NO. 35

VOL. 10

ISS. 01

LITTLE : A CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL PRECINCT

THE LEGACY OF JOSEON KOREA (1392–1897)

#GALLERY 10: THE DIGITAL REALM IN MUSEUMS TODAY Front Cover Navin Rawanchaikul. Passage to , 2016. Collection of .

Inside Front Cover Bridal Robe from Late Joseon dynasty. 19th century or early 20th century. Silk with embroidered decoration. Collection of National Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul [don 4937]. Gift of Lee Sang-ryong, 2002. Read more about The Legacy of Joseon Korea on page 27. FOREWORD Publisher National Heritage Board In spite of its small land mass of less Leaving our shores, we turn the spotlight 61 Stamford Road, #03-08, Stamford Court, than 750 square kilometres, is on Korea with our feature on The Legacy Singapore 178892 composed of different estates which hold of Joseon Korea (1392–1897), which can be many unique and interesting stories that found on page 27. Written in conjunction Chief Executive Officer are just waiting to be told. This issue, we with the exhibition – Joseon Korea: Court Chang Hwee Nee focus on the history behind several of Treasures and City Life, we learn more about Assistant Chief Executive Singapore’s early estates, and how they the Joseon dynasty – one of Korea’s most Alvin Tan came to be shaped by commercial and influential time periods, and its impact on (Policy & Community) industrial factors as well as governmental numerous aspects of modern-day Korea’s policies. art, culture and social structure. MUSE SG Team Editor-in-chief Our cover story – Little India: A Cultural Continuing our tribute to the 75th Norsaleen Salleh and Historical Precinct (page 4) traces the Anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, we David Chew journey of how Little India developed showcase two lesser examined sides of Editorial Manager Stefanie Tham from a predominantly Malay and Chinese the war. Nicky Loh discovers in A Time Production Manager district driven primarily by commerce to Remember (page 18) how survivors of Lawrence Low during the 19th century into the multi- WWII have chosen to turn their difficult Layout faceted Indian enclave that exists today. experiences into positive reminders to Design Fusion Pte Ltd We then dig deeper under the surface with keep living life to the fullest, while our Copy-editing SIT Houses along Road (page 12) review of the recently launched Singapore Rufus Tan, Hedgehog to study how government and municipal War Crimes Trials web portal (page Communications policies on worker’s quarters and housing 63) examines the fates of the Japanese Printing were instrumental to the development of occupiers who stood trial for war crimes Hobee Print Pte Ltd former housing estates such as Kampong from 1945 to 1948. Contributors Kapor, Race Course Road and . Clement Liew Dr Anitha Devi Pillai Finally, #Gallery 10 – An Eye on Tomorrow Fairuz Iman Ismail Still on the topic of Singapore’s (page 49) takes a much-needed look Jervais Choo development, read about what our into the growing influence of the digital Joanne Chen museums are doing to preserve the medium and its impact on the traditional Joshua Goh history of two prominent Singapore museum model, as well as what the Kan Shuyi Matthew Lim estates. Dichetak Oleh: A Walk Through National Museum of Singapore is doing to Nasri Shah Kampong Gelam (page 32) showcases respond to this digital challenge. Nicky Loh the effort of the Raudha Muntadar in documenting Kampong Gelam’s On behalf of the team at MUSE SG, we Ruchi Mittal Wynnie Kwok development through the eyes of the wish you many pleasurable moments printing and publishing industry, while reading these and the many other articles Celebrating and its Industrious that we’ve had fun piecing together for Pioneers (page 43) demonstrates how Our you. Museum @ is preserving heritage by collecting social memories contained in the form of personal MUSE SG TEAM accounts and old photographs. SINGAPORE: A BOOK OF DAYS A NEW LINE OF MUSEUM LABEL MERCHANDISE

The National Museum of Singapore’s collection, which began to be assembled from the 19th century, contains a diverse range of artefacts of historical and cultural significance to Singapore. This includes everything from treasured objects like the Mace of the City of Singapore, commissioned to mark Singapore’s attainment of city status in 1951, to everyday items like a 1950s Singapore Traction Company driver’s badge. Both of these artefacts, along with many more from the museum’s collection, are featured in this diary. Big or s mall, they serve as visual and tangible reminders of important dates through the year in Singapore’s illustrious history, one that continues to be written today.

The Book Of Days is available for purchase at Museum Label shops for $28.

For more information or purchase inquiry, please contact Retail and Merchandising Division at: [email protected].

AVAILABLE AT: National Museum of Singapore A NEW LINE 93 Stamford Road Singapore 178897 OF MUSEUM LABEL Mondays to Sundays | 10 am to 6.30 pm MERCHANDISE *Limited stocks available CONTENTS 04 12 18 COVER STORY HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW LITTLE INDIA: SIT HOUSES ALONG A TIME TO REMEMBER A Cultural and Historical SERANGOON ROAD: Precinct Singapore’s Forgotten Urban Heritage

22 27 32 EXHIBITION EXHIBITION EXHIBITION & TRAIL THE STORY THE LEGACY OF JOSEON DICHETAK OLEH: (OF THE FOREST) KOREA (1392–1897): A Walk Through Kampong Gelam Exploring 500 Years of Art and Culture 37 43 49 HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT EXHIBITION MUSEOLOGY BEYOND KAYA TOAST: CELEBRATING JURONG #GALLERY 10 – AN EYE ON The Culturally Cosmopolitan AND ITS INDUSTRIOUS TOMORROW: Coffee Shop of 1960s Singapore PIONEERS The Digital Realm in Museums Today

54 57 60 EDUCATION EDUCATION BOOKS HERITAGE TRAIL ADOPTION TREASURES RETOLD @ AN INTERVIEW WITH SCHEME ACM DR ANITHA DEVI PILLAI 63 66 72 RESOURCES EVENTS LISTING DIRECTORY THE SINGAPORE WAR WHAT'S ON MUSEUM ROUNDTABLE CRIMES TRIALS: A Web Portal for All LITTLE INDIA

A CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL PRECINCT Photo on this page Text by Ruchi Mittal Little India, 2016. Courtesy of National Heritage Board. COVER STORY

01

Little India is a precinct that is not AN IMPORTANT quite like any other in Singapore. THOROUGHFARE: 1819 TO Together with and 1860 , it is part of the popular trio of cultural precincts Serangoon Road got its name from on the tourist circuit. It is also an the Malay word saranggong. It is important place for the local Indian likely that this derived either from community who visit it to eat, shop, a marsh bird called ranggong or socialise and pray. the term serang dengan gong, which means to beat a gong. It began as 02 Today, it has come to be known as an important artery of commerce 01. Postcard showing the Indian precinct, but this was and transport for the plantations bullock carts being not always the case. In fact, Little in the interior of the island along used to transport goods, late 19th India was not designated by Sir the route to Serangoon Harbour. century. Courtesy of Stamford Raffles as an area for the This northern harbour was never National Museum of Indian community in the Raffles a major port of call for Singapore’s Singapore. Town Plan. Before Little India got entrepôt trade. However, it was a 02. A print titled its current name in the 1980s, it was “, Singapore”, vital loading and unloading point 1866. Courtesy of just known as Serangoon, after one for the gambier and pepper National Museum of of the earliest roads in Singapore. planters. These goods would then Singapore. This road was indicated on an 1828 be transported to town by bullock map as the “road leading across the carts. island”. The road remained a buffalo- trodden dirt track for many decades. In the 19th century, the

- 05 - COVER STORY

04

03

05 06

03. Workers at a betel labour and were held at a prison at nut plantation opportunities available in Serangoon in Singapore, c. drew various communities there. Road. Many of them 1880s–90s. Courtesy Possibly the most important was the settled nearby after serving their of National Museum of Singapore. presence of waterways. The sentences. Other Indians also and Rochor rivers facilitated gathered in that area to practice 04. Postcard titled “Kampong habitation, transportation and supporting trades. This was the Boyan” showing commerce. genesis of an Indian district, which the Baweanese later extended down Selegie Road kampong, 19th For these reasons, many kampongs century. Courtesy of and into Serangoon Road. National Museum of (Malay for “villages”) were established Singapore. around the Serangoon area. The Indians called the Serangoon area Soonambu Kambam, meaning 05. View of the convict Chinese community congregated jail between Bras around the present-day Syed Alwi “Village of Lime” in Tamil. In Basah Road and the past, lime was an important Road and Road areas, and Stamford Road, c. ingredient of Madras Chunam. 1870. Courtesy of were largely involved in farming and National Museum of This was a kind of cement or plaster Singapore. plantation activities. The Javanese brick that was introduced from lived at , while the 06. Serangoon Road, India and used in construction 1900s. Courtesy of Baweanese established themselves work. By the 1820s, the British set National Archives of at Kampong Kapor, many of whom Singapore. up lime pits and brick kilns along worked at the nearby racecourse. Serangoon Road, where many Kampong Kapor also attracted Indians found employment. Indian Muslims, who worked mainly as port labourers and peons (low- AN ERA OF COWS AND ranking office workers). BUFFALOES: 1860 TO 1930 Serangoon Road proper was laid by The brick kilns were discontinued convicts who had been brought to in 1860. After this, the development Singapore by the British for their of the Serangoon area centred on

- 06 - COVER STORY

07. Postcard of a nearby 08. An Indian man slaughterhouse milking a cow, at Jalan Besar, c. mid-20th century. 1910. Courtesy of Courtesy of National Museum of National Museum of Singapore. Singapore.

07

08 09 cattle, which transported produce to Chander Road. They travelled with town for sale. This area was ideal for their goats and cows, bringing fresh cattle because of the abundant water milk right to customers’ doorsteps. from ponds, mangrove swamps Another common sight was Indian and . These provided women travelling from house to bathing areas for water buffaloes, house, selling fresh homemade which were the workhorses of thairu (Tamil for “yoghurt”). Singapore at that time and were used The old Tekka Market was 10 for all heavy tasks, from transporting built in 1915 at the junction of goods to rolling roads. 09. Chua Mia Tee. KK Serangoon and Fresh Food Market Many cattle-related industries were roads as one of the first centralised (Kandang Kerbau/ Tekka Market), 1979. established in and around Kandang sites for selling cattle produce. Courtesy of National Kerbau (Malay for “buffaloAn important reason for building Heritage Board. enclosure”). This village was located this market was so that the retail 10. A bullock cart to the west of Serangoon Road and activities did not clutter up the transporting later became known as Kampong verandas and roadways along pineapples to preserving Kerbau. Such industries included Serangoon Road. factories in the slaughterhouses, tanneries and milk Serangoon area, c. peddling. S. Rasoo, a former watchman at 1900. Courtesy of Tekka Market, remembers it as a National Archives of The presence of the cattle industry “lively, bustling place with Indian Singapore. attracted even more Indian settlers women coming up in their colourful such as North Indian herdsmen saris, their hair done up in buns or from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in single plaits decorated with fragrant the early 1900s who settled by flowers, jostling against the pig- Rochor Canal. Until the 1930s, one tailed houseboys that served the could also find Bengali and Tamil Europeans and wealthy Asians. The milkmen around Buffalo Road and noise was deafening, the atmosphere

- 07 - COVER STORY

11. Postcard of scenes in Little India showing some of its traditional trades, 1970s–80s. Courtesy of National Museum of Singapore.

12. Former house of Tan Teng Niah, 1988. Lee Kip Lin Collection. Courtesy of National Library Board.

13. Municipal housing along Hindoo Road, 1966. Courtesy of Urban Redevelopment Authority.

11 reverberating with the sound of bullock carts, and after the juices raised voices bargaining over fresh were extracted, the leftover fibres fish, meats, vegetable and fruits”. were reused as fuel or cattle feed. MULTICULTURAL CENTRE There was a significant Chinese and OF BUSINESS AND TRADE: Malay presence in the Serangoon area at the beginning. However, 1860 TO 1970s various factors helped to eventually Wheat-grinding sheds, sesame establish a larger Indian enclave here. 12 oil presses, rattan works, rubber For instance, many Indian migrants smokehouses and pineapple factories were employed by the emerged alongside the cattle industry. in the early 20th century. From Although these industries may seem the 1920s, the colonial government unconnected, they had a symbiotic started constructing terrace houses relationship centred on the wet in Serangoon to accommodate them. environment with buffaloes providing These were known as Municipal the labour. Their waste products were Quarters or Coolie Lines. Some of often used as cattle feed. these quarters can still be found in their original form along Hindoo 13 taukeh One such example was Road in Little India. (Malayan term referring to a Chinese businessman of good Shops and amenities catering to standing) Tan Teng Niah’s sweet this growing Indian population factory at Kerbau Road which used flourished. There were garland sugarcane to manufacture candies. makers, astrologers, goldsmiths, It is likely that the bungalow moneylenders, tailors, restaurateurs which can still be seen today was and shop owners selling luggage, part of this factory. Sugarcane was saris, spices and other provisions transported to Tan’s factory by from India.

- 08 - COVER STORY

14. Devotees at the Sri 16. Kandang Kerbau Veeramakaliamman Hospital Nursery, Temple, 2016. 1986. Collection Courtesy of National of Ministry of Heritage Board. Information and the Arts. Courtesy of 15. Kandang Kerbau National Archives of Maternity Hospital, Singapore. 1950s. Courtesy of National Museum of Singapore.

