Singapore’s vibrant arts scene just got a significant boost for book lovers and culture enthusiasts heading into 2026. Starting in March 2026, the popular SG Culture Pass, which provides recipients with S$100 in credits, will broaden its eligibility to include the purchase of physical books within the Singapore Literature (SingLit) category. This timely regulatory change aims to encourage residents to move beyond digital distractions and actively engage with local literary works, complementing the existing array of eligible cultural activities, from theatre shows to art workshops.
This welcomed expansion comes as many residents seek impactful ways to fulfil New Year’s resolutions focused on reducing screen time and fostering intellectual pursuits. The $100 credit, previously reserved exclusively for cultural experiences, now provides a tangible incentive for residents to explore the richness of Singaporean storytelling, poetry, and dramatic arts.
Deep Dive into SingLit Eligibility
While the SG Culture Pass’s utility is expanding, the new book-buying feature is specifically focused on promoting locally authored content. Residents can use their credits to offset purchases of physical books that fall under the SingLit definition.
Crucially, this eligibility extends across all four of Singapore’s official languages—English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil—ensuring inclusivity and reflection of the nation’s multicultural heritage. The eligible materials encompass a wide spectrum of genres, including fiction, poetry collections, stage plays, and short essays. To qualify for the credit offset, the works must be physical publications authored by either a Singaporean citizen or a permanent resident. This stipulation ensures direct support for local writers and publishers.
Supporting Local Bookstores and Authors
The success of this initiative will heavily rely on the participation of local retailers. The Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY) is currently finalising the official list of participating bookstores. Initial expectations suggest that many beloved independent bookstores across the island will be included, offering readers accessible venues to redeem their credits and browse the SingLit selections.
This move marks a strategic investment in the intellectual capital of Singapore, creating new revenue streams for authors and providing essential visibility for local literary voices that might otherwise be overshadowed by international bestsellers. For avid readers and aspiring collectors, this provides a perfect opportunity to build a personal library of homegrown talent.
Activating Your Cultural Credits
Residents eager to explore Singaporean narratives immediately can begin familiarising themselves with the local publishing landscape now. While waiting for the official scheme expansion in 2026, patrons are encouraged to visit local literary hubs such as the charming Book Bar, the eclectic Littered with Books, and major retailers like Books Kinokuniya. These venues often feature strong sections dedicated to SingLit, offering a taste of what the expanded pass scheme will support.
The SG Culture Pass, through this book-buying inclusion, reaffirms the government’s commitment to nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem. By blending experiential culture with tangible literature, the scheme empowers residents to deepen their connection with Singapore’s identity and artistic achievements, paving the way for a more literature-engaged public in the years to come.