Parliament: People with disabilities and their caregivers to get free entry to special exhibitions at museums

From June 1, people with disabilities and their caregivers to get free entry to special exhibitions at museums. PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR FOR THE STRAITS TIMES

SINGAPORE - Singaporeans and permanent residents with disabilities, as well as their caregivers, will be granted free entry to special exhibitions at the National Heritage Board's (NHB) eight museums and institutions, from June 1.

The free entry applies to upcoming special showcases such as the Asian Civilisations Museum's Christianity in Asia: Sacred Art and Visual Splendour, and the Peranakan Museum's Nyonya Beadwork and Embroidery: Craft and Heritage.

They will be given concession rates when visiting special exhibitions at public museums such as the National Gallery Singapore and Singapore Art Museum.

This was announced by Ms Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, in Parliament during the Committee of Supply debate on Thursday (April 14). She said NHB will continue to have consultations "on how it can further

improve the visitor experience for persons with disabilities".

The free admission applies to the first caregiver - regardless of nationality - who is accompanying a Singaporean or permanent

resident, or foreigner with disabilities.

Concession rates for special exhibitions also apply to foreigners with disabilities across public museums.

Since 2013, entry to permanent exhibitions at all public museums and institutions has been free for all Singaporeans and permanent residents.

However, entry to special exhibitions has been free only for students, seniors, full-time national servicemen and teachers.

Mr Abhimanyau Pal, executive director of voluntary welfare organisation SPD, formerly known as the Society for the Physically Disabled, welcomed the move.

He said: "We hope more organisations will extend such benefits to provide activities and venues to further encourage families to venture out to bond with their loved ones with special needs."

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