14

THE TURMOIL BROUGHT BY Unfortunately, one morning the WORLD WAR II: 1941 TO 1945 British began moving their lorries and guns into the compound and When the Second World War the hospital was bombed within began, Serangoon Road became one half an hour. of the targets for Japanese bombers. Kannusamy s/o Pakirisamy (b. At this time, Singapore’s second 1914) used to live at Buffalo Road president, Dr Benjamin Sheares as a child. Speaking to the National (1907 to 1981), was Deputy 15 Archives of Singapore, he recalled: Medical Superintendent at KK “… some houses were damaged by Hospital. As there was only one bombs in front of Hindoo Road other doctor at the hospital, both and… [in] , some people men stayed there and worked in went and put camps. […] The shifts. Midwives were also kept Japanese bombs [would] be coming very busy as there were only three three, six, nine, in V-shape. [...] nurses to look after around 200 Houses were all damaged.” babies. Many people turned to places When the smoke cleared in 16 of worship for refuge at this February 1942, Singapore had uncertain time. The Sribecome Syonan-To. It is believed Veeramakaliamman Temple was that the conquering “Tiger of one such place where hundreds Malaya”, General Yamashita took shelter. It survived unscathed himself, passed through Serangoon through the bombing and this Road. During the first weeks of the was attributed to the power of the Japanese Occupation, New World deities by its devotees. Park in Serangoon was one of the 28 sites used as a mass-screening However, other sanctuaries were centre for the Dai Kensho (Japanese not as fortunate and one side of for “great inspection”) operation Foochow Methodist Church was to remove anti-Japanese elements destroyed. Another casualty was within the Chinese population of Kandang Kerbau (KK) Hospital, Singapore, later known as the Sook where a big red cross was displayed Ching (Mandarin for “cleansing so that it would not be bombed. through purging”) massacre.

- 09 - COVER STORY

17

17. P. Govindasamy THE URBANISATION OF Once Singapore attained full Pillai’s shop at Little India Arcade, 1990. SERANGOON ROAD: 1945 independence in 1965, there was Courtesy of Urban a drive to clean up and renew the Redevelopment TO 1980s Authority. city. Early efforts focused mainly on Even after the war ended in 1945, the town area and later expanded its effects on Little India’s socio- outwards to encompass Serangoon. economic landscape remained. At this time, many residents of this Many shop owners had sold their area were living in dark, cramped businesses to their hired hands and unhygienic conditions. By the before they fled the island. Those mid-1970s, concrete development who survived moved up the social plans had been introduced with the ladder in the post-war era. Housing & Development Board P. Govindasamy Pillai, affectionately (HDB) setting aside a significant sum of S$4 million for Kampong known as PGP, had five sari shops in Kapor’s renewal. Serangoon before World War II. He left for India in 1941, handing his In 1980, it was decided that the business to a relative. He returned old Tekka Market had to be after the war to continue his relocated to a better facility nearby. business. While new businessmen The Zhujiao Centre (now Tekka were just setting up in the 1960s, Centre) was thus built across the PGP was already moving ahead and road in 1981. It was planned as renovating his existing stores. He one of the early residential-cum- was also known for his generosity in shopping complexes in Singapore using his for philanthropic and included a wet market, food purposes and supporting community centre and HDB homes. institutions such as temples.

- 10 - COVER STORY

18. Aerial view of Little India, 1989. Courtesy of Urban Redevelopment Authority.

18

SERANGOON BECOMES Go on the Little India Heritage Trail! LITTLE INDIA: 1980s TO PRESENT DAY The Little India precinct melds the old with the new and hosts trades from the past Little India as we know it today alongside modern businesses. Through was not officially named as such until the 1980s. This was the result three thematic trails, discover the rich and of a concerted effort by the then diverse histories, cultures, religions and Singapore Tourist Promotion Board trades in this colourful historic precinct. (STPB) to promote the preservation and celebration of Singapore’s Download the trail at NHB's portal at ethnic quarters. roots.sg/visit/trails.

Today, Little India is a district You can also catch a glimpse of the Little that offers something for everyone. India Heritage Trail before you set off at While local Indians visit the temples roots.sg/learn/resources/Videos. here and shop for traditional goods, non-Indian locals and tourists also come to soak in the culture and history of this historical precinct. Launched in 2017, the Little India Heritage Trail reveals some of the stories and memories of this area, while offering three thematic routes for visitors to better understand this area.

- 11 - SIT HOUSES ALONG SERANGOON ROAD

SINGAPORE’S FORGOTTEN URBAN HERITAGE AND THE ENCLAVES OF LITTLE INDIA Photo on this page Text by Clement Liew A four-storey SIT flat at the junction of Petain and Sturdee Roads. These were the last SIT flats built along Serangoon Road, c. 1966. Courtesy of Urban Redevelopment Authority. HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

01. A two-storey SIT flat 02. These terrace at the junction of houses were built Petain and Sturdee in the 1920s at the Roads. This was junction of one of the first SIT and Kampong Kapor flats to be built in Roads, c. 1966. the area, c. 1966. Courtesy of Urban Courtesy of Urban Redevelopment Redevelopment Authority. Authority.

01 02

There are many stories oflabourers under its employ, many What is astonishing about Serangoon Road which tell of the of whom were Indians. Starting this development is that the people, trades and festivities that from around 1920, the government construction of Kampong Kapor make Little India an interesting started building such quarters in estate was undertaken by the and exciting place for locals and the area bounded by Upper Weld municipality even before the tourists to visit. Yet, there’s still Road, Jalan Besar, Rowell Road Singapore Improvement Trust plenty waiting to be discovered. and Kampong Kapor Road. (SIT), the colonial predecessor of Some of the following accounts the Housing & Development Board will not only shed light on some of Looking at the layout of this area, (HDB), had been empowered to the realities that we see along the it is clear that a planned housing erect pioneering townships. For streets of Serangoon Road today, estate had been created in the this reason, the houses here were but also enrich our knowledge of heart of Kampong Kapor. It had then called Municipal Quarters. how Little India came to be. One two playgrounds for residents Initially, municipal planners had of these historical nuggets is the which were situated on opposite only intended for these houses to district’s forgotten urban heritage ends along Kampong Kapor accommodate government coolies which is an integral part of Road. The provision of these play and peons. However, by the Singapore’s urban redevelopment fields highlighted the nature of time construction began, coolie and nation building story. It was the arrangements made for this lodgings were being developed during the 1920s that government municipal town, which was meant into full-fledged housing estates. quarters were built within parts of to include family units. These Little India to form small housing quarters were not just large rooms After World War II (WWII), estates. It was around these that housed numerous coolies, but during the time of the British population clusters that various they also had quarters for married Military Administration, authorities ethnic communities began to put men with families. Clearly, this established a temporary municipal down their roots and create places reflected how principles of modern market for this community at the site which they would later call home. town planning were applied here. of the playground on Rowell Road. Beyond concerns that open areas As one side of these grounds ran HOMES FOR GOVERNMENT were necessary for clear air and along the length of Hindoo Road, it was called the Hindoo Road Market. WORKERS – THE GENESIS healthy living, the planting of For a period of two years, it served the OF A COMMUNITY a domiciled community which needs of the residents of this estate. It included family units in the district Today, there are several abandoned was closed in 1948. long blocks of terrace houses along provided a community catchment Hindoo Road. They were once that could sustain the business In addition to Kampong Kapor, part of a cluster of residences that and social-communal institutions another cluster of government the government used to house rooted in Serangoon Road. housing was built in 1927 on

- 13 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

03 the grounds of Kandang Kerbau which were originally meant Hospital, on the side of Kampong for celebrating the marriage of Java Road. These houses were Princess Elizabeth. These funds established for hospital staff, as were eventually donated to the well as government employees who municipality which then assigned were above the labouring class. them for public housing purposes. These were known as Government The flats at Race Course Road were Quarters. occasionally inundated by flood Half a dozen blocks of flats were also waters during heavy downpours. 04 erected at Race Course Road in 1940, There was also a unique cluster of 03. These terrace houses at the junction of Rotan Lane. They SIT flats, which sat at the junction were home to many consisted of 148 apartment units. Indian municipal of Campbell Lane (known today as workers, c. 1966. This was the first SIT project in Madras Road). Here, SIT managed Courtesy of Urban Serangoon Road. The Race Course Redevelopment to squeeze in several blocks of flats Authority. Road flats were used to house artisans consisting of 24 houses. These were and other municipal staff, including 04. Two-storey SIT hospital nurses. However, these flats built in 1941, not as part of a housing block of flats at the estate, but to replace individual junction of Petain did not survive the decade. By 1950, and Marne Roads, they were levelled and replaced by blocks of houses in the area that built in the early more than a dozen new SIT flats had become dilapidated and which 1950s. These terrace required rebuilding. Today, only one houses featured which stretched the entire length of a five-footway all the Farrer Park Field. This estate was block remains. It currently functions around the ground as the Madras Hotel. level, c. 1966. named Princess Elizabeth Flats, and Courtesy of Urban is not to be mistaken for the Princess Redevelopment Construction of SIT flats took a Authority. Elizabeth Park Estate at Upper Bukit pause during WWII, but continued Timah Road. unabated soon after. The Princess Both Princess Elizabeth estates, Elizabeth Flats estate was extended however, shared similar beginnings. to the other end of Farrer Park to They were created with funds form Farrer Park Estate. Around

- 14 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

05

06

the same time, another SIT estate houses of the 1920s were built was also being built towards the with internal staircases, the design Lavender Street side of Serangoon of the 1940s SIT flats had evolved Road. These were the SIT flats of towards a more community-centric Petain Road which would later approach, featuring elements such become known as Jalan Besar as shared staircases. By the 1950s, 07 Estate. These flats have since given the modern two and four-storey way to private developments. SIT flats at Jalan Besar Estate were 05. Two-storey SIT block of flats built being built with common corridors in the mid-1950s at URBAN DEVELOPMENT in the front, as well as staircases on Petain Road, c. 1966. OVER THE YEARS both ends of the blocks. Courtesy of Urban Redevelopment What is interesting about the Little Authority. At the junction of Petain and India public housing experience is Marne Roads, there was a curious 06. This row of terrace that the district featured almost houses at Upper evolving design of a terrace-like Weld Road, built all the models of flats built during housing block with a five-footway in the 1920s, was colonial times – from pre-SIT which went all around the ground also called “Coolie Lines”, c. 1966. 1920s municipal quarters (terrace level. This was a perfect example of Courtesy of Urban houses) at Hindoo Road to the the transition between the design Redevelopment subsequent generations of SIT flats Authority. of the old quarters and modern that the government would go on to new flats. The five-footway, in this 07. Playground at Upper build. The first ones were no more instance, was the first step towards Weld Road, c. 1966. Courtesy of Urban than two levels high. Then, during the creation of common corridors in Redevelopment the 1940s, SIT increased the height government housing. This preceded Authority. of these flats to three storeys, and the coming evolutionary cycle of by the 1950s, the flats built at Jalan public flats in the 1960s and 70s, Besar Estate, along Petain and where the hanging of laundry poles Sturdee Roads, reached up to four moved from the front corridors storeys in height. towards the back of the flat. The evolutionary progression of Little India’s urban development is worth noting. While terrace

- 15 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

Sri Perumal Temple

Farrer Park Owen Road Estate 1952-1970s Jalan Besar SIT Flats Estate 1950s-1990s SIT Flats Serangoon Road Farrer Park

Kampong Java Road Princess Elizabeth Race Course Flats (Estate) New World Park Road Flats 1950s-1990s 1940-1949 Second Phase First Phase SIT Flats SIT Flats Government Demolished 1949 Quarters 1927-1990s

Jalan Besar Race Course Road

Kandang Kerbau Hospital Municipal Quarters 1921-1978 Bukit Timah City Council’s Road Labourers’ Quarters Campbell 1950s-1960s Lane From 1940 Tekka Market SIT Flats

Rochor Road Selegie Road

08

08. Pre-war government flats at Serangoon Road. Courtesy of National Archives of Race Course Singapore. Road Flats 09. Government housing along Serangoon Road in the 1950s. Courtesy of National Library Board, Singapore. Municipal Quarters

Campbell Lane Flats

09

- 16 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

10

COMMUNITIES AND building of government quarters 10. Terrace houses at the junction of ENCLAVES in the district across the years, one Veerasamy and can truly appreciate the thinking Kampong Kapor In an area covered by abattoirs, Roads, built in the and logic of Singapore's early factories, shophouses and warehouses, 1920s. The compound planners and builders. Perhaps, was enclosed with the municipal and government an external wall the Serangoon Road urban quarters, as well as SIT flats, acted during the post-war experience serves as a microcosm years, creating a as crucial population centres which of how public housing has evolved garden space for gave the Serangoon Road district the each unit, c. 1966. throughout Singapore’s historical semblance of a kampong (Malay for Courtesy of Urban districts. With this aspect of Redevelopment "village") of multi-ethnic domiciled Authority. Singapore’s social-urban history communities. This is the reason why being rediscovered, we can now such a great diversity of communal add to our understanding of and religious institutions remains Little India and Singapore's urban in the district till this day. Edifices heritage. sprouted all over Serangoon Road because the communities they served Though much of this urban were also here. heritage may have vanished from Without these institutions and Little India, memories of these communities, this part of Serangoon spaces may still be recovered Road would simply have evolved into through archival research and new an industrial and commercial district, oral enquiries. There are also still a and not the Little India that we know few remaining housing edifices at today. The flats in Serangoon Road Hindoo Road and Madras Street, helped to sustain the community, where you can appreciate how made up of businesses, schools, pockets of housing within Little hospitals, religious institutions, as India had once been the heartland well as market and street stalls. for many of Singapore’s labouring pioneers. There’s much to be learnt from Serangoon Road’s forgotten urban heritage. In documenting the

- 17 - A TIME TO REMEMBER Text and images by Nicky Loh

Mr Joseph Conceicao, 92 bombed the Orchard and Newton Mr Joseph Conceicao, areas to cut off communications: 92, a former Singapore When we arrived for the photoshoot ambassador and Member and video interview with Mr Joseph of Parliament who was “My cousin and I were curious and about 17 when the Japan Conceicao, 92, a former Singapore wanted to see the aftermath, so we bombings started in ambassador and Member of Singapore. walked across a field near our house Parliament, at his apartment in towards the Newton Circus area. , he sternly asked one Suddenly, we heard a man gasping of the crew: “Tell me young man, and turned around to see what had why is your hair golden?” Everyone happened. We saw hands, heads froze awkwardly for about two maybe, legs, and parts of a human seconds before Mr Conceicao broke into a hearty laugh and said: “It’s body lying about. That scene okay young man. It looks good!” affected my cousin throughout the Age was evident, but the fire in his course of the war and his life.” heart was still burning bright. Subsequently, Mr Conceicao’s We were then invited into his family felt that their home was apartment, which contained a too dangerous to continue living hearty collection of antiques and in, and decided to relocate to the photographs collected from his basement of The Hongkong and travels around the world. They Shanghai Banking Corporation were all displayed and labelled (HSBC) building on Battery Road. meticulously on his glass shelves – “While walking there with our proof of the full life he led after the belongings, we saw British soldiers war. taking off their military uniforms. Mr Conceicao was just a young man Fleeing. To our shock, when we of 17 in 1941 when the Japanese arrived at the bank, we found more British soldiers here instead invaded Singapore. Recounting of out there fighting. This gave us vividly an incident with his cousin a terrible impression of them. Sir after the Japanese had just heavily Shenton Thomas (then Governor of Singapore) had said that Singapore must not fall, it shall not fall, but the next day it fell.”

