About the museum

Our Story

A Member Of:

The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum strives to be a leader in Southeast Asian biodiversity – in research, education and outreach.

Located at the National University of Singapore, over a million biological specimens, field notes, drawings, and photographs from Southeast Asia are housed in its iconic rock-shaped building.

As a safe keeper of Singapore’s natural heritage, we not only seek to share knowledge with the public, but also recognise the value of our collections among the scientific community which supports biodiversity research in Singapore and in the region.

Mission

To nurture public interest in biodiversity and environmental issues; expand our natural heritage knowledge base with focus on our collection of biological specimens; promote biodiversity research locally and internationally; and maintain the relevance of biodiversity and environmental issues to generations of Singaporeans

Vision

To be a leader in Southeast Asian biodiversity–in research, education and outreach

Our Goals

To strengthen, grow and evolve our research programme

The museum will continue to grow new areas and encourage the use of novel research technologies for its collections, with a Singaporean as well as a broader Southeast Asian perspective.

To increase curriculum relevance and educational engagement

The museum will endeavour to cultivate talent that is knowledgeable about biodiversity and sustainable development in the service of local and regional conservation.

To increase public engagement

The museum will strive to enthuse and educate the public on Singapore’s biodiversity and natural heritage and raise awareness of environmental issues.

Our Pillars

Research

Publications

Education

Gallery

A photograph, in black and white, published in 1908 showing one of the natural history galleries in Raffles Library and Museum at Stamford Road. The Malacca whale is suspended from the ceiling and surrounded by large specimens of crocodiles and turtles.

Museum History

Learn more about the Museum’s history which goes all the way back to the 1870s!

Our People

Meet our dedicated team of researchers, educators, curators and administrative staff who are passionate in bringing natural history to life for our visitors and participants.