PROMOTE CHINESE CULTURE IN SINGAPORE
The center, composed of such units as exhibition hall, theater, library, classrooms and physical training rooms, aims to "tell the story of China to let its voice be heard" by providing high-quality cultural programs in cooperation with related organizations.
An exhibition named "A New Horizon" was launched shortly after the center's inauguration on Saturday to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of China-Singapore diplomatic relations and Singapore's golden jubilee, according to Xiao Jianghua, cultural counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore.
The exhibition showcases 25 masterpieces from Chinese and Singaporean artists, with the support of the National Art Museum of China and the National Gallery of Singapore.
"We need to think it over when carrying out cultural activities in Singapore, where nearly 75 percent of its residents are of Chinese descent," said Ma.
Ma indicated that a series of activities is planned to be held in the center, including those related to such Chinese festivals as Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn festival, lectures such as Discover China, and film screenings, among others.
The center will also cooperate with related organizations to conduct training programs on martial arts, Mandarin, calligraphy and Peking Opera.
The center will pay special attention to training programs to help Singaporean children learn more about China and its culture.
"The China Cultural Center will become a great platform to introduce Chinese culture to Singaporeans," Xiao said. "The center will make contributions to cultural exchanges between China and Singapore by initiating various activities and interacting with cultural institutions."
Calligrapher Tan Siah Kwee, winner of "Brilliance of China: Choice for Chinese Culture Promoters of the Year" in 2014, said the center is of great significance.
"President Xi's visit inspires people engaged in cultural exchanges. There are many organizations introducing Chinese culture in Singapore as Chinese descendants here make up the majority of the population. However, there hasn't been such an official organization before. I think the China Cultural Center will make contributions to promoting Chinese culture," Tan said.
