As Singapore turns 60, we take a nostalgic (and cheeky) stroll down TV memory lane — from stories about kampung days to HDB dramas — and reflect on how local shows helped shape who we are today.
From generational squabbles to iconic catchphrases, local TV shows have long captured the Singaporean zeitgeist. With Singlish zingers like “don’t play play” and HDB flat backdrops, these series offered more than just laughs — they reflected a growing national identity, one we celebrate proudly this SG60 on 9 August 2025.
Chances are, there was a show you tuned into religiously. Was it Tan Ah Teck’s heartfelt monologues from Under One Roof that stayed with you, or Phua Chu Kang’s wacky antics that had you in stitches? Whatever your pick, these storylines were always laced with the values that built our nation.
Everyone knew the show’s “cat-chy” theme song and feline mascots that made childhood TV endlessly entertaining. With its kampung charm and playful variety segments, Aksi Mat Yoyo celebrated simplicity, imagination and community spirit.
Featuring skits, games and musical segments, the info-educational programme cemented its broad appeal with a relaunch in 2012. Titled Mat Yoyo – The New Generation, episodes were released in English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil, introducing its endearing innocence to all Singaporeans.
You’re likely: A grounded yet whimsical soul who values tradition, enjoys life’s simple joys and knows the importance of growing up with heart.
Offbeat, irreverent and delightfully chaotic, The Ra Ra Show broke taboos with a wink and a laugh. It gave us unforgettable characters like Bibik Belachan, Ms Lala and Arthur, and catapulted cast members such as Koh Chieng Mun and Andrew Lim to fame. Most notably, it launched Kumar into the spotlight as one of the show’s three hosts.
A mash-up of skits, satire and oddball antics, it was a trailblazer in local comedy. However, its use of Singlish and innuendo proved too ahead of its time then. Following public complaints, the beloved programme was cancelled after just a year.
You’re likely: Culturally savvy with a razor-sharp sense of humour, you deliver unfiltered observations with a cheeky streak.
Despite the flak it received, Masters of the Sea made waves as Singapore’s first English-language drama. Audiences were drawn to its shipping empire intrigue and unapologetic melodrama — with some iconic (if cringey) lines about crushing enemies like cockroaches becoming pop culture fodder.
The 30-minute episodes mirrored the family feuds of shows like Dynasty. After two seasons, the series ended amid criticism over stilted accents and shallow plots. But in its bold missteps, it paved the way for future English-language dramas to do better.
You’re likely: A bold and resilient risk-taker who roots for pioneering efforts and believes every great journey starts with courage — and maybe a dash of camp.
For you, the phrase “blood is thicker than water” resonates, especially when paired with life lessons delivered at the dinner table. Despite their comical quarrels, the Tan household in Under One Roof always stuck together, showing that family bonds are a source of strength.
It helped that many of us saw ourselves in the characters — whether as doting mother Dolly, know-it-all daughter Denise or mischievous youngest Ronnie. The extended cast also reflected Singapore’s multiracial makeup, with neighbours like Daisy Irani and the late Yusof Hassan adding heart and humour. Whatever the crisis, the family’s unity always saved the day.
You’re likely: Sentimental and dependable, you value kinship and are the glue holding everyone together — even if it means delivering a long-winded speech now and then.
With gritty crime plots and a cast of heroic officers, this police drama delivered action, moral dilemmas and a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s peace and order. While law and order appears to be a straightforward affair, Triple Nine showed us that ethics and morality are not always so simple.
It didn’t hurt that the leads were heartthrobs of their time — James Lye and Wong Li Lin quickly won over viewers, and their slow-burn chemistry added depth to the weekly crime cases. That sizzling formula gave this Crimewatch-esque series the staying power to run for four seasons.
You’re likely: A realist with a strong sense of justice, who maybe even dreamt of joining the Force. You take quiet pride in Singapore’s safety and justice.
Set in the 1960s and spanning decades of social change, Growing Up followed one family’s journey through a rapidly evolving Singapore — often mirroring the nation’s own coming-of-age. Meticulous attention to sets and costumes added to its nostalgic pull, striking a chord with audiences.
As the Tay family navigated shifting social norms and everyday struggles, the maturing national landscape brought its own challenges. Holding it all together was a well-balanced cast of veteran actors and fresh faces, giving the show an emotional depth that earned awards and a six-season run.
You’re likely: Reflective and proud of your achievements earned through hard work. You honour the past, value progress and believe our shared story matters.
Behind the yellow boots and loud facade, Phua Chu Kang (PCK) was a resourceful problem-solver with a heart of gold and his own way of getting things done. With his unmistakable reedy voice and impish laugh, he often charmed his way out of trouble — and when that didn’t work, his trusty wife and crew were there to save the day.
At the height of its popularity, PCK became the go-to spokesperson for brands hoping to connect with Singaporeans. Nearly anything he said could turn into a catchphrase, which made him an unlikely poster boy for government campaigns from SARS to COVID-19. If ever there were a successful underdog story, this neighbourhood contractor was it.
You’re likely: A creative thinker who doesn’t follow the rulebook. You believe in being true to yourself — even if it means standing out.
From early auditions to nail-biting finals, Singapore Idol was more than a talent contest — it was a launchpad for dreams and a snapshot of local ambition. Modelled after the hit American Idol, it marked a watershed moment, giving aspiring local singers a national stage.
Like its American counterpart, it wasn’t without controversy, but there was no denying the buzz and instant fame it created. For many, it was a rare shot at stardom, where everyday Singaporeans could step up and be seen.
You’re likely: Ambitious and idealistic, you believe in second chances and chasing your dreams — one step (and high note) at a time.
You loved the headlines and the satire behind them. Beneath the laughs, The Noose tapped into something deeper: Singapore’s growing appetite for wit, critique and watchdog humour. With a core cast of Chua Enlai, Michelle Chong, Alaric Tay and Suhaimi Yusof, its endless puns and pitch-perfect impersonations won a legion of fans.
No one was spared in its spoofs. International celebrities like Lady Gaga morphed into Lady Yahya and 50 Cent into Gor Kak — while local names like blogger Mrbrown and footballer Fandi Ahmad were cheekily renamed Bukit Brown and Fendi Alamat. Viewers found catharsis in its clever writing, and the multi-award-winning show even earned an International Emmy nomination in 2011 for its stellar humour.
You’re likely: An intellectual cynic who values awareness over apathy — always ready with a punchline (and a point).
From kampung TVs to cinema screens, we’ve come a long way.
Want to keep the good times rolling?
HomeTeamNS members enjoy a 1-for-1 movie ticket deal at Golden Village — because some things are just better enjoyed together (like drama, suspense… and a big tub of popcorn).
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