A simple blue, dinosaur-printed pouch has become an unexpected sensation, all thanks to Ms. Ho Ching, the wife of Singapore’s Prime Minister. During a state visit to the White House, this seemingly ordinary accessory captured the attention of many.

The pouch, priced at a modest SGD 14.80 (USD 11), was designed by Seetoh Sheng Jie, a 19-year-old student at Pathlight, Singapore’s first school dedicated to students with autism. Ms. Ho carried the pouch during the arrival ceremony at the White House South Lawn, where President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed the Singaporean Prime Minister and his wife.

Initially, Ms. Ho faced some criticism for her outfit choice. However, the narrative quickly shifted when the story behind the pouch came to light. Designed by Seetoh Sheng Jie, the “Dino Silhouettes” pouch is made of denim and features dinosaur prints based on Seetoh’s extensive knowledge of prehistoric reptiles. According to the school, Seetoh’s attention to detail is remarkable, ensuring everything from the spelling of paleontological names to the expressions of the dinosaurs in his miniature replicas is accurate.

The pouch’s popularity skyrocketed after Ms. Ho was seen carrying it. Pathlight typically sells 200 pouches in four months, but sold that many in a single day after the images of Ms. Ho went viral. The pouch is currently sold out, and pre-orders are being taken with an estimated delivery time of two months.

Seetoh’s design is part of Pathlight’s Artist Development Programme, established in 2011. This program pairs professional artists with Pathlight students to cultivate their creative talents and showcase their work. Ms. Ho Ching is also an advisor to the Autism Resource Centre (ARC) in Singapore, which helped found Pathlight School. Her choice of accessory is a testament to her support for the cause and a celebration of the talent fostered by Pathlight.