The biennial Singapore Prize recognizes books written in Singapore’s four official languages – Chinese, English, Malay and Tamil. With 49 titles competing across multiple categories this year – fiction, non-fiction and poetry all competing – this competition saw one top prize for fiction, non-fiction and poetry this time. A four-member panel, led by National University of Singapore East Asian Institute professor Wang Gungwu selected John Miksic’s book “Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800” as this year’s history category winner – its narrative spans excavations conducted from 1984 through 2013.
On his visit to Singapore, the heir to the British throne walked along a green carpet at Changi Airport to meet with Singaporeans to see how they are working to preserve and restore our planet. He visited Rain Vortex – the world’s highest indoor waterfall – before meeting wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin to learn about his efforts in protecting against illegal trade of wild animals which is estimated at $20 billion each year.
He met with representatives of law enforcement agencies and businesses working collaboratively against illegal wildlife trade, tried his luck at dragon boating and attended lunch with Singapore entrepreneurs who are pushing boundaries of science and technology in Singapore.
Malaysian Minister of Education Anita Lee attended the event and noted that “this visit marks an important step toward strengthening ties between Malaysia and Singapore in areas like innovation and talent development. We look forward to further expanding this relationship.”
Singapore Prize 2023 took place at Ritz-Carlton-Millenia Hotel and brought together individuals who have distinguished themselves within various niche sectors to honor uniqueness while striving to be better through creativity. The aim was to strengthen links between entrepreneurs and Singapore government agencies as well as promote Singapore as an innovative, globally competitive hub.
In addition, the HOFS Awards 2023 aim to recognize exceptional entrepreneurs renowned for their visionary leadership and business acumen who continue to transform communities worldwide.
The winning book in this competition will demonstrate its relevance and impact for Singapore in the global marketplace, following its theme – The Best of Asia Now and Beyond”.
To be considered for the Book Prize, books published by Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents author(s), either in print form or as E-books must have significant Singapore elements in its narrative and meet international standards of quality. Books previously submitted will no longer be eligible unless revised and updated versions have been uploaded as revised versions; winners will be announced at an award ceremony held on 6 April.