Inside actress Karena Ng and Brian Sze's wedding in Tuscany
As guests made their way to Villa di Geggiano—a 14th-century villa outside Siena where the ceremony was to take place—the clouds began to lift. A soft golden light washed over the Tuscan hills, and with it, Karena felt the day transform. 'I can't even describe the relief I felt when the sun finally came out. It felt like the whole atmosphere changed.'
Karena, an actress based in Hong Kong, and Brian, head of Asia Pacific at Checkout.com, had always envisioned their wedding as something cinematic, romantic, and transportive. Their planners, Juliana and Nati of Savvy Events Studio, brought that vision to life. 'Hiring Savvy was the best decision ever,' Karena says. 'From the very first call, they understood exactly what we wanted. They curated every detail with so much care—from the venues to the flowers. Honestly, they made the entire process so easy for us.'
The couple's own love story began in Hong Kong, albeit in far less glamorous circumstances. 'We met at Ocean Park during a Halloween-themed weekend,' Karena recalls, laughing. 'My friend Kevin, who later became one of my bridesmaids, actually introduced us. But at the time, I wasn't interested. I thought Brian was too short!' They crossed paths again, nearly a year later, at a birthday party. 'He hadn't grown any taller,' she teases, 'but something clicked that night.' Karaoke sessions (always Jay Chou), sun-soaked outings, and endless hotpot dinners followed. 'I remember wondering whether Brian really liked all the same things I did—or if he was just pretending so we'd spend more time together,' Karena says. 'But one night, he came to meet me straight after a hotpot dinner, with cilantro stuck in his teeth and smelling like garlic. That's when I knew he was serious.'
In October 2022, Brian proposed—but not just anywhere, or in any way. The setting was a glamorous photo shoot arranged for Karena's 29th birthday by her closest friends—the same group who would later serve as her bridesmaids. 'They told me it was to celebrate the last year of my 20s,' Karena explains. What was supposed to be a simple commemorative shoot quickly escalated into something far grander: Gucci, Valentino, and Miu Miu provided outfits, the location was styled like an Old Hollywood film set, and a vintage Rolls-Royce was positioned as a prop. A full team of photographers and videographers was on hand to document the day. 'I was loving it,' Karena says. 'I thought it was just this elaborate birthday surprise.'
What she didn't know was that Brian had secretly turned the shoot into a proposal. 'I'd always told him—if you're going to propose, I want to be dressed up, and it has to be captured on camera,' Karena recalls. 'He remembered that.'
As Karena changed into a vintage Valentino gown for the final look of the shoot, Brian waited nervously behind the backdrop, working with her friends to time his appearance. When Karena returned to set, she found 300 roses arranged atop the Rolls Royce and their favorite song, 'Until I Found You', softly playing. Then, Brian stepped forward, dressed in a Ralph Lauren Purple Label pinstriped suit, and dropped to one knee. 'It was perfect,' Karena says. 'A complete surprise—and exactly what I wanted without even knowing it.'
Their wedding, held in August 2024, unfolded across two days in Tuscany. 'We chose Tuscany because we both love being outdoors, under the sun—and the scenery there is just unbeatable,' Karena explains.
The festivities opened with a welcome dinner at Borgo San Felice. 'For that, I wore a pink floral Carolina Herrera dress,' Karena says. 'The theme was Under the Tuscan Sun .' Brian paired his Zegna beige linen suit with an olive linen shirt and Triple Stitch sneakers. 'It felt relaxed and summery.'
But the main event was the ceremony itself, set at Villa di Geggiano. Guests entered through the villa's frescoed halls, where 12 hand-painted scenes of seasons lined the walls, before arriving at the all'Italiana garden. 'We were really worried about the rain, but when we got to the villa, it was like the sun came out just for us,' Karena remembers. The ceremony décor, created by Vincenzo Dascanio, featured a towering floral pagoda adorned with light pink roses and white orchids. 'It was breathtaking,' Karena says.
Brian arrived first, driving up the cypress-lined driveway in a vintage 1957 Porsche Speedster. 'Everyone loved that entrance,' Karena says. Then came the moment Karena had long imagined. 'I walked down the aisle to 'Wildest Dreams' wearing a Zuhair Murad gown. It had long sleeves, a dramatic train, and so many intricate lace details.' She paired the gown with Jimmy Choo heels and De Beers earrings. 'That gown was everything to me. I felt like a princess.' The sun filtered through the trees as the couple exchanged vows beneath the floral arch. 'After the stress of the morning, it was just…peaceful. I felt so much love from everyone around us.'
A surprise twist came during their first kiss: 'The fireworks went off early! So I had to kiss Brian quicker than planned, just to make sure we caught the moment.' After the ceremony, guests enjoyed prosecco and canapés in the villa's topiary garden while Karena and Brian slipped away for portraits. Then it was back to Borgo San Felice for the evening's wedding party—where Karena's love of film took center stage.
'I wanted the dinner party to feel like a movie set,' Karena says. Guests were handed movie tickets stamped with a quote from Love Actually —'To me, you are perfect'—before entering a red velvet tent labeled 'On Air—Enchanted Romance.' Inside, candles hung from the ceiling, menus were printed on film reels, and place cards resembled director's clapboards. 'It felt like stepping into a film production.'
