Heartland echoes: confronting heritage dissonance in Singapore's void decks

• Main Author: Lee, Jovin Wei
• Other Authors: Michael Yeo
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Arts and Humanities; Void decks; Heritage; Public space in Singapore
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/174422
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This paper explores the divergence between state-driven heritage narratives of Singapore’s void decks and the intangible heritage of residents. Archival research and media analysis spanning from 1980 to 2021 uncover the misalignment between official narratives that portray void decks as vibrant centres of community life and the more nuanced perspectives revealed in community discourses. By examining the evolution of void decks from functional spaces to hubs of socio-cultural activities, alongside state and grassroots efforts to shape their heritage narrative, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of public spaces' role in constructing collective memory and national identity. The paper emphasises the importance of incorporating a plurality of voices in the heritagisation of void decks to ensure an inclusive heritage narrative that reflects the diverse experiences within the community. By advocating for a participatory approach to heritage production, this paper calls for broader discussions on heritage management to reconcile state-driven narratives with community experiences.