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Arts SG NMP Secretariat: Arts NMP candidates share their vision and goals if nominated

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4 years ago

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Members of the arts community in Singapore on Wednesday (18 November) conducted a virtual town hall meeting with five Arts Nominated Members of Parliament (NMP) candidates for the public to learn more about each of them and what they have to offer if nominated for the role.

Read on to find out a little more about each of the five candidates.

George Leong

One of the five candidates is George Leong, a music producer and exco-member of the National Instructors and Coaches Association (NICA) and founding director of SingPop Music Limited.

In his introduction video, Mr Leong said he felt an ‘urgent need’ to step up to help the local arts community recover in a post-COVID world.

Noting his involvement in various ground-up initiatives, Mr Leong then talked about the three key areas he would focus on if nominated as an NMP.

First, support for post-pandemic recovery for the arts as the pandemic has severely impacted businesses and livelihoods.

This includes working with the government to ensure “sufficient and fairer” distribution of funding and support, advocating for greater government buy-ins to raise the international profile of Singapore’s arts and culture, forming a marketing and PR task force for the industry, consolidating supporting between agencies and ministries, and maximising existing trade and cultural agreement with other countries.

“I believe these are the main pillars to rebuild a healthier and sustainable arts ecosystem as we exit and recover from this pandemic,” said Mr Leong.

He also stated his intention to champion support for freelancers in the art, event and music sectors, noting in particular the difficulties many of them face now due to COVID-19 restrictions and the economic downturn which have led many to seek alternative revenue streams.

Next, he went on to talk about intellectual property rights, noting that the arts community has to strengthen its capabilities to prepare for digital communications.

The two areas he highlighted specifically are amending the Copyright Act to facilitate use and introducing performers’ rights into the Copyright Act to protect performers.

Audrey Lim

Another candidate is arts industry veteran Audrey Lim who has been everything from a radio DJ to screen and stage actor, as well as event producer and promoter.

She also has experience in the legal side of the arts industry, having trained with Rajah and Tann’s entertainment department.

Drawing from her experience working as a freelancer and in partnership with bigger companies, Ms Lim pointed out two main issues.

First is the betterment of the position of self-employed practitioners, technicians and support teams in the arts and media eco-system.

“Freelancers are isolated from the conversations that have been going on and are going on between the three bodies: The community, the policymakers, and leadership,” said Ms Lim.

“Even though freelancers in this arts and media scene form upwards of 45 per cent of the ecosystem, which is higher than the national average of freelancers which is about 14 per cent of people, we seem to be not included in the discussions — which make for a very very difficult situation for freelancers everywhere,” she added.

Noting that there is a “massive deficit” in terms of a port of call for freelancers to air their grievances, it has led to policy makers “guessing” at what is needed to support the community.

Ms Lim has also been involved in co-drafting surveys targeting the music community and presenting those findings to the former Minister of Culture, Community and Youth, packaging information on grants and policy updates, and facilitating dialogue between the community and policy makers.

“After many Zoom meetings with arts administrators, I wish to bring that research-focused, community-grounded, service-oriented mindset further up the policy ladder more directly, zooming in on greater audience education and uplifting creative freelancers,” she noted on the Arts NMP 2020 website.

“Building on the work of previous Arts NMPs, I wish to bridge the gap Audrey Wong identified between creative freelancers and policymakers. The livelihood issues of invisible, “non-essential” freelancers have worsened with Covid-19 and need urgent attention,” said Ms Lim.

During the town hall, Ms Lim also touched on audience awareness to help more people understand what goes into the production of various pieces of art.

Benjamin Matchap

Next up is photographer and social media strategist, Benjamin Matchap, who was also a parkour coach.

Having worked in production for years with an “infamous” production company, Mr Matchap said he saw many talented people quitting the profession as they were not compensated regularly, in contrast with the long hours they had to put in.

“I feel that Singapore is a country that has a lot of talent, and we’re always talking about growing, grooming talent and creating talent, but I think the area that we fail to focus on is keeping and maintaining that talent,” he said.

Highlighting the high burnout rate in the arts industry which is perpetuated with every generation of talent, Mr Matchap said he wants to focus on strengthening protection for both freelancers and full-timers.

He added that the current climate has led to many full-timers who had already overworked to take on even more work as companies slow their hiring of freelancers.