- 18 - INTERVIEW

At the start of 2017, I was pensive, stark and strong portraits instinct to survive. Only after a commissioned by the National to do the talking. My pre-conceived horrible ordeal, do you then realise Heritage Board (NHB) to create narrative had a sombre tone, where how precious life is, and hence you a photo essay of World War II the survivors would reflect on try to live the rest of your life in the (WWII) survivors to commemorate their experiences during the war. most fruitful and meaningful way the 75th anniversary of the Fall of However, it was not until I met the possible. Singapore. first subject for the photo shoot did I realise that I had misjudged their In the end, instead of the sombre My initial pitch to NHB was to ability to take something tragic and pictures that I first imagined, the shine a light on the faces of these turn it into a vehicle for hope. I photoshoot turned out shots full of amazing people through tight learnt from them that: smiles, reflecting the spirit of these portraits on a red background. survivors who made the best out of The red was meant to symbolise When you find yourself in a a bad situation and went on to live self-sacrifice and also serve as a situation way beyond your control, life with a passion. metaphor for Singapore. I wanted all you can do is to follow the

Ms Mary Magdeline Pereira, 75 As I photographed her at the entrance of the very shelter she was Ms Mary Magdeline Pereira, Ms Mary Magdeline 75, was born in 1942 – the year born in, she said: “I think [growing Pereira, 75, was born up during] the war is what gave me the year Singapore fell, Singapore fell, inside an air raid inside the air so much resilience to overcome all shelter in Tiong Bahru. raid shelter. Tragically, odds. I went through tough times this was one day after her father was called for Relating the incidents that led but I viewed them as obstacles to duty and perished. up to her birth, Ms Pereira said: overcome. When I could not get “My father was activated for duty my teaching post in Singapore, I on January 21, 1942. He told my went to the United Kingdom at the mother before he left, ‘I don’t age of 55 to become a barrister. So know if I’ll return.’” That very don’t tell me there isn’t a time to night, an air raid occurred and her learn. family had to seek refuge inside “WWII has brought out one class the shelter located at Block 78, of people – a generation with the Guan Chuan Street. Inside, Ms resilience and ability to overcome Pereira’s mother went into labour all odds. That was the good part of under the care of Professor J. S. English, Singapore's first professor the war.” of obstetrics and gynaecology, who happened to be in charge of the medical unit in the shelter. Just after midnight, Ms Pereira was born. Unfortunately, January 21, 1942 was also the day that Singapore suffered its biggest number of casualties from the Japanese bombing. Ms Pereira shared: “I heard my father was carrying the injured when shrapnel hit him on his chest and on his face. That was how the war began for me – with the loss of my father.”

- 19 - INTERVIEW

Mr William Gwee, 82 was the tallest high-rise building “I supposed this saved our lives in Singapore back then. Every day, because after that, the Japanese Students and researchers of I saw the Union Jack of the British soldiers stamped something on Peranakan and Straits Chinese flag fluttering high up on a pole on each of our arms and shouted at us studies will no doubt be familiar top of the building. to move on.” with Mr William Gwee, 82, a fifth-generation Singaporean“On that day when Singapore As Mr Gwee and his family Baba (Peranakan male). Mr Gwee fell, I was probably the first to walked home to Devonshire Road, and his son, Andy, are prolific realise that Singapore was about he noticed that there were only collectors and this was evident to change, because when I looked women on the road. Many women the moment I stepped into the out of the window at the building, they encountered along the way house. Mr Gwee probably has the I saw a different flag. It was a white would ask Mr Gwee’s father if he largest collection of Baba Malay flag with a red circle in the centre.” knew what had happened to their (a variation of Malay used by the loved ones. He could not answer. After the surrender, the Japanese Peranakans) books in the world, Only after the war did they realise chased Mr Gwee and his family and also collects memorabilia and that many of the young men in out of the house and they had to artefacts pertaining to WWII, Singapore had been massacred. medicine and porcelain. take shelter near his father’s friend’s home near Sultan Mosque. During “The actual handing over of When war reached Southeast , this time, the streets were watched Singapore from the Japanese Mr Gwee, then eight years old, by Japanese soldiers, which made to the British took place in was just about to start Primary 2. it difficult for Mr Gwee and his mid-September, 1945. On this Like Ms Pereira, he shared that family to return home. day, Singaporeans came in the the experiences he went through thousands and waited at the “Against the advice of his good during the three and a half years Padang opposite the City Hall friend, my father brought us to one of the Japanese Occupation helped building to boo them,” said Mr of the security posts and shouted provide him with an accelerated Gwee. maturity. some Japanese words and showed them pictures of him and his A few days later, the British made He said: “During the bombing former bosses,” shared Mr Gwee. the Japanese soldiers dig up the days, my family took shelter at my It turns out Mr Gwee’s father had ground in front of City Hall to fill grand-aunt’s house located at 97 been under the employment of a up the holes in front of the building. Devonshire Road. From there, we Japanese company before the war “A huge crowd was watching the could see Cathay Cinema, which started. Japanese having to work for us. You saw nothing but smiling faces. Excitement. Sparkles in their eyes. Knowing that the worst was over.”

Mr William Gwee, 82, then eight years old, was about to start Primary 2 when the war started.

- 20 - INTERVIEW

Mrs Helen Joseph, 88 was during these times of hardship that Mrs Joseph experienced Check out “The Fall of Singapore”, a series My first impression of Mrs Helen the true communal spirit of her of videos about Singapore during World Joseph, 88, was that of a sweet lady neighbours. War II, at NHB's portal at with a ready smile on her face. Her roots.sg/learn/resources/Videos. demeanour reminded me of Betty She said: “It didn’t matter if you White of the 1980s American were Chinese, Indian, Malay or sitcom, Golden Girls. Perpetuating Eurasian like me. Everyone helped my image of this genteel lady were one another because we needed to. the soothing chimes that would We had to start queuing up for food ring out every 15 minutes from rations at 3 am in the morning. the grandfather clock in her home Even so, when it came to our turn, during our photoshoot. the food would have run out and the person in charge would tell us Beneath her soft exterior, however, to go away. Thankfully neighbours lies a back story of unimaginable who had queued earlier would bravery. share with us whatever they had.” Mrs Joseph was just around 12 when the Japanese Occupation In contrast to the mild-mannered began. She recounted: “They Mrs Joseph which I first encountered, took Chinese people by the her tales of the Japanese Occupation lorries including my neighbour’s revealed another feisty and seemingly husband. We heard rumours that fearless side to her. the Japanese had dug a hole in Sharing one such tale, she said: the Padang, laid out the Chinese “The [prisoner-of-war] camps were men and shot them with machine near our place and we could see guns. One by one, the men fell into the hole. One pretended that inside. The British soldiers were he was dead and waited till it was so skinny, all ribs. My sister and all quiet and then he ran away to I would secretly pack some bread tell everybody of the massacre. My given by the Japanese into a bundle neighbour never saw her husband and leave them near the barbed again.” wire fences and shout ‘Johnny*, Johnny!’ The next day the bundles During the occupation, Mrs Joseph would be gone.” stayed with her uncle and relatives in Government Quarters along *”Johnny” was a term loosely used by locals to Rowell Road in Little India. It refer to any of the soldiers of western descent.

Mrs Helen Joseph, 88, was around 12 years old when the Japanese Occupation began. During this period, Helen stayed with her uncle and relatives in Government Quarters along Rowell Road in Little India.

- 21 - THE STORY (OF THE FOREST)

04

Text by Fairuz Iman Ismail Photo on this page Story of the Forest (Lower Glass Images courtesy of National Museum of Singapore Rotunda). EXHIBITION

01. Kudo Takashi 02. The three- 03. Sambar deer from and Iman Ismail, dimensional render The William Farquhar Assistant Curator at of the sambar deer Collection of Natural National Museum for Story of the History Drawings. of Singapore, at the Forest by teamLab. teamLab office in Tokyo.

02

01 03

Story of the Forest is an immersive, digital installation, Peace Can Be was relaunched in August 2015, and larger-than-life digital installation, Realised Even Without Order, the Glass Rotunda and Gallery 10 which initiates multi-faceted which awed visitors at Singapore were unveiled in December 2016. dialogues with visitors. The artwork Biennale 2013, NMS was excited touches on various histories – that to see how teamLab, a collective NMS had two main objectives when of the site it is presented in, as of more than 300 creatives, would they decided to collaborate with well as the muses it features. The respond to its latest challenge. teamLab for the revamp of the Glass interactive installation bridges Rotunda. They wanted to exemplify conversations between Singapore’s THE 2015 NMS GALLERY the museum’s continuing interest in colonial past and its present-day REVAMP working with contemporary art and modernity by means of a visual and artists, and at the same time initiate virtual landscape, which provides The Glass Rotunda was first erected relevant conversations about both an alternative lens through which during the museum’s revamp in 2006 the past and present. to examine history. as a modern architectural response to its 19th-century neo-Palladian BRAINSTORMING ARTISTS The installation debuted at the opening of the revamped Glass Rotunda, which was built when teamLab’s preliminary idea was Rotunda in the National Museum the institution first opened in 1887. inspired by NMS’s surrounding of Singapore (NMS) in December In addition to serving as the main natural landscape. Taking into 2016 – the culmination of a project entrance to the Singapore History consideration the site of the Glass that took two years to create. Gallery (SHG), the Glass Rotunda Rotunda, which was framed by The first conversation with Kudo was also used to host a video projection the lush greenery of Fort Canning Takashi from teamLab about the artwork by Singapore artist, Tan in its background, teamLab revamp began back in February Pin Pin. NMS then underwent an sought to depict local flora in the 2014, shortly before the closing of extensive revamp of its permanent design of the installation. This 2013. Having galleries in tandem with the nation’s gave NMS the idea to share the successfully presented the immersive Jubilee celebrations in 2015. The SHG William Farquhar Collection of

- 23 - EXHIBITION

04

Natural History Drawings with TRANSFORMING task to document these flora and the Japanese collective. For NMS, DIMENSIONS fauna. Although the mediums of it was an opportunity to not only execution used by teamLab and the rekindle and regenerate interest in From the selection of 477 illustrations, original Chinese painters are vastly the prestigious collection, but also teamLab, in close consultation with different, attention to detail in both curators from NMS, shortlisted 69 to reintroduce it to the public. cases are extraordinary. drawings to be digitally transformed The 477 illustrations commissioned into three-dimensional form. The BUILDING UP by Farquhar during his tenure collective began extensive research Before teamLab could commence as the British Resident and the on the selected drawings. teamLab installation, they had one major Commandant of Melaka from 1803 wanted their artists, programmers, sound engineers, CG animators obstacle to overcome. The inner to 1818 is one of NMS’ most valued structure of the Glass Rotunda collections. The drawings depict the and technologists to understand the characteristics of the selected flora was not conducive to housing flora and fauna of the region, and the technical equipment that were instrumental in the discovery and fauna, before transposing the illustrations into a virtual biosphere. teamLab required for the new of several important zoological installation. teamLabs’ architects, and botanical species. The Chinese Apart from the intensive study of mathematicians and designers artists that Farquhar commissioned the different subject matters from therefore had to work with utilised Chinese brush painting the drawings, teamLab also had to external fabricators and audio techniques while attempting to create a virtual landscape to house visual specialists to specially plan show the perspective and naturalism the three-dimensional inhabitants. the internal structure of the Glass of Western paintings. This resulted In this task, the collective deployed Rotunda. The proposed structure in an enchanting fusion of two their creativity and imagination to had to house 17 projectors within different art making approaches. envision what the original artists the internal assembly and 42 would have experienced in their projectors along the spiral passage.

