The Collectors

The Collectors, jointly produced by SCCC and Mediacorp, commemorates Singapore’s 60th year of independence through the quiet beauty of everyday objects and the people who treasure them. Through cherished collections of red packets, school crests, remittance letters, early Chinese textbooks and cinema memorabilia, each episode unearths the memories of a city in constant transformation.

Episode 1

Hidden in a corner of Bras Basah Complex is Xin Hua bookshop, owned by legendary book collector Yeo Shan Cai. His collection of early Chinese-language textbooks are not only nostalgic educational materials, but tell the story of Singapore’s Chinese community from pre-war to post-independence days. Join Mediacorp personality Zhong Kun Hua on this learning journey.

Catch Episode 1 now!

Episode 2

Red packets are symbols of blessing during Chinese New Year and weddings. From junk boat illustrations of the 50s to corporate advertising of the 70s to the museum roundtable of today – the diverse and unique designs of red packets reflect shifting aesthetics, values, and branding in modern Singapore. Visual artist Tobyato explores the stories and meaning behind this festive item.

Catch Episode 2 now!

Episode 3

Qiaopi, remittance letters sent by early Chinese migrants, were lifelines of love and labour. This episode features collections which tell the stories from coolies of the yesteryears, letter writers and remittance workers, tracing emotional and economic ties of the time. This episode is hosted by architectural designer Ros Lin, who also has a keen interest in calligraphy.

Catch Episode 3 now!

Episode 4

School crests and uniforms represented discipline and unity and are archives of identity. Chinese fashion historian and designer Gong Pan Pan visits schools across Singapore and explore how these symbols, from blouses to badges, preserve stories of generational change, social values, and the evolving role of education in shaping nationhood.

Catch Episode 4 now!

Episode 5

From ticket stubs to cinema magazines, join Mediacorp personality Zhong Kun Hua in unearthing the vanished world of Singapore’s old cinemas. Theatres were more than movie houses, they were also social arenas and mirrors of the times. This episode charts the journey of film culture, memory, and a collector’s passion.

Catch Episode 5 now!