The ACM’s collection began with objects from the colonial Raffles Library and Museum. The major part was ethnological materials collected in Southeast Asia – essentially examples of the crafts, tools, weapons, utensils, and costume of the Malay and other indigenous Southeast Asian cultures. There was also a small collection of Chinese objects.

Collections in new areas were started in the 1990s: West Asia/the Islamic world and South Asia, so that the ACM could fulfill its mission to highlight the roots of Singapore’s different ethnic groups in the various cultures and civilisations of Asia.

ACM opened in the former Tao Nan School Building on Armenian Street on 21 April 1997, with then Deputy PM Lee Hsien Loong presiding. The museum included 10 galleries, with thematic displays on China and space for special exhibitions. In 2003, the ACM moved into its current home — the historic Empress Place Building. First completed in 1867, this neoclassical-style building along the Singapore River had seen several extensions built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Manila Galleon Exhibition: One of the most anticipated exhibitions at the ACM, “Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas”.
• This exhibition, running from 16 November 2023 to 17 March 2024, delves into the historic trade route that linked Asia to the Americas and Europe.
• Crossing Cultures: BOLD & BEAUTIFUL: Celebrate International Women’s Day by honouring the bold and beautiful contributions of women across Asia.
• Daily Guided Tours: The museum offers daily guided tours in English and various other languages.

• Accessibility: Staff are available to assist visitors with disabilities whenever possible, and wheelchairs are available for loan.
• Restriction: Food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition halls, but there's a cafe on-site for refreshments.
• Restriction: Large bags, backpacks, and luggage must be deposited in lockers at the entrance.
• Restriction: Flash photography and tripods are generally not permitted, and photography may be restricted in certain exhibitions.

• Entry is subjected to the museum's prevailing venue rules and regulations.
• Admission to all galleries ends 30 minutes before closing time.
  
• Children 7 years old and above must purchase a ticket for entry.
• Galleries do allow for wheelchair access and stroller access.
• Senior 60 years and above. Valid proof of identity (e.g. passport, school pass) must be presented at the Visitor Services counter
• Free admission to all permanent galleries for Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and Children 6 years and below (any nationality).
• Children must be accompanied by adults at all times.
• Keeping our voices low will allow everyone to enjoy the galleries.
• Please refrain from touching any artefacts on open display. Touching artefacts, paintings, or works is prohibited because oil from fingers will contaminate and eventually destroy the objects.
• Your safety is important to us. Please do not lean on showcases as they can break under pressure. Please do not run in the museum as this may cause our artefacts to be knocked over.
• Students with prepared worksheets, please ensure that only pencils are used in the galleries. Pen marks on walls or panels are difficult to erase.
• lease eat or drink outside the museum. Our galleries need to be kept clean from food, spillage, and pests.
• Photography without flash and videography are permitted in the galleries.
• No images of the museum or its collection may be reproduced for commercial use without permission from ACM. Please contact our Corporate Communications team if you would like to seek permission or more information on commercial photography.