The SingaporeDiscovery Centre is an 'edutainment' and tourist attraction located in Jurong West, Singapore. The centre includes exhibits which display the history of Singapore as well as an insight on the future. The mission of Singapore Discovery Centre is to share the Singapore Story and inspire a desire to contribute to Singapore's future. SDC provides a mind-and-heart-engaging and multi-sensory learning experience which spans a selection of integrated themes. Visitors can learn about what makes Singapore tick and gain insights into Singapore's challenges, dreams and aspirations.
History
In 1988, the idea of building a museum to showcase the history of the SAF was first mooted. This idea was later evolved into the concept of the Singapore Discovery Centre. However, SDC is not merely an educational tool for the SAF. It is a platform that provides plenty for Singaporeans to think about and helps them prepare for future challenges. In October 1992, MINDEF approved the setting up of the Singapore Discovery Centre at the cost of $70 million. Located on the grounds of the SAFTI Military Institute, Mitchell Giurgola & Throp Architects developed the architectural design for SDC. Previous buildings by these architects include the SAFTI Military Institute and the Australian Parliament House. SDC was officially opened by then president Ong Teng Cheong on 23 November 1996. In 1989, SDC started a review of the centre to change from a historical site to an issue-based orientation. In 2001, Ralph Appelbaum Associates was selected as the design consultants for the project. RAA are planners, designers and producers of museum exhibitions, visitors centre and educational environments. They are behind many famous institutions such as the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. and the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. A presentation was made to the Singapore Totalisator Board in 2002 and a grant of S$25 million was approved. Redevelopment work started in December that year.
Exhibits
In its first phase it developed in a story telling interactive experience showing Singapore's recent history - living under the flags of Britain, Japan, Britain, Malaysia before becoming an independent nation. Milestones in that journey were picked out in a theatrical setting.'Singapore Today' showed the vibrant life in late 20th century Singapore. Interactive quizzes allowed visitors to discover facts about Singapore. The visually dramatic 'future' exhibit showed that war and peace are two sides of the same coin. Other galleries include mini-theaters showing the role of tactics and planning in everyday life and showcased the Singapore Armed Forces. Indoor exhibits include 'So Singapore Theatre, Gateway, Portals, Build it, Crisis Simulation Theatre, Harmony Circle etc. Outdoor exhibits includes a playground and the a display of aircraft. The ChiefExhibit Designer for the centre's creation is UK based Neal Potter. The centre was planned by Canadian company Lord Cultural Resources and the building was designed by mgt Architects from Australia.
Awards and recognition
In 2013, Singapore Discovery Centre was awarded the prestigious Minister for Defence Award and one of the ten corporate recipients to be inducted into the MiDAs League for a five-year tenure as advocates of national defence. In 2012, Singapore Discovery Centre was also awarded the Work-Life Achiever Award 2012 by Tripartite Committee on Work-Life Strategy.