Another area of focus he noted, which is personal to him, is to provide better protection for athletes as well who want to chase their passion in the arts.

He detailed his struggles back when he was a parkour coach trying to get recognition for the sport from various governmental bodies but kept being shuffled between the sports and arts councils.

Nabilah Said

Another candidate is playwright, editor, arts writer and poet Nabilah Said. She also has experience in journalism, having formerly been an arts correspondent for The Straits Times and is the current editor of arts media company ArtsEquator.

Ms Nabilah has also worked in the National Heritage Board and the Singapore Arts Museum.

On the website, Ms Nabilah noted her interest in “listening to the voices in the community, and reflecting back a considered calibration of urgent issues on a national stage”.

“My primary priority will be to help the industry rebuild as it comes out of the pandemic, while also communicating the intrinsic value of the arts to the country,” she said.

During the town hall, Ms Nabilah emphasised that if nominated, she would like to work with policymakers to come up with a roadmap to manage the impact of the pandemic on artists in Singapore.

This includes looking at protections and support available for freelancers, how to better safeguard the sector, and bringing in the Arts Resource Hub and other players into the discussion.

Next, Ms Nabilah talked about audience recultivation and improving access to the arts—for parents and caregivers, those who cannot leave their homes, and those outside of Singapore.

She added that she would also like to address deep and systemic issues plaguing the industry.

“For example, how can we articulate the intrinsic value of arts and culture in a way that all Singaporeans can understand and resonate with? It sounds simple, but it’s really not,” Ms Nabilah explained.

Finally, she touched on the loss of space in the arts and the effects of that in the long term.

Ms Nabilah continued: “Within the industry, I’m also interested in fixing what is broken, what is also perhaps allowed to fester, what are the little micro-tears that we have learnt to live with over the years.”

In her introduction on the website, Ms Nabilah also said: “Given my positionality as a young Malay woman and an artist, I will also speak up for minority and disenfranchised communities and fight for a more equal, accessible and compassionate society.”

“With the younger generation, I am particularly interested in encouraging critical discourse, and an active engagement in shaping our collective future,” she said.

Terence Tan

Last but not least is Terence Tan — a producer, artist and painter. He has also volunteered as part of former NMP Audrey Wong’s team to call for better working conditions.

More recently when the pandemic began, he advocated the protection of artists’ livelihoods as well.

Mr Tan has also garnered experience working within the local and international arts communities doing community-development based works.

“We definitely need a lot more connection and reform,” said Mr Tan, noting that through his work, he has noticed how much artists have lost due to the pandemic.

Expanding on the blueprint he is working on, Mr Tan says there first needs to be relief for the arts communities, followed by prevention measures to avoid the same problems from recurring.

Only then comes the point of transformation, said Mr Tan, where the arts and the state can have an “interdependent” relationship instead of arts being dependent on the state.

Mr Tan called for a dedicated ministry for culture and the arts instead of being lumped together with other sectors under the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth, and to redesign the National Arts Council’s relationship with the arts industry.

Arts NMP 2020

An online signatory campaign is now live. Members of the public are invited to indicate their support for the arts NMP 2020 candidates here by Friday (20 November).

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Arts & Culture

2024 Golden Horse Film Project Promotion unveils 63 selected projects, celebrating global creativity and innovation

The 2024 Golden Horse Film Project Promotion has unveiled 63 selected projects, featuring a diverse array of genres and international collaborations. With 38 films in development, 13 in progress, and 12 series, this year’s lineup highlights innovative storytelling and global creativity.

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2 weeks ago

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3 September 2024

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The Golden Horse Film Project Promotion (FPP), a prestigious platform dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and fostering international collaboration, has revealed its 2024 project lineup.

This year, the event will showcase 63 selected projects, including 38 Film in Development (FPP), 13 Work-in-Progress (WIP), and 12 Series selections. These projects represent a diverse array of genres, styles, and creative visions, underscoring the dynamic and evolving landscape of Asian and global cinema.

Diverse and Cutting-Edge Filmmakers Dominate FPP Selections

The 38 projects selected for the FPP section reflect a broad spectrum of themes, with many films pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

This year’s selections include works from acclaimed filmmakers, many of whom have previously been recognized by the Golden Horse Awards. These projects promise to bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to the big screen.

Among the standout selections is “Wake Me Up When the Mourning Ends,” directed by LAU Kok-rui, who won the Golden Horse Award for Best New Director with The Sunny Side of the Street.