- 24 - EXHIBITION

05

06 07

This was the biggest installation BRINGING IT BACK 04. One of teamLab’s CG animators working on that teamLab had ventured into Story of the Forest. thus far. Once the structure and technical equipment had arrived in the 05. teamLab in Kawasaki, Japan for structural Due to the complexity of the museum, the team commenced and equipment tests. construction, teamLab decided to installation work. The team was first create a life-size mock up in separated into two groups to oversee 06. Team NMS onsite in Kawasaki, Japan Kawasaki, Japan to ascertain the two key spaces – the main structure for the preview and necessary equipment required for in the Glass Rotunda and the inspection of the structure for the actual installation on site. Along passageway. Glass Rotunda. with the fabricators and audio The teams underwent weeks of 07. Mobile application visual specialists, teamLab spent groundwork – troubleshooting for the installation. a total of three weeks testing software and hardware to ensure the feasibility of the structure that the installation would be and assessing the equipment, smoothly delivered. In addition, before shipping the structure and the team working on the 170-metre technical equipment to NMS. passageway was also responsible for the development of a mobile application to accompany the

- 25 - EXHIBITION

09 10

11 installation. This mobile app would 09. Projection calibration As a result of the new installation, in the Glass Rotunda. add another layer of interactivity NMS discovered that visitorship to to the installation, presenting the Goh Seng Choo Gallery had also 10. Projection calibration at the Glass Rotunda additional information about the increased. This promising discovery passageway. illustrations to visitors. is reassuring as it demonstrates NMS’ success in bridging curiosity 11. Story of the Forest THE FOREST (Passageway). and conversation about history The installation was officiallythrough modern approaches and opened on 10 December, 2016 to methods. overwhelming response from visitors. The museum also witnessed a surge in visitorship as a result of this immersive Visit teamLab’s installation, Story of the installation. Visitors to Story of the Forest at the Glass Rotunda, National Forest consisted of tourists, families and young audiences, many of Museum of Singapore. Open daily from 10 whom could be seen studying the am to 7 pm. For more information, please installation and comparing it to the visit nationalmuseum.sg/exhibition-list/ original drawings that were located glass-rotunda. in the Goh Seng Choo Gallery.

- 26 - THE LEGACY OF JOSEON KOREA (1392–1897)

EXPLORING 500 YEARS OF ART AND CULTURE 01 Photo on this page Text by Kan Shuyi Moon jar, 18th century. Porcelain, height 46 cm. Collection of National Images courtesy of National Museum of Korea, Seoul Museum of Korea. and the National Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul EXHIBITION

02. Sun, Moon and Five Peaks, 19th century or early 20th century. Six-fold screen, colours on silk, 149.3 x 351.8 cm. Collection of National Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul.

02

on the Joseon kingdom by the The tree with deep roots does not tremble in winds; Japanese invasions in the late 16th its flowers are perfect, its fruit abundant. century as well as by the Manchu Waters rising from deep sources do not end in drought; invasions in the early 17th century was a turning point in Korean forming a river, they flow on to the sea. history. – Yongbi eochonga (Songs of the Dragons Flying to Heaven)1 Despite these upheavals, Joseon Korea experienced many artistic and scientific advances, especially Like a tree with deep roots, the to curtail the power and excesses of under the leadership of several Joseon dynasty which spanned the Buddhist establishment, which strong Joseon kings. Most of more than 500 years is one of had become saddled with corruption. these important developments the longest-ruling dynasties in This elevated status of Neo- occurred during the 15th and 18th the world. Founded in 1392 by Confucianism distinguished the centuries, which are regarded as the military general Yi Seonggye Joseon period from preceding the two golden ages of the Joseon (1335 to 1408), the new dynastic dynasties by greatly shaping period. The fourth monarch, name Joseon was based on that political and socio-cultural life, as King Sejong (reigned from 1418 of Korea’s first kingdom, called well as much of the arts produced to 1450), is often regarded as Gojoseon. Apart from referencing during the era. For instance, the the most outstanding among the Korea’s legendary past, the name Confucian emphasis on modesty Joseon kings. In addition to his also signalled Yi’s desire for new can be discerned from Joseon social reforms, he sponsored many beginnings, for Joseon means porcelain which were often simple scientific and cultural projects. “Fresh Dawn” or “New Dynasty”. yet elegantly designed (fig. 1). He is especially renowned for General Yi, also known as King This Joseon adoption of Neo- implementing a new phonetic Taejo (reigned from 1392 to 1398), Confucianism underscores the alphabet in 1446. Initially called broke with the past by moving the powerful influence which China Hunmin Jeongeum (Korean for capital from Gaegyeong (present- traditionally had on Korea. The “correct sounds to instruct the day Gaesong, North Korea) to a new geographical location of Korea, people”) and better known today site – Hanyang (present-day Seoul). lying between China and Japan, as Hangeul, the alphabet project More importantly, he supplanted fostered much cultural and stemmed from King Sejong’s Buddhism with Neo-Confucianism economic interaction as well desire to provide his people with as the kingdom’s state ideology. King as conflicts among these three a written means of expression Taejo as well as his successors sought countries. The devastation wrought that could be learned and used

1 Written in the mid-15th century, Yongbi eocheonga is the first literary work written in Hangeul. The text praises the virtues and heroic deeds of the first and third king of the Joseon dynasty as well as their ancestors. This particular stanza likens the new dynasty to a tree with deep roots and a spring of deep waters, and predicts its longevity The translation of this poem is from David R. McCann, Early Korean Literature: Selections and Introductions (: Columbia University Press, 2000), 125.

- 28 - EXHIBITION

03. Shelves Full of Books, 19th or early 20th century. 10-fold screen, colours on silk, 161.7 x 395 cm. Collection of National Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul.

03 with greater ease, instead of the mourning and funerals. These arranged on shelves called chaekgado complicated Chinese system. events allowed the monarchy to (fig. 3) are believed to have first project its authority over officials, appeared at the Joseon court in the THE KING AND HIS COURT foreign envoys and the masses, late 18th century at the behest of As the head of a Confucian state, a while promoting harmony among King Jeongjo (reigned from 1776 to Joseon king was expected to possess the people. 1800), who was known for his great excellent moral fibre, wisdom and In addition to participating in many love of books and scholarship. Such erudition. From a young age, Joseon of these rites as a representative of screens featuring books, which were princes were subjected to a rigorous the Joseon people, the kings also sometimes portrayed with scholarly education in the Confucian classics wielded objects to signify their paraphernalia and other valued and history in a bid to become sage- status and supremacy. Many of possessions, were subsequently kings. This was especially important these objects such as the Sun, Moon embraced by scholar-officials as well as a king’s moral stature was thought and Five Peaks screens, royal seals, as the middle classes. The types and to affect the stability and success of and items of clothing have become designs of other courtly objects such his rule. This belief was undergirded key icons of the Joseon period. The as porcelains and dress ornaments by the Confucian concept of the vividly-coloured screens depicting also shaped tastes and trends beyond Mandate of Heaven, which General the Sun, Moon and Five Peaks the palace walls. Yi invoked to establish the legitimacy (fig. 2) were seen to embody the of the new Joseon dynasty and his THE YANGBAN AND right to rule. universe and its cosmic forces. Set behind the royal throne or a king’s ARISTOCRATIC LIFE The Confucian emphasis on ritual royal portrait, these screens were Another key group that contributed propriety saw many ceremonies associated with kingly power and much to the artistic legacy of the being conducted at the Joseon court. signified the monarch’s presence Joseon dynasty were the yangban. These were collectively referred to as even when he was physically absent. They formed the highest social the Five Rites of State and formally class and constituted the kingdom’s instituted in 1474. The Five Rites Such screen paintings were among intellectual and cultural leaders. The consisted of auspicious rites (gillye) the many fine objects sponsored which included memorial services by the king and his court. While yangban comprised the two orders to past Joseon kings and , some of the iconography were of civil and military officials serving celebratory rites (garye) which were originally restricted for royal use in the government, as well as their performed on joyous occasions only, certain motifs such as those families. The yangban also referred such as weddings, reception with auspicious meanings became to members of select lineage groups rites (billye) to welcome foreign popular and were used by other with distinguished ancestors such as dignitaries, military rites (gullye), members of society during the late prominent scholar-officials. In fact, and last but not least, inauspicious Joseon period. For instance, folding from the mid-17th century onwards, rites (hyungnye) that pertained to screens which depicted books many yangban no longer worked for

- 29 - EXHIBITION

04

06

the government but resided in the the living quarters of both genders countryside away from the main were separated, with the men’s administrative centres. quarters (sarangchae) located in the eastern section of the residence, Whether they were rich or poor, and the women’s quarters (anchae) part of the government bureaucracy to the west. This corresponded or not, the yangban were regarded with the traditional notion that the as the moral pillar of Joseon society. east symbolised yang or masculine As such, they were expected to 05 energy, while the west represented devote themselves to the Confucian yin or feminine energy. 04. Kim Jeonghui. doctrine of self-cultivation and Calligraphy of Moreover, furniture used in the Kim Yugeun’s study. In addition to their pursuit Autobiography of of scholarship, the yangban also sarangchae and more specifically, Mukso, 1837–1840. the sarangbang (master’s room Handscroll, ink on devoted much of their energies to paper, 32.7 × 136.4 calligraphy, painting, music and which also served as a study, cm. Collection of literature. Many yangban were bedroom and reception hall) were National Museum of often designed with a minimalist Korea, Seoul. highly accomplished in the arts aesthetic (fig. 6). Clean lines and a of the brush, such as Kang Huian 05. Kang Huian. Sage lack of ornamentation characterised (1417 to 1464) and Kim Jeonghui Contemplating the wooden furniture used in the Water, 15th century. (1786 to 1856), who were known Album leaf, ink on men’s quarters. On the other hand, paper, 23.4 × 15.7 for their adroitness in painting and the furniture and implements used cm. Collection of calligraphy respectively (figs. 4 and National Museum of by the women in the inner quarters Korea, Seoul. 5). were more colourful and elaborately designed (fig. 7). 06. Document chest, The adherence to Confucian ideals 19th century. Wood, and its hierarchical values was also 36.2 x 144 x 22.5 cm. EVERYDAY LIFE OF THE Collection of National translated into the living spaces of Museum of Korea, the yangban. The emphasis on the JOSEON PEOPLE Seoul. dichotomy between genders shaped While the Joseon cultural the spatial arrangement of yangban landscape was shaped largely by households, while influencing the the tastes and patronage of the type and style of furnishings used in royal and aristocratic elite, it was the respective spaces. For instance, also enriched by the vibrant arts

- 30 - EXHIBITION

and crafts produced for the wider took reference from its continental populace. neighbour, the kingdom also adapted other foreign influences, By the early 16th century, the Joseon and developed its own distinct style kingdom’s population had exceeded and identity. For example, not only ten million, nearly doubling the were traditional Chinese painting size it had been at the start of the dynastic period. The growth themes reinterpreted by Joseon was spurred by improvements in artists, the 18th century also saw the agricultural technology which flourishing of true-view landscape increased productivity. The capital painting that emphasised actual Hanyang was not only the centre of native scenery. Prior to this new political life but a major commercial movement, Joseon painters tended city drawing people from all walks to portray idealised landscapes of life and from around the country. drawn from Chinese cultural 07 references or generic images of The Joseon population was divided nature. into four classes. After the yangban, who enjoyed the highest social Despite the political and economic status, came the jungin. This referred strife of the 19th century, many of the to people who possessed technical socio-cultural changes introduced skills or professional knowledge, by the Joseon dynasty have enjoyed such as doctors, astronomers and an enduring legacy. Much of what interpreters. Below them were is considered traditional, as well the sangmin or commoners – as the social customs and beliefs farmers, artisans, and merchants, that are a prominent part of life who formed the largest segment in South Korea today, emerged of the population. At the lowest during the Joseon era. Examples social stratum were the low-born include the emphasis on filial piety, (cheonin), which included butchers, as well as respect for seniority and musicians and courtesans. age – both of which characterise social relations in contemporary The daily lives of all classes became South Korea. Much of Korea’s the subject of genre paintings, a rich cultural heritage, including its major form of Korean art that cuisine, architecture, performing, flourished in the 18th century visual and literary arts, and even 08 (fig. 8). The paintings focused on alphabet – were created during the candid depictions of commoners Joseon dynasty. 07. Comb box, 19th at work and at leisure. The trend century. Lacquered wood with mother-of- was spurred by the growing interest pearl inlay, 30 x 29.5 x among intellectuals in Korea’s 29.5 cm. Collection of National Museum of native customs and crafts, as well Korea, Seoul. as its agriculture and geography. This developed under the banner 08. Jo Yeongseok Visit Joseon Korea: Court Treasures and (1686-1761). Shoeing of Silhak (Korean for “Practical City Life at the Asian Civilisations Museum a Horse, 18th Learning”) – a popular movement century. Album leaf, during the late 17th and 18th from 22 April to 23 July. Co-organised with ink and light colours the National Museum of Korea (NMK), on paper. 36.7 x 25.1 century which advocated a practical cm. Collection of approach to statecraft. the exhibition features artefacts from National Museum of Korea, Seoul. the collections of NMK and the National Bequest of Lee JOSEON LEGACIES Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul. For more Hong-kun. While Joseon regarded China as the information, please visit acm.org.sg/ bastion of civilisation in East Asia, exhibitions/Joseon-korea. and much of its art and culture

- 31 - DICHETAK OLEH

A WALK THROUGH

Photo on this page 101 Jalan Sultan, where KAMPONG GELAM HARMY Press and Al-Ahmadiah Press were based, c. 1950s. Text by Nasri Shah Published by Qalam Press. EXHIBITION & TRAIL

The task of mapping the historical area of Kampong Gelam (often spelled as “Kampong Glam”) is a daunting one. One has to consider not only its labyrinth of former side streets and alleyways, but also the numerous paths and shortcuts traversed by the many that once worked and lived in the area. Although Kampong Gelam was gazetted as a conservation area in 1989, many of these routes and pathways had by then become a thing of the past. Various roads were expunged through the 1960s

01 and 1970s, and business owners – including various printers and publishers – had already begun moving out or closing down their offices. To chart a trail through Kampong Gelam to better understand its history, it appears, is therefore always to be trailing behind its history, always a step too late to the scene of what was before. Mereka Utusan: Imprinting Malay Modernity, 1920s–1960s is the Malay Heritage Centre’s (MHC) fifth special exhibition, and seeks to recover the oft-forgotten history of the Malay language print and publishing industry in Singapore. In line with MHC’s theme for the year, Bahasa (Malay for “language”), the exhibition considers not only the language of the Jawi script used by Malay publishers of the time, but also the visual language

02 of advertisements, editorial cartoons and comic strips prevalent 01 & 02. Photographs of the Royal Press Printing office in these Malay publications. at 745 North Bridge More importantly, it restores the Road, c. 1946 to 1956. importance of Kampong Gelam as Published by Qalam Press. a node within a regional network of Malay printers, publishers and readers. The district’s importance reached a peak in the period between the 1900s to the 1950s, when no less than six printers and publishers could be found in various spots around Kampong Gelam.

