SINGAPORE – Get ready for an unforgettable celebration! The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, Singapore's only hub for natural wonders, marks its 10th anniversary in spectacular fashion. Last year, the museum attracted a record-breaking 88,200 visitors, and it's set to outdo itself in 2025 with a lineup of thrilling events.

Mark your calendars for May 18, when the museum will roll out the red carpet for its open house. The first 600 lucky visitors will gain free entry, while regular ticket prices for adults are $18 for Singaporeans and $27 for visitors from abroad.

What can you expect? Dive into captivating guided tours, or let the kids loose on scavenger hunts and educational games designed to ignite curiosity.

A standout feature at this anniversary event will be a pop-up planetarium. Seating up to 15 attendees, it will showcase 'A Journey Through Singapore's Natural History'—an enthralling 15-minute film that explores the depths of our planet's wonders.

Ms. Jharyathri Thiagarajah, the museum’s lead education officer, stated: 'The original feature will highlight deep-sea expeditions, remarkable species discoveries, and our global research collaborations.'

From May 7, 2025, to May 3, 2026, visitors can feast their eyes on a groundbreaking exhibition titled 'A Decade of Discovery: Stories from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum.' This will showcase an array of collections dating back to the 1840s while illustrating the museum's important role in preserving and showcasing the diverse natural heritage of our region.

For those who crave adventure, don’t miss the chance to sign up for a 'Night at the Museum' from May 30 to June 6. Guests can roam the intriguing exhibits after hours and participate in a heist-themed fossil adventure that turns you into a young detective on a mission!

The festivities will wrap up with the museum’s inaugural public research symposium on September 6, uniting researchers and curious minds alike to discuss the vital role natural history museums play in conservation and research.

The Legacy of Biodiversity Research

Before its opening in 2015, natural history in Singapore was primarily explored through the National Museum and Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research. However, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum has quickly become a leader in biodiversity research, housing over a million zoological specimens—up from a mere 500,000 since its inception.

Prof. Huang Danwei, the museum’s deputy head, explained that the museum’s collections serve as invaluable historical records, supporting local conservation and guiding scientific research.

Field surveys like the Comprehensive Marine Biodiversity Survey have propelled the museum into the forefront of identifying new species, such as the saddle barb, a freshwater fish recently discovered in Nee Soon Swamp Forest.

The museum also contributed significantly to the third edition of the Singapore Red Data Book, which is vital for understanding and preserving Singapore’s flora and fauna.

Engaging the Next Generation

Launching its Aspiring Naturalist Programme in 2022, the museum has already impacted over 100,000 students, giving young minds insight into various scientific fields like entomology and mammal conservation. It’s all part of a mission to expand its outreach and education initiatives.

Looking ahead, the museum envisions ongoing expansion in its research and facilities to enhance biodiversity exploration and efficient conservation strategies.

With plans for upgraded facilities, more exhibition spaces, and increased collaborations with ASEAN researchers, the future looks bright for the museum, which aims to inspire respect and understanding for biodiversity and environmental issues.

Prof. Yeo emphasized: 'Through our research and education, we want to inspire the public and ensure that the importance of biodiversity remains close to the hearts of future generations.'