Deepavali Open House Offers New Insights into the History and Gardens of Singapore’s Presidential Palace
On October 20, 2024, the Istana opened its doors to the public in celebration of Deepavali, offering a refreshed heritage tour that highlighted the rich history and lush gardens of the iconic building. The newly revamped tour included more heritage elements, moving beyond the traditional focus on nature, as the main building is undergoing renovation.
Volunteer guide Gan Lai Chui led visitors through the hour-long tour, sharing historical anecdotes about the Istana and its past inhabitants. Visitors were introduced to various sections of the sprawling grounds, including the Japanese Garden, designed by the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, and the Inclusive Garden, which was created during President Halimah Yacob’s term to cater to visitors with diverse needs.
Due to ongoing restoration work on the Istana’s main building, the state gifts displayed in the Villa became a major attraction during the open house. Visitors had the chance to view a collection of exquisite items, including silverware, porcelain, and framed artworks, which were gifted to Singapore’s leaders over the years.
The event also featured performances from local schools and various activity booths, with around 6,000 people visiting the Istana. The open house provided a unique opportunity for both first-time visitors and long-time residents to explore the heritage and cultural significance of one of Singapore’s most important buildings.
