Views sought on proposed laws for archaeological items

Legislation will allow NHB to declare ownership over any discovered artefacts

- Ng Keng Gene

New laws that would require those who discover archaeological objects to turn them over to the authorities are being drafted, as part of efforts to protect Singapore's archaeological heritage.

The proposed laws will grant the National Heritage Board (NHB) powers to declare ownership over these artefacts, make it compulsory to report such finds in certain sites, and require those who conduct archaeological activities to hold a permit.

These are areas currently not covered by the law.

In October, the NHB launched a public consultation through the Government's feedback unit Reach to canvass views on its legislative proposals.

"Without legislative safeguards in place, there is a risk that significant archaeological sites and/or finds within Singapore may not receive timely expert attention, proper care and safeguarding," said the NHB.

It pointed out that there is a risk archaeological sites or finds could be damaged, and the latter kept privately or sold overseas. Artefacts the NHB can declare ownership over will include "moveable objects" that are at least 75 years old - which will cover items dating back to World War II and the colonial period - that are either fully or partially buried, or submerged, within Singapore.

The proposed laws will also make it compulsory to report finds at designated sites on land, and at shipwrecks at sea.