Singlish: Why We Talk Like That?

We don't hear it on TV. We don't read it in the news. Some call it a national treasure while others say it's a detriment. Yet most Singaporeans speak Singlish, whether we like it or not. Since nationhood, attempts have been made to eradicate this language that stood in way of our first-world aspirations. But Singlish didn't just survive, it thrived. In this two-parter, award-winning singer-songwriter Shabir goes on a journey to document the origins of our beloved language. He uncovers how a language once under relentless assault, rose from pariah to cultural phenomenon.

Cast & Crew

Singlish: Part 1 Of 2
47 mins

How did a language commonly heard and spoken become the target of a decades-long eradication campaign?

Singlish: Part 1 Of 2

How did a language commonly heard and spoken become the target of a decades-long eradication campaign?

Singlish: Part 2 Of 2
47 mins

Award-winning singer-songwriter Shabir traces the genesis of Singlish and it's journey from pariah to cultural phenomenon.

Singlish: Part 2 Of 2

Award-winning singer-songwriter Shabir traces the genesis of Singlish and it's journey from pariah to cultural phenomenon.

Additional Information

Premiered2022
Genrescurrent affairs
Parental guidance advised for young children