Singapore Launches Unique Program Paying Citizens to Read Books, Requires Minimum 15 Minutes Daily

September 18, Kathmandu — In an effort to free its citizens from the increasing use of smartphones and short videos, the Singapore government has launched an unusual campaign that pays people to read books. The initiative is part of a five-year National Reading Mission. Under this mission, citizens are required to read at least 15 minutes daily. Reading time registered on the government website earns points, which can be redeemed for cash rewards. The primary goal is to revive the habit of reading among the population.

The constant use of phones and watching short videos has made it difficult for many to focus on books or longer texts for extended periods. The government aims to change this behavior. For every 15 minutes spent reading, participants earn 20 virtual coins. Only one reading session can be registered per day. Those who consistently read 15 minutes daily for 50 days will accumulate 1,000 coins, roughly equivalent to one Singapore dollar (about 120 Nepali rupees). This year, the government has set a target of 7.5 million reading minutes nationwide.

To encourage participation, approximately 1.82 crore Nepali rupees worth of prizes will be distributed. The National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore has designed this program with a game-like reward system to make reading engaging. Citizens can register their daily reading time on the CrowdTask SG website. The more time spent reading, the more coins earned, which can then be converted into cash. Instead of scrolling through reels and short videos, the government hopes people will dedicate some time to reading books.

Melissa Tam, head of the National Library Board, explained that although short videos deliver quick information, watching many in sequence can tire the brain. Reading books and longer articles helps develop focus, critical thinking, and imagination skills. That is why the government set the initial goal at just 15 minutes per day.

Youths generally read only to pass exams. According to research analyst Isaac Neo, children and young people face significant pressure regarding study and exams. As a result, they often read solely to pass tests, losing the habit of reading for peace of mind and pleasure.

This motivated Neo to start the Modern Mens Book Club in 2025, aimed at reconnecting young people with books. But can paying people cultivate a lasting reading habit? Experts have varying opinions on the program. Psychologist Charissa Ng believes that while monetary incentives may motivate those who already have some interest in reading, they won’t inspire people with no prior inclination to persist long-term. However, book experts note that small rewards can initially motivate readers, and over time, interest may develop. In other words, the Singapore government’s initiative is not only about distributing some money but about encouraging citizens to spend at least 15 minutes daily away from their phones and closer to books.