SMOKING MURAL, KUDASAI GIRL & PINK DOT
ISSUE 48, WEEK COMMENCING 2 JULY 2024
Peter Kosasih and S. Lukesh
Secret Lives of Singaporeans is an ongoing collection of marketer-friendly briefs on the fascinating people of the little red dot, by planners and PR consultants from the big red agency. It’s not “thought leadership”, it’s…
INSPIRATION TO DO
EACH ISSUE COMPRISES
• One thing people in Singapore are talking about
• One thing people in Singapore are searching for
• One thing that’s in the news in Singapore
ONE THING PEOPLE ARE SEARCHING FOR:
SMOKING SAMSUI WOMAN
ONE THING PEOPLE ARE SEARCHING FOR:
SMOKING SAMSUI WOMAN
In the heart of Chinatown, renowned for its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, a mural by Sean Dunston has ignited a fervent debate among locals, policymakers, and historians. Criticism has arisen over the portrayal of a Samsui woman in the artwork, with a member of public being offended that she was depicted more like to a prostitute than a diligent labourer. Additionally, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) initially mandated the removal of the cigarette held by the woman in the mural, a decision that was later rescinded following ongoing deliberations.
SO WHAT:
Censorship: This issue highlights the intricate relationship between artistic expression, public perception, and regulation in Singapore. Censorship risks stifling creativity and diluting art's reflection of societal diversity. Brands and marketers can help by funding diverse artists, advocating for protective policies, and celebrating cultural diversity directly. This support fosters a more inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape.
ONE THING PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT:
KUDASAI GIRL
WHAT PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT:
KUDASAI GIRL
In the dynamic realm of social media, few personalities have recently shone as brightly as Devin Halbal, better known to her legion of fans as "Kudasai Girl." This New York-based travel vlogger and internet sensation has garnered a fervent following with her unique blend of humour, advocacy, and unwavering positivity. During her recent visit to Singapore, Devin hosted a meet-and-greet event where fans gathered to engage in her signature chants with a Singaporean twist. Her clever blend of local vernacular with her iconic charm captivated attendees and further solidified her global appeal.
SO WHAT:
Personality Matters: The days of a carefully curated brand image are a thing of the past. Consumers today no longer buy into the idea of perfection but instead crave authenticity. By embracing authenticity and showcasing their unique personalities, brands can forge genuine connections with consumers, earning favour and trust in the process.
ONE THING THAT’S IN THE NEWS:
PINK DOT 16
ONE THING THAT'S IN THE NEWS:
PINK DOT 16
Last Saturday saw the commemoration of the sixteenth annual Pink Dot rally, an event where LGBTQ+ issues take center stage to advocate for systematic change in Singapore and the freedom to love. In line with its theme, ‘No One Left Behind’, Pink Dot 16 invited Singaporeans and Permanent Residents to Hong Lim Park to take a stand for a future where no one is left behind — highlighting the marginalisation and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, even in post-repeal Singapore.
SO WHAT:
Moving Beyond Lip Service: In 2024, it's no longer sufficient for brands to offer superficial gestures of support for the LGBTQ+ community. They must go beyond tokenism and instead actively engage in meaningful actions that demonstrate their genuine commitment.
Whether through inclusive advertising campaigns, tangible support for LGBTQ+ organisations, or internal policies that prioritise diversity and inclusivity, brands have the opportunity— and responsibility—to authentically champion equality.
