While this will be Singapore’s first attempt to be included, many of its Southeast Asian neighbours are already listed.
Vietnam, for example, has 12 elements inscribed, including ca tru singing, which is a complex form of sung poetry from the north of the country, and tugging rituals and games, which are played among rice-farming cultures to ensure prosperity and a good harvest.
The latter is also practised in the Philippines. Malaysia has Mak Yong theatre, an ancient theatre form originating from the villages of Kelantan.
Three more nominations are still being considered.
Indonesia also has several entries on the list, including the wayang puppet theatre, the musical instrument known as the angklung, and batik.
Written by Siti Rohani. This article first appeared in Reader’s Digest. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, here’s our best subscription offer.