Forum: Don’t forget human touch as SG60 exhibitions go digital
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I recently attended the SG60 exhibition at the Orchard Library. While I appreciate the initiative to celebrate Singapore’s 60 years of progress, I would like to share some sincere feedback and suggestions for improvement.
The exhibition showcased various decades mainly through digital screens and fashion displays. However, it felt somewhat superficial.
The visuals of clothing and passing images did not truly convey the life, struggles or spirit of the people of those times.
It lacked the human stories that make history meaningful.
The experience was largely self-guided. Although staff were present, they mainly assisted visitors with handling the devices.
A guided explanation or some personal interaction would have greatly enhanced the experience.
The use of digital avatars and devices seemed unnecessary, especially for older visitors who might find such technology confusing or not relatable.
In recent years, digital exhibitions seem to have become a trend – appearing everywhere, including during National Day celebrations at various venues.
To be honest, these digital showcases are becoming rather repetitive and, for many visitors, quite boring. They often feel detached from real life and fail to engage the heart or imagination.
One also wonders who funds these exhibitions – whether they are government-funded, sponsored, or supported through public money – because many of them do not seem to offer much meaningful value in return. It feels like the money could have been channelled towards more genuine, community-oriented initiatives.
Singapore’s 60-year journey deserves a more heartfelt and people-centred celebration.
It would be far more enriching to include seniors sharing their memories or recordings of pioneer voices describing how they lived through each decade.
Such personal touches would make the exhibition authentic and emotionally engaging.
Furthermore, I feel that the funds allocated to these digital projects could be better directed towards social causes, particularly those benefiting the elderly, the poor and the underprivileged.
Singapore urgently needs more good-quality senior homes, where our seniors can spend their later years in peace and dignity.
Commemorations should reflect not only our national pride, but also our compassion and priorities as a society.
I hope this feedback will be received in the spirit of care and improvement. SG60 is a meaningful milestone, and, with greater emphasis on real stories and community welfare, it can truly honour Singapore’s past and future generations.
Shamim Moledina
