Maybank Singapore has launched a unique exhibition, The Most Expensive Words, at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, transforming phrases commonly used in scams into calligraphy artworks. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the S$913.1m lost by Singaporeans to scams in 2025. The exhibition, running from 23 October to 1 November 2026, is free to the public.
The artworks showcase phrases like “High returns, zero risk” and “Your bank seeks your assistance,” each tagged with the financial losses they represent—S$336.2m and S$242.9m, respectively. Adam Tan, Head of Community Financial Services at Maybank Singapore, emphasised the importance of recognising these phrases as warning signs. “Scammers often rely on a familiar name, an urgent request, or a promise that sounds too good to miss,” he stated.
The exhibition is part of Maybank’s broader efforts to combat scams by encouraging individuals to pause and think before acting on unsolicited requests. Gerald Singham, Chairman of the National Crime Prevention Council, praised the initiative for creatively bringing crime prevention messages to life.
Collaborating with the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Centre for Lifelong Education, the exhibition is integrated into Breath & Brush, which celebrates Chinese ink and calligraphy. Calligraphy Educator Tan Puay Hock hopes the exhibition will prompt visitors to question and share awareness about scam tactics.
The exhibition is a significant step in Maybank Singapore’s campaign to protect the community from scams, urging visitors to ACT: Add ScamShield, Check with official sources, and Tell authorities, family, and friends.