- 33 - EXHIBITION & TRAIL

03. A cover of Fesyen magazine from 1959. The magazine was printed at HARMY Press which was located at 101 Jalan Sultan, 1959. Published by HARMY Press.

03

As part of the exhibition, a guided the title also conjures memories artefacts, as if they too were helping trail consisting of stops at the sites of entire days spent close-reading to piece together this now-lost of former printing and publishing and poring over hundreds of Jawi history of Kampong Gelam. magazines kept in the MHC offices in Kampong Gelam was These objects and artefacts which the Collection, contributed by readers held in March 2017. Entitled participants handled consist of Jawi and former publishers. Di-chetak Oleh (Malay for “printed magazines from MHC’s education by”), the title references the small In keeping with this spirit, the trail collection, and lead letterpress types print often written at the bottom invited participants to contribute that would have been used by Malay of the back of Malay magazines to to the program by handling printers and publishers. A special denote their printing companies’ artefacts from this archive as well treat for the participants was getting names. For example: Di-chetak as those shared by our exhibition to experience a scent specially oleh Al-Ahmadiah Press, Di-chetak partners during the course of the created by leading international oleh Qalam Press, and so on. For trail. Participants then shared fragrance company, Givaudan, the team involved in the exhibition, their reactions to these objects and whose perfumers were inspired

- 34 - EXHIBITION & TRAIL

04

04. The Royal Press Pustaka office was later by their trip to MHC’s Such impressions of navigating renamed Pustaka (the term “pustaka” encompasses Kampong Gelam provide a contrast Melayu (Malaysia language, literature and publishing) to town plans, surveys and maps of Press) during the Merger, 1968. From gallery. The intent behind these trail the area which have been done as the Lee Kip Lin aids was to create a trail that was far back as the 1820s. Rather than Collection. Courtesy of Lee Kip Lin and impressionistic rather than didactic, providing clarity to the orientation National Library and is reminiscent of French writer of the area, these mapping projects Board Singapore. Michel de Certeau’s musings of were intended to rationalise the walking aimlessly in the city and area for the purpose of future being bombarded by “the chorus of development and planning. It is idle footsteps”. For many who lived not coincidental that such mapping and worked in Kampong Gelam, projects of Kampong Gelam often these impressions were their guide preceded redevelopment projects, in to the area. Through speaking with which streets such as North Bridge Mr Abdul Aziz bin Abu Talib, a Road and Victoria Street were paved descendant of the owner of Royal and other streets such as Palembang Press (formerly located at 745 North Road and Street became Bridge Road), who is in his 60s, the expunged over time. The irony, then, curators discovered that his memories of such clear-eyed mapping projects of navigating Kampong Gelam as and route surveys is the ultimate a young printing apprentice to his alteration of these very spaces. father were filtered through such Rapid development in the Kampong impressions as bicycling through the Gelam area, particularly in the past area, pulling eight-hour workdays in five decades, has therefore created the printing office and wandering what de Certeau refers to as “blind between the various side streets. spots” within our field of vision

- 35 - EXHIBITION & TRAIL towards “space itself”. This includes Interacting with the family of Abu the history of that particular Talib bin Ally and the management This tote bag design is inspired by space, the organic interactions of the Sultan Hotel revealed a second advertisements from the 1950s and 1960s that take place within it, as well as and possibly more important aspect featuring household items and beauty its activities – all of which would of the trail. Through this trail, products. These include Bedak Chahaya escape a detached overview of that museum practitioners were pushed Bulan (Malay for “moonlight powder”), space. to engage with the descendants a brand of facial powder which catered and inheritors of these legacies. The printers and publishers of not only to ladies but teruna (Malay for Whilst the trail aids filled gaps Kampong Gelam are just some of “bachelors”) as well. Learn more about the many historical agents who in the historical narrative of the advertisements such as these at Mereka have since slinked off into these area, it was these anecdotes from so-called “blind spots”, particularly people who formerly lived and who Utusan: Imprinting Malay Modernity, in the aftermath of a ban on continue to work in the area that 1920s – 1960s, which runs at the Malay printing factories within the area enlivened the trail. Heritage Centre from now till 25 June, 2017. in the 1990s. Only traces of these Engaging such individuals and For more information or purchase printers and publishers remain in families also facilitates MHC’s the physical landscape of Kampong inquiry, please contact our Retail and efforts in building itself as an Gelam today, barely discernible Merchandising Division at: institution of and for the area from amidst the rows of textile shops, [email protected]. dimly lit massage parlours, watering which it operates. In this regard, the holes and bustling family eateries. exhibition can be seen as expanding With the exception of a few upon the premise established by architectural hints, there is nothing MHC’s 2015 exhibition – Kampong to indicate, for example, that a Gelam: Beyond the Port Town which thriving KTV pub along Arab Street considered the cultural, economic was once the site of a printing office and social histories of Kampong for the religious magazine Al-Imam, Gelam. This exhibition and trail or that the popular toy store along continues to follow that train of Bussorah Street once attracted a thought, by looking specifically to crowd of a different sort in the the printers and publishers of the early 19th century as the office of area, who in many ways contributed Javanese printer, Haji Muhammad to the economic and cultural Siraj. In this regard, the trail aids vibrancy of the area. Indeed, from also help participants to imagine for the heart of a port town, one is themselves a historical impression invited to cast a closer look at the of the area as it would have been many printing and publishing like at different points in time. offices that once called Kampong Gelam home. Continuities do, however, exist between present sites in Kampong Gelam and their past incarnations Visit Mereka Utusan: Imprinting Malay as printing offices. The site of Islamic Restaurant, currently located at 745 Modernity at the Malay Heritage Centre North Bridge Road, is still owned until June 25. Open Tuesday to Sunday by the family of Abu Talib bin Ally, from 10 am to 6 pm. For more information, who previously ran Royal Press. In a please visit malayheritage.org.sg/en. different manner, the Sultan Hotel’s tours at its three-storey shophouse unit has also served to introduce visitors to the building’s previous history as the site of Al-Ahmadiah Press and HARMY Press.

- 36 - BEYOND KAYA TOAST

THE CULTURALLY COSMOPOLITAN COFFEE SHOP OF 1960s SINGAPORE

Photo on this page Text by Joshua Goh A coffee shop in Chinatown, 1965. Courtesy of National Student Contribution Archives of Singapore. HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

01 02

01. A scene at the rear Step into any Ya Kun Kaya Toast shops were largely defined by their of a traditional Hainanese kopitiam, or Toast Box outlet island-wide, Chinese ownership. Valorised are c. 1980. Courtesy of and you may find yourself being the stories of early Hainanese coffee National Archives of Singapore. transported to another era. With shop proprietors, who by the dint of vintage décor and sepia-toned hard work built up thriving family 02. A serving of kaya toast prepared the photographs adorning their walls, businesses. The central persona in traditional way, 2016. these boutique kopi (Malay for Ya Kun’s narrative, for example, is Courtesy of Joshua Goh. “coffee”) joints are not just places for Loi Ah Koon. Hailed as a simple diners to savour familiar, comfort man who first started his business food. They are also sites where the with a coffee stall in Telok Ayer, history and heritage surrounding Loi’s rags-to-riches story graces the local food is prominently displayed. walls of all Ya Kun outlets. With Diners munching on crisp kaya competitor chains such as Kiliney (Malay for “coconut jam”) toast are Kopitiam also constructing a similar thus invited to experience the coffee narrative of Chinese ingenuity and shop of the 1960s, which has been industry, it is no surprise that the designed to invoke the feeling of a coffee shop’s past has come to be simple, laidback oasis where patrons defined by the contributions of can come to unwind. As the Toast Chinese migrants who, it seems, Box website suggests, the coffee set up shops merely for eating and shop of the sixties “was reinvented socialising at a leisurely pace. to bring back fond memories for those who missed the good old Nevertheless, such a historical times, and for the younger ones to imagination of the 1960s coffee experience the feel and flavours of a shop – as a rustic eatery defined by bygone era”. its Chinese roots – deserves to be explored further. This is because Besides their portrayal of the 1960s such a static conception of the coffee shop as an idyllic space, such coffee shop seems to be out of joint kopi joints also suggest that coffee with the dynamism of Singapore’s

- 38 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

03 04 society in the sixties. Indeed, this shops were merely tranquil arenas, 03. A snapshot of a bangsawan was an age of cultural ferment, isolated from the lively cultural verve performance, early during which the everyday lives of the day. Oral history interviews 1900s. Mohd Amin bin Kadarisman of Singapore’s residents were and newspaper articles from that Collection. Courtesy shaped by a vibrant cosmopolitan era reveal, indeed, that there was of National Archives modernity. As the term “swinging much more to the 1960s coffee shop of Singapore. sixties” suggest, modernity in this than kaya and toast. These sources 04. An Indian teh sarabat also suggest that focussing on stall proprietor hard period was closely associated with at work, c. 1980. youth-based, Western cultural fads the Hainanese kopitiam (a mixed Quek Tiong Swee such as the The Beatles, who used Malay-Hokkien term for “coffee Collection. Courtesy of National Archives new forms of technology such as shop”) alone is insufficient. Rather, of Singapore. multi-track recording to create one must also examine the worlds higher quality records to market of the Malay kedai kopi (Malay their music to a global crowd. for “coffee shop”) and Indian teh Popular artistic forms catering to sarabat (a colloquial Singaporean mass audiences were all the rage, term for “milk tea”) stall, for all particularly in Singapore, where were equally dynamic spaces that local bands such as The Quests constituted part of Singapore’s and The Silver Strings drew on public sphere in the sixties. As sites influences of an internationalfor the congregation of multiracial import to synthesise new strands patrons, coffee shops of the 1960s of consumptive entertainment. To were not only the domain of the be modern, thus, was to be in sync Chinese community as we often with popular trends that integrated imagine them to be. In fact, the both Western and local elements, multiracialism of the 1960s coffee and to be engaged with a dynamic shop went well beyond vernacular cultural world that was diverse and forms. As sites frequented by a eclectic. globally cosmopolitan clientele, coffee shops were part and parcel As an alternative “third space” of a flourishing cultural scene away from both home and work, it that produced a vibrant, popular is rather inconceivable that coffee modernity.

- 39 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

05. Sin Keow coffee shop, located at the junction of Syed Alwi Road and Jalan Besar, 1982. Lee Kip Lin Collection. Courtesy of the National Library Board.

06. Multiracial patrons in a Chinese coffee shop, 1962. Courtesy of National Archives of Singapore.

05

In 1960s Singapore, coffee shops merely part of a bigger picture. This comedians and musicians of the that catered to patrons beyond the is because the cosmopolitanism of travelling troupes would bond. typical Chinese, Malay or Indian the Syed Alwi Road coffee shop was After the Syed Alwi Road coffee customer could be found all across linked to new forms of consumptive shop was closed, another coffee the island. One notable site was the entertainment that were popularised shop at the intersection of teh sarabat stall cluster outside Rex by three ”worlds” of mid-twentieth Road and took over Cinema, where patrons as diverse as century Singapore. In the sixties, this function. Eurasian and Jewish folk could be three amusement parks – Happy found mingling. Syed Alwi Road in World in Geylang, New World Apart from the coffee shop’s links the Rochor district was also another in Jalan Besar and Great World with the three “worlds”, new prominent locale where coffee shops in River Valley – were at the pop-culture forms that emanated played host to clienteles of a global forefront of popular entertainment from the confines of the 1960s nature. Mohd Buang bin Marzuki, in Singapore, with performances coffee shop also demonstrate how a recruiter for a Malay bangsawan infused by a syncretic, East- closely intertwined it was with a (a type of traditional Malay opera) meets-West flavour. Yet they had cosmopolitan and outward looking troupe, even likened one particular an unexplored connection to the society. One advertisement placed coffee shop along Syed Alwi Road coffee shop, for travelling troupes in the Singapore Free Press on 21 to a port, with aspiring bangsawan performing in the “worlds” would November, 1961 by a local band performers from as far as often head out from the Syed called The Rhythmnaires bears congregating to seek artistic Alwi Road coffee shop and return testament to this. Billed as “one of employment. again past midnight to rest before the top Latin rhythm bands in the heading home at three or four in district”, the band’s lead musician, However, the globally diverse the morning. There was even a Mr Earl da Silva, called for a girl patrons that weaved in and out of billiard table at the coffee shop over to join the eight-man team, while the Syed Alwi Road coffee shop were which the bangsawan performers, proudly highlighting the fact that

