The MINT Museum of Toys, housed in a five-storey building, is the largest vintage toy museum in Asia. It features toys and collectibles from over 40 countries, dating from the 1840s to the 1980s.
The museum was the brainchild of Mr. Chang Ya Fa, the founding CEO. Driven by his passion for design and as an avid toy collector, Mr. Chang envisioned a space dedicated to showcasing vintage toys and childhood memorabilia. His goal was to create a place where visitors from all walks of life could rediscover the past, rekindle childhood memories, and inspire future generations.
The museum is arranged across themed floors, including Outerspace, Characters, Childhood Favorites, Collectables, Spooky Horror, Bedtime Stories, and Beatles Memorabilia. It also features vintage posters, tin boxes, and larger items like Mobo horses and pedal cars, alongside special collector’s pieces such as the only Mekon Mask from Dan Dare, a century-old Steiff Teddy Bear, and an 'Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland' doll once owned by Alice Liddell.
MINT Museum uses Augmented Reality (AR) technology to enhance the experience of interacting with toys, making it more immersive and imaginative.
The MINT Museum of Toys aims to be a world-class destination, inviting everyone to connect with their inner child and explore the magic of play.
Explore their quirky and fun collection, and see if you can spot CEO Chang Ya Fa in action. Let us know if the toys they chose reflect their personalities!
Born in Indonesia and raised in Singapore, Chang Ya Fa is a distinguished figure in the world of toy collecting and museum curation. After moving to Singapore at a young age, Chang spent his formative years here, receiving his education and proudly serving as part of the country’s first National Service batch.
One of Chang’s most significant achievements is the establishment of the MINT Museum of Toys. The museum’s grand opening was marked by a notable moment when former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. George Yeo, graced the event as the guest of honor. This achievement reflects Chang’s dedication and vision.
The journey to realize the MINT Museum of Toys was not without its challenges. Chang and his wife dedicated over a decade to finding the perfect location for the museum. Their search led them to explore various areas in Singapore with historical significance, such as Joo Chiat and Emerald Hill. Their perseverance paid off, as the museum now stands as a testament to their hard work and commitment.
Chang’s ambition extends beyond local success; he aspires to position the MINT Museum of Toys among the world’s premier tourist attractions, akin to Madame Tussauds and the Museum of Modern Art. This global vision underscores his desire to share the joy of vintage toys and childhood memorabilia with a broader audience.
With a collection of over 50,000 items, Chang is committed to showcasing every piece eventually. Each toy in his collection holds personal significance, marking a unique acquisition and reflecting over 30 years of passionate collecting. His dedication to the museum stems from a belief in its role in educating and inspiring children by bringing key historical events to life.
Chang also advocates for greater support for private museums, believing they play a crucial role in enriching a child’s early years and fostering an appreciation for history. Reflecting on his journey, he notes the rising costs of operating a museum and the need for timely decisions in a rapidly changing world.
Chang Ya Fa’s vision and dedication have turned the MINT Museum of Toys into a cherished cultural institution, bridging the past with the present and inspiring future generations through the magic of toys.
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