Singapore Takes the Spotlight at Expo 2020 Dubai
Why This Pavilion Isn’t Just a Piece of the Map
Our tiny island nation is once again stepping into the global spotlight. On October 1, Singapore will proudly unveil its dazzling pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai – a mini‑world showcasing the future of sustainable living.
The Heartbeat of “Nature. Nurture. Future.”
This theme isn’t just a fancy slogan; it’s our guiding light. We packed the pavilion with green ideas, vibrant ecosystems, and a whole lot of love for the people who make Singapore who it is.
People First, Culture Second (and Always Backing The Others)
Visitors will feel the warmth of our most precious resource – the people. We’ve curated a collection of local goodies that celebrate Singapore’s unique culture and support the very community that keeps it essential.
Local Brands: From Nostalgic Heritage to Fresh Emerging Stars
- Old‑timers that remind you of the good old days.
- New‑wave labels bringing fresh flavor and style.
The idea is simple: swing by, pick up something that carries a piece of Singapore home, and take our spirit back into your everyday life.
Makan makan
Coffee Break
Discover the Secret Blend of a Singaporean Heritage Brand
Laojiao is not just any coffee shop – it’s a living piece of history, boasting over 80 years of tradition. Picture this: a cozy pavilion where visitors can sip a mystic brew made from your own coffee beans and a dash of tea dust, all mixed using the classic sock‑brewing technique that has stood the test of time.
Why This Brew is a Game‑Changer
- Unique flavor profile – the perfect marriage of caffeine and tea aroma.
- Authentic experience – no fancy gadgets, just a humble sock and some patience.
- Handcrafted care – made with the same love as when your grandma brewed your first cup.
Going Green, One Capsule at a Time
Laojiao isn’t just about taste; they’re all about the planet too. Over the last six months, their team has poured both sweat and resources into creating sustainably‑sourced, Nespresso‑compatible coffee capsules.
What does this mean for you? Drop a capsule into your machine, and you’ll enjoy a Gorgeous Singapore coffee that’s been thoughtfully produced to honor both tradition and the environment.
How to Experience It
- Visit the pavilion and let the aroma guide you.
- Try the sock‑brewed blend – short, sweet, and full of character.
- Grab a sustainable capsule and grab your Nespresso machine at home.
- Enjoy a cup that tastes like heritage and respects the Earth.
So, next time you’re craving something special, head to LaoJiao, sip the historic blend, and take home the sustainable capsule that keeps the good vibes going. Cheers to coffee that’s as warm on the planet as it is in your cup! 🙂
Gardens You Tiao
Deep‑Fried You Tiao: A Snack That Never Disappoints
*From Corporate Life to Pandan‑Laced Paradise
*Two adventurous souls swapped their suits for aprons and opened the very first Goreng Pisang stall right in an open‑air food court at Expo 2020 Dubai. Their dream? To bring a taste of home—plain, crispy, and absolutely irresistible—to a city that’s always hungry for novelty.
What Makes These You Tiao “You” Tiao?
*Unlike your average pastry, these deep‑fried delights have been carefully tailored to satisfy every palate:
- Sweet Potato Fritters – A buttery, caramel‑sweet twist on classic chips.
- Tapioca Fritters – Chewy, chewy, and a quiet nod to Singapore’s iconic kolo.
- Green Bean Fritters – Crunch that’s as vibrant as a tropical morning.
Each bite is a portal straight back to the bustling streets of Singapore, wherever you’re from.
Growth, Resilience, and a Sprinkle of Pandemic Proof
*From their first door to they now own three more outlets, the brand has proven that passion can outshine any obstacle—even a Covid‑19 pause. Their little kitchen is a testament that a foodie dream can thrive when passion is poured in with the right amount of taste, love, and a pinch of boldness.
Time to Join the Tiao Fan Club!
*Next time you’re at Expo 2020, stop by and test the golden crunch. You might just find your new favorite morning treat, and if you’re lucky, you’ll receive a funny story about the time one of the owners mistook a vending machine for a copy‑machine and almost fried a banana! Keep that smile ready, and you’ll munch on a snack that’s never old.
Jumain Sataysfaction
From a Javanese Dream to Singapore’s Satay Crown
How a 1910 Pioneer Keeps the Skewers Hot
Picture this: a young Javanese immigrant stumbles into Singapore in 1910, armed with nothing but a passion for grill‑goodness and a knack for turning humble chicken into sizzling star‑recipes. Fast forward a couple of generations—his grandson takes the reins, upgrades the gear, and turns the tiny stall into a global sensation.
Innovation at its Skewer‑Sassy Best
- First‑ever automated satay line (the Saus‑tation was born!)
