This research attempts to demystify the concept of repatriation in the local context. By using the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) as a case study, interviews were held with prominent figures from ACM and the National Heritage Board to establish a better understanding of what goes into each repatriation case, and the factors that will expedite or delay the process of returning artifacts to their country of origin.

Early findings suggest cultural diplomacy to be one of the main factors influencing repatriation in the local context. Therefore, the subject of analysis will be the political and social role of the 21st century museum, with research attempting to draw the link between museum establishments and the current expectations to facilitate repatriation requests. Additionally, this research also aims to shed light on the difficulties this expectation places on museums.