Malaysia's first professional violin maker carves out a rare craft
The 45-year-old is Malaysia's first professional violin luthier, or maker of string instruments like violins, cellos and guitars. Over the past decade, he has earned international accolades. Now he mentors a new generation of makers in a field still little-known in Southeast Asia.
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Medallions with Singapore Botanic Gardens' iconic landmarks launched to mark milestone-filled year
SINGAPORE - Collectors can now get their hands on three intricately designed commemorative medallions marking several key milestones in 2025 for the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Launched by the Singapore Mint as part of a special collaboration with the Gardens, the medallions feature its three iconic landmarks - the Bandstand, the Singapore Herbarium, and the Burkin Hall at the National Orchid Garden. Each medallion, available in both gold and silver, commemorates one of its landmark anniversaries, the National Parks Board said in a statement. These are the 10th anniversary of Gardens' inception as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the 30th anniversary of the National Orchid Garden, and the 150th anniversary of the Singapore Herbarium and Library of Botany and Horticulture. The medallions are sold individually and in three-in-one collector sets, and can be purchased at all Singapore Mint retail outlets and on Light shows, performances and other festivities For the first time, visitors can enjoy a nightly light show at the Gardens and watch the Swan Lake and Tanglin Gate bathed in multi-coloured light. The light show will take place between 7.30pm and 10pm, from July 19 to Aug 10. It will be complemented by light installations at the Bandstand, Clock Tower at Orchid Plaza, and Palm Court near Nassim Visitor Services Centre. The light-up is part of the 10th edition of the Singapore Botanic Gardens Heritage Festival held from July 19 to 27 and featuring over 40 free activities for visitors. Other festival highlights include musical performances, outdoor movie screenings, guided tours and hands-on workshops. Visitors can step into the shoes of scientists, with a workshop allowing them to conduct practical laboratory tasks, such as DNA extraction using bananas and cell staining with onion roots. This allows them to take a glimpse into the plant conservation work that happens behind the scenes in the Gardens. The Gardens has also released the second edition of Gardens of Perpetual Summer, a publication that traces its history and legacy since its establishment in 1859. The first edition was published in 2009 to mark its 150th anniversary. The book can be purchased at the Gardens Shop and online. The annual orchid show This year marks the 30th anniversary of the National Orchid Garden, which will play host to the Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) Orchid Show from July 19 to 27. The show, organised by NParks and the Orchid Society of South-east Asia (OSSEA), will feature an orchid competition with 75 categories. The public can view all competition entries, including the winning orchids across all categories, at Burkill Hall and Tropical Montane Orchidetum at the National Orchid Garden. Singapore residents can enjoy free entry during the Orchid Show and go on free guided tours, which are available daily. Interested members of the public can visit this website for more information. Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction Discover how to enjoy other premium articles here
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a day ago
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Zoo defends treatment of ‘chonky' leopard Apoh after TikTok post goes viral
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a day ago
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Alya Iman lodges report over homewrecker accusation
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