The new book by Mr. Koh Buck Song explores Singapore’s practice of honoring dignitaries with orchid hybrids, highlighting the nation’s multicultural heritage and diplomacy.
SINGAPORE, 29 July 2024 – The launch of the “Orchid Diplomacy” book, written by Mr. Koh Buck Song, took place in Singapore. The event was officiated by Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ms. Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Second Minister for Finance, and Second Minister for National Development. The High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Singapore, HE Madiepetsane Charlotte Lobe, was among the distinguished attendees.
Mr. Koh, an acclaimed author, editor, and Singapore’s brand advisor is also a lecturer at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. His extensive study of Singapore’s brand is encapsulated in his previous work, “Brand Singapore,” which was first published in 2011 and is now in its third edition as of 2021.
The “Orchid Diplomacy” book delves into Singapore’s longstanding tradition of naming new orchid hybrids in honor of visiting dignitaries, a practice that symbolizes the country’s multicultural heritage and the harmony among its ethnic communities. Orchids, Singapore’s national flower, are emblematic of elegance, tradition, unity, and friendship. A notable example featured in the book is the Sealara Nelson Mandela orchid, named after President Nelson Mandela during his official visit to Singapore in 1997. This unique hybrid, with greenish-yellowish petals and sepals, tinged with red, incorporates the colors of the South African flag through the science of orchid hybridization. Additionally, a giant cola tree facing the Orchid Garden was named in honor of President Mandela.
The book showcases the intricate process of orchid hybridization in Singapore, featuring stories behind 60 carefully selected orchid hybrids. These stories were curated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and the National Parks Board. During his address at the book launch, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan highlighted the significance of this diplomatic practice, which dates back to 1956. The first orchid hybrid named was the Aranthera Anne Black, in honor of Lady Anne, wife of Governor Sir Robert Black. Since then, over 280 orchid hybrids have been named after foreign dignitaries and international organizations as gestures of goodwill and friendship.
Source: South African High Commission, Singapore
