Alvin Chia

Alvin’s love affair with heritage began with responsibility for the development of historical attractions on the island of Sentosa. These included the Images of Singapore, a museum complex showcasing Singapore’s history and people, and Fort Siloso which showcases the defence of Singapore up to and including World War 2. He spearheaded archaeological excavations at Fort Serapong and led specialised battlefield tours to undiscovered areas within this Fort as well as to Imbiah Battery and Fort Connaught.

In 2022, he completed the development of Sentosa’s heritage trails and obtained gazetting of Fort Siloso as Singapore’s 74th National Monument. Before he retired from public service in 2023, he launched Sentosa’s 50th anniversary commemoration book. He has also guided many local and overseas VVIPs and heads of states around Sentosa.

Alvin’s interest in military history is brought to life in his role as a docent at Changi Chapel Museum where he regularly guides.  

He also guides regularly at the URA City Gallery on the development of Singapore where he draws from his academic background and past experiences in physical development to bring to life the decades of development that have transformed Singapore to the global city it is today.

Alvin’s love for history and architecture has led him to be passionate about the old streets and people in Chinatown. Being Straits Chinese himself, he particularly likes to guide visitors through the Straits Chinese areas of Blair Plain and Katong/Joo Chiat as well as the NUS Baba House.

In addition, Alvin is a docent in our National Gallery focusing on its architectural highlights and back of the house tours, as well as art tours in the permanent galleries and special exhibitions.

To grow his interest in heritage, he joined the Southeast Ceramic Society and served as its President from 2008-2011.