The Singapore Philatelic Museum (SPM) brings the relevance of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) closer to ‘common citizens’ like me with its exhibition, ASEAN: What we have in common, organised in celebration of the association’s 40th anniversary. Happening from now till May 2008, visitors will be able to relate to the ten Southeast Asian countries through an array of appealing stamps that show shared characteristics in the countries’ lifestyle, architecture, religion, literature and culture.

Did you know that the ASEAN logo is made up of 10 rice stalks bounded together, each representing one member country? Rice cultivation is an indigenous feature of SEA and believed to have a unifying effect on people from its process of cultivation to harvest.

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of ASEAN this year, 10 stamps (one from each member country) were issued based on the theme of the nation’s historical or important building. Singapore is represented by the iconic National Museum of Singapore.

The interactive ‘Hats Game’ prompted curious visitors to have a go at it

Visitors can learn about the various hats worn by rice farmers in different ASEAN nations while guessing which country each hat is from.

Chinese culture was introduced to various parts of SEA through early contacts and immigration of Chinese, with Vietnam experiencing the strongest influence due to its close proximity to China and past occupation by China. One can even find stamps from Vietnam featuring Chinese opera masks and characters at the exhibition.

Other than the aspect of performing arts, the influence of China culture on Vietnam can also be seen in ceramics, textiles and architecture.

Other influences that helped shape the culture and tradition of SEA came from giants like Europe and India. In fact, cross-cultural testimonies can be easily observed such as in these local stamps illustrating our island’s colonial architectural heritage when it was colonised by the British…

… as well as these stamps from Cambodia that reflect Indian religious beliefs in the design of the legendary Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The strength and unity of ASEAN today has made it more than just an abstract organisation mentioned in the newspapers. To find out more about our common heritage and similarities, visit the SPM and be amazed!

ASEAN: What We Have in Common is part of Explore Singapore! which happens from 10 November 2007 to 31 December 2007. For more information on Explore Singapore!, visit http://www.museums.com.sg/explore or call 62214463.