The singapore prize is awarded to a book that contributes significantly to the understanding of Singapore and its place in Asia. The book should have a wide readership in the region and beyond, and demonstrate how Singapore is rooted in a unique Asian identity while also reflecting a global perspective. It should be well researched, with the work clearly presented and accessible to a general audience. The book should also be original, and not simply repeat what has already been published.
The 2024 NUS Singapore History Prize will be awarded by a jury panel consisting of five members, including Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow at the NUS Asia Research Institute; Prof John Miksic, who won the inaugural prize in 2018 with his book, Singapore And The Silk Road Of The Sea: 1300-1800 – a groundbreaking study that synthesises 25 years of archaeological research to reconstruct the history of Kampong Gelam. Other judges include historians from NUS, arts and literary figures, museum curators, and history teachers and curriculum developers.
NUS Singapore History Prize is the first of its kind to be awarded by an institution in Singapore. Its aim is to promote the study of Singapore’s history by awarding a biennial book prize that recognises excellent works of scholarship that will appeal to the general readership. The award will be given to books on any aspect of Singapore’s past that have been published within the preceding three years.
As such, it is a significant recognition of the richness and complexity of our nation’s history and culture. It is a testament to the fact that there are many writers who are committed to capturing this story in their work, and in preserving our history for future generations.
The winner of the prize will be honoured at a ceremony in Singapore on 30 September 2023, hosted by the Ritz Carlton-Singapore. The winning book will be published in 2023, and the author of the chosen work will receive a cash prize of US$10,000, along with a trophy and a medal. In addition, the publishing house will be given a grant of US$10,000 to produce and distribute additional copies of the book in English and Chinese. The book will also be made available for purchase online in digital format. Those interested in finding out more about the Singapore Prize can follow the official social media accounts of NUS Press: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Telegram for further updates. Alternatively, you can visit the NUS Press website to find out more about the prize.