Repair work is scheduled to commence on Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue in Merlion Park, Marina Bay, Singapore, starting September 25 and continuing until December 13. During this period, the statue will be enveloped in scaffolding and will not be accessible for photography, as announced by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on September 22.
In the interim, visitors are encouraged to capture photos with the nearby Merlion cub statue, also situated within Merlion Park. STB expressed its appreciation for the public’s understanding, acknowledging that the ongoing repair activities and barriers might cause some inconvenience during this timeframe.
Previously, maintenance was conducted on the Merlion statue for a brief period from July 27 to July 28 of this year, consistent with the usual checks and upkeep of the statue.
In response to inquiries from CNA, Hazel Teh, Director of Compliance and Corporate Services at STB, detailed that the repair work will encompass rectifying cracks in the statue, alongside a comprehensive cleaning. She emphasized that these repairs are imperative to ensure the long-term preservation of this iconic Singaporean landmark.
Ms. Teh further elaborated, stating that the repair work will extend beyond two months due to the extensive nature of the restoration work compared to routine maintenance. Notably, the last significant restoration of the Merlion took place in 2019, necessitating a closure period of 2.5 months.
The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and the body of a fish, was originally crafted by local artisan Lim Nang Seng. It was inaugurated on September 15, 1972, by then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew at the entrance of the Singapore River.
However, with the construction of the Esplanade Bridge in 1997, the statue lost its prominence and visibility from the waterfront. Consequently, it was relocated in 2002 to its current location at Merlion Park, in front of the Fullerton Hotel, offering panoramic views of Marina Bay.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary last year, the Merlion statue remains an enduring symbol of Singapore, and these essential repair works will ensure its preservation for generations to come.