Singapore launches cash‑reward program for daily reading of 15 minutes

Singapore's National Library Board (NLB) is rolling out a five‑year ReadSG campaign starting in September 2026 that rewards participants who read for at least 15 minutes each day. Users register on the CrowdTaskSG platform operated by GovTech Singapore, log their reading time and earn virtual coins that can be exchanged at a rate of 1,000 coins per Singapore dollar.

The initiative, described by NLB CEO Melissa Tam as “built on gamification to turn reading into a habit,” also links each 15‑minute session to the charitable drive “Read for Good,” with funds directed to selected nonprofit organisations. The programme targets around 150,000 participants in its initial phase and aims to counter short‑form digital consumption by encouraging deeper reading, which officials say benefits focus, critical thinking and mental health.