More youngsters interested in cultural heritage-related activities: NHB survey

SINGAPORE: More and more youngsters in Singapore are interested in heritage-related activities, according to the latest Heritage Awareness Survey 2024 released by the National Heritage Board (NHB).

The Heritage Awareness Survey is conducted biennially to assess public interest, engagement, and attitudes towards cultural heritage. The 2024 survey, which polled 2,018 Singapore citizens and permanent residents aged 15 and above, found that 93% of respondents are interested in local cultural heritage and history. More than a quarter of those who felt this way were between the ages of 15 and 34.

The interest levels reflected in the survey align with the National Cultural Heritage Administration’s report that youth participation in cultural heritage activities reached 66% last year—up eight per cent from three years ago.

70% of respondents taking part in the NHB survey also expressed interest in the cultural customs of other ethnic groups and more than 90% of those surveyed recognized the importance of understanding one’s own history and cultural roots.

Among the various ethnic communities, participation in cultural heritage activities among Chinese Singaporeans reached 58% in 2023, marking a ten per cent increase from 2022.