Singapore’s hawker culture listed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage

Singapore (VNA) -  Hawker culture in Singapore was officially added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on December 16.

In virtual proceedings that took place earlier the same day, a 24-member international committee unanimously accepted Singapore’s application. As Singapore’s application fulfilled all criteria, it was decided that there was no need for debate on it at the 15th session of the intergovernmental committee.

The successful nomination means Singapore now has its first item on the intangible cultural heritage list, which currently has 463 entries including yoga in India and Belgian beer.

It is also the country's second entry to any UNESCO list. The first came in 2015 when the Singapore Botanic Garden was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong said Singapore’s hawker culture is a source of pride of Singapore and all Singaporeans. It reflects the nation’s living heritage and multiculturalism, and is an integral part of the daily lives of Singaporeans regardless of age, race or background.

President of the Federation of Merchants' Associations (FMAS) Yeo Hiang Meng said the result will give hawkers' prestige a boost, both locally and internationally.

To celebrate the event, Singapore will organise the SG HawkerFest from December 26 to January 11 next year. Most of the activities held within the fest will go online due to the impacts of pandemic./.