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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe five-year programme, called ReadSG<\/strong>, was launched by Singapore’s National Library Board (NLB) in September.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under ReadSG, participants can log a reading session of at least 15 minutes a day<\/strong> through a dedicated platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each qualifying session earns 20 virtual coins<\/strong>. Once participants accumulate 1,000 coins, they can redeem them for S$1<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That means someone who reads for 15 minutes every day could earn around S$7.30 in a year<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The financial reward is deliberately small. The programme is designed more as a behavioural nudge to encourage people to build a consistent reading routine than as a way to make money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The initiative comes amid concerns about the growing popularity of short-form, easily consumed digital content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NLB says sustained reading can help people develop concentration, absorb information, think critically and use their imagination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme encourages participants to read wherever it is convenient, including while travelling on public transport, during lunch breaks or before going to bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Singapore already has relatively high reading engagement. An NLB survey found that 89% of adults read more than once a week<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, only 28% reported reading books<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This distinction is important because people may still consume large amounts of written content online without spending significant time on long-form books.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme therefore focuses specifically on developing a sustained reading habit rather than simply increasing the amount of text people consume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Singapore’s reading initiative also comes as educators and policymakers worldwide examine the effects of smartphones and short-form content on attention and reading habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Singapore continues to perform strongly in international reading assessments, although reading performance among young people has declined in recent years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The government hopes that making reading a daily habit will help people strengthen their ability to concentrate and engage with longer-form content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n ReadSG follows Singapore’s broader use of incentives to encourage behavioural changes, including programmes linked to physical activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRead for 15 Minutes and Earn Rewards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Singapore Wants People to Read Beyond Screens<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Only 28% of Adults Read Books<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Digital Distraction Is a Growing Concern<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Money Is Just the Motivation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n