About seven decades ago, Singapore citizens did not have a distinct identity or legal status, wives were not considered equal partners in marriage, and employment laws were outdated for a modern industrial economy. These issues were addressed through the introduction of three pivotal laws, now featured in a refreshed exhibition by the National Library Board (NLB).
Now open to the public, the “Laws of Our Land: Foundations of a New Nation” exhibition shines a light on the Citizenship Ordinance, the Women’s Charter, and the Employment Act. This exhibit showcases 37 artefacts, providing an engaging and educational experience about the historical context and significance of these laws.
Visitors can explore interactive features that bring history to life, such as engaging with characters like a girl servant, also known as mui tsai, and a citizen voter from the 1959 general elections. The artefacts, sourced from the National Archives of Singapore (NAS), the National Library (NL), and partner institutions, include the Supreme Court’s copies of these laws with original signatures of the Head of State.
The exhibition also includes digital elements, such as interactive games, a digital rack of union magazines, and video screenings of key moments in Singapore’s journey to nationhood. It is located in the former Chief Justice’s Chamber and Office in the Supreme Court Wing of National Gallery Singapore, the same historic space that hosted NLB’s previous exhibition, “Law of the Land: Highlights of Singapore’s Constitutional Documents.”
The space, offered by National Gallery Singapore, hosted the previous exhibition from October 2016 to January 2024. NLB is excited to continue this partnership with National Gallery Singapore to present the refreshed exhibition, “Laws of Our Land: Foundations of a New Nation.”
Admission to the exhibition requires a General Admission pass to National Gallery Singapore, which is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents. The National Gallery Singapore is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, and visitors can also participate in guided tours of the exhibition.
