National Day Rally 2014: New centre to promote 'Nanyang' style Chinese culture

Members of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) performing at Singapore Sports Hub on 28 June 2014. The republic has developed its own "Nanyang" style of Chinese culture and a new centre will promote it, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his sp
Members of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) performing at Singapore Sports Hub on 28 June 2014. The republic has developed its own "Nanyang" style of Chinese culture and a new centre will promote it, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his speech in Mandarin on Sunday. -- ST PHOTO: DESMOND WEE 

SINGAPORE - The Republic has developed its own "Nanyang" style of Chinese culture and a new centre will promote it, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his National Day Rally speech in Mandarin on Sunday.

The new Singapore Chinese Culture Centre in Shenton Way will also promote traditional and modern Chinese culture and enjoy the Government's backing.

Calling the project a deeply meaningful and far-reaching one for the Chinese community here, he urged supporters of Chinese culture to partner the new centre.

He also highlighted works by Singapore's Chinese dance troupes which incorporate elements from other cultures, and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) as examples of the Nanyang style.

He said Singapore-style dance performances are well received overseas and the SCO has become a multi-cultural Chinese orchestra. " While using traditional Chinese music instruments, they have made their mark with performances in 'Nanyang' style," he added.

He also made the point that a shared cultural heritage is one reason why Singapore businesses have generally done well in China.

"Singaporean Chinese share a similar cultural background, are bilingual and can integrate in Chinese society more quickly," he said.

"This gives us some advantage, (and) to take advantage of this opportunity, we need to help our young understand their culture better, help them connect internationally, while ensuring they remain rooted to Singapore and our culture," he added.

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