Singapore consortium cedes running of Chinatown Heritage Centre to STB

THE Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has taken over the management of the Chinatown Heritage Centre from its current operator, a consortium among local companies Singapore River Cruise, Journeys, and Splash Entertainment.

STB said on Monday that both parties "mutually agreed" to end the group's contract to operate and manage the museum, which has been impacted by Covid-19 and prolonged restrictions on international travel.

Also, the museum, which has been closed since September last year for renovation and enhancement works, will stay closed until further notice instead of reopening this month.

Said STB: "We will use this time to review the centre's operating model, and will announce future plans in due course."

The Chinatown Heritage Centre was opened in 2002. It closed for rejuvenation in October 2014 and reopened about a year later under the consortium of tourism players.

Singapore River Cruise operates river boat and trishaw rides, while Journeys is a tour operator. Splash Entertainment manages events and festivals.

The revamp had included a new space for exhibitions and community events, a food and beverage and retail section, as well as a new line-up of immersive tours.