Uniplay has launched the Fortune Merlion, Singapore’s first 3D-printed collectible made entirely from recycled plastic bottles, in celebration of SG60. The limited-edition figure, created in collaboration with local partners Yeo’s, PlasticTinkers and Greenfinity, has been recognised by the Singapore Book of Records for its innovative use of sustainable materials.
A new cultural icon for sustainability
Standing at 18 cm, each Fortune Merlion is crafted from approximately 30 discarded PET plastic bottles. Only 60 pieces are available in the blind box series, each with a unique serial number and certificate of authenticity. The full collection uses over 1,800 recycled bottles, with each figure available in one of ten vibrant colours.
Designed and produced locally, the collectible aims to promote national pride while addressing Singapore’s low plastic recycling rate. In 2024, only 5 percent of the 957 million kilograms of plastic waste generated in Singapore was recycled. The Fortune Merlion is positioned as a statement piece to highlight the potential of locally recycled materials and encourage more sustainable consumer practices.
The design has received official approval from the Singapore Tourism Board and earned a record from the Singapore Book of Records as the first of its kind in the country.
Built on local collaboration
The project is a joint effort by homegrown organisations committed to sustainable innovation and design. Uniplay, an art toy brand incubated by Unigons, led the design concept. Yeo’s, a Singaporean beverage company, supplied a large number of recycled bottles. PlasticTinkers provided 3D-printing expertise, while Greenfinity, part of the Unigons group, handled the conversion of plastic flakes into high-grade filament through a fully integrated upcycling process.
This localised approach reflects a broader push to reimagine waste through design, with all creative, technical, and production work carried out by a 100 percent Singapore-based team.
Collectible with cultural significance
The Fortune Merlion incorporates several symbolic design features. A magnetic bubble at the Merlion’s mouth represents flowing water, aligning with the iconic Merlion’s fountain image and Chinese beliefs about water as a symbol of wealth. Each piece includes magnetic accessories or “charms” representing values such as prosperity, romance, and longevity.
The packaging uses eco-friendly paper and includes a certificate with auspicious Chinese wordplay. Even traditionally unlucky numbers such as 4, 14 and 44 are reinterpreted using positive Chinese puns to make them more culturally inclusive and appealing.
The exclusive retail launch will be hosted by ActionCity at its BLAXK by ActionCity store starting 25 July 2025.