This film is expected to deliver a poignant exploration of grief and healing. Another highlight is Water of Immortality, directed by LIN Chun-yang, known for Eye of the Storm. This film tells the touching story of sculptor HUANG Tu-shui and his wife, blending art, history, and personal struggle.

Venturing into the horror genre, The Room Raising Children’s Soul by CHANG Yao-sheng, director of A Leg, explores themes of revenge and the supernatural, promising to captivate audiences with its eerie narrative.

LOU Yi-an’s Snake in the Dreamscapes combines elements of history, suspense, and politics, weaving a complex tale where three past-life dreams unravel three murder mysteries. WANG I-fan’s The Cat out of the Bag, with its violent aesthetics and revenge-driven plot, is set to be another visually striking addition to this year’s lineup.

Comedy also plays a significant role in this year’s FPP selections. God’s Lie in the Wonderland by veteran Hong Kong producer Roger LEE and director Kris LI uses a bizarre aquatic monster as a metaphor for the absurdities of real estate economics, offering a satirical take on modern society. Grannies Revenge by HSIEH Pei-ju, known for Heavy Craving, introduces a “women’s avengers” squad of grandmothers seeking justice against their unscrupulous husbands, promising both humor and empowerment.

Social issues are at the forefront of several FPP projects, often explored through the lenses of crime, thriller, and horror. Far End of Heaven by TSAO Jui-yuan, executive produced by Sylvia CHANG, follows the intense journey of a father and son on a wilderness escape, while Truth in Quarters by Boi KWONG, director of Geylang, delves into society’s interpretation of truth through a mysterious murder case.

The Day Before Tomorrow by LEE Yi-fang presents a suspenseful depiction of the immense pressure the education system imposes on students.

These selections not only reflect a deep engagement with contemporary issues but also highlight the diverse range of voices contributing to the cinematic landscape.

Films like Will You Please Reply, Please? by Jeffrey POON, which explores the disillusionment of post-1997 Hong Kong speculators, and Isolation by YU Chih-chieh, which uses a zombie crisis to comment on cross-strait tensions, illustrate how filmmakers are using genre cinema to address real-world anxieties.

The FPP lineup also includes historically inspired projects that offer authenticity and insight into significant events. LIFE DERAILED by CHAO Hsuan, for instance, explores the Puyuma train derailment accident, while He Sang a Dirge by Malaysian director LOH Din-yung exposes a scandal involving fake degrees and a corrupt tutoring empire in Malaysia.

Documentary filmmakers are well-represented in this year’s FPP section, tackling topics ranging from cultural identity to historical injustices.

The Songs from Within by Elvis LU focuses on the identity struggles of indigenous youth, while Exodus from China by LI Wei provides a poignant portrait of young people’s quest for freedom in the post-pandemic era.

Animated projects like Boy A-Nee-Gu Gets into Trouble Again! YA~ by Jack SHIH and The Dog That Lost His Home by CHEN Qiang add a unique visual element to the FPP selections, highlighting the versatility of animation as a medium for storytelling.

Emerging filmmakers are also making their mark with exciting new projects that reflect the evolving trends in global cinema. Japanese director NAKANISHI Mai’s Child, Uninvited uses suspense to explore societal pressures on women, while Indonesian director Jason ISKANDAR’s First Breath After Coma captures the turmoil of a fractured family against the backdrop of Indonesia’s 1990s regime change.

WIP Selections: A Glimpse into the Future of Cinema

The 13 projects selected for the WIP section offer a tantalizing glimpse into films that are currently in production but still seeking additional funding or collaboration opportunities. These films, which are already generating buzz within the industry, reflect the abundant creativity and diverse storytelling approaches that define this year’s Golden Horse FPP.

Among the highlights are Running Wild, a noir road film directed by WANG Yi-ling and executive produced by LIAO Ching-sung, and BLIND LOVE, directed by CHOU Mei-yu and starring Ariel LIN. These films promise to combine compelling narratives with strong visual storytelling.

Documentaries in the WIP section also stand out for their engagement with pressing social issues. One Day in the Future by JIANG Xuan-nian and JI Hang explores gender diversity and family dynamics, while A Thousand Winds by MOK Kawn-ling documents social movements in Hong Kong, providing a powerful commentary on contemporary struggles for freedom and justice.

