Under the National Heritage Board’s Heritage Business Scheme, longtime businesses like Pek Sin Choon and Rumah Makan Minang have seen increased customer interest through marketing support and new strategies, even as they navigate challenges in succession and preserving traditional skills.
- Pek Sin Choon’s footfall rose 20% after joining NHB’s scheme
- Family-run Rumah Makan Minang improves communication and marketing
- Businesses seek balance between modernising and preserving heritage
What happened
Several heritage businesses in Singapore have benefited from the National Heritage Board’s Heritage Business Scheme, launched in October 2025. Among them, Pek Sin Choon, a century-old tea merchant, experienced a 20% rise in foot traffic by leveraging social media support and consultancy services provided by the scheme.
Similarly, Rumah Makan Minang, a traditional Malay eatery, has also seen sales grow between 10 to 15 percent over two years, aided by professional photography, marketing assistance, and improved family collaboration through NHB-backed transformation grants.
Why it feels good
These programmes help heritage businesses reconnect with modern audiences by showcasing their unique stories and products through fresh marketing techniques and online platforms, including AI tools like ChatGPT. This revitalisation not only increases customer engagement but also highlights Singapore’s diverse cultural history to locals and visitors alike.
Business leaders appreciate the ability to share their legacies more broadly, seeing value beyond sales. The support also fosters stronger family dynamics in multigenerational businesses, easing internal tensions and promoting sustainable growth while preserving cherished traditions.
What to enjoy or watch next
Looking ahead, heritage businesses will continue exploring ways to modernise without losing authenticity—balancing new technologies with the human touch. For Pek Sin Choon, this means adopting equipment that boosts productivity while retaining older employees, an approach that honours both efficiency and tradition.
At Rumah Makan Minang, efforts are underway to encourage the next generation family members to step up and lead, ensuring the business’s longevity. Observing how these enterprises blend innovation with heritage preservation could inspire other cultural businesses seeking similar renewal pathways.