Singapore Hawker Centres – People, Places, Food – Second Edition: Indulge in the Rich Tapestry of Hawker Culture

Mark your calendars, food enthusiasts! The vibrant world of hawker culture is set to take center stage with the launch of the second edition of “Singapore Hawker Centres: People, Places, Food.” Authored by the esteemed Professor Lily Kong, President of Singapore Management University, this publication is a continued celebration of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage, proudly recognized as the first element inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

A Legacy Continues: Unveiling the Second Edition

Professor Lily Kong, renowned for her extensive work on urban transformations and social-cultural change in Asia, brings us the much-anticipated second edition of this culinary odyssey. The launch of “Singapore Hawker Centres: People, Places, Food” is made possible through the generous support of the National Environment Agency (NEA) and National Heritage Board (NHB).

Journey Through Time: What to Expect

The first edition, unveiled in 2007, focused on the origins and growth of hawker culture in Singapore. Now, the second edition promises to transport readers through the evolution of hawker culture over the past 16 years. Delving into its significance as a Singaporean icon, this edition explores the resilience of the hawker community during the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. It highlights the 2020 inscription on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and shares personal stories of the passionate hawkers behind our beloved local dishes.

Sustainability Initiatives: Shaping the Future of Hawker Centres

The National Environment Agency (NEA) has been at the forefront of ensuring the sustainability of hawker centres. Through initiatives such as the Incubation Stall Programme, Hawkers Succession Scheme, and Hawkers Development Programme, NEA has transformed the landscape of hawker operations. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, a special program was launched to help hawkers transition to online delivery services, ensuring the continuity of their businesses.

Get Your Copy and Join the Culinary Exploration

The second edition of “Singapore Hawker Centres: People, Places, Food” is available for retail at $39.90 (inclusive of GST) from December 26, 2023, at leading bookstores and museums island-wide. For early birds and online enthusiasts, take advantage of the promotional price of $33.90 (inclusive of GST) from 1 to 25 December 2023, exclusively on the SPH Media e-commerce platform STbooks.sg.