Singapore’s first permanent indoor snow centre closed its doors on Sept 30 after 26 years. It opened in June 2000 to allow people in the tropical city to experience snowfall and sub-zero temperatures.
The closure reflects the Science Centre Board’s commitment to “keeping its offerings fresh and relevant amid shifting visitor interests and an evolving attractions landscape”, Science Centre Singapore said on May 19.
“I can say that Snow City is part of me. So, of course, I am feeling sad. We hope that it was a good experience for all Singaporeans and tourists,” said Norazani Shaiddin, Snow City’s general manager.
“We may be small, but I think the memories we have given visitors are very lasting. More than two million people have visited us,” the 65-year-old said. With 21 years of service, he is the attraction’s longest-serving staff member.
“We have actually achieved 14 records in the Singapore Book of Records. We created the first real snowfall in Singapore using technology. We brought in mountain-quality snow,” he added.
Notable records include the 120m-long Glacier Luge and Singapore’s first ice bumper-car arena.
Mr Norazani will be leaving Singapore on Oct 4. Almaty Children’s Science Museum, under Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Education, has engaged him as a consultant. It is slated to open by the end of October.
Snow City marked its final chapter with One Last Snowfall, a public farewell campaign running from June to September. The campaign featured limited-time experiences and offers, including an hour of snow play and a bumper car ride, at 30% off the usual admission price.
On its last day, the attraction was fully booked. All 1,400 admission tickets were sold out online, and no walk-ins were allowed.
After the crowds cleared, the staff gathered for their hotpot dinner and goodbyes. Mr Norazani thanked his staff and shared tearful hugs as he bade a final farewell to his beloved snow centre. THE STRAITS TIMES
