Singapore Discovery Centre

The Singapore Discovery Centre (Abbreviation: SDC; Chinese: 新加坡知新馆) is a venue which showcases various aspects of Singapore's history as well as current and future technology. It claims to tell the "Singapore Story". [Singapore Discovery Centre press release, [http://www.sdc.com.sg/pressrelease/Press%20Release%20-%20Official%20Opening%20v1%20_2_.pdf New S’pore Discovery Centre reopens after $25 million Makeover] , 18 Jul 2006.]

History

Singapore Discovery Centre was officially opened by then-President Ong Teng Cheong on 23 November 1996. It was originally intended to showcase the history of the Singapore Armed Forces, and the $70 million for the original construction was approved by the Ministry of Defence.

Exhibits

The military roots can be clearly seen in the early exhibits, which included many aspects of the SAF, such as the weapons and equipment used in the past, present, and future ideas; a journey of a National Serviceman from the ranks of recruit, through Officer Cadet School at the adjacent SAFTI MI, to commissioning as a Second Lieutenant. There was even a shooting gallery based on the Individual Marksmanship Trainer used by the SAF to train soldiers.

In its first phase it developed in a story telling interactive experience showing Singapore's recent history - living under the flags of Britain, Japan, Britain, Malaysia before becoming an independent nation. Milestones in that journey were picked out in a theatrical setting.'Singapore Today' showed the vibrant life in late 20th century Singapore. Interactive quizzes allowed visitors to discover facts about Singapore. The visually dramatic 'future' exhibit showed that war and peace are two sides of the same coin.

Other galleries contained mini-theaters showing the role of tactics and planning in everyday life and showcased the Singapore Armed Forces. Outdoor exhibits included a playground and the a display of aircraft.

The Chief Exhibit Designer for the Centre's creation was UK based Neal Potter.The centre was planned by Canadian company Lord Cultural Resources and the building was designed by MGT Architects from Australia.

Location

Singapore Discovery Centre is located on the grounds of SAFTI Military Institute. It faces an artificial lake with a fountain,directly opposite the Officer's Mess. It is accessible by public buses; the nearest MRT station is Boon Lay MRT Station. Most visitors, however, come in tour groups.

Schools regularly organize outings to SDC for the students, especially during the lull after examinations. These trips are considered a part of "National Education".

ee also

* Science Centre, Singapore

External links

* [http://www.sdc.com.sg/ Official site]

References