In 2019, 54 contributors respond to the prompt, “Narratives, Undiscovered and Underway”, and reflect on the narratives of their lives: the stories that define them, their communities, the causes they champion, and Singapore’s collective future.
54 essays in various formats examining both established and hidden narratives about Singapore: those already under way as well as those under-explored and emerging.
In 2018, 53 contributors reflect on “The Roads We Take” – the paths they have chosen to take in their lives.
More than just personal stories, these essays highlight the importance of resilience and the evolution of the political and social landscape in Singapore. The book compels readers to think of the complexity of the future roads we must take, as individuals, as a nation – because in sunny Singapore, no one road stays forever.
This edition presents 52 responses to “What Should We Never Forget?”
The contributors have drawn from personal encounters, academic and professional experiences, and cornerstone values in their lives. Read their stories for a glimpse of our nation’s spirit—mortal, vulnerable, restless, resilient, and aspirational.
What’s your response?
“What is Singapore’s Next Big Thing?” An intellectual salvo from young and passionate Singaporeans inhabiting different slices of Singapore society, The Birthday Book is a collection of 51 essays presented as a birthday gift to the nation and its people.
Each year, a number of writers corresponding to the nation’s birthday write in response to a given prompt.
“Perhaps that is the next big thing — getting many more people involved in thinking about our country and what it can become, and then working together to make it happen!”
Heads the strategic planning department at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore and together with a team, is building the futures research and teaching capabilities at the School with the “Future Ready Singapore” project.
