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The Objects that Made Us

The Objects that Made Us

Written by: Amy Sim
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About this listen

In a fast-changing city like Singapore, buildings and street scenes familiar to us may not last for long, but upon entering the homes of Singaporeans, you are likely to find personal objects that can evoke the sights and sounds of a bygone era.

The Objects that Made Us is a mini podcast series produced by Amy Sim and Yap Seow Choong. In every episode, we will be inviting a guest to share a personal object and the story behind it. These stories will offer glimpses of Singapore's past, weaving together a tapestry of our collective memories.

Supported by: National Heritage Board

The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of the National Heritage Board and/or any government agencies.

Amy Sim Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Riding through life's ups and downs

    Riding through life's ups and downs
    Dec 30 2023
    There’s a special place in the heart of educator Nurai’sha Bte Hassan for the red Malaysian-made Proton Saga that has been by her side through many life events.As a child, Nurai’sha had seen her cousin driving the same model, as she grew into a new generation of independent and confident Muslim woman. On passing her driving test in adulthood, Nurai’sha knew exactly which practical no-frills car she wanted to drive for her life’s journey, towards the places she wanted to go.This podcast is pro...
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    21 mins
  • The Batik sarongs that encapsulate her Peranakan heritage

    The Batik sarongs that encapsulate her Peranakan heritage
    Dec 30 2023
    Sarongs once worn by her mother, imbued with memories of childhood – familial objects like that informs one’s sense of identity, and are reminders of what one can be proud of.The most valuable objects found in the home of Cynthia Wee-Hoefer, who has vast experience working in publishing and news, are two century-old batik sarongs. Despite some wear and tear, they remain much cherished for their symbolism, reminders of the Peranakan culture she grew up with. This podcast is produced by Am...
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    18 mins
  • The brass steamer that saves our lives

    The brass steamer that saves our lives
    Dec 30 2023
    In this episode of The Objects that Made Us, the story starts with a brass steamer used to make idli, an Indian steamed cake. Secondary school teacher Tharmendra’s mother came to Singapore in 1966 from South India. She came from a poor family and the only dowry they could afford was the brass steamer.After Tharmendra’s father passed away from illness, his mother became a young widow with no source of income. In these dark days, the brass steamer became a lifeline - she used to make idli which...
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    19 mins
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