FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about The Albatross File: Singapore’s Independence Declassified
1. What is the Albatross File, and what is this exhibition?
The Albatross File was kept by Dr Goh Keng Swee in the run-up to Singapore’s
separation from Malaysia. It contains Cabinet papers, memorandums, as well
as Dr Goh’s handwritten notes of his discussions with Malaysian leaders
in the days, weeks, and months leading to Singapore’s independence on 9
August 1965.
The Albatross File: Inside Separation book and The Albatross File: Singapore’s Independence Declassified exhibition will be launched on 7 December 2025 at the National Library Building.
Jointly organised by the National Library Board and the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, this permanent exhibition, as the SG60 capstone event, will deepen visitors’ understanding of Singapore’s journey to independence through interactive storytelling, historical replays, and first-person narratives of Singapore’s founding fathers. As Singapore celebrates SG60, the book and exhibition offer an introspective recount of Singapore’s separation from Malaysia, deepening our collective appreciation of Singapore’s shared identity and inspiring future generations to continue building our nation together.
2. How do we visit the Albatross File exhibition?
Open to the public from 8 December 2025, The Albatross File: Singapore’s Separation Declassified is
a permanent exhibition held at the National Library Gallery (Level 10),
National Library Building. While admission is free, tickets will be required.
To book your free tickets, please visit https://thealbatrossfile.nlb.gov.sg.
3. Is this exhibition suitable for families?
While open to all, for an optimal experience, this exhibition is recommended
for individuals aged 10 years old and above. The exhibition provides a
unique opportunity for families – children, parents, and grandparents –
to explore Singapore’s formative years together.
4. Will the exhibition be in four languages?
The exhibition is in English. Exhibition guides will be made digitally
available in Singapore’s four official languages: Malay, Chinese, Tamil
and English. These digital exhibition guides can be accessed via a QR code
at the entrance information booth and via the exhibition website.
5. How can I book tickets for the exhibition?
Visitors can book their free tickets at the following link: https://thealbatrossfile.nlb.gov.sg.
Each ticket can cover a group of up to 12 visitors.
For company, school or larger group (of more than 24 visitors) bookings, please book your visit as an “organised group”, per the screenshot below.
6. Must I book tickets for the exhibition?
Visitors are highly encouraged to book free tickets to the exhibition
to ensure that your preferred slot is reserved. Walk-in visitors are also
accepted, depending on slot availability.
7. What can I expect at the exhibition?
Visitors can expect an immersive, multi-modal exploration of Singapore’s
journey to independence, featuring photographs, oral history interviews,
and videos drawn from the National Archives of Singapore. The exhibition
also harnesses technology to create interactive, dynamic experiences, presenting
new ways to understand our separation story.
8. I’m interested in making a corporate or organisational booking for this exhibition. How do I book a session for my group?
For company, school or larger group (of more than 24 visitors) bookings,
please book your visit as an “organised group” on the booking website.
Last updated 13 November 2025