Starting today, on September 25, 2023, Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue will undergo maintenance and repair works lasting for a period of 12 weeks, concluding on December 13, 2023. This announcement comes from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), which unveiled the plans in a media advisory on September 22, 2023.
Merlion Maintenance Commencement
As of today, September 25, the statue will be shrouded in scaffolding, a necessary measure to facilitate the repair works. The STB has not specified the reasons for this round of maintenance, but it’s clear that this effort is part of the ongoing preservation of one of Singapore’s most famous landmarks.
Photo Opportunities Impacted
One significant impact of this preservation work is that the Merlion statue will not be available for photo-taking during this period. This may come as disappointing news to locals and tourists alike who flock to Merlion Park for its stunning views and photo opportunities.
Source: Visit Singapore
Alternatives During Maintenance
However, those seeking to capture memories at Merlion Park still have hope. While the main statue is under maintenance, the public can take photos with the nearby Merlion cub statue. This more petite yet equally charming statue will continue to serve as a delightful backdrop for visitors’ photographs.
Seeking Public Understanding for Merlion Maintenance
The STB has reached out to the public, asking for understanding and patience during the maintenance period.
“We seek the public’s understanding as the works and barricades may cause some inconvenience during this period,” said STB in its statement.
Previous Merlion Maintenance Works
This is not the first time the Merlion statue has undergone maintenance. In July 2023, visitors spotted a crack on the Merlion’s back, prompting a brief closure for repairs. Since then, recent posts on the social media platform Xiaohongshu indicate that the crack has appeared to be fixed.
In conclusion, while the temporary closure of the Merlion statue for photo-taking might be disappointing for some, it’s a necessary measure to ensure the continued preservation of this iconic symbol of Singapore. The Merlion cub statue remains available for visitors, ensuring that the spirit of the Merlion continues to live on, even during the maintenance period.
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