The Singapore Prize recognizes individuals and organisations who have contributed in an exceptional manner to improving society. It aims to promote social innovation and recognizes philanthropy’s essential role in addressing some of today’s most complex issues. It was named for Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew; one of its world-leading prizes for social innovation. A cash award is distributed among recipients either individually or through organizations.

A five-member Jury Panel led by former Singapore diplomat Kishore Mahbubani established this prize in 2014 to encourage engagement with Singaporean history and to make its complexity and nuance accessible to non-academic audiences while building stronger national identity among Singaporeans.

This year’s shortlist includes books that explore topics ranging from Singapore’s forgotten Qixi festival and labour histories to Kamaladevi Aravindan’s work that chronicles life in an estate over 50 years – an argument against seeing history only as an account of influential individuals but rather as something ordinary people experienced when living here in its past.

Notable awards that recognize individuals and organisations for their efforts on social issues include the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize. This prestigious prize rewards individuals and organisations that demonstrate innovation within water related fields; its name honors Singapore’s first Prime Minister who foresaw the need for efficient water provision systems.

Other prizes in Singapore focus on arts, education, and environmental protection. Individuals and institutions that have distinguished themselves through public service achievements or extraordinary community service are recognized through these awards. Furthermore, Singapore’s National Heritage Board hosts competitions and awards that celebrate creativity while commemorating our nation’s past.

Prince William of Britain announced the 2023 winners of The Earthshot Prize at a ceremony held in Singapore. His foundation established this global award program to accelerate climate solutions. Winning companies included an Indian manufacturer of solar-powered dryers and soil carbon marketplace, along with groups working towards cleaner car batteries and Andean forest restoration. He noted that among all 15 finalists was hope as we work toward fixing our planet, and part of a week-long celebration called Earthshot Week.