Singapore, 20 July 2026, Imperial Harvest, a Singapore-based Imperial Feng Shui consultancy, has announced the unveiling of a unique mahjong set valued at $1.888 million, which is intended to be sold with all proceeds going toward childhood brain cancer research. The set, described as one of the most expensive ever created, was developed in collaboration with artisans and designers, incorporating rare materials and Feng Shui principles. The funds raised from the sale will support the DIPG Foundation Singapore, an organization focused on researching Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive form of childhood brain cancer. The mahjong set includes 156 handcrafted tiles made from untreated Burmese Grade A Black Jadeite, known for its association with protection, resilience, and prosperity. Each tile retains its natural uniqueness, highlighting the rarity of the material used. These tiles are stored in a custom-made trunk lined with aerospace-grade Alcantara, a high-end fabric commonly used in luxury vehicles such as Ferraris and Lamborghinis. The exterior of the trunk is covered in Himalayan Niloticus crocodile leather, a material noted for its natural gradient resembling snow-capped mountains. This combination of materials underscores both the artistic and practical aspects of the set’s design. Grand Master David Goh, the founder of Imperial Harvest, emphasized that the project aims to transform prosperity into hope for children suffering from DIPG. He stated that the set was designed not just as a luxury item but as a means to channel wealth into medical research. The initiative aligns with his belief that true prosperity lies in sharing it with others in need. The mahjong set is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about DIPG, a condition that has historically lacked sufficient research funding despite recent breakthroughs in treatment. The timing of the set’s release coincides with a period of decline in the traditional craft of mahjong tile making. As fewer artisans practice this ancient skill, the set represents a revival of interest in preserving cultural heritage through modern design. The tiles feature elements inspired by Chinese cosmology, replacing standard Singapore animal tiles with the Four Celestial Guardians, Azure Dragon, Vermilion Phoenix, White Tiger, and Black Tortoise, which symbolize protection, balance, and harmony. Additionally, the flower tiles have been reimagined to depict four auspicious creatures: the bat, deer, crane, and magpie, representing fortune, prosperity, longevity, and happiness respectively. The DIPG Foundation Singapore, established by families who lost loved ones to the disease, plays a central role in this endeavor. The foundation works to advance research into DIPG and other pediatric brain cancers, advocating for better access to innovative treatments and clinical trials. It also offers support to affected children and their families. The foundation’s involvement highlights the growing recognition of the need for increased investment in pediatric oncology research, especially following the first successful treatment of a DIPG patient reported in 2024. The mahjong set is currently being showcased at a private exhibition in Singapore, drawing attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. Potential buyers are being invited to view the set, with the sale expected to take place in the coming months. The event marks a significant step in leveraging cultural artifacts for charitable purposes, demonstrating how luxury items can serve dual roles as both collectibles and instruments of social impact. The success of this initiative could influence future efforts to combine artistry with philanthropy, particularly in addressing critical health challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
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