Singapore is often described as an exceptional small state, with its good quality of life and high functioning government. It now appears poised to take on a new identity—that of a hub for philanthropy in Asia.
The city-state has only dispensed the top cash bonus to one athlete: Joseph Schooling, who won the gold medal in the men’s 100m butterfly at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The swimmer was awarded 1 million Singapore dollars (about $745,300) for his efforts. The rest of the prize money was split among the other finalists: the silver medalist, who won a half-million dollar payout, and the bronze medalist, who got a million-dollar payday.
In the past, the city-state’s philanthropic efforts have been largely focused on funding research at local universities and hospitals. Today, it is also stepping up its efforts to help social enterprises scale their operations and connect with potential partners. The government has set aside a total of $20 million to support social entrepreneurs in 2024, including a flagship programme that provides seed funds for projects aimed at creating jobs and alleviating poverty.
It has also begun to offer a range of support to individuals in need, such as students and workers with health conditions. The government will provide a total of $42 million in 2024 to support more than 200 social welfare schemes for workers and their families, as well as low-income households. It has also committed to fund a new programme that aims to provide assistance for older people with health-related issues, such as chronic illnesses.
The NUS Singapore History Prize, launched in 2021, aims to encourage engagement with Singapore’s history and make the nuances of local history more accessible. The inaugural award carries a cash prize of $50,000. A Jury Panel that includes Prof Mahbubani will select a winner towards the end of this year.
For the first time, the world-renowned Green Carpet Awards were held in Asia this week. Celebrities like Oscar winner Cate Blanchett, Donnie Yen, Lana Condor and Australian wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin walked the “green carpet” to unveil innovations in nature protection, clean air, ocean revival and waste elimination. Britain’s Prince William said that the five winners of the Earthshot Prize, which was presented at the event, showed hope that humankind can reverse the devastating effects of climate change.
The President’s Science and Technology Awards, first given out in 2009, are the highest honours for scientists and engineers in Singapore. Previously known as the National Science and Technology Awards, they have been elevated to presidential status, signifying the importance of Singapore’s growing community of scientific talent. The awards are also the highest accolades in Singapore for individual researchers.