- Recipe tweaks that smashed the old routines—balanced smoky vibes with nutty, creamy soul
- A trophy‑winning “Satay‑Fact” that made millennials all‑the‑way “OMG, that’s legit!”
Why the Crowd Still Craves the Jumain
With a dash of heritage and a sprinkle of modern tech, Jumain Sataysfaction has earned Singapore’s top‑honour badge and packed planes around the world. The secret sauce? A mix of tradition, innovation, and a pinch of that irresistible “no‑blink” hype.
Expo 2020 Dubai Experience
Curious visitors in Dubai got a front‑row seat to taste:
- Chicken Satay – juicy, marinated, and totally cuddle‑worthy.
- Mutton Satay – bold, bold‑and‑bolder—like a bass‑drum for your taste buds.
- Beef Satay – the classic crowd‑pleaser, crispy on the outside, warm on the inside.
All served with crisp cucumber bites and their signature peanut sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. No wonder the brand keeps fanning fans worldwide!
Sedap
Get Ready to Taste Singapore‑Style Munchies in Dubai!
Hey food lovers! Dubai’s Sedap is serving up a plate‑full of Singapore’s culinary charm, complete with all the quirky flavors that define our island vibes.
What’s on the Menu?
- Singaporean Fried Rice – the classic golden rice that gets everyone flocking.
- Rojak – a tangy medley of fruits, veggies, and that signature sauce that makes your mouth water.
- Otak‑Otak – spicy fish cake wrapped in banana leaf, cooked to perfection.
- Salted Egg Fried Fish Skin – crispy, savory, and a fancy way to say “hello, flavor!”
- And a string of other mouth‑watering treats that keep people coming back for more.
Drop by the Singapore Pavilion at Sedap and dive into the heart of our food scene—fresh, spicy, and absolutely unforgettable.
The Kettle Gourmet
Singapore’s Popcorn Revolution
Since 2017, Kettle Gourmet has been turning a humble snack into a taste sensation that’s as uniquely Singaporean as a cup of kopi.
Flavor-Filled Treats That Will Make Your Taste Buds Sing
- Nasi Lemak Popcorn: A sweet‑and‑spicy wonder. Picture creamy coconut milk & a fiery finish—so tasty you’ll think you’re in a bustling hawker centre, not munching on kernels.
- Kaya Butter Toast Popcorn: Imagine the glossy sheen of buttery toast sprinkled with dashes of coconut custard jam. Bite after bite, it’s like having your favorite breakfast on the go.
Local Pride Meets Sustainability
Kettle Gourmet prides itself on locally sourced ingredients and biodegradable packaging. So not only do you get a snack that feels like home, you also get peace of mind that you’re not leaving a mess behind.
Why You Should Try It
Whether you’re strolling down Orchard Road or planning a chill night in, these popcorns bring a slice of Singapore’s culinary charm to your snack box, complete with just the right blend of flavor and conscience.
Sin Mui Heng (SMH)
SMH’s Dim Sum Dream: From Tin Tin to Global Table
What started in a quiet family kitchen back in 1961 is now Singapore’s top dumpling‑dynamo, shipping crispy delights to more than 15 countries. Ready for a taste‑test at Expo 2020 Dubai?
What’s on the Menu?
- Classic Chicken Siew Mai: the dumpling that made the world “mmm.”
- Chili Crab Pau: because your finger‑licking craving deserves a bun‑based upgrade.
- Kaya Pau: sweet coconut butter magic packed in a soft, pillowy bite.
- Salted Egg Custard Pau: the savory-sweet mash‑up that’s oddly addictive.
All these treats will be tweaked just for the Expo crowd—think Singapore‑specific seasoning that will make your taste buds tap the Asian groove.
Why It Matters
SMH shows that a humble family shop can become a cultural ambassador. By spotlighting these dishes, they’re not just selling dim sum; they’re telling the story of Singapore’s culinary soul.
And hey—if you’re at the Expo, grab a bite, sip some tea, and feel the difference between a global dumpling and a local legend.
Ready to bite into history? The next grid‑seeking coffee shop might just be the bun in the spotlight!
A souvenir from sunny Singapore
The Art Faculty
Celebrating Creativity: A Glimpse into the Artistry of Singapore’s Spectrum Stars
*Within the vibrant cultural hub of Dubai Expo 2020, a heart‑warming showcase emerges, alive with the voices of artists who walk the spectrum. The Autism Resource Centre Singapore (ARC) brings forward their talents with a fresh, imaginative twist that both honors tradition and sparks curiosity.
What’s on Display?
