Singa

Singa, a biannual literary magazine, was first published in December 1980 by the Ministry of Culture. It was a pioneering effort to publish original and translated works in all four official languages of Singapore — English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil — in one magazine. It featured literary contributions from local artists and writers. With the tagline “Literature & the Arts in Singapore”, Singa served as a regular outlet for creative work. From paintings to poetry and from seasoned writers to budding ones, Singa had space for all local literatures and the arts. The general editor was Arthur Yap, and the other editors were Kirpal Singh and Sng Boh Khim. Contributing editors for the Tamil language were Arun Mahizhnan and Arunachalam Murugaian.

The advisory committee comprised Edwin Thumboo, Wong Meng Voon, Masuri bin Salikun and V T Arasu. Sponsorship by Esso for the first three years of publishing costs provided the initial stability. The magazine was sold at $2.50. Singa began to experience difficulties within a few years, which led to delays and a diminishing impact. Despite these challenges, the magazine survived for a decade with its last publication being in June 1990. The reasons for its discontinuation remain unknown. The magazine stands as one of the key milestones in Singapore's journey to cultural nationhood. 

For more information
"Journal Marks Cultural Progress."The Straits Times. December 20, 1980, 19. (From NewspaperSG) 
"Make the Lion Roar." The Straits Times. July 2, 1983, 6. (From NewspaperSG) 
"Singapore Literature in Any 4 Languages." New Nation. May 22, 1981, 14-15.(From NewspaperSG) 

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The information in this article is valid as of August 2025 and correct as far as we are able to ascertain from our sources. It is not intended to be an exhaustive or complete history of the subject. If you have any feedback on this article, please submit here.