Can Singapore's young stamp collectors keep the 'king of hobbies' alive?

Once renowned as the "king of hobbies," stamp collecting was once a beloved pastime among Singapore schoolchildren. However, in today's fast-paced digital world, fewer individuals are captivated by its slower, more contemplative nature. Despite this shift, Mr. Sim Jen Lun, a 25-year-old enthusiast, is challenging the trend. Since 2015, he has accumulated a collection of over 4,000 stamps, ranging from commemorative Singapore issues to stamps from North Korea and other East Asian nations.

For seasoned collectors like 59-year-old Mr. Victor Lau, the allure extends beyond the stamps themselves. The old postmarks, postal slogans, and envelopes provide glimpses into Singapore's social history, from the now-defunct post office on Pulau Bukom to campaigns promoting the consumption of frozen fish.

Gau Poh Teck, the principal of Sengkang Green Primary School, shares a similar vision. By incorporating the study of stamps into the school's curriculum, he hopes to ignite curiosity and learning in the next generation.