participate in keeping these legacies alive.