How can Traditional Architecture Contribute to the Cultural Identity for Singaporeans: Communication and Information Literacy Assignment, NTU, Singapore

Assignment Question:

How can traditional architecture contribute to the cultural identity of Singaporeans?

1. INTRODUCTION

Founded in 1819 as a British trading settlement, Singapore incorporated settlers from several countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. Singapore customized to their beliefs and has buildings that represent cultural and religious structures over time to support their different customs. Cultural distinctiveness has been infused in traditional architecture buildings and has a crucial role in contributing to the culture’s identity in Singapore. The traditional architectures in Singapore provide the stories of the past and growth, awareness of various cultural establishments in Singapore, and it makes a global impact on our culture setting in Singapore.

2. DISCUSSION

2.1 Exhibiting stories of the past and growth

The key finding is that by sustaining traditional architectures, exhibiting the stories of the past as a reminder of growth and eminence of Singapore’s success. “More arts belts were established along Chinatown and Little India to inject vibrancy to the cultural districts and enable exchanges and interactions between artist tenants.” This cultural district exemplifies the cultural wealth, diversity, and legacies of Singaporeans. Therefore, contributing to cultural identity for Singaporeans.

2.2 Awareness of various cultural establishments

With the growing community in Singapore, traditional buildings have been a way to educate the population of the establishment that Singapore has. For example, “esplanade provides year-round performance in music, dance theatre, and visual art. Seven in ten shows are free, allowing everyone to enjoy. A cultural festival such as Huayi, Pesta Raya, and Kalaa Utsavam is also timed to coincide with key cultural celebrations.”This performance or celebration gathers the various races of Singaporeans to further appreciate and better knowledge of their own and different cultural identities by watching the shows presented.

2.3 Global impact on our culture setting

Under the 2015 Martin Prosperity Institute Global Creativity Index, Singapore was ranked ninth out of 139 nations worldwide for the most creative country. Based on that, traditional architecture implements on the rich history and cultures in Singapore and serves as a state’s realistic vision of joining the growth in the global sector. For example, “The shophouse, one of Singapore’s architectural icons, reflects the country’s multicultural heritage and is influenced by architectural styles from around the world.” The shophouses mainly dwell upon the Peranakan or Chinese culture, and there are still shophouses in Singapore which used as homes and outlets selling various items. It brings about the milestones of years this traditional building has a part playing in upholding the cultural identity in Singaporeans. 

3. CONCLUSION

Traditional architectures promote cultural identity as it creates opportunities for the upcoming generations to get more extensive knowledge and live experience of the heritage. They also serve as a recognition in the eyes outside of Singapore’s cultural aspects. Traditional structures hold many memories for the young and old, and it is essential to support these heritages as it promotes Singaporean identity.