The Singapore prize recognises outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world’s water challenges. The prize is a tribute to former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who recognised the need for Singapore to develop and build up its water resources. The winner will receive a cash prize of S$50,000, and an award plaque to commemorate their achievements.
The Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize was first awarded in 2008 and is named after the late Singaporean leader who recognised the need for Singapore to develop and make good use of its water resources. The prize is a tribute to his vision and leadership in this area, which has made Singapore one of the most water-smart countries in the world today.
It also recognises Singapore’s foresight in building the infrastructure and systems necessary to ensure a sustainable supply of water to its people. This includes the world-class water reclamation plants at Bedok and Jurong, as well as the strategic development of the reclaimed land in the eastern part of the island to provide freshwater for the growing population.
The award ceremony was held at the Mediacorp Theatre, where Prince William walked the green carpet wearing a dark green velour suit with a dickie bow. He was joined by his wife, Hannah Waddingham, who wore a long sparkling black ball gown with a green sash to match the colour of the carpet.
During the awards ceremony, the Prince also tried his hand at dragon boating and met with locals to learn more about how the country is addressing global environmental problems, including illegal trade in wildlife products which is estimated to be worth $20 billion per year. He also attended the United for Wildlife summit, which brought together government agencies and conservation groups to discuss ways to combat the trade.
In his speech, the Prince said that “Singapore has a unique and compelling story to tell. And that story is one of success, but also of resilience and perseverance against adversity”. He added that “we have a responsibility to leave our children a better planet than the one we inherited.”
Six works are up for the NUS History Prize, which carries a cash prize of $50,000. It aims to stimulate engagement with Singapore’s history and make its nuances more accessible, the university said in a press release. This year’s shortlist includes historian John Miksic’s book Seven Hundred Years: A History of Singapore and his novel Sembawang, as well as non-fiction work Home Is Where We Are by Kamaladevi Aravindan and the historical tome Imperial Creatures by Timothy P. Barnard.
The prize is open to publications that are written in English and published between June 1 and May 31 of the following year. Submissions can be either a non-fiction or fiction book and must have clear historical themes. The NUS History Prize is a partnership between the university and Singapore Pools, which replaced traditional pre-printed tickets with on-demand printing at all of its outlets.
