The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum proudly marked its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of excellence in biodiversity research, education, and natural heritage conservation. Since its official opening on 18 April 2015, the Museum has grown into a leading institution in Southeast Asia, dedicated to preserving biodiversity and inspiring future generations. 

We were honoured to welcome Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore and NUS Chancellor, as the Guest-of-Honour at our 10th anniversary celebration event on 6 May 2025.  

As part of the celebration, LKCNHM unveiled its special anniversary exhibition, ‘A Decade of Discovery: Stories from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum’, showcasing the institution’s journey and milestones over the past decade. Since 2015, Singapore’s only natural history museum has served as a vital hub for scientific research, education, and community engagement—uncovering Southeast Asia’s rich biodiversity and deep historical ties. The exhibition not only reflects on the Museum’s legacy but also outlines its vision for the future, encouraging the next generation of scientists to carry forward its mission. 

“Our vision is to be a leader in Southeast Asian biodiversity research, education, and outreach,” said Associate Professor Darren Yeo, Head of LKCNHM. “To this end, we have actively pursued research and discovery with local and regional partners, imparted expertise on biodiversity and conservation, and nurtured awareness and interest in biodiversity, natural heritage and environmental issues.” 

Professor Aaron Thean, NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost, shared, “As a champion of conservation, the Museum aims to inspire every visitor to take meaningful action. The importance of protecting biodiversity is more crucial than ever—both for a bio-sustainable world and the well-being of humanity.” 

At the event, the Museum also launched its commemorative book, ‘Archipelago of Islands: Natural and Other Histories of Singapore’, to mark Singapore’s 60th year of independence. The book explores the key roles of Singapore’s islands as habitats, homes and navigational landmarks—interweaving stories of nature, history, and culture, while also offering fresh perspectives on the nation’s archipelagic nature. 

In conjunction with the 10th anniversary celebration, LKCNHM also announced its upcoming collaboration with the Science Centre Singapore on a special year-end exhibition themed around extinctions and dinosaurs, featuring an extraordinary journey over 400 million years of Earth’s history.

Thank you to our friends and supporters for joining us in celebrating this milestone, and for all your support over the past ten years!  

A series of exciting activities have been planned throughout the anniversary year. Visitors can look forward to the upcoming Crime Scene Investigation activity, ‘Night at LKCNHM: A Museum Heist Investigation’ experience, and a public research symposium titled ‘Specimens, Science, and Stories’ highlighting the Museum’s scientific contributions over the past decade. 

The Museum invites all visitors, families, and nature lovers to join in the celebrations and discover the wonders of natural history! Thank you for celebrating ten years with us! 

Watch our highlight reel here!