- 40 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

06 the band was formed at “a coffee hours of the morning. The 4th mile Archives of Singapore reveal that shop meeting of eight music crazy teh sarabat stall in Bukit Timah this was not a one-off phenomenon. young men”. was also popular, for it brought A photo from 1962 (Figure 8) together musicians and university shows evidence of a crowded coffee Oral history interviews with students from the nearby Dunearn shop brimming with photography prominent musicians of the 1960s Hostels. Long before 24-hour enthusiasts with cameras slung further confirm that coffee shops fast-food restaurants made its way around their necks. were favoured as meeting sites for to Singapore’s shores, teh sarabat members of Western-style rock-and- stalls were already catering to Lastly, the creation of new culinary roll bands. Particular appealing, it nocturnal youths, who represented forms also testified to the coffee seems, was the convivial atmosphere a restless, pulsating society, eager shop's role in synthesising various teh sarabat surrounding Indian to experiment with novel cultural cultures and creeds. According stalls, which were a distinctive forms. to Vernon Cornelius, the popular feature of Singapore’s food-scape of Singaporean snack, Roti John that period. In the 1960s, prominent Besides Western-style music, other (consisting of a French loaf topped clusters of teh sarabat stalls could mass cultural forms of a popular with eggs and onions), was birthed be found near present-day Newton nature were also birthed from when the English submarine Hawker Centre, Cathay Cinema within the coffee shop. Activities sandwich was adapted by teh sarabat and along Albert Street. For local performed in and around coffee stalls operating along Point bands such as The Checkmates shops thus provided a good to cater to British soldiers stationed that dominated this golden age of barometer of the rapidly changing in the vicinity. Retaining the local music, such stalls provided tastes of a modern, cosmopolitan practice of cutting up a large French spirited spaces that were inherently society, as hobbyists of new artistic loaf into manageable portions, conducive to the new, modern forms gathered to further their Indian teh sarabat stall proprietors forms of music that they sought to craft. One such art form was proceeded to give quintessential popularise. At teh sarabat stalls such photography. The Photographic British fare a cosmopolitan twist as the one near Golden Venus bar, Society of Singapore, for instance, by infusing fried eggs and tomato musicians such as Henry Suriya, was conceived as the Singapore sauce. As stall owners hollered “hey, a member of The Boys, could be Camera Club in 1950 by a group of roti (Malay for “bread”) – John!” as found chatting and gossiping about seven men who met in a coffee shop. a generic and colloquial reference the local music scene into the wee Picture records from the National to the passing European customer,

- 41 - HISTORICAL SPOTLIGHT

07 08

07. Photographers congregating at a coffee shop, 1962. Courtesy of National Archives of Singapore.

08. A general view of Dunearn Road Hostels, 1992. Lee Kip Lin Collection. Courtesy of the National Library Board.

09. Roti John, a snack much loved by Singaporeans, c. 1990. Collection of . Courtesy of National Archives of Singapore.

09 the term gained social currency as were outwardly, together they jointly a reference to a scrumptious new inhabited a shared social space – one snack. defined by a diverse, cosmopolitan identity. This cosmopolitanism, in To conclude, it is clear that turn, ensured that coffee shops in contemporary historical perceptions the 1960s were not merely spaces for of the coffee shop as an idyllic, Chinese-populated space merely gustatory consumption. Rather, they serving up delectable kaya toast are had an equally important function rather restrictive. The story of the as sites of cultural fermentation and 1960s coffee shop is not only confined experimentation as Singaporeans-to- to the Hainanese kopitiam, but is be grappled with, and embraced, a part of a larger coffee shop world that new popular modernity. was shared equally by its Malay and Indian counterparts. Varied as they

- 42 - CELEBRATING JURONG AND ITS INDUSTRIOUS PIONEERS

Text by Raudha Muntadar Photo on this page Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle, 2016. Courtesy of National Heritage Board. EXHIBITION

01 02

Museums are human institutions mangroves could be found all which play an important role in the around. Residents of early Jurong public enjoyment of history, heritage, took on jobs as farmers and rubber art and even science. Many of the tappers at the many gambier and museums we are familiar with boast rubber plantations found in this wonderful repositories of national vast area in the 19th century. These collections and artefacts. Community plantations and farms, which were museums and galleries, on the other the main work sites in Jurong, hand, play the role of documenting played a major role in the area’s and conveying history and heritage subsequent development. through the social memories of people, be it through interviews, old A legacy of the early 20th century photos or personal collections. which still lives on till this day is the brickworks industry. Pottery Work @ TJ – The Industrious kilns were located in Jurong due Pioneers of Jurong is the third to the favourable soil found in the in a series of community co- created thematic exhibitions at area. Up to 800,000 bricks could Our Museum @ Taman Jurong, be produced each month in these which chronologically charts kilns. One of the oldest surviving 03 the development of Jurong and pottery kilns – the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle, also commonly 01. Sungei Jurong 03. Madam Sandy Lee’s the evolving occupations of its with mangrove (pictured) mother residents. Stories are told through known as the Dragon Kiln, is still swamps in the operated one of the residents’ memories, beginning located in Jurong today. background, 1954. first hair salons in Collection of Public Taman Jurong – Xin from the pre-1960s when Jurong Works Department. Toh [新都] Hair was considered a “lost region” due to 1960S – EVOLUTION Courtesy of Salon. Located at the the lack of people and development, National Archives of ground floor of Block With the dawn of the 1960s, Jurong Singapore. 1, Taman Jurong, to the present day where Jurong is a experienced huge changes that the salon not only major driver of the nation’s industry 02. Pots from Thow provided haircuts permanently altered its landscape. Kwang Pottery at an affordable and economy. Singapore embarked on a massive Jungle, 2016. price, but also warm Courtesy of National towels, comic books, PRE-1960S – NO MAN’S industrialisation programme Heritage Board. and shaving services with Jurong as its core. Through for its patrons, 2016. LAND Courtesy of National this programme, Jurong was Heritage Board. The Jurong of yesteryear would redeveloped with 1,600 hectares be completely unrecognisable reserved for the Jurong Industrial today. A largely undeveloped area, Estate. farms, plantations, ponds, and

- 44 - EXHIBITION

04

04. NatSteel, 2016. The same land that once housed Courtesy of National farms and plantations were Heritage Board. redeveloped to make way for 05. Workers of the factories such as NatSteel, Jurong National Iron and Shipyard, Jurong Wharf, Jurong Steel Mill at the opening of a new Fishery Port and military camps steel rerolling plant such as Pasir Laba Camp. As the in Jurong Industrial Jurong workforce grew to meet the Estate, 1963. Collection of Ministry demands of the area’s development, of Information and the Arts. Courtesy of so did its residential aspects. 05 National Archives of Madam Sandy Lee recounts her Singapore. mother’s story about opening the 06. Jurong Shipyard, first hair salon in Jurong: “She said, 1964. Collection of Ministry of ‘The government wrote a letter Information and the to us, asking us to open a salon Arts. Courtesy of National Archives of in Taman Jurong… This place is Singapore. so far and deserted. If not for the government’s letter, we wouldn’t have come to Taman Jurong!’”

To encourage workers to stay in 06 Jurong, then Finance Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee set up a toll gate which charged lorries and buses $50 a month for transporting workers into Jurong. As a result, companies began to set up living quarters for their workers within Jurong. Thus, as Jurong grew in its capacity for the nation’s economy, so did its

- 45 - EXHIBITION

07. Queen Elizabeth 09. Minister For Culture, II, with Defence Jek Yeun Thong Minister Dr Goh leading press to Keng Swee and see the loading Duke of Edinburgh and unloading of Prince Philip beside rice at the Jurong her, receiving the Port godown, 1973. royal salute from a Collection of Ministry 68-strong honour of Information and guard during her the Arts. Courtesy of visit to , 1972. National Archives of Collection of Ministry Singapore. of Information and the Arts. Courtesy of 10. A cargo ship berthed National Archives of at the wharf at Singapore. , 1973. Collection of Ministry 08. As some of the first of Information and residents to move the Arts. Courtesy of into Taman Jurong National Archives of in the 1970s, Mr and Singapore. Mrs Quah Kim Poh were witnesses to the many changes

07 that took place as Jurong industrialised. Until today, their entire family continues to reside in Taman Jurong, demonstrating the strong ties that envelop this community, 2016. Courtesy of National Heritage Board. 09

08 10 population. Mr Quah Kim Poh, a Port hit the million-tonne mark of work. Madam Halijah binte long-time resident of Jurong, shares: for the amount of cargo handled Sulaiman, for example, worked “Jurong then was very inaccessible in a year. At the same time, many at the WMF Flatware Factory and many Singaporeans refused to multinational companies from at 7 Gul Avenue, where her reside in this area. It was due to all over the world were coming to daily tasks included polishing industrialisation that made Jurong invest. By 1976, there were 650 high-quality cutleries to a shine factories operating in Jurong, and an international metropolis [sic].” before they were shipped for tens of thousands of workers being exports. The industrialisation employed. 1970S – FROM STRENGTH programme proved to be a success TO STRENGTH Farms and plantations which as unemployment dropped to The 1970s is widely known as the were a major part of the 1960s under 3% in the 1970s from prime decade for Jurong, with its had to make way for growing 14% in 1964. The military also tremendous growth and plentiful industrialisation. Residents here expanded its capabilities with job opportunities. In 1970, Jurong were employed in various fields specialised training schools for

- 46 - 11 different vocations being set up in the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute (SAFTI), which was located in Jurong. 1980S – PRESENT DAY: INTO THE NEW WORLD In the 1980s, developments in Jurong shifted towards technology and knowledge-based industries. This change was reflected in Jurong’s landscape as heavy manufacturing companies began to move out, and chemical 12 and technological industries, along with light manufacturing started to move in. Workers had to equip themselves with new skills to keep up with the changing demands of the job. During this decade, Jurong also became key to another aspect of Singapore – waste management. The Incineration Plant heralded this new era with its completion in 1986. Subsequently, Tuas South Incineration Plant and 13 Keppel Seghers Tuas Waste-to- 11. Jurong Port & 12. SAFTI MI, 2015. 13. National Day Energy Plant were added in 2000 Shipyard, 2015. Courtesy of National Observance and 2009 respectively. Combined, Courtesy of National Heritage Board. Ceremony at Jurong Heritage Board. Shipyard, 1985. they make up more than half of Collection of Ministry Singapore’s incineration capacity. of Information and the Arts. Courtesy of National Archives of Singapore. - 47 - EXHIBITION

15 16

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE 15 & 16. Work @ TJ with food, beverage, consumer exhibition at There is no doubt that Jurong will product, and fragrance partners, the foyer of the their passion for understanding Taman Jurong continue to play a significant part Community Club. in driving Singapore’s industry consumers' preferences and their and economy. As it continues to relentless drive to innovate evolve, two new additions are has enabled them to create expected to add to its changing these special scents, which will landscape. These are the planned undoubtedly leave a lasting –Singapore High- impression on visitors both young Speed Rail terminus, as well as a and old. Visitors will be able to second Central Business District. imagine what it was like to work With a peek into the future, the and live in Jurong in the past or workers and residents of Jurong can to reminisce about the good old certainly be expected to continue days. For more information, visit transforming the landscape of Our Museum @ Taman Jurong's Singapore. Facebook page. Work @ TJ – The Industrious Pioneers of Jurong runs till end-July 2017 at the foyer of Visit Work @ TJ at the foyer of Taman Taman Jurong Community Jurong Community Club till July 31. Open Club. To provide an immersive Monday to Friday from 3 pm to 9 pm, multi-sensory experience, this Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday exhibition features unique scents from 10 am to 6 pm. For more information, specially developed and generously please visit facebook.com/OMATTJ. supported by Givaudan, the global leader in the creation of flavours and fragrances that 'engage your senses'. These scents include that of oil at a shipyard, brickworks at a pottery kiln, tyres in a car workshop, mangroves and even National Servicemen in training. While Givaudan generally works

- 48 - #GALLERY 10 – AN EYE ON TOMORROW THE DIGITAL REALM IN MUSEUMS TODAY

Text by Jervais Choo Photo on this page Gallery 10, 2016. Courtesy of National Museum of Singapore. MUSEOLOGY

01 & 02. Gallery 10, 2016. Courtesy of National Museum of Singapore.

