The Singapore Sweep is one of the longest running lotteries in Singapore, having started in the 1960s during British colonial rule. But how does this traditional lottery game work?
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Singapore Sweep, its prize structure, odds, and more.
History of Singapore Sweep
The Singapore Sweep was launched in 1969 by the Singapore Turf Club to raise funds for charity. It gained popularity among locals as a sweepstakes on horse races.
When the Turf Club ceased operations in 2001, Singapore Pools took over Singapore Sweep. It continues operating today providing a classic lottery experience.
Its longevity over decades has made Singapore Sweep integral to the local gaming landscape. Many Singaporeans fondly remember it from past generations.
How to Play Singapore Sweep
To play, participants purchase sweep tickets containing 4-digit number combinations from 0000 to 9999.
Tickets cost S$1 each. They can be bought at Singapore Pools outlets, automated kiosks and via online/mobile channels.
Players can choose their preferred 4-digit number or have it randomly generated via QuickPick.
Twice weekly, a winning 4-digit number is drawn, with prizes awarded based on matching digits.
New Draw Format
Originally, winning numbers were based on the last 4 digits of the first prize winning horse in a designated race.
But since 2018, Singapore Sweep adopts a numeric ball draw format similar to 4D. Balls numbered 0000 to 9999 are randomly drawn using a certified system to derive the winning 4-digit number.
This shift brought Singapore Sweep up to date with modern lottery draw standards. Horse race results are no longer relevant.
Prize Structure
Singapore Sweep offers attractive cash prizes across five broad prize categories:
- Match 4 digits in exact order: Top prize starting from S$100,000
- Match 4 digits in any order: Second prize up to S$15,000
- Match 3 digits in exact order: Up to S$1,500
- Match 3 digits in any order: S$100
- Match 2 digits in any order: S$10
Total prize payouts average about 60% of sales revenue, comparable to other lotteries.
Promotions and Bonus Draws
On top of regular prizes, Singapore Sweep runs frequent promotions including:
- Early Bird Draw: Chance to win S$1 million
- Group Sharing: Bigger 4-digit match prize pool
- Lucky Plus: Fixed prize for matching 2 or 3 digits
- Bonus Draw: Extra winning 4-digit and 3-digit numbers drawn
- Multiple Wins: Select multiple combination numbers on one ticket
These provide more opportunities to win besides the main prize tiers.
Buying Tickets and Checking Results
Singapore Sweep tickets can be purchased easily at over 300 Singapore Pools outlets. Online and mobile app options also exist.
Results are published on Singapore Pools online and local media outlets. Prizes up to S$1000 can be claimed at any outlet. Larger wins require going to the prize claim center.
Draw Frequency and Ticket Validity
Singapore Sweep draws are conducted twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays, typically at 6:30pm.
Tickets can be bought in advance for upcoming draws. Tickets are valid for 60 days from the date of purchase. Unused tickets can be extended another 30 days maximum.
Odds of Winning
The overall odds of hitting the S$100,000 top prize are approximately 1 in 10,000. With multiple other prize tiers, the odds of winning any cash prize are about 1 in 20.
Responsible gambling should be practiced given the long odds. But Singapore Sweep offers nostalgic, regulated lottery entertainment with chances to win moderate prizes.
Goh Jun Cheng is the chief staff writer for SingaporeAirport.com. Jun Cheng graduated with a degree in journalism from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.
He has over 5 years of experience writing about aviation, tourism, and lifestyle topics relevant to locals and visitors in Singapore. His articles provide insights into the rich culture, cuisine, and attractions of Singapore. Jun Cheng is an avid traveler who has visited over 15 countries.
When he is not writing or traveling, he enjoys photography, trying new foods, and hiking. As a longtime Singapore resident, Jun Cheng is passionate about sharing hidden gems and perspectives about his home country.
