The speech by RADM(NS) Lui Tuck Yew, Senior Minister Of State For Education, Information, Communications And The Arts at the opening of the Singapore International Photography Festival on 8 October 2008 addressed the growing photography industry.

He stated "Photography has the power to transcend language and cultural boundaries. It is also one of the most accessible art forms that resonates with the man in the street. These are perhaps some of the reasons for growing interest and appreciation of photography over the last few years. From documenting milestone historical moments, preserving a precious memory, to being a means of self-expression and artistic creation, photography captures our thoughts and many important moments in our lives"

He went on to state that Photography is an integral part of the local visual arts scene, which has registered tremendous growth in the last decade. There were 660 visual arts exhibitions or initiatives in 2006 compared to 346 in 1997.

Events such as the SIPF will augment the local photography industry in Singapore further, as well as nurture and raise the profile of local photographic talent.  

The biennial festival is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, and provides a platform for Southeast Asian photographers to showcase their works alongside international peers, as well as discover emerging talent.

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