A Ceremony of Distinction: Welcoming 3 Cultural Medallion Recipients at the CMYAA 2023

In a momentous celebration of artistic excellence, the 2023 Cultural Medallion and Young Artist Award (CMYAA) ceremony recently welcomed three exceptional individuals into the distinguished fold of cultural heroes.

Meira Chand, Osman Abdul Hamid, and Suchen Christine Lim, each a luminary in their respective fields, were bestowed with Singapore’s highest artistic accolade, the Cultural Medallion, signifying their profound contributions to #OurSGArts scene.

Read on to discover how these outstanding recipients are heralded for their exceptional talents, enriching the nation's artistic legacy for generations.

1. Award-winning novelist and 2023 Cultural Medallion recipient Meira Chand

Meira Chand is a renowned figure in Singapore's literary landscape, celebrated as both a novelist and now proud recipient of the 2023 Cultural Medallion.?

For Meira, writing is not merely a craft but a profound exploration of self and a means to navigate the complexities of the world. Her unique, culturally diverse background provides the lens through which she paints an outsider-insider perspective of life, shaping an illustrious career spanning decades.

From her debut work, 'The Gossamer Fly' (1979), to her latest masterpiece, 'Sacred Waters' (2018), Meira’s literary contributions have garnered international acclaim. The creative industries have acknowledged her prowess as a storyteller, with three longlistings for the prestigious Booker Prize, a testament to the universal resonance of her narratives.

Deepening her connections and contributions to Singapore’s arts scene, Meira's novel "A Different Sky" (2010), set against the backdrop of pre-independence Singapore, received critical acclaim with a longlisting at the 2012 IMPAC Dublin Literary Award and inclusion in Oprah Winfrey’s recommended reading list. In addition, she also wrote the story from which Singapore’s hit musical "LKY: The Musical" was developed.

Throughout her distinguished career, Meira’s works have taken readers on a captivating journey through the intricate interplay of diverse cultural influences. With a multicultural heritage at her core, she skillfully weaves tales that delve into the multiplicity of cultural identities. Meira’s literary oeuvre, rich in depth and nuance, has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated readership worldwide.

In addition to her literary achievements, Meira is also a dedicated mentor to young writers, generously giving her time to various programmes such as the Singapore Book Council's Emerging Writers Mentorship Programme in 2023. She is an active participant in local literary activities and events, serving as a committee member of the Singapore Writers Festival Advisory Panel from 2005 to 2010 and again from 2021 to the present. Meira has also been a judge for the Golden Point Award in 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2019, and served as Chairperson of the Singapore Literature Prize in 2012. She was also a board member of the National Arts Council (NAC) from 2015 to 2021.

Explore the world of this award-winning novelist and immerse in the tapestry of her stories that beautifully reflect the essence of multiculturalism and the richness of shared human experiences through the #CMYAA2023 publication here.

2. Meet Malay dance legend and 2023 Cultural Medallion recipient Osman Abdul Hamid

Osman Abdul Hamid is a venerable figure in Singapore's vibrant Malay dance scene, whose career exemplifies the spirit of unity and resilience encapsulated in the maxim 'bersatu kita teguh, bercerai kita roboh' (Together we stand, divided we fall).

In recognition of his multifaceted contributions as a dancer, choreographer, artistic director, producer, and educator, Osman was conferred the prestigious Cultural Medallion – a testament to his pivotal role in shaping the nation's cultural identity and his unwavering dedication to the arts.

Osman's journey in the arts is distinguished not only by his recent Cultural Medallion accolade, but also by his receipt of the Young Artist Award in 1993, which attests to the enduring impact of his work. As an artistic director and choreographer for esteemed cultural institutions like the People’s Association and Sriwana, Osman has consistently championed the unifying power of dance.

Large-scale performances at national events, including the National Day Parade and Chingay Parade, bear the hallmark of Osman's dedication to fostering connection and collaboration through the language of movement. For him, these events transcend mere entertainment; they represent a communal effort to understand one another through the expressive medium of dance.

Osman's dedication to his craft and community has earned him numerous other accolades, including the Public Service Medal at the Singapore National Day Awards in 2018. He has also represented Singapore on the international stage, leading the People's Association Cultural Troupe (PACT) to perform in Japan at the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN in 1997, and he also represented Singapore at the International Dance Festival in Thailand in 2009.

Osman's commitment to the development of Malay dance and his relentless pursuit of excellence have left a lasting mark on #OurSGArts scene. Discover more about his journey, dedication, and lasting impact on the world of Malay dance in the #CMYAA2023 publication here.

3. Dive into 2023 Cultural Medallion recipient Suchen Christine Lim’s literary universe

Suchen Christine Lim expanded the parameters of the Singapore novel through her forty years of writing, leading her to be recognised not only as an award-winning novelist but also as a recipient of the 2023 Cultural Medallion.? Her profound belief in the importance of literature as a mirror reflecting the stories of a nation has fueled a career marked by various contributions to #OurSGArts literary landscape.?

Suchen’s journey in the world of books delves into the essence of Singapore, presenting readers with a nuanced and intimate portrayal of the nation. She believes her words echo the heartbeat of the country, revealing the rich tapestry of its cultural and societal intricacies.

As a champion of multiculturalism and interculturalism, Suchen's work serves as a literary bridge, connecting readers to the diverse experiences that define Singapore. Her novels, set against the backdrop of significant historical events, unravel the inner lives of unsung heroes, providing them with a voice that resonates with universal truths about humanity, culture, and society.

Through her critically acclaimed fiction, Suchen has become a storyteller who sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of everyday Singaporeans. Her characters illuminate the human experience, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities that shape our collective identity.

In addition to her literary achievements, Suchen Christine Lim inspires the next generation of writers by mentoring younger writers through programmes like the NUS Creative Arts Programme. She was a Fellow in the University of Iowa's International Writing Program and later its Writer-in-Residence. Suchen's contributions to the arts have earned her numerous accolades, including the S.E.A. Write Award, one of the highest forms of recognition for writers in Southeast Asia. In 2014, she was also inducted into the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations' Singapore Women's Hall of Fame, in recognition of her enduring impact on Singapore's cultural landscape.

Explore Suchen’s transformative impact on Singaporean literature and the nation's cultural narrative by reading the #CMYAA2023 publication here.