*- “The Shophouses Design Trio Vase Set”: Painted by the brilliant Selena, each vase tells the tale of Singapore’s historic shophouses, those iconic, ornament‑laden structures flanking the city’s heritage lanes. Imagine a splash of color on each pot beneath a living story of brick, tile, and the bustle of commerce.
- “The Orchids Design Trio Vase Set”: Mosaiced by Amirah, this collection marvels with the national orchid, the Vanda Miss Joaquim. Three vases, each a tiny garden of petals—pure, elegant, and utterly fragrant, drawing the eye to the heart of Singapore’s botanical pride.
Why It Matters
*These pieces help us step into the world seen through the eyes of artists on the spectrum. They’re not just objects; they’re visual dialogues that ask how we view our surroundings—and trust us, the answers are as rich as the colors on the canvases.
“Beyond artistry, it’s a conversation,” says one of ARC’s coordinators. “Every brushstroke is an invitation to listen, to understand, to celebrate the beauty that thrives when we embrace diversity.”
Peeking Beyond The Paint
*When you walk by the booths, you’ll see:
Takeaway
*Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply curious, this collection reminds us that creativity knows no spectrum. Dive into the vibrant blend of Singapore’s heritage and the healing power of art—accessible, engaging, and unmistakably human.
Candles of Light
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Candles of Light: A Singaporean Glow‑up
Daphne Tan, once a PR maven, slipped into a sabbatical and sparked the flame for Candles of Light, Singapore’s fresh‑off-the‑tang first luxury candle brand. The line takes its power from the region’s spices, herbs, essential oils and aromatic treasures—think local, but with that high‑class twist.
Four Scents for the 2020 Dubai Expo (and beyond)
- After Rain – A monsoon‑kissed, urban jungle vibe that drifts from the street into your living room.
- Spice Route – A cheeky salute to Singapore’s pepper‑picking past, once the biggest black‑pepper exporter and the nutmeg farms that once peppered Orchard Road.
- Urban Rainforest – A bright, playful combo of kaffir lime and tropical fruit that feels like a garden party in the concrete jungle.
- — (Missing scent) – Hope you’ll discover the last mystery scent just as it landed in Dubai!
Daphne says the scents are all about taking you on a floral trip through Singapore’s own backyard. Whether you’re feeling the rainlit streets or the spice‑filled history, Candles of Light is ready to turn your space into a fragrant story.
Mononos
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Mononos: From a Small‑Scale Start‑Up to a Global Party Powerhouse
Backstory: In 2014, co‑founder Ora Lim teamed up with three fellow visionaries to launch Mononos. What started as a humble venture has now spread its wings across Singapore and China, pulling in high‑profile gigs like Singapore Fashion Week and the Southeast Asian Games.
Who’s on the Client List?
- Luxury global brands: Chanel, Harley‑Davidson, Gucci
- Automotive giants: Toyota, Hyundai, Mercedes‑Benz
- Everything in between—thanks to the team’s knack for turning big ideas into bigger realities
What Makes a Souvenir Truly Singaporean?
According to Ora, it’s all about capturing that vibrant feel of Singapore, not just remixing nature and emojis into a package. She put it best when we asked:
“Utilising natural and man‑made elements is only half the equation. It’s the ability to reproduce the colours and vibrance of one’s experience that makes the souvenir wholly Singaporean.”
Expo 2020 Dubai: Pin‑pointing the POP
Mononos will showcase a dazzling lineup of enamel pins and key chains, featuring:
- Lee Xin Li’s whimsical illustrations—because who needs a boring postcard?
- Pew Pew Patches’ embroidered art, which adds a texture that feels almost like a personal hug.
These little treasures aren’t just souvenirs; they’re snapshots that let people carry a piece of Singapore’s colors, vibes, and, let’s be honest, an extra bit of swag everywhere they go.
Onlewo
Onlewo Hits the Stage at Expo 2020 Dubai
Since its founding in bustling Singapore, Onlewo has been turning everyday things—home goods, fashion, lifestyle items—into storytelling canvases. Their newest chapter? The dazzling Expo 2020 Dubai showcase, where heritage meets modern flair.
Two Silk Scarf Hits That Make Your Neck Look Good
- Peranakan Story – Picture a vibrant tapestry woven from Peranakan traditions. It’s a salute to the rich fabrics, décor, and creative spirit lovingly curated at the Peranakan Museum.
- Naturally Dazzling Singapore – This one drops a love letter to Singapore’s green side. From jungle‑like flora to its local fauna, the design plays in harmony with the Pavilion’s own architectural beauty.
