Despite living in Singapore for more than a decade, I only came to know about Prof John Miksic last year. During my docent training, I discovered his work through materials, books, and online articles that became invaluable references for my heritage tours.

Prof Miksic was an important personality in Singapore’s archaeological and historical landscape. In the context of Singapore’s Indian heritage, his excavations illuminated the deep connections between this piece of land and India, as well as broader South Asian civilizations.

Under his leadership in 1984, Singapore conducted its first formal archaeological excavation at Bukit Larangan (Fort Canning Hill). The findings unearthed artifacts that pushed Singapore’s documented history back by several centuries, revealing a thriving 14th-century port city. His publication Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800 and his articles remain an essential reference for historians today.

I was discussing the carnelian beads and broken bangles from his excavations during my heritage tour today. After the tour ended, my fellow volunteer messaged me the news of his passing. Not only today, but for generations to come, Singapore will continue to benefit from his ground-breaking discoveries.

Rest in Peace, Professor Miksic. Your legacy lives on in every artifact displayed, every story told, and every Singaporean who now understands that their history stretches far beyond 1819.