The Founders’ Memorial will cost an estimated S$335 million to develop, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong revealed on 9 September 2024, in a written reply to a parliamentary question. Sengkang GRC Member of Parliament Louis Chua, from the Workers’ Party (WP), had inquired about the total expected costs of developing the memorial, which is slated to open at the end of 2028, as well as its annual operating costs.
Background
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong stated in June 2024 that Singapore’s journey as a nation deserves to be “commemorated and remembered.” He noted that while there are already memorials like the Kranji War Memorial and the Civilian War Memorial to mark significant events in the country’s past, there is no memorial to tell the story of how Singapore became what it is today and what drove its founding leaders. The Singapore government accepted a recommendation by a 15-member Founders’ Memorial committee in August 2017, following two years of outreach to more than 32,000 people, and chose the site at Gardens By The Bay.
Development costs and features
Minister Edwin Tong elaborated that the Founders’ Memorial will be an integrated gallery and gardens experience at Bay East, commemorating the values and ideals exemplified by Singapore’s founding leaders and generation. “When it opens in end-2028, the memorial will serve as a space to capture the spirit of our nation and unify Singaporeans, by enabling Singaporeans of different generations to reflect on our past, and be inspired for the future,” Tong said. The estimated S$335 million cost encompasses building construction and fit-out costs for the exhibition galleries, viewing gallery, outdoor amphitheatre, education and family spaces, amenities, and a 5-hectare outdoor public garden. The annual operating cost is still being worked out in tandem with the development of operational plans.
Significance and public engagement
The Founders’ Memorial committee was formed to conceptualise a memorial for Singapore’s founding fathers and to gauge public opinion on the idea. The committee’s outreach to over 32,000 people indicated strong support for the project. The memorial aims to serve as a unifying space where Singaporeans can reflect on the nation’s past and draw inspiration for the future.
Future implications
The Founders’ Memorial is expected to become a significant landmark in Singapore, contributing to the country’s cultural and historical landscape. It will provide a dedicated space for Singaporeans to learn about and honour the contributions of the nation’s founding leaders. The memorial’s development and subsequent operation will likely involve ongoing community engagement and educational initiatives to ensure its relevance and impact for future generations.
