MINISTRY OF CULTURE

The Ministry of Culture helps to mould the social and cultural development of the people, particularly the young.

The various facilities provided by Radio and Television Singapore, the National Library, the National Theatre and the People's Association are aimed at fulfilling the cultural, social and recreational needs of a sophisticated society. A balance between the educational and the entertaining form of books, magazines, TV and Radio can give more meaning to the use of leisure,

Singaporeans are by nature hardworking and achievement-oriented. The pursuit of material well-being comes naturally. But it is also necessary for a people to appreciate things of aesthetic value, to be intellectually alive, appreciative and responsive to the beautiful. The "Music for Everyone" and "Art for Everyone" series of concerts and art exhibitions will be continued. The stress will continue to be put on mass participation in the fields of aesthetjc creation and appreciation.

Radio and Television Singapore will continue to provide services to inform, entertain and educate. It will increase the range of its programmes aimed at actively involving our youths in wholesome and creative activities. We must stimulate the younger generation to be conscious of the world around us, and our own hardwon advances they must protect. The mass media both Government and private must help to inculcate the virtues of patriotism, pride in national effort and achievement, and the importance of team-work and national endeavour so necessary for group success.

The National Library has greatly expanded its range of facilities. It has a role to play in encouraging the habit of wide reading, and cultivating an enquiring mind among our young through making available a wide range of journals and publications.

The People's Association will concentrate on social and recreational programmes. More holiday accommodation will be provided for the people. It will also aim at variety in its activities for youths. Several new community centres will have to be built to cater for an increasing number of those who are interested in making the most of their leisure time, especially those in the new satellite towns. Only by better and new premises and amenities can the People's Association continue to contribute to social cohesion by bringing together all sectors of society to participate in common activities.

The Museum, which has now come under this Ministry, is being re-organised as a display centre devoted to the art, history and anthropology of the peoples of this region. The art collection of the University of Singapore will soon be made more accessible to' the public by its transfer to the National Museum at Stamford Road.