Singapore Orders Revision of Chinatown Mural, Raising Censorship Concerns

Artist Sean Dunston's depiction of a Samsui woman with a cigarette prompts debate over artistic freedom and historical representation.

Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) requested changes to a Chinatown mural by July 3 due to anti-smoking policy concerns.
The mural, featuring a young Samsui woman smoking, has been criticized as offensive and misrepresentative by some members of the public.
Artist Sean Dunston defended the mural, highlighting the hardworking nature of sex workers and challenging narrow perceptions.
The controversy has sparked a broader discussion about modern artistic interpretations versus traditional historical narratives in Singapore.
Public reaction to the mural and the URA's order reflects Singapore's evolving attitudes towards creative expression and censorship.