SINGAPORE – The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM), Singapore’s flagship institution dedicated to exploring Asia’s artistic and cultural heritage, has announced a bold new step into the dynamic world of Asian games with the new exhibit ‘Let’s Play! The Art and Design of Asian Games.’ This move positions ACM not only as a steward of history but also as a cultural innovator attuned to contemporary forms of play, identity, and community.
With this initiative, ACM expands its curatorial vision beyond traditional artefacts to include games both historic and modern as vital cultural expressions. By showcasing the evolution of games across Asia, the museum highlights their role in shaping imagination, strategy, and social connection across generations.
Clement Onn, Director, ACM and Peranakan Museum, says, “Games are central to social life—more than pastimes, they foster intellect, social cohesion, creativity, and moral reflection. Let’s Play! is about more than just fun. It invites visitors to reflect on the vital role games play in our culture. Many of the games on display have been part of our shared experience for generations – accessible to all, yet marked by intricate craftsmanship and inventive mechanics that mirror how we think, interact, and express ourselves.
The museum’s foray into Asian games will involve exhibitions, public programmes, and interactive experiences designed to engage visitors across ages and backgrounds. This includes spotlighting traditional board games, exploring the artistry behind digital design, and fostering dialogue between history and innovation.
The initiative also aligns with ACM’s mission to connect audiences with Asia’s diverse heritage in ways that resonate with contemporary life. As gaming culture continues to flourish globally – spanning esports, mobile gaming, and tabletop revivals – ACM’s move underscores the cultural significance of play as a universal language.
By bridging past and present, ACM positions itself at the forefront of reimagining how museums can engage with living traditions. More than a collection of artefacts, the museum becomes a stage where heritage and creativity meet, ensuring that the stories of Asia’s games continue to inspire future generations.
Let’s Play! The Art and Design of Asian Games is hosted at the Asian Civilisations Museum from 5 September 2025 to 7 June 2026. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (extended to 9 p.m. on Fridays), admission is $12 for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, and $25 for foreign visitors. More information can be found HERE.
