Debated in Parliament on 6 Mar 2026.
Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked about the digital support provided under the SG Heritage Business Scheme for heritage businesses to modernize and grow. David Neo responded that the scheme offers branding visibility, marketing tools, and grants for transformation projects, including digital innovations like Augmented Reality applications and online games. Heritage businesses can also access additional grants for adopting digital solutions and expanding their market presence. The National Heritage Board plans to develop promotional campaigns, create an online register of designated businesses, and seek industry partnerships for further support.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth in respect of the SG Heritage Business Scheme (a) what forms of digital support are provided to help these businesses modernise and sustain their operations; and (b) what tools or programmes have been made available to assist these businesses in expanding their presence both locally and internationally.
The SG Heritage Business Scheme, administered by the National Heritage Board (NHB), provides designated heritage businesses with support in brand visibility, publicity and marketing. They receive special branding markers and a marketing toolkit to help them brand themselves as an SG Heritage Business.
Designated heritage businesses may also tap on NHB's Organisation Transformation Grant to support transformative and innovative projects that contribute to their sustainability and long-term viability. Some examples of the digital projects supported by the OTG include (a) the development of an Augmented Reality application by SG Heritage Business Pek Sin Choon to help the business' Chinese-speaking staff cater to English-speaking customers; and (b) the development of an online game for custom kebaya dolls made by kebaya maker, Ratianah Tahir, to foster appreciation and interest in this heritage dress among children.
Additionally, heritage businesses may also tap on grants, such as Enterprise Singapore's Productivity Solutions Grant, Enterprise Development Grant and Market Readiness Assistance Grant, to transform, adopt digital solutions and expand their presence locally and internationally.
In the coming months – in respect to the SG Heritage Business Scheme – NHB is looking to (a) develop a promotional campaign on NHB's channels; (b) develop an online register of designated businesses, which can be used to promote the businesses to local and international audiences; and (c) identify industry partners who are keen to collaborate and partner with these heritage businesses.