President Halimah Yacob launched a special edition Istana 150 Souvenir Series of Medallions and Flashpay cards to commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the Istana

One of Singapore's oldest National Monuments, the Istana turns 150 this year. In commemoration of the occasion, President Halimah Yacob launched an Istana Souvenir Series of Medallions and Flashpay cards at the Chinese New Year Istana Open House today.

2          A collaboration between the President’s Office and the Singapore Mint, the Istana Souvenir Series consists of five unique medallion designs featuring the architecture of the buildings within the Istana compounds and significant highlights of the Istana. The designs of the series create a unique opportunity for Singaporeans to know more about the history and heritage of the Istana.  Part of the proceeds from the sale of the Istana Souvenir Series will be donated to the President’s Challenge.

3          Speaking to the media after the launch of the Istana Souvenir Series, President Halimah said:

President’s Office

6 February 2019

Some interesting facts about the Istana Building and its premises:

1. During the Japanese occupation, the Japanese built a concrete Fern and Orchid House which was demolished in 1951 to make way for the lily pond. 
2. The Istana had a few names before 1965 – Government House and Istana Negara Singapura (“Palace of the State of Singapore”).

3. The Villa which was built in 1908 was the official residence of the Aide-de-Camp.
4. The Istana Villa has served as a guesthouse for notable state guests including Chinese Premier Deng Xiaopeng and US President George Bush.

5. The Lodge, constructed in 1974, was built on the site of a former residence, Sri Melati. Built in 1969, the two-storey Sri Melati was used as the official residence of Singapore’s first Head-of-State, yang di-Pertuan Negara Yusof bin Ishak
6. The Istana building and Sri Temasek, a two-storey bungalow on the grounds of the Istana, were collectively gazetted as National Monuments for their historic, architectural and symbolic significance.