Healing Heritage: Exploring the Evolution of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Singapore

The Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) is shining a spotlight on the legacy and future of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Healing Heritage, a new exhibition running from 1 October 2025 to 22 February 2026 at the Creative Box, Level 6.

Tracing TCM’s journey from the 19th century to its role in Singapore’s modern healthcare landscape, the exhibition blends history, culture, and innovation, showcasing how this centuries-old practice continues to thrive in daily life today. Supported by the Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association and Singapore Chung Hwa Medical Institution, Healing Heritage highlights milestones, artefacts, and stories of resilience that have shaped TCM’s enduring presence in the community.

Five Zones of Discovery

Visitors can immerse themselves in five themed zones, each offering a unique look into TCM’s evolution:

• Tracing the Healing Journey – Chart TCM’s development in Singapore, from the establishment of early medical halls to major milestones like the founding of Thong Chai Medical Institution (1867) and the inclusion of acupuncture under MediSave.
• Encountering the Neighbourhood Healer – Step into a recreated medical hall with vintage wooden herb drawers and play an interactive herb-matching game to experience traditional remedies first-hand.
• Building Benevolence through Community – Learn how charitable institutions and professional groups raised healthcare standards, supported epidemic response, and advanced TCM research, with exhibits such as acupuncture needles and early medical journals.
• Transforming Tradition through Innovation – Discover how TCM adapts to modern lifestyles, from halal-certified remedies and digital diagnostic tools to TCM vending machines and even veterinary applications like canine acupuncture.
• Sustaining a Living Heritage – See how TCM remains relevant today through medicinal cuisine, herbal wellness products, and social media outreach by young practitioners such as THE TCM FOLKS. A reflection kiosk invites visitors to share their own experiences with TCM.