Regional perspectives are again a key feature of the WIP selections, with projects like Malaysian filmmaker YEO Joon-han’s You Are Here and Singaporean director ANG Geck Geck Priscilla’s AH GIRL bringing unique cultural insights to the forefront. These films, along with others like Kong Tao, a horror film by Malaysian directors YONG Choon-lin and GOH Pei-chiek, emphasize the global nature of this year’s event.

Series Selections: Imagination Meets Reality

The Series section, now in its fifth year, continues to expand its scope with 12 projects that explore everything from fantasy and science fiction to crime, suspense, and drama. These selections are marked by their imaginative storytelling and bold narrative choices, reflecting the increasing convergence of television and cinema.

Fantasy and science fiction dominate several of this year’s Series selections. Super Cat, produced by HUANG Hsin-yao, deconstructs modern life through the surreal experiences of 10 delivery workers, while Survival Guide for Doomsday Kids by Kiwi CHOW presents a dystopian world where two siblings must navigate survival in the absence of adults. The blend of folklore, technology, and social commentary in Islanders, co-directed by YAO Hung-I, SHEN Ko-shang, and WU Mi-sen, promises to captivate audiences with its unique narrative approach.

Crime and suspense are also central to several Series projects, including The Fundamentals by YEO Siew-hua, which investigates the dark underbelly of a cult through a series of gruesome murders, and Godless by CHEN Kuan-chung, inspired by a real-life Taiwanese serial murder case. These projects highlight the versatility of the Series format in tackling complex themes and engaging viewers with gripping narratives.

Other notable Series selections delve into the world of medical professionals, sports, and jazz music. The Hand of God, from the creators of The Hospital, explores the high-stakes decisions faced by doctors, while Toh-kiu, directed by HUNG Tzu-peng, uses the drama of table tennis to examine the life lessons learned through competition. Jazzers by YAO Chiang, meanwhile, brings a unique animated twist to the world of music, portraying anthropomorphized musical instruments composing their symphonies in a world dominated by humans.

Looking Forward to the Golden Horse FPP Event

The 2024 Golden Horse Film Project Promotion will be held in Taipei from 18 to 20 November, culminating in an awards ceremony on 20 November. The event promises to be a celebration of creativity, innovation, and collaboration, bringing together filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals from around the world. With its diverse selections and strong emphasis on cross-cultural storytelling, this year’s FPP is set to be a highlight of the global film calendar, continuing the Golden Horse tradition of showcasing the best in contemporary cinema.

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Arts & Culture

Beloved Singaporean actress Alice Ho Soon Kim, known for Mediacorp roles, dies at 72

Veteran Mediacorp actress Alice Ho Soon Kim, known for her roles in over 50 TV series, including “Beansprout Auntie” in “Holland V,” has passed away at 72.

She was also a dedicated qigong practitioner and co-founded the Qigong Shi Ba Shi Association Singapore.

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1 year ago

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14 July 2023

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Veteran Mediacorp actress Alice Ho Soon Kim (何峋瑨), has passed away at the age of 72.

Ho, who appeared in over 50 television series, began her acting career with minor roles in local television shows starting in 1997.

One of her notable on-screen portrayals was the beloved character “Beansprout Auntie” in the 2003 show “Holland V”.

Her most recent television series was “The Sky is Still Blue” earlier this year.

In addition to her work as an actress, Ho was an active practitioner of qigong. In 1987, she co-founded the Qigong Shi Ba Shi Association Singapore to promote the sport locally.

She served as the chairman of the association for 31 years until she stepped down from her position two years ago to become a consultant.

On the association’s Facebook page, she was recognized as the chief trainer and actively participated in various qigong events.

Ho passed away on Sunday (9 Jul) due to a bacterial infection after undergoing uterine surgery, as reported by 8World News.

Shin Min Daily News (Shin Min) reported that  During her funeral on Thursday, over 50 individuals performed a qigong routine to honor her.

Some of Ho’s former students created videos to commemorate her.

Her daughter shared with Shin Min that her mother was a cheerful person who had many friends.

Despite her busy schedule, Ho continued to teach qigong classes online even during the pandemic.

She mentioned that her mother had planned to travel to Japan at the end of July to participate in a qigong competition.

“Even though she had just undergone surgery, she believed she would have fully recovered within three weeks. She had an exceptional strength of will.”

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