Charity Meets Creativity: An Exclusive Expo‑Edition Fabric Notebook
Founder Mike Tay, together with bright young minds from a local charity, pulled sketches that echo the Pavilion’s resonant theme: “Nature. Nurture. Future.” The result? A limited‑run fabric notebook that isn’t just a keepsake—it’s a reminder that art can plant seeds for tomorrow.
With playful patterns, heartfelt stories, and a flair for the unexpected, Onlewo proves that even in a tech‑packed world, old‑world charm still delivers.
Pew Pew Patches
Peep the Sew‑Nificent Journey of Pew Pew Patches
Since 2014, Dawn Bey has been turning ordinary cloth into an extraordinary collage of stories with her Singapore‑born brand, Pew Pew Patches.
What’s in the Patch‑tastic Bag?
- Iron‑on stitches—glue them to your jacket in a snap.
- Sticker patches—stick ‘em on your phone case or backpack.
- All designs celebrate Singapore’s quirky charm: from hawker hubs to Peranakan legacies.
Star‑Trek to Expo 2020 Dubai
Dawn is setting the Dubai stage on fire by tributing emblematic Singapore landmarks:
• Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre—the mouth‑watering maze that never sleeps.
• Singapore Peranakan Houses—those gems with intricate woodwork and vibrant tiles.
• Vanda Miss Joaquim—our national flower, blooming like a badge of pride.
• Dipterocarp Seed Art—a jaw‑dropping installation from the Singapore Pavilion.
It’s not just 80s nostalgia; each patch is a miniature museum piece, letting you wear a chapter of the nation’s saga while you walk the streets.
Wrap It Up With a Pinch of Humor
Imagine your favourite hoodie sporting the iconic Vanda flower, the next could sprout a little hawker stall to satisfy your late‑night cravings. These patches do more than tell a story—they turn everyday apparel into interactive storytelling.
So, if you’re looking to add a dash of heritage and a swirl of fun to your wardrobe, Pew Pew Patches has got you covered—literally.
Lee Xin Li
Meet Lee Xin Li: Singapore’s Artistic Time‑Traveler
Lee Xin Li is no ordinary illustrator. He wields his pencils like a time‑machine, capturing the gritty textures and deep heritage of Singapore’s streets to keep a strong bond with the place he calls home.
History, Architecture, Nature—All in One Sketch
- His pieces blend old colonial facades with modern skyscrapers.
- He pays close attention to the subtle whispers of the city’s past.
- Nature isn’t left out—every leaf and lamppost pops off the page.
Why does this matter? Because in a few years, these landmarks might look utterly different. Xin Li’s art is a sentimental snapshot, a way to preserve memories before pixels and renovations erase them.
Expo 2020 Dubai: A Singapore Showcase
For the 2020 Dubai Expo, Xin Li is bringing the very best of Singapore to life. Picture:
- Jewel Changi Airport—the iridescent tower of glass and glass, humming with commerce.
- Gardens by the Bay—those awe‑inspiring Supertrees that look straight out of a sci‑fi movie.
- Marina Bay—the skyline that glitters like a scene from Blade Runner.
His colorful line‑art invites visitors from around the world to feel the pulse of the city, no matter where they’re from.
Little Known—Big Impact
Fun fact: Xin Li also illustrated the interior of the Singapore Pavilion on Mon Viso’s drinking water labels. A perfect blend of art and hydration—talk about caffeinating creativity!
Sunday Punch
Meet Sunday Punch – Singapore’s Craft Cocktail Crew
It all kicked off back in 2014 when Mark Tay teamed up with Yap Hwee Jen to start Sunday Punch. They’re not just whipping up cocktails; they’re pouring in love and a dash of mad skill into every bottle.
Why the locals love them
- They use home‑grown herbs and local ingredients, turning ordinary drinks into a Singaporean “taste‑of‑home” experience.
- Even the Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Airlines tipped them to craft special mixers—because Singapore’s flavors just can’t be bottled up elsewhere.
- Every sip is a fresh, innovative mash‑up of the city’s iconic tastes.
Spotlight at Expo 2020 Dubai
The Singapore Pavilion is stirring the scene with three non‑alcoholic, limited‑edition creations that bring nostalgia and novelty together.
The Pandan Green Tea Mix
This one’s a sweet reminder of kueh and local desserts. Imagine that jasmine‑like aroma of pandan dancing on your tongue—pure bliss.
The Hawthorn Hibiscus
Think of the dried haw flakes you used to gobble as a kid, blended with a floral hibiscus syrup. It’s refreshingly sweet and a little kitschy.
The Ginger Black Tea
Ever tried a classic teh halia from a kopitiam? This drink captures that spicy, ginger‑rich tone, perfect for when you’re fighting a cold or just craving something bold.
So whether you’re in the mood for a liquid memory or a gusto‑filled adventure, Sunday Punch has you covered—just sip, smile, and let the flavors wander!
Supermama
Supermama: From Gallery to Lifestyle Gem
Supermama isn’t just another shop; it’s a handshake between two partners, Edwin Low and Mei Ling. What started as a gallery space aimed at spotlighting Singapore’s local fashion talent has grown into a full‑blown lifestyle brand. Talk about launching something that feels less like a store and more like a Singaporean passport to cool, thoughtful design.
The “Good” Is All in the Details
- Good Stories – Every item has a backstory you can feel.
- Good Design – Looks that keep your eye hooked and your wallet happy.
- Good Quality – Because we don’t just want a pretty face; we want it to last.
When you stroll through Supermama, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re taking home a piece of Singapore’s heritage. Look out for their President’s Design Award‑winning Singapore Icons collection. This series marries style and sentiment with a signature cobalt‑blue and white porcelain look that harks back to the bustling trade routes where our city began its journey.
A Bit of History, A Dash of Lifestyle
That ceramic tells a story: it’s not merely porcelain, it’s a relic from a time when Singapore was the bustling crossroads of East and West. By weaving that narrative into modern design, Supermama gives you a souvenir that’s both classic and cool.
So next time you’re hunting for that perfect, original gift, think about the twin creators who turned a gallery into a lifestyle brand. Trust us—you’ll find a surprising mix of goodness that feels personal, seasoned, and genuinely Singaporean.
Supermama Takes the Stage at Expo 2020 Dubai
Picture this: a dazzling collection of porcelain plates gleaming under the Dubai lights, each one telling its own Singaporean story. Supermama, the renowned name behind contemporary blue‑and‑white porcelain, is bringing two masterpieces to the Expo: the Singapore Architecture Porcelain Plate and the newly minted Botanica Porcelain Plate.
The Look of a City
- Singapore Architecture Plate – a masterful rendering of the city’s skyline, from the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the shimmering spires of the Esplanade.
- Each brick, window, and beam is captured in stunning detail, turning a humble plate into a travel brochure with a glossy finish.
The Green Scene
- Botanica Plate – a lush, botanical tribute that pays homage to the botanical gardens housed within the Singapore Pavilion.
- The green swirl not only invites a breath of fresh air but also showcases the vibrant flora that blooms year-round in Singapore.
Edwin’s Thoughts on the Art of Porcelain
Edwin, the creative mastermind behind Supermama, shares his passion with a wink:
“We’re famous for giving old‑school blue‑and‑white porcelain a brand new vibe. Traditional? Yes. But we never settle; we’re always chasing fresh angles on a classic canvas.”
— Edwin, Senior Designer
He nods toward the delicate dance between past and present:
“The trick lies in walking that fine line between the contemporary and the classical. It’s like mixing yesterday’s nostalgia with tomorrow’s excitement—all wrapped in that unmistakable Singapore flavor.”
— Edwin
Why It Matters
These plates aren’t just decorative—they’re ambassadors for a city that’s constantly reinventing itself. By blending tradition with modernity, Supermama showcases the best of Singapore’s spirit: resilience, innovation, and a touch of playful swagger.
So if you’re at Expo 2020 Dubai, be sure to check out Supermama’s plates. They’re the perfect souvenir to remind you that great design can be both timeless and refreshingly new—just like a good cup of coffee on a Sunday morning!
Wellie Batik
Uncle Wellie, birth‑name Ang Kum Siong, has been the heart‑throb of every passer‑by who’s ever paused at his batik stall for the past four decades. A legend whose story began in 1955, when he rolled his goods through the bustling pasar malam stalls, and who later carved out a permanent storefront at Holland Road Shopping Centre in 1978.
A Day in the Life
Every morning, you can still catch him at his vintage gear, humming to the rhythm of fabric and thread.
His clothes aren’t just garments; they’re badges of status. Local dignitaries proudly sport his intricate patterns – a testament to his craftsmanship.
The Expo 2020 Dubai Surprise
For Expo 2020 in Dubai, Wellie Batik launched a limited‑edition Gardens Notebook. Here’s the scoop:
Why He Matters
Uncle Wellie turns every cloth into a story of heritage and heritage into style.
Even at 95, he winks at the younger crowd, reminding us that confidence and a good laugh go hand‑in‑hand.
His legacy continues to thrive – a living celebration of Singapore’s vibrant past and bright future.
Originally featured on Wonderwall.sg – and now re‑imagined for you in plain, friendly English.
