The prize, mooted by NUS Asia Research Institute distinguished fellow Kishore Mahbubani in a 2014 column in The Straits Times, aims to define Singapore’s national identity and increase understanding of its rich heritage. It is administered by NUS’ Department of History and is awarded every three years.

The first winner of the Singapore Prize was archaeologist Prof John Miksic, whose book Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800 provided detailed archaeological evidence that showed the city’s origins. Prof Miksic said the book had been in the works for 15 years as he sought to understand the origin of Singapore and its place in Asia. His work had also drawn on literary records like the travels of Chinese merchant Wang Dayuan, which referred to places such as Temasek and Longyamen (or Dragon Teeth’s Gate).

Prof Miksic said he was delighted to receive the prize, which is “a fantastic honour”. He added that he would continue his excavations in Singapore and Malaysia, which will shed light on what might have happened to the inhabitants of those islands around 700 to 800 years ago. “I hope that more people will get interested in history and will be able to understand where Singapore came from, what were the factors which led to its founding, and how it has evolved over time,” he said.

A distinguished jury panel, chaired by Mr Mahbubani, chose the winners. The panel included novelist Meira Chand, economist Lam San Ling, historian Peter Coclanis and archaeologist Professor John Miksic of the NUS Department of Southeast Asian Studies. The panel lauded the authors’ efforts to contribute to Singapore’s understanding of its past and present, and their efforts to make it accessible for all.

NUS’ Senior Advisor (University and Global Relations) Kishore Mahbubani noted that it could be possible to expand the types of works which can qualify for the prize, such as films and other media. “For instance, we can look at movies such as 12 Years a Slave which tell history in an interesting way,” he added.

Britain’s Prince William presented the award to five green innovators on Tuesday, congratulating them for illuminating “the light of optimism” amid the global fight against climate change. He said the finalists’ solutions, including building cleaner lithium-ion batteries and tightening marine enforcement to end illegal fishing and preserve ocean conservation, proved that “hope does remain” even as COVID-19 continues to ravage communities worldwide.

The prize – originally known as the President’s Science and Technology Awards before being renamed in 2023 to reflect its increased emphasis on Singapore’s philanthropic sector and wider societal impact – celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to their profession, society and nation. It is one of the highest accolades in Singapore’s scientific landscape. The winners received cash prizes, certificates of recognition and a trophy. The ceremony was held at The Theatre Mediacorp. Prince William wore a crisp dark green velour suit and dickie bow for the occasion, matching the colour of the thick green carpet that the award winners walked on.