03. Visitors peering at the installation, 2017. Courtesy of Sarah Choo Jing.

04. Close-up of the installation, 2017. Courtesy of Sarah Choo Jing.

01

The embrace of digital technology collect in the future, and for that into popular culture can be traced matter, how do we collect for the back to some 30 years ago, when the future? In a complex environment introduction of the personal computer of networks that connect and revolutionised how information and intertwine both the abstract and content could be received, recorded the real, the challenges of venturing and transmitted. The exponential meaningfully into the binary increase in processing power, and universe are substantial. 02 thus practical utility, has seen digital The often used popular culture as a broad encompassing term phrase: “the internet never forgets”, permeating all aspects of societal and despite its ominous undertone, personal space. Today, consciously or presents a false assurance of digital otherwise, many of us exist in dual or archival minions that somehow even multiple realities, with crafted scurry around the digital cloud personas for different digital platforms. collecting, cataloguing and Those of us who are not part of these preserving all human knowledge. realities are nonetheless affected, and This misrepresents the reality that, sometimes afflicted by it. amidst the deluge of information 03 CONFRONTING the inter-webs offers, information COMPLEXITY has itself now become even more subjective and is in greater need of In recognising these quantum curation than ever before. People shifts in societal habits and do in fact selectively remember patterns, it is necessary and even – and just as conveniently forget critical for museums of collections – what they read online. Shorter to understand the complexities and attention spans and the penchant dynamics of current and infinitely for headlines rather than the rigour enduring mediums of expression. of content and debate, are worrying Invariably, we will need to confront trends. Fiction often overrides fact, the question of what do we and many often find what they want

- 50 - MUSEOLOGY to know rather than what they need afield. The widespread adoption of multi-disciplinary domain. Are to know online. The digital sphere hyper-realistic modelling coupled we prepared to acquire and collect is often self-validating rather than with 3D printing is gaining traction source codes from pioneering enlightening. Corporations pretty from all sectors. New media art that software rather than simply acquire much dictate the choices that are has the ability to change and react in an empty shell in the form of an presented to you in your searches response to environments create a new object or hardware? In 2013, Cooper- by leveraging on “Big Data”, and domain for artistic creation. Virtual Hewitt acquired the source codes often arbitrarily filter out “noise” and augmented reality solutions have to an iPad application written in that they perceive as less likely to the potential to recreate immersive C++ known as Planetary, including translate to revenue for them. and sensory-engaged environments its changes between versions. In better than what original pictures THE VALUE OF AN OBJECT 2014, the International Center for or drawings can convey. What then the History of Electronic Games Undergirding these conundrums is is the value of an original object, (ICHEG) acquired into its collection the attendant measure of relevance photograph or painting beyond complete source codes from Atari’s and connection with the people mere sentiment and the socio-digital coin-operated arcade games. Are we we collect for – the public. With validation of having taken a selfie prepared to do the same for digital digital content proliferated widely, with it? These are difficult questions technologies moving forward? what incremental value is there for for a museum of collections to a museum of collections to present confront, but it would be imprudent Navigating a world without borders the same stories that can be accessed for us to set it aside indefinitely. can be daunting as the digital space and consumed from the comfort also brings to the fore questions of BUILDING CAPACITY FOR of home, the bus or over dinner authenticity and originality. While DIGITAL IN MUSEUMS with friends and family? Even these are already being confronted as museums contest the salience Most museums are not equipped to daily in museology, developments of presenting virtual and created deal with the digital medium as it on the digital front have forced us objects alongside reconstructed and exists today, much less with taking to readdress age-old “truths” and reimagined ones, the digital frontiers strides towards areas beyond the sacred cows. Copyright, ownership, are being relentlessly pushed further audio-visual sphere and into the appropriation and attribution are

04

- 51 - MUSEOLOGY

just a few areas which are susceptible GALLERY 10 multi-disciplinary artist Sarah to sheer volume and propensity of Choo Jing and traditional dance The recently launched Gallery 10 at content creation within the digital practitioners from Apsaras Arts sphere. Building capacity to deal the National Museum of Singapore (NMS) is a first step towards Limited, Era Dance Theatre and with these issues is not only the the Singapore Hokkien Huay responsibility of the collections cultivating a greater awareness and understanding of how museums Kuan Dance Theatre. Supported front, but should also be addressed by the National Arts Council by the collectors. This can be done can navigate the digital medium. As an experimental space dedicated to and commissioned by NMS, the by equipping museum professionals resulting three-channel immersive with the knowledge and tools to digital creation, Gallery 10 allows video installation provokes thought address these gaps, rather than visitors the opportunity to work with shunning them completely. artists, professionals and experts in and introspection on the essence the field by jointly exploring and and preparation behind form and As a nation, Singapore has invested curating meaningful experiences. presentation. Visitors entering the significantly in research and gallery are confronted by a large- development in technology, and It encourages us to expand our span and understanding in the scale panoramic video of traditional continues to advance the argument dancers rehearsing in back alleys that we cannot lack behind in these definition of objects, to perhaps consider digital assets as a part of our and organic spaces, which draws areas in order to ensure continued them into the intimate psyche of economic growth. Perhaps the collection strategy in the future. As preparation that each dancer enters same argument could be made for the first permanent gallery dedicated cultural growth, and the need for to the digital realm, it marks a step before a performance. the arts and culture industry to forward in allowing curators to take Through a digital medium, Art acknowledge that there is much ownership of the medium. of the Rehearsal captures varying more we can do to move beyond ART OF THE REHEARSAL perspectives of a rich and vibrant our traditional comfort zones form of our intangible cultural in collecting and collections, The first work presented inheritage that would otherwise be presenting and presentations. Gallery 10 is entitled Art of the hidden from our eyes. It disproves Rehearsal, and it brings together the notion that digital necessarily

- 52 - MUSEOLOGY

05

equates to impersonality. Within a complex network of nodes and algorithms, we aim to acknowledge that our technology mirrors as much as shapes our culture. Gallery 10 is a move in this direction, challenging our notions of what a museum represents in an age that sometimes appears determined to make museums less relevant. It advances the position that even more so than before, the role of museums is critical in providing context, understanding, perspective and space for us to make sense of a data-driven, digitally enhanced world that tolerates us. 06

05. Video still. Courtesy of Sarah Choo Jing. See Art of the Rehearsal at Gallery 10 at 06. Gallery 10, 2016. the National Museum of Singapore from Courtesy of 10 am to 5 pm daily. National Museum of Singapore.

- 53 - HERITAGE TRAIL ADOPTION SCHEME

Text by Joanne Chen

Photo on this page CJC student sharing with his peers about the former Shaw Malay Film Studios. Courtesy of National Heritage Board. EDUCATION

Walking from one historic site to another is what many tourists enjoy doing whenever they visit a new country. The exploration and discovery of historically significant places enhances one’s understanding of a place’s past, heritage, culture and people. Since 1999, the National Heritage Board (NHB) has researched and developed a series of heritage trails in our heartlands that aims to bring heritage closer to the public, and help residents understand and

01 appreciate the place in which they live, study, work and play in. These heritage trails range from heartland areas such as , and to well-known heritage estates such as Balestier, Kampong Glam and Little India. In 2013, NHB piloted the Heritage Trail Adoption Scheme with Henderson Secondary School. The then newly launched Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail was adopted by the school and 12 pupils were trained by NHB to be student guides. These student guides would later go on to guide the VIP entourage

02 during the trail’s launch.

01. CJC student sharing To promote the use of existing with his classmates heritage trails and to document the about the water kiosk social memories of the estate that we situated at the corner of Boon Teck Road. live in, the Heritage Trail Adoption Courtesy of National Scheme gives schools the platform Heritage Board. to adopt either an NHB heritage 02. A student from trail or a school developed trail Manjusri Secondary sharing with his/ for a period of three years. Schools her peers about the participating in the scheme may religious site along choose to undertake the guiding the school-developed Interfaith Heritage training programme for students or Trail. Courtesy of the how-to-teach-guiding training National Heritage Board. programme designed especially for teachers. The programme also encourages schools to teach heritage in a fun and meaningful way by using the trail for orientation or camp programmes, and to integrate cross-subject learning elements to

- 55 - EDUCATION

03 ensure that the young appreciate our teachers by equipping them 03. Students from ITE College Central the continued relevance of heritage. with the knowledge and skills to experiencing a make learning of heritage and the fun-filled heritage Since the programme’s launch, trail about Ang Mo Mother Tongue Language fun. Kio Heritage Trail. more than 25 schools have adopted The programme has also changed Courtesy of National either an NHB Heritage Trail or a our students’ perspectives and Heritage Board. school developed trail, and more understanding towards Balestier. than 600 students and 30 teachers They are now more appreciative of have been trained under the the estate that they study in.” programme. Today, the scheme is a robust one with a good spread of participation from primary schools, Download a step-by step guide secondary schools and even tertiary on how to develop a heritage institutions. trail at nhb.gov.sg/education/ Suitable for all ages and student resources-for-schools-and-students. profiles, this scheme has benefited both high-potential and average For more information or to sign up for the students by equipping them with programme, please email our Education life skills that go beyond heritage team at NHB_educationprogrammes@ knowledge. The scheme’s flexibility nhb.gov.sg. to be integrated into curriculum has also brought out teachers’ creativity in designing heritage trails that engage students through meaningful exploration and discovery of heritage. Mrs Phyllis Lim, Principal of Catholic Junior College shares, “The programme has benefited

- 56 - TREASURES RETOLD @ ACM

04

Photo on this page Surrounded by beauty and history, 2016. Courtesy of Asian Text by Wynnie Kwok Civilisations Museum. EDUCATION

01. Comparing notes and inspiration, 2016. Courtesy of Asian Civilisations Museum.

01

In the spirit of an interconnected Directed by their inspiration, the following poem, which was curriculum anchored in the arts, students would then revisit an inspired by Bodhisattva (Accession Treasures Retold @ ACM was object of their choice and pen number: 2014-00570): designed by the Literature in a poem inspired by it. In doing English Faculty of the School so, students found themselves The Enlightened One of the Arts, Singapore (SOTA) exploring the ekphrastic poetic Abandoned princehood in collaboration with the Asian form. Meaning “description” in Exchanging a golden crown Civilisations Museum (ACM) as an Greek, an ekphrastic poem is For pearls of wisdom Enrichment Programme for its Year commonly based on a work of art, 3 cohort. whereby a poet extrapolates the She explained that as a visual arts meaning of the work by reflecting student, she really appreciated and Borrowing from the phrase on its central theme and creative enjoyed seeing all the reliefs and “Treasures Untold”, Treasures interpretation. sculptures in the gallery. “They Retold @ ACM suggests that were so intricately carved, and when we engage and interact with In retelling the stories of these objects because I know how difficult it is to treasures and cultural artefacts, through poetry, students were we learn more about our ancestry, challenged to firstly, put themselves sculpt, my admiration of the artists’ and new breath is injected into the in the shoes of a voyager, craftsman, works was further heightened. stories which surround our past. servant or emperor to imagine their It was also interesting to learn various hopes and dreams; secondly, about the context of the various Through learning about selected perceive objects through the various artists’ creations, such as how objects during the first part of the lenses of anthropology, history, wealthy sailors would commission programme, students were able literature and the arts; and finally, sculptures as an act of gratitude for to gain a deeper understanding make adaptations from the original protection on the seas,” said Faith. of how cross-cultural interactions medium (sculpture, ceramic, happen, and recognise the results of She added: “I was surprised to painting) into literary form. such intermingling as evident in the learn how each depiction of objects’ purpose, provenance and For example, using the structure of Buddha evolved depending on creative impetus. a haiku, student Faith Lee wrote which country the belief spread to.

- 58 - EDUCATION

02

The sculptors carved some of the “Examining a turn of phrase in 02. Noting the finer statues with features or poses that a poem, or the composition and details in the Trade Gallery, resembled those of deities already brushstrokes used in an artwork 2016. Courtesy of worshipped in the native country. can therefore allow one to fully Asian Civilisations This helped Buddhism to be appreciate the intention and skill of Museum. accepted more readily and spread the poet or artist,” she concluded. faster.” “Learning about how Siddhartha Gautama gave up his princeship and Wynnie Kwok is a teacher from the Faculty everything he possessed, I was inspired of Literature in English, School of the Arts, to write a poem to express my feelings. Singapore. It was a unique experience for me to write a poem based on another older If you have a project that you would like to artistic creation. This added a further explore in collaboration with ACM, please layer of meaning to the sculpture, and email [email protected]. writing my interpretation on it was almost like bringing it to life.” In addressing the interweaving art forms, Faith observed that poems and artworks could be experienced by the viewer in two ways. Firstly, through a quick glance to admire its beauty, and secondly, through close analysis, which uncovers deeper details and meanings that may not have been noticed before.

- 59 - AN INTERVIEW WITH DR ANITHA DEVI PILLAI Photo on this page Text by Matthew Lim and Dr Anitha Devi Pillai with her book. Courtesy Dr Anitha Devi Pillai of Binod Therat. BOOKS

The Singaporean Malayalee Story classmates, there was very little of the community. As outsiders was a research project that was understanding or awareness about and experts in their respective spearheaded by Dr Anitha Devi Malayalees. fields, their observations of the Pillai, a lecturer at the National Malayalee community provided a Institute of Education, with the In school, I spoke English and valuable source of insight into the support of a National Heritage Tamil, while at home, I spoke community’s practices and culture. Malayalam to my mother and a mix Board (NHB) grant back in 2013. This is the first extensive research The project resulted in the 2017 of Malayalam and English to my father. Over the years, it has become project on Singapore Malayalees publication of From Kerala to and I thought it would be increasingly apparent that the Singapore: Voices from the Singapore important to capture it in a form younger generation of Malayalees Malayalee Community, which that was convenient and accessible. features a historical and linguistic are beginning to use more English Judging from readers’ comments, overview of Malayalees who moved within the community setting. This the book form seems to be the most from Kerala to Singapore in the was the motivation for my master’s impactful. Books are a convenient 19th century. thesis. As an applied linguist, I form that can be easily shared focused on the language use, literacy According to the 2010 Census amongst family members as well. practices and language shifts within of Population, there are 26,348 the community. Q3. What was the most Malayalees amongst the 348,119 memorable part of producing this Indians in Singapore. They are the During the course of my research, I publication? second largest group amongst the found very little documentation on There were several memorable moments Indians after the Tamils. However, the Malayalee community’s arrival existing literature on the Singapore in producing this publication, such as and presence in Singapore. Published the hours spent in the National Library Malayalee community is largely studies indicated that the majority limited to studies on the Malayalee and National Archives of Singapore of Malayalees arrived in the 1930s (NAS) researching the topic, the long language and targets an academic and 1940s, but many members of audience. interviews and elaborate tea sessions the community told me that their that the interviewees insisted we stay From Kerala to Singapore aims to ancestors arrived in Singapore at the for, and also the drawing up of family reach out to the general public. turn of the 19th century. It was clear trees. Apart from charting the history of that this was a topic that needed to But I do think that seeing the book the community, it also examines be explored further. in print was pretty special and how members of the community Q2. What is this book about and emotional for all of us. It had been have contributed to Singapore, why did you choose the medium of a long journey with several tense which in turn has shaped their print to promote your heritage? moments, but when I finally held identity as Singapore Malayalees. the book in my hand, it was like a MUSE SG talks to Dr Anitha about The book consists of an overview dream come true. the story behind the book and of the community’s migration of Malayalees from Kerala to The most memorable moment her experience researching on the for me was having the book Singapore Malayalee community. Singapore from 1900 to 2016, and their subsequent evolution launched by Professor Tommy Koh (Ambassador-at-large) at Q1. How did you come to be as Singapore Malayalees through to a packed hall. interested in the heritage of your more than 100 personal narratives. community? Members of the community and Photo portraits, personal family well-wishers who had heard of I have always been interested in memorabilia and detailed family our journey or who were part understanding my community trees complement each narrative. of our journey came in troves and identity as a fourth generation It also includes special interviews to lend us their support. The Malayalee in Singapore. Before the with prominent personalities such launch was made possible thanks internet became widely available, as former President SR Nathan, to support from the Singapore I often had to explain Malayalee Associate Professor Rajesh Rai, Indian Association (SINDA), the festivals and practices to my Arun Mahizhnan and Chelva Rajah Singapore Malayalee Association, peers. Even amongst my Indian for an etic or external perspective The Arts House and other patrons.

- 61 - BOOKS

01. Book cover of From Kerala to Singapore. Courtesy of Dr Anitha Devi Pillai.

01 Q4. What would you tell other in the community or to people from published studies, relevant theses, heritage enthusiasts about various social backgrounds as well. newspaper reports, and oral narratives documenting and preserving from the NAS and Registry of history? They should spend sufficient time Societies. They are also strongly with the interviewees and not encouraged to speak to research staff My first advice is to have a clear be in a rush to get through their from both the National Library and focus on what they would like to interview questions. Do consider the NAS. achieve. There are several ways staying and chatting for a while of documenting and preserving after the interview. We found that Finally, I will also advise writing history. A clear focus on the it was during these moments when early in a form that is suitable for selection criteria of primary and interviewees were most relaxed that the intended audience. One crucial secondary data sources will enable they would remember pertinent decision, therefore, that they would heritage enthusiasts to achieve far details. These informal sessions need to make is who the intended more in a shorter span of time. are an excellent way of connecting audiences are. For example, if with the interviewees. Heritage they wish to give an academic From Kerala to Singapore Projects like enthusiasts should also be prepared perspective, they will then need to are social history projects where the to speak with the interviewee supplement the narratives with an voice of the interviewee dominates several times before they begin to academic essay to provide a deeper the narrative. When embarking on start writing. Often, there are gaps and broader perspective. similar projects, heritage enthusiasts that will need clarification. should identify members of the community whom they would like to Aside from the interviews, heritage interview. They will also have to make enthusiasts will also need to examine From Kerala to Singapore is available for a decision on whether they would like and analyse government records purchase at Museum Label shops for $49. to speak only to prominent members such as statistics of the community,

- 62 - THE SINGAPORE WAR CRIMES TRIALS

A WEB PORTAL FOR ALL

Text by Joshua Goh Photo on this page A scene from the Student Contribution Singapore War Crimes Trials, 1947. Tham Sien Yen Collection. Courtesy of the National Archives of Singapore. RESOURCES

01 02

01. Professor Walter For the average Singaporean, the of Law, the Singapore War Woon, Senior Japanese Occupation (1942 to Crimes Trials web portal Counsel, graced 1945) is associated with tales of (www.singaporewarcrimestrials. the launch of the portal on 29 August, local heroism and courage. Speak com) aims to plug these gaps in 2016. Courtesy of to any member of our pioneer our often under-examined legal the Singapore Law generation and chances are you heritage. Conceived three years Review. will encounter personal stories that ago by National University of 02. A typical case profile speak of fortitude in the face of Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Law’s page on the portal. brutality. Assistant Professor, Dr Cheah Wui Ling, and NUS Law alumni Yet, we do not often hear about and legal counsel, Ms Ng Pei Yi, the post-war fates of the Japanese this ambitious endeavour was born occupiers, whose rule came to an initially as a research project to abrupt end on 15 August, 1945. uncover Singapore’s own version With the return of the British, of the Nuremburg and Tokyo what happened to the men and trials. The aim: to shed light on commanders of the Imperial the 131 cases that were heard by Japanese Army who had ruled over British military officials between Syonan-to (Japanese for “Light of 1945 to 1948 at the Supreme the South”) for three years and Court Building on St. Andrew’s six months? Was justice meted Road, whose original records out to the alleged perpetrators of have thus far been hived away in war crimes such as the Dai Kensho the British National Archives at (Japanese for “great inspection” Kew. The result: a comprehensive – referring to a general screening conducted in early 1942 to website featuring individual case- eliminate anti-Japanese elements in files and summaries, which was Singapore)? launched on 29 August, 2016 to a crowd that included members Supported by the National of the law fraternity, historians, Heritage Board's (NHB) and even representatives of Heritage Participation Grant civic organisations such as the and the Singapore Academy International Red Cross.

- 64 - RESOURCES

03. The home page of the Singapore War Crimes Trials web portal.

04. By clicking on the “background” tab, viewers can access a map that locates sites where war crimes were committed.

03

04

The portal, however, is meant to be Quirk Agency Pte Ltd, to ensure figures such as Toh Swee Koon, more than a researcher’s treasure that the portal is easily accessible a Chinese interpreter implicated vault. Testament to this was the to everyone. Thus far, it seems this in the incident but whose death public audience present at the has been a success, for the site has sentence was eventually not portal’s launch, who contributed garnered hits from as far abroad as carried out for unexpected reasons. to a spirited discussion of the Japan, the United Kingdom and As the portal expands to amplify portal’s role in increasing public the United States. a wider array of voices, it is hoped awareness of Singapore’s history. that more Singaporeans will come Moving forward, Dr Cheah and It is clear that the portal has gone aboard to contribute to, and Ms Ng are already looking forward beyond its initial academic roots, discover for themselves, this slice to phase two of the portal, which of Singapore’s rich heritage. and has instead blossomed into will feature the perspectives of a community-wide engagement Singapore residents who were part effort. As the portal’s co-researcher of the trials – whether as victims Visit the Singapore War Crimes Trials Portal Ms Ng Pei Yi testifies, this “spirit of or as witnesses. One case which open access” is one that the project both researchers hope to delve into at singaporewarcrimestrials.com. hopes to cultivate. It is in line with concerns the notorious Double this spirit that one is able to find Tenth Incident of 1943, in which explanatory charts and historical 57 civilians interred at Changi Gaol photographs on the portal, which were tortured by the Kempeitai complement the case files provided. (Japanese military police). While Ms Ng emphasises that this is a detailed information surrounding deliberate design intent, drawn this case can already be gleaned up in conjunction with marketing from the portal, the project’s communications and design firm, second phase will further explore

- 65 - WHAT’S

traditional transport and embark on a of Korea, the National Palace Museum trail to “join the dots” and experience of Korea, Seoul and the Deagu ON “connections” as you discover popular National Museum will be displayed family hangouts of the 1970s and 1980s for the first time in Singapore. and historical landmarks along the The exhibition will be accompanied ; as well as Ghost Nets by programmes and talks relating of the Ocean – Au Karem ira Lamar Lu to Joseon Korea and contemporary DAILY at the Asian Civilisations Museum, Korean culture; as well as a work featuring an ocean-scape inhabited by South Korean contemporary by marine creatures, all made with artist Ran Hwang, best known for ocean debris and recycled plastic using pins, buttons, and thread to materials that raises awareness on create large-scale installations. the dangers of ocean pollution. For more information, please For more information, please visit acm.org.sg visit museums.com.sg/cs17

EXHIBITION AT Former Ford Factory CHILDREN’S SEASON Ongoing SINGAPORE 2017 Monday to Saturday | 9 am to 5.30 pm Sunday | 12 pm to 5.30 pm Various venues $3 for adults May 27 to June 25 JOSEON KOREA: COURT Free admission for children under 6, NHB’s annual Children’s Season TREASURES AND CITY LIFE Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, Singapore returns in 2017, presenting Asian Civilisations Museum Singapore student pass holders and Museum Roundtable members cultural and educational experiences Ongoing to July 23 that will inspire, engage and educate Saturdays to Thursdays | 10 am to 7 pm The exhibition recounts the events our young audience. This year’s Fridays | 10 am to 9 pm and memories surrounding the British edition goes beyond museums and will $8 for Singapore Citizens and Permanent surrender, the Japanese occupation of encompass all aspects of art, culture, Residents, $15 for Foreigners Singapore, and outlines the legacies heritage and education. With a wide of war. Through oral history accounts, Intrigued by sets and costumes from range of programmes, exhibitions and archival records and published Korean historical dramas and films? engaging family activities for children material that tell the story of the Then you will want to see actual of all ages, Singapore will be the place period, this exhibition highlights the furniture, fashion and decorative arts to be for children and families to create diverse experiences of people during from Korea’s Joseon era (1392–1897). special memories together this June! this crucial time in our history. Spanning some 500 years, Joseon was Highlights this year include a Korea’s last dynasty, and the legacy For more information, please visit wonderland of discovery and play at the of its courtly culture and vibrant city nas.gov.sg/formerfordfactory National Museum of Singapore, where life lives on in South Korea today. you can pick your favourite mode of Treasures from the National Museum

- 66 - EVENTS LISTING

ISTANA HERITAGE GALLERY The President’s Office and the Preservation of Sites and Monuments Division CHINESE ART COLLECTION FROM 35 Orchard Rd, Istana Park THE LEE KONG CHIAN MUSEUM Ongoing NUS Museum, Lee Kong Chian Gallery Thursday to Tuesday | 10 am to 6 pm Monday | Visits by appointment Free admission for schools and faculties only Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 6 pm This Gallery presents the history and Closed on Public Holidays heritage of the Istana (a National Monument of Singapore), and its Free admission significance in Singapore’s evolving MEREKA UTUSAN: IMPRINTING The Chinese Art collection consists political context. It also showcases a MALAY MODERNITY of bronzes, ceramics and paintings, selection of artefacts – including state gathered to represent the expansive Malay Heritage Centre gifts which are lasting testimonies history of Chinese art. The nucleus of of Singapore’s friendship with Ongoing to June 25 this collection was established and other countries – and photographs Tuesday to Sunday | 10 am to 6 pm developed at the Nanyang University in that show how the Istana, which Free admission the 1970s with significant expansion in is set in one of the most beautiful he Malay Heritage Centre’s fifth special the 1980s under the newly inaugurated natural locations in Singapore, is an exhibition, titled Mereka Utusan: National University of Singapore (NUS). important site of social memory. Imprinting Malay Modernity, launched For more information, please For more information, please visit together with the Malay CultureFest, visit museum.nus.edu.sg istana.gov.sg/the-istana/istana- affirms the importance of language to a heritage-gallery/visitors-information community by tracing the development of Malay modernity and identity through ARCHAEOLOGY LIBRARY print, advertisements and editorial cartoons. Gain insights into how the NUS Museum, Archaeology Library Malay community in Singapore used Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 7.30 pm the power of the mass media to discuss Sunday | 10 am to 6 pm and respond to historical events such as Closed on Public Holidays the Great Depression, World War II and Free admission the nationalist movements that swept Bringing together finds from past and across Southeast Asia afterwards. RESOURCE GALLERY newer excavations from Fort Canning in For more information, please Singapore to Changsha in China, these visit malayheritage.org.sg/en NUS Museum, Resource Gallery finds from the pre-colonial and colonial Monday | Visits by appointment periods sample the materials produced for schools and faculties only and used in Singapore and beyond. Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 6 pm Further, as part of an evolving body Closed on Public Holidays of artefacts, they provide a glimpse Free admission into the dynamics between material The Resource Gallery provides an culture and history, and its making. encounter with the NUS Museum’s For more information, please collections and their histories as an visit museum.nus.edu.sg open-storage display. Objects are organised to accommodate material categories, area classifications, as well as contingencies of collecting

- 67 - EVENTS LISTING

and its strategies. Their roots lie in Closed on Public Holidays the shifting curatorial positions and Free admission museum practice since the mid-1950s, As a backdrop to the evolving with the formation of the University discussion on Malayan culture of Malaya Art Museum and Nanyang which Hsu was part of, the exhibition University, both in 1955, and the Lee introduces selected writings by T.K. Kong Chian Art Museum in 1969. Sabapathy and S. Rajaratnam, the For more information, please former pertains to Southeast Asian art visit museum.nus.edu.sg historiography, and the latter as a call BUAYA: THE MAKING for a cultural history that forms part OF A NON-MYTH of a shaping of community and nation. NUS Museum, Resource Gallery These frames provide ways to consider Ongoing until July the Museum’s collection whose Monday | Visits by appointment collecting histories may be associated for schools and faculties only with Malaya’s period of formation, and Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 6 pm the evolving project of art history. Closed on Public Holidays For more information, please Free admission FROM THE ASHES: REVIVING visit museum.nus.edu.sg MYANMAR CELADON CERAMICS This prep-room project presents NUS Museum, Archaeology Library simultaneous research and practices Ongoing until December by conservator Kate Pocklington and Monday | Visits by appointment artist Lucy Davis on the crocodile for schools and faculties only in Singapore. Activated by the Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 6 pm conservation of the century old Closed on Public Holidays specimen for exhibition in the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, Free admission the heuristic and scientific research The exhibition introduces the has expanded to uncover the animal’s experiments with celabon, a low eclipsed history. By virtue of the Straits’ ART OF THE REHEARSAL temperature ash glaze pottery. They ambivalent relations with the crocodile, National Museum of Singapore, Gallery 10 are displayed alongside celadon ware, the materials on display reckon with Ongoing to July 31 which was an export product of Lower its population and circulation in habitat Daily | 10 am to 5 pm Myanmar in the 15th century. Also an and encounters, folklore, colonial Free admission ash glaze ware but fired at a higher enterprise, industry and violence. Art of the Rehearsal is a three- temperature, its discovery at historical channel immersive video installation kiln sites inspired a revival of the For more information, please by multidisciplinary artist Sarah tradition in the pottery community. visit museum.nus.edu.sg Choo Jing. This artwork depicts For more information, please Singaporean dancers across various visit