Speakers' Corner, Singapore

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Singapore Speakers' Corner is a local version of London's Speakers' Corner, where members of the public can give speeches and engage public debates. Launched on September 1, 2000, the Singapore Speakers' Corner was created as critics claimed Singapore's strict censorship laws were not giving enough space to public debate.

The Speakers' Corner is located at Hong Lim Park, with the boundaries clearly demarcated. It was chosen as it was a popular venue for political rallies in the 50s and 60s. It is open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm for citizens to give speeches and public debates.

Regulations at the Speakers' Corner include:

• Only Singapore citizens can speak.
• Religious and racial issues are not allowed.
• Microphones and loud speakers are prohibited.
• Speakers must register at the Kreta Ayer Neighbourhood Police Post before speaking.

The first person to speak was Mr Lim Kian Heng, aged 40. He spoke about the state of law enforcement in Singapore. In total, 19 people registered to speak on the opening day.