News
Ditch the apps, trust the aunties.
February 17, 2026, 05:17 PM
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is inviting singles based in the United States to try something new and “refreshingly human”, away from the world of dating apps and online dating.
Under the campaign of “Aunties, Not Algorithms”, the tourism board is looking for singles to submit their profiles for “auntie-led matchmaking”, according to a press release on Feb. 11, 2026.
The “aunties” in question are American comedian Atsuko Okatsuka and Singaporean actress Tan Kheng Hua, joined by matchmaker Aliza Kelly.
Two people will be paired up for an “auntie-approved” first date in Singapore, the press release stated.
It is unclear, however, if the campaign is part of a televised show or production content.
Skip the apps, trust the aunties
“I’ve heard the dating horror stories. From doomscrolling to awkward small talk to people ghosting you. I don’t want anyone to suffer that anymore,” Okatsuka is quoted as saying.
“Becoming an auntie to help someone skip the apps and land an epic first date in Singapore — a place full of amazing food, culture, and personality — is an honour! I’m here to report for duty.”
In much of Asia, “aunties” is a term used to refer to older female relatives or family friends who often dispense wisdom — and sometimes unsolicited advice.
Submit profile online
Interested individuals are to submit their profiles at FirstDateInSingapore.com for the chance to be matched by the “aunties”.
The contest is open for entries until Mar. 13, 2026.
Checks by Mothership showed the website is either currently unavailable for viewing in Singapore, or it could simply be down.
Nonetheless, here’s what’s in store for the matched pair:
- First date featuring an exclusive Singaporean cooking class with Michelin-starred Chef Malcolm
- Round-trip flights to Singapore with a stay at a centrally located hotel
- An “auntie-approved” itinerary and spending stipend
“With iconic skyline views, lush gardens and lively waterfronts at every turn, Singapore sets a picture-perfect backdrop for a first date,” said Eileen Lee, Senior Vice President, Americas at Singapore Tourism Board.
“Whether it’s a reunion or a fresh start, our city offers experiences that bring people together — through our food, culture and a sense of celebration that’s felt year-round.”
Tourism to Singapore
In an earlier press release, STB said Singapore’s tourism sector showed steady growth in 2025, with tourism receipts (TR) reaching S$23.9 billion in the first three quarters.
This is a 6.5 per cent increase from 2024, and the highest TR recorded for this period.
Meanwhile, international visitor arrivals to Singapore in 2025 reached 16.9 million, representing a 2.3 per cent growth compared to 2024.
Top photos from atsukocomedy/Instagram and khenghua/Instagram