For the dinner, Karena changed into a gold Georges Hobeika couture gown embroidered with intricate beading. 'That dress sparkled under the candlelight—it was like wearing stardust.' Brian wore a white Brioni tuxedo jacket with a white shirt from Mr. Dandy. After dinner, Karena changed once more, slipping into a Musemarry White Privee dress for the couple's first dance. A live band from Paris, Circus Music, kept guests on the dance floor late into the night. 'Honestly, I don't think anyone sat down after dessert.'
Reflecting on the day, Karena says, 'It's been months, but my friends are still talking about it. That's what means the most to me—that people had fun.' Even now, she finds herself looking back through the photos. 'Each picture just reminds me of the love we felt, and how happy everyone was. That's what I'll remember forever.' And as for married life? 'We're still doing what we've always done,' Karena laughs. 'More hotpot. Always.' Elena Baranchuk
1 / 59 In my Carolina Herrera dress for the welcome dinner. Elena Baranchuk
2 / 59 Strolling through the hotel courtyard before meeting our guests for the welcome dinner. Elena Baranchuk
3 / 59 The theme for the welcome dinner was Under the Tuscan Sun. Elena Baranchuk
4 / 59 An aerial view of Hotel Borgo San Felice. Elena Baranchuk
5 / 59 A medieval Tuscan garden setup to match the history of the property. Elena Baranchuk
6 / 59 Basking in the Tuscan sun! Elena Baranchuk
7 / 59 Dancing the night away to a vibrant local Italian band. Elena Baranchuk
8 / 59 Our beautiful wedding stationery set by Fee Greening, who executed perfectly a picture of a Tuscan landscape I had on my phone from my first trip to this region. Elena Baranchuk
9 / 59 The custom crochet bag and gifts from Heir for our guests. Elena Baranchuk
10 / 59 Getting ready in my bridal party pajamas. Elena Baranchuk
11 / 59 Sharing an intimate moment with my bridal party in our Not Just Pajama in lustrous satin. Elena Baranchuk
12 / 59 All smiles in our white and champagne silk outfits with feathered sleeves. Elena Baranchuk
13 / 59 The finishing touch of the white robe is an equally elegant feathered pearl bag. Elena Baranchuk
14 / 59 My satin gown goes perfectly with the soft daylight. Elena Baranchuk
15 / 59 The gown awaits beneath ornate splendor within a storied chamber. Elena Baranchuk
16 / 59 Before putting on the bottom layer of my Zuhair Muard gown, I took a glance out of the window to watch the arriving guests. Elena Baranchuk
17 / 59 Crystalline Jimmy Choos rest atop a cloud of tulle. Elena Baranchuk
18 / 59 Veiled in gossamer lace in the sumptuous grandeur of Villa di Geggiano. Elena Baranchuk
19 / 59 The bridal party beholds the silhouette of my gown. Elena Baranchuk
20 / 59 Thank you, my dearests, for always ensuring every detail is right. Elena Baranchuk
21 / 59 With my bridesmaid and five best friends, Yvonne, Tiffany, Fiona, Ingrid, and Mayao. Elena Baranchuk
22 / 59 A bridal portrait before the first look with bridesmaids. Elena Baranchuk
23 / 59 Took a village to get into this tulle. Elena Baranchuk
24 / 59 Overlooked the ceremony and watched guests arriving, feeling so loved. Elena Baranchuk
25 / 59 A close-up look at the details. Elena Baranchuk
26 / 59 My oval engagement ring, customized by Brian, matches the sparkling Jimmy Choo heels. Elena Baranchuk
27 / 59 I love how the veil matches the dress. Elena Baranchuk
28 / 59 One of my favourite photos! Elena Baranchuk
29 / 59 Brian in his Ralph Lauren Purple Label tux. Elena Baranchuk
30 / 59 Brian's groomsmen and best friends Brian L, Martin, Kevin, and James. Elena Baranchuk
31 / 59 The beautiful surroundings for the ceremony. Elena Baranchuk
32 / 59 The rain stopped and the skies cleared up just in time for the ceremony. Elena Baranchuk
33 / 59 Kicking off the ceremony, entering in a vintage Porsche... thankfully no stalling involved! Elena Baranchuk
34 / 59 Grooving to James Brown's 'I Got You.' Elena Baranchuk
35 / 59 Bridesmaid Fiona and groomsman Brian are leading the bridal party. Elena Baranchuk
36 / 59 All in anticipation... Elena Baranchuk
37 / 59 Guests see my gown for the first time as I emerge from Villa di Geggiano. Elena Baranchuk
38 / 59 A moment that I will cherish forever. Elena Baranchuk
39 / 59 Golden-hour light filtering through the veil. Elena Baranchuk
40 / 59 All smiles under the Tuscan sun. Elena Baranchuk
41 / 59 We laughed a lot. Elena Baranchuk
42 / 59 Funny moment: the fireworks came out early, so I had to accelerate our kiss to capture this moment! Elena Baranchuk
43 / 59 We rehearsed (just a few times...) for this picture. Thankfully, it came out quite well! Elena Baranchuk
44 / 59 The squad. Elena Baranchuk
45 / 59 After the ceremony, we went off to take photos while guests enjoyed cocktails and canapés. Elena Baranchuk
46 / 59 Brian is probably asking me how many more photos are left. Elena Baranchuk
47 / 59 We shared a kiss overlooking the yard. We made sure to take little moments just for us. Elena Baranchuk
48 / 59 Even after spending countless nights meticulously planning every detail of the dinner, it surpassed my wildest dreams. Elena Baranchuk
49 / 59 A surreal evening. Elena Baranchuk
50 / 59 A little lovey-dovey moment. Elena Baranchuk
51 / 59 My Georges Hobeika couture with the most spectacular details. Elena Baranchuk
52 / 59 Feeling like a fairy. Elena Baranchuk
53 / 59 Dinner theme: Enchanted Romance. Elena Baranchuk
54 / 59 Champagne tower to start the night! Elena Baranchuk
55 / 59 A couple in love! Elena Baranchuk
56 / 59 Sensational live music from Circus Music. Elena Baranchuk
57 / 59 Our banquet venue with a gorgeous floating candles set up. Elena Baranchuk
58 / 59 Love is sweet, especially when layered! Elena Baranchuk
59 / 59 The perfect finale.
This story was originally published on Vogue.com.
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New Paper
2 days ago
- New Paper
SG60: Six Singapore children's books to read
As Singapore commemorates its 60th year of independence on Aug 9, it is not just a time for celebration. It also presents a valuable chance for your children to develop a deeper understanding of the country's heritage, including its National Anthem and iconic landmarks. The Straits Times speaks with local authors whose Singapore-themed fun reads sneak in some important messages. The Day I Forgot My Flag by Neil Johnson and Vincent Lee It was a National Day Parade (NDP) telecast that inspired Neil Johnson to write his third picture book, The Day I Forgot My Flag. While awaiting then President S R Nathan's arrival, he observed people in the crowd making a "V" sign for the cameras. This simple gesture, popularised by former British prime minister Winston Churchill to signify "victory", sparked an idea in Johnson. "What if we could use just our fingers to say 'Singapore'? What if our hands could form our very own 'flag'? What if we create a hand symbol that would be a recognisable and sustainable legacy?" he says. That vision led to the story of Sam, a boy who forgets his flag for the NDP. Surrounded by others proudly waving their flags, Sam feels down until his grandmother's wise saying inspires him to create his own Singapore hand sign. He raises his right hand, bending his index, middle and ring fingers into a crescent shape, while his left hand, with all five fingers extended, symbolises the five stars. Author Neil Johnson conceived a hand sign to symbolise the Singapore flag in his picture book, The Day I Forgot My Flag, illustrated by Vincent Lee. PHOTO: EPIGRAM BOOKS To bring this story to life, Johnson collaborated with his close friend and colleague Vincent Lee, who illustrated the book. Both 62-year-olds work at a global advertising agency where Johnson is a creative director and Lee heads a team of artists, designers and art directors. Through Sam's story, Johnson hopes young readers will glean life lessons. "Everyone forgets things, but it's not the end of the world. People might laugh at you, but you can earn their respect. Your elders have a wisdom that is universal and timeless," he says. The core message, he adds, is: "Your success lies in your heart, in your head and in your hands - you need to act on it. That's really the essence of the Singapore story." The book also educates children about the national flag - designed in 1959 by a team led by then Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye - by explaining the meaning of each of its parts. The Day I Forgot My Flag by Neil Johnson (left) and Vincent Lee recently topped The Straits Times' weekly bestsellers list for children's books for three consecutive weeks. PHOTO: COURTESY OF NEIL JOHNSON Released in June, it topped The Straits Times' weekly bestsellers list for children's books for three consecutive weeks at one point. The compilation includes bestseller lists from Kinokuniya, Epigram, Wardah Books, Book Bar, Afterimage and bookstores. "Both Vince and I are quite surprised and thrilled by the news. We weren't expecting it," says Johnson. He lets on that they dream of the Singapore hand sign gaining widespread adoption. "Nothing would give us greater satisfaction than the Singapore hand sign catching on - and seeing it being used to cheer us on at games, parades and similar public events." Buy the book: $14.90 at major bookstores and publisher Epigram Books' online store at Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem by Pauline Loh and Kristen Kiong In the story Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem, Pauline Loh and Kristen Kiong weaved in the National Anthem's musical score, Malay lyrics and their English translation. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION Your kids sing the Singapore National Anthem with gusto in school, but do they - and you - understand the meaning behind its Malay lyrics? Majulah Singapura, which translates to Onward Singapore, was written by the late Singaporean composer Zubir Said in 1965. Now, new picture book Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem offers a line-by-line explanation of the song. Written by Pauline Loh and illustrated by Kristen Kiong, the story features Ye Ye, or grandfather in Chinese, who becomes emotional upon hearing the anthem on the radio. He then explains the song's poignant meaning and importance to his grandson. This book is a sequel to Loh's Playtime With Ye Ye, which used play to delve into Singapore's history, including the Japanese Occupation and independence. Released in 2015, it won the Singapore Memory Project Fund and second prize in that year's Samsung KidsTime Authors' Award, a joint initiative by the National Book Development Council of Singapore and Samsung Electronics. The creative writing teacher has presented the Playtime With Ye Ye story in more than 100 pre-schools in the past decade. Her sequel was inspired by those frequent storytelling visits, where she learnt that educators lacked a standard guide for teaching the anthem. When writing the book, the 60-year-old says a key challenge was to create a thought-provoking narrative that will appeal to young readers aged three to eight. She is thankful to team with illustrator Kiong, 36, who enlivens the pages by depicting everyday Singaporean scenes, while seamlessly weaving in the anthem's musical score, Malay lyrics and their English translation. Pauline Loh's new picture book offers a line-by-line explanation of the National Anthem for readers. PHOTO: COURTESY OF PAULINE LOH Loh says teachers have expressed gratitude for her book, finding it a valuable resource for teaching the anthem. "Teachers agree with me that few adults know the meaning of the Malay lyrics and that we should educate children about them from an early age," she says. She urges parents to also engage with the book. "Why limit it to teachers? I really encourage parents to use this book as a tool to kick-start conversations with their children about patriotism and the values championed in our anthem." Buy the book: $12.90 from major bookstores and online via publisher World Scientific Education's official Shopee store at Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! by Sharon Koh and Kristen Kiong All sales proceeds from the picture book Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! will go to the President's Challenge. PHOTO: SHARON KOH AND KRISTEN KIONG How will your family celebrate Singapore's 60th birthday? Picture book Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! offers creative ideas for commemorating this milestone anniversary, such as exploring 60 MRT stations or enjoying 60 hawker dishes. More than just an engaging read, the book by author Sharon Koh and illustrator Kristen Kiong supports a meaningful cause. All sales proceeds will go to the President's Challenge, funding 60 programmes from 52 organisations in 2025. Sharon Koh, seen here with her children, authored Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! to commemorate the country's birthday and also raise funds for the President's Challenge. PHOTO: COURTESY OF SHARON KOH Since its launch in April, the book has raised more than $3,000. "Our mission isn't driven by numbers, but by the simple joy of bringing families together through storytelling and sharing what makes Singapore special to us," says Koh, 44, who works in the sustainability space. Singapore Is 60 is her second children's book. In 2024, she and Kiong also collaborated on Let's Celebrate NDP!, a fund-raiser for the SAF Care Fund, which supports severely disabled servicemen. Kristen Kiong is the illustrator behind Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! and Ye Ye And The National Anthem picture books. PHOTO: COURTESY OF KRISTEN KIONG For Singapore Is 60, Kiong aims to show Singapore in its "normality, yet vibrant and beautiful". She incorporated familiar sights for older generations, such as the zero point game and traditional bird cages, alongside elements reminiscent of her own childhood, like a dustbin painting competition. To resonate with younger readers, the 36-year-old, who has a day job as a speech therapist, also added contemporary scenes, including an expanded MRT line, video calls and face painting. Koh adds: "I hope this book can help inspire families to dream, share stories and celebrate Singapore together." Buy the book: $18 at and Books Kinokuniya Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition by Monica Lim and Lesley-Anne Tan Monica Lim (left) and her daughter Lesley-Anne Tan with their book, Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition, which has a holographic cover. PHOTO: COURTESY OF MONICA LIM Contrary to popular belief, children actually love reading about history. Just ask Monica Lim, 55, and her 28-year-old daughter Lesley-Anne Tan, whose collaborative Secrets Of Singapore series is now in its 10th year. "We know that history can be dry and uninteresting to children, so we are very gratified that they have enjoyed our books," Lim says. Aimed at young readers aged eight to 12, the series' debut book launched in 2015 and explores wide-ranging topics, starting with Sang Nila Utama's arrival in 1299. It also delves into Singapore's early developments in transport, education and food. The book was a hit and more titles were released over the years. Each offers a deeper dive into a local landmark - including the National Museum, Botanic Gardens and Changi Airport - or explores a theme, such as food and sports. Released in May, its ninth volume Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition is an update of the first book and has a special holographic cover. Lim credits the series' success - with 73,000 copies sold to date - to its accessible and engaging approach to history. This winning style was developed while they were co-writing their earlier children's series, Danger Dan (2014 to 2015). Although a work of fiction, it incorporated historical elements and humour into its plots. "When we released the Danger Dan series, which featured historical figures or events of Singapore, we noticed that many children would flip to the fun facts we included at the back of each book. "We then realised that they enjoyed reading about Singapore's past, but there was no fun children's book on the country's history apart from social studies textbooks, which can be very dry." Beyond textbook facts, they included jokes, puns and humorous graphics along with lesser-known information. Due to their busy schedules, the series was continued by different authors after the initial four books. The next book, scheduled for 2026, will focus on the theme of transport. Lim notes that it is important for children to learn about Singapore's history. "Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it," she says, referencing a famous quote by the late Spanish philosopher George Santayana. "It is important to know history so that we know who we are, how we got here and what makes Singapore the way it is today." Buy the book: $18.90 at major bookstores and publisher Epigram Books' online store at Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade by Ruth Wan-Lau and Eliz Ong First published in 2016, picture book Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade has been refreshed with new illustrations. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION Timmy and Tammy are excited to be at the NDP with their parents, enjoying the splendid sights and sounds, from fighter jets to fireworks. First published in 2016, picture book Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade has been refreshed with new illustrations and republished, along with other books in the series, to commemorate its 10th anniversary. Written by Ruth Wan-Lau and illustrated by Eliz Ong, the 36 titles in the series are designed for children aged three to eight. They feature the siblings exploring Singapore landmarks and trying new experiences. The updated Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade is a collaborative effort with the NDP executive committee. Colonel Chong Shi Hao, the committee's chairman, wrote the foreword for the book, which includes a QR code for accessing the official NDP playlist on Spotify. The committee will also distribute 4,000 copies to pre-schools. "Through the eyes of Timmy and Tammy, I hope you'll discover the fun, excitement and heart-warming spirit that make the National Day Parade such a unique and memorable event," he writes. Wan-Lau, who is also the publisher at World Scientific Education, was pleasantly surprised by the collaboration. She had reached out to the committee to ask about the 2025 parade highlights she could incorporate in her book's updated edition. Author Ruth Wan-Lau, who has included the national pledge in her book, hopes that kids and parents can discuss its meaning and purpose. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION "One of the focuses is the national pledge. I have included the pledge at the back of the book and I hope that children and parents can discuss its meaning and purpose," says Wan-Lau. "It is never too early to build gratitude and love for our country in young children. Let's encourage our kids to look beyond themselves and to be thankful." Buy the book: $8.90 from major bookstores and online via publisher World Scientific Education's official Shopee store at Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore by Dushyant Pawaskar and Andrew Aprilio Picture book Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore, by Dushyant Pawaskar and Andrew Aprilio, encourages young readers to explore the country. PHOTO: DUSHYANT PAWASKAR How many of Singapore's iconic locations, from the ArtScience Museum to Joo Chiat to Tiong Bahru, have your children explored? Picture book Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore invites young readers to explore the country through the eyes of a boy and his teddy bear. First-time author Dushyant Pawaskar, 40, uses each letter of the alphabet to introduce various places and cultural elements, complemented by short, rhyming facts. Illustrator Andrew Aprilio, 31, brings the two characters' antics to life as they discover each location. "The book was a family project to record our adventures in Singapore and to encourage fellow parents to similarly engage in wholesome activities with their kids," says Pawaskar, a former academic editor who is now venturing into children's book writing and financial services. He and his wife Agnisha Ghosh, 39, hope the book, published in February, will encourage families to explore the world beyond their screens. Originally from Mumbai, the couple first visited Singapore in 2014 when they thought "it's so pretty on the surface and so fascinating underneath", he recalls. When an opportunity arose through her job, they moved here in 2017. They are now permanent residents and their son Advay Pawaskar Ghosh was born in Singapore in 2021. Dushyant Pawaskar, author of Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore, and his son Advay Pawaskar Ghosh love visiting local landmarks such as the Istana. PHOTO: AGNISHA GHOSH Their parenting philosophy prioritises reading and outdoor activities, leading them to explore the island with Advay. Their favourite places include Gardens by the Bay and Botanic Gardens. Pawaskar and his son have yet to visit Raffles Lighthouse and Pulau Ubin, two locations featured in his book, but he hopes to do so soon. While Pawaskar is the author, the creation of Max and Pax was a collaborative effort. His wife and son were actively involved in selecting places and crafting words that would be easy for children to understand, instantly recognisable and culturally significant. This is just the beginning for the family. He says: "Our goal is to build a collection of screen-free tools for young children - from colouring mats to puzzles to board games - that help them engage with Singapore in fun, hands-on ways." Buy the book: $20 from and bookstores including Books Kinokuniya and Junior Page.
Straits Times
2 days ago
- Straits Times
6 Singapore children's books to read this SG60
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Celebrate Singapore's diamond jubilee and foster a love for reading in your kids with six new local books, including The Day I Forgot My Flag (pictured) by Neil Johnson and Vincent Lee. SINGAPORE – As Singapore commemorates its 60th year of independence on Aug 9, it is not just a time for celebration. It also presents a valuable chance for your children to develop a deeper understanding of the country's heritage, including its National Anthem and iconic landmarks. The Straits Times speaks with local authors whose Singapore-themed fun reads sneak in some important messages. The Day I Forgot My Flag by Neil Johnson and Vincent Lee It was a National Day Parade (NDP) telecast that inspired Neil Johnson to write his third picture book, The Day I Forgot My Flag. While awaiting then President S R Nathan's arrival, he observed people in the crowd making a 'V' sign for the cameras. This simple gesture, popularised by former British prime minister Winston Churchill to signify 'victory', sparked an idea in Johnson. 'What if we could use just our fingers to say 'Singapore'? What if our hands could form our very own 'flag'? What if we create a hand symbol that would be a recognisable and sustainable legacy?' he says. That vision led to the story of Sam, a boy who forgets his flag for the NDP. Surrounded by others proudly waving their flags, Sam feels down until his grandmother's wise saying inspires him to create his own Singapore hand sign. He raises his right hand, bending his index, middle and ring fingers into a crescent shape, while his left hand, with all five fingers extended, symbolises the five stars. Author Neil Johnson conceived a hand sign to symbolise the Singapore flag in his picture book, The Day I Forgot My Flag, illustrated by Vincent Lee. PHOTO: EPIGRAM BOOKS To bring this story to life, Johnson collaborated with his close friend and colleague Vincent Lee, who illustrated the book. Both 62-year-olds work at a global advertising agency where Johnson is a creative director and Lee heads a team of artists, designers and art directors. Through Sam's story, Johnson hopes young readers will glean life lessons. 'Everyone forgets things, but it's not the end of the world. People might laugh at you, but you can earn their respect. Your elders have a wisdom that is universal and timeless,' he says. The core message, he adds, is: 'Your success lies in your heart, in your head and in your hands – you need to act on it. That's really the essence of the Singapore story.' The book also educates children about the national flag – designed in 1959 by a team led by then Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye – by explaining the meaning of each of its parts. The Day I Forgot My Flag by Neil Johnson (left) and Vincent Lee recently topped The Straits Times' weekly bestsellers list for children's books for three consecutive weeks. PHOTO: COURTESY OF NEIL JOHNSON Released in June, it topped The Straits Times' weekly bestsellers list for children's books for three consecutive weeks at one point. The compilation includes bestseller lists from Kinokuniya, Epigram, Wardah Books, Book Bar, Afterimage and bookstores. 'Both Vince and I are quite surprised and thrilled by the news. We weren't expecting it,' says Johnson. He lets on that they dream of the Singapore hand sign gaining widespread adoption. 'Nothing would give us greater satisfaction than the Singapore hand sign catching on – and seeing it being used to cheer us on at games, parades and similar public events.' Buy the book: $14.90 at major bookstores and publisher Epigram Books' online store at Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem by Pauline Loh and Kristen Kiong In the story Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem, Pauline Loh and Kristen Kiong weaved in the National Anthem's musical score, Malay lyrics and their English translation. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION Your kids sing the Singapore National Anthem with gusto in school, but do they – and you – understand the meaning behind its Malay lyrics? Majulah Singapura, which translates to Onward Singapore, was written by the late Singaporean composer Zubir Said in 1965. Now, new picture book Ye Ye And The Singapore National Anthem offers a line-by-line explanation of the song. Written by Pauline Loh and illustrated by Kristen Kiong, the story features Ye Ye, or grandfather in Chinese, who becomes emotional upon hearing the anthem on the radio. He then explains the song's poignant meaning and importance to his grandson. This book is a sequel to Loh's Playtime With Ye Ye, which used play to delve into Singapore's history, including the Japanese Occupation and independence. Released in 2015, it won the Singapore Memory Project Fund and second prize in that year's Samsung KidsTime Authors' Award, a joint initiative by the National Book Development Council of Singapore and Samsung Electronics. The creative writing teacher has presented the Playtime With Ye Ye story in more than 100 pre-schools in the past decade. Her sequel was inspired by those frequent storytelling visits, where she learnt that educators lacked a standard guide for teaching the anthem. When writing the book, the 60-year-old says a key challenge was to create a thought-provoking narrative that will appeal to young readers aged three to eight. She is thankful to team with illustrator Kiong, 36, who enlivens the pages by depicting everyday Singaporean scenes, while seamlessly weaving in the anthem's musical score, Malay lyrics and their English translation. Pauline Loh's new picture book offers a line-by-line explanation of the National Anthem for readers. PHOTO: COURTESY OF PAULINE LOH Loh says teachers have expressed gratitude for her book, finding it a valuable resource for teaching the anthem. 'Teachers agree with me that few adults know the meaning of the Malay lyrics and that we should educate children about them from an early age,' she says. She urges parents to also engage with the book. 'Why limit it to teachers? I really encourage parents to use this book as a tool to kick-start conversations with their children about patriotism and the values championed in our anthem.' Buy the book: $12.90 from major bookstores and online via publisher World Scientific Education's official Shopee store at Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! by Sharon Koh and Kristen Kiong All sales proceeds from the picture book Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! will go to the President's Challenge. PHOTO: SHARON KOH AND KRISTEN KIONG How will your family celebrate Singapore's 60th birthday? Picture book Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! offers creative ideas for commemorating this milestone anniversary, such as exploring 60 MRT stations or enjoying 60 hawker dishes. More than just an engaging read, the book by author Sharon Koh and illustrator Kristen Kiong supports a meaningful cause. All sales proceeds will go to the President's Challenge, funding 60 programmes from 52 organisations in 2025. Sharon Koh, seen here with her children, authored Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! to commemorate the country's birthday and also raise funds for the President's Challenge. PHOTO: COURTESY OF SHARON KOH Since its launch in April, the book has raised more than $3,000. 'Our mission isn't driven by numbers, but by the simple joy of bringing families together through storytelling and sharing what makes Singapore special to us,' says Koh, 44, who works in the sustainability space. Singapore Is 60 is her second children's book. In 2024, she and Kiong also collaborated on Let's Celebrate NDP!, a fund-raiser for the SAF Care Fund, which supports severely disabled servicemen. Kristen Kiong is the illustrator behind Singapore Is 60: Celebrate With Us! and Ye Ye And The National Anthem picture books. PHOTO: COURTESY OF KRISTEN KIONG For Singapore Is 60, Kiong aims to show Singapore in its ' normality , yet vibrant and beautiful'. She incorporated familiar sights for older generations, such as the zero point game and traditional bird cages, alongside elements reminiscent of her own childhood, like a dustbin painting competition. To resonate with younger readers, the 36-year-old, who has a day job as a speech therapist, also added contemporary scenes, including an expanded MRT line, video calls and face painting. Koh adds: 'I hope this book can help inspire families to dream, share stories and celebrate Singapore together.' Buy the book: $18 at and Books Kinokuniya Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition by Monica Lim and Lesley-Anne Tan Monica Lim (left) and her daughter Lesley-Anne Tan with their book, Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition, which has a holographic cover. PHOTO: COURTESY OF MONICA LIM Contrary to popular belief, children actually love reading about history. Just ask Monica Lim, 55, and her 28-year-old daughter Lesley-Anne Tan, whose collaborative Secrets Of Singapore series is now in its 10th year. 'We know that history can be dry and uninteresting to children, so we are very gratified that they have enjoyed our books,' Lim says. Aimed at young readers aged eight to 12, the series' debut book launched in 2015 and explores wide-ranging topics, starting with Sang Nila Utama's arrival in 1299. It also delves into Singapore's early developments in transport, education and food. The book was a hit and more titles were released over the years. Each offers a deeper dive into a local landmark – including the National Museum, Botanic Gardens and Changi Airport – or explores a theme, such as food and sports. Released in May, its ninth volume Secrets Of Singapore: 10th Anniversary Edition is an update of the first book and has a special holographic cover. Lim credits the series' success – with 73,000 copies sold to date – to its accessible and engaging approach to history. This winning style was developed while they were co-writing their earlier children's series, Danger Dan (2014 to 2015). Although a work of fiction, it incorporated historical elements and humour into its plots. 'When we released the Danger Dan series, which featured historical figures or events of Singapore, we noticed that many children would flip to the fun facts we included at the back of each book. 'We then realised that they enjoyed reading about Singapore's past, but there was no fun children's book on the country's history apart from social studies textbooks, which can be very dry.' Beyond textbook facts, they included jokes, puns and humorous graphics along with lesser-known information. Due to their busy schedules, the series was continued by different authors after the initial four books. The next book, scheduled for 2026, will focus on the theme of transport. Lim notes that it is important for children to learn about Singapore's history. 'Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it,' she says, referencing a famous quote by the late Spanish philosopher George Santayana. 'It is important to know history so that we know who we are, how we got here and what makes Singapore the way it is today.' Buy the book: $18.90 at major bookstores and publisher Epigram Books' online store at Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade by Ruth Wan-Lau and Eliz Ong First published in 2016, picture book Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade has been refreshed with new illustrations. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION Timmy and Tammy are excited to be at the NDP with their parents, enjoying the splendid sights and sounds, from fighter jets to fireworks. First published in 2016, picture book Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade has been refreshed with new illustrations and republished, along with other books in the series, to commemorate its 10th anniversary. Written by Ruth Wan-Lau and illustrated by Eliz Ong, the 36 titles in the series are designed for children aged three to eight. They feature the siblings exploring Singapore landmarks and trying new experiences. The updated Timmy & Tammy At The National Day Parade is a collaborative effort with the NDP executive committee. Colonel Chong Shi Hao, the committee's chairman, wrote the foreword for the book, which includes a QR code for accessing the official NDP playlist on Spotify. The committee will also distribute 4,000 copies to pre-schools. 'Through the eyes of Timmy and Tammy, I hope you'll discover the fun, excitement and heart-warming spirit that make the National Day Parade such a unique and memorable event,' he writes. Wan-Lau, who is also the publisher at World Scientific Education, was pleasantly surprised by the collaboration. She had reached out to the committee to ask about the 2025 parade highlights she could incorporate in her book's updated edition. Author Ruth Wan-Lau, who has included the national pledge in her book, hopes that kids and parents can discuss its meaning and purpose. PHOTO: WORLD SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION 'One of the focuses is the national pledge. I have included the pledge at the back of the book and I hope that children and parents can discuss its meaning and purpose,' says Wan-Lau. 'It is never too early to build gratitude and love for our country in young children. Let's encourage our kids to look beyond themselves and to be thankful.' Buy the book: $8.90 from major bookstores and online via publisher World Scientific Education's official Shopee store at Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore by Dushyant Pawaskar and Andrew Aprilio Picture book Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore, by Dushyant Pawaskar and Andrew Aprilio, encourages young readers to explore the country. PHOTO: DUSHYANT PAWASKAR How many of Singapore's iconic locations, from the ArtScience Museum to Joo Chiat to Tiong Bahru, have your children explored? Picture book Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore invites young readers to explore the country through the eyes of a boy and his teddy bear. First-time author Dushyant Pawaskar, 40, uses each letter of the alphabet to introduce various places and cultural elements, complemented by short, rhyming facts. Illustrator Andrew Aprilio, 31, brings the two characters' antics to life as they discover each location. 'The book was a family project to record our adventures in Singapore and to encourage fellow parents to similarly engage in wholesome activities with their kids,' says Pawaskar, a former academic editor who is now venturing into children's book writing and financial services. He and his wife Agnisha Ghosh, 39, hope the book, published in February, will encourage families to explore the world beyond their screens. Originally from Mumbai, the couple first visited Singapore in 2014 when they thought 'it's so pretty on the surface and so fascinating underneath', he recalls. When an opportunity arose through her job, they moved here in 2017. They are now permanent residents and their son Advay Pawaskar Ghosh was born in Singapore in 2021. Dushyant Pawaskar, author of Max & Pax: ABC Of Singapore, and his son Advay Pawaskar Ghosh love visiting local landmarks such as the Istana. PHOTO: AGNISHA GHOSH Their parenting philosophy prioritises reading and outdoor activities, leading them to explore the island with Advay. Their favourite places include Gardens by the Bay and Botanic Gardens. Pawaskar and his son have yet to visit Raffles Lighthouse and Pulau Ubin, two locations featured in his book, but he hopes to do so soon. While Pawaskar is the author, the creation of Max and Pax was a collaborative effort. His wife and son were actively involved in selecting places and crafting words that would be easy for children to understand, instantly recognisable and culturally significant. This is just the beginning for the family. He says: 'Our goal is to build a collection of screen-free tools for young children – from colouring mats to puzzles to board games – that help them engage with Singapore in fun, hands-on ways.'
New Paper
5 days ago
- New Paper
Singlish, rojak, NDP and more at Dick Lee's SingaPop! exhibition
Get into the Singapore spirit with SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture, an SG60-themed multimedia exhibition created by home-grown entertainment veteran Dick Lee that opens at the ArtScience Museum on Aug 2. A celebration of Singapore's unique identity shaped over the last six decades, the colourful and interactive trip through the eras aims to showcase how the country has evolved - from a multicultural society into a vibrant nation with its own culture shaped by language, food, music, film, television and fashion. Offering a blend of educational and nostalgic experiences through five chapters, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the essence of Singaporean identity and consider how it continues to evolve over time. Lee, 68, tells The Straits Times: "Culture usually takes generations to evolve, but we've done it in just 60 years. What does it take for culture to grow so quickly and organically? It has to be some sense of unity in the people to make it so. "I've lived through it, I've seen it evolve, I'm still active and I'm still contributing. It's authentic, it's real." SingaPop!, presented by the ArtScience Museum and media company mm2 Entertainment and supported by the Infocomm Media Development Authority, seeks to engage locals and tourists, young and old, the singer-songwriter adds. Here are five highlights from the show. 1. An eclectic collection of artefacts SingaStyle, a sartorial showcase at SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture, held at the ArtScience Museum. This section traces six decades of Singapore's evolving identity through beauty pageants, everyday wear and shifting fashion trends. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO The exhibition's wide-ranging selection of artefacts includes a dress worn by singer Kit Chan and glasses belonging to veteran performer Rahimah Rahim, both found in SingaSong, a section dedicated to the home-grown music landscape. Another section showcasing local fashion, SingaStyle, has pageant wear designed by fashion designers Frederick Lee and Moe Kasim. A room named NDPop, modelled after an HDB flat, is dedicated to the annual National Day Parade (NDP). It has several old-school television sets playing footage of various parades over the years, as well as costumes and goodie bag items from past NDPs. 2. Interactive games and exhibits Visitors can enjoy an interactive experience simulating the work of a satay stallholder at the SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture exhibition, held at the ArtScience Museum. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO Visitors are each given a wrist tag that allows them to engage in interactive activities such as voting for their favourite local food, playing games that test their knowledge of Singlish phrases or pretending to grill satay. 3. A celebration of local music, television and film An overview of the jukebox at SingaSong, a specially curated selection of songs by Dick Lee, featured within the SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO A giant jukebox lets visitors listen to songs by musicians ranging from 1960s and 1970s acts such as Matthew And The Mandarins and Kartina Dahari, to more contemporary artistes like Mandopop star JJ Lin and rapper Yung Raja. Lee's much-loved NDP anthem Home takes centre stage in SingaVoices, which features a giant projection of the Covid-19 era music video of the song sung by more than 900 Singaporeans, who recorded themselves at home during the circuit-breaker period. In the Screening Room, visitors can lounge on bean bags and watch clips from memorable television series such as Phua Chu Kang Pte Ltd (1997 to 2007) and films like Money No Enough (1998). 4. Evolution of hawker culture Local food culture is featured in the SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO In SingaMakan, visitors get to experience how hawker culture has evolved over the decades. This section includes replicas of stalls selling classic fare ranging from chicken rice to kacang puteh. It even has vintage tables and chairs from actual coffee shops, as well as reproductions of modern stalls. 5. A rich, immersive journey through Singapore's history A glimpse into the Screening Room at the SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture exhibition, where excerpts from local television productions, films and other nostalgic buildings from Singapore's past are showcased. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO The first section that visitors encounter as they enter, SingaWho? is a vibrant and immersive retelling of Singapore's history. It celebrates the various races and how they came to call Singapore home. RojakLane, named after the dish that reflects the nation's cultural diversity, features artwork and items representing Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian, Peranakan and other communities. One of the final exhibits that visitors encounter before they leave is an immersive 360-degree room, SingaStories, which plays a video capturing the evolution and dynamism of local pop culture through the decades. Its visuals range from iconic landmarks like the National Theatre to contemporary AI-generated art. Book it/SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture Where: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue When: Aug 2 to Dec 28, 10am to 7pm (Sundays to Thursdays), 10am to 9pm (Fridays and Saturdays) Admission: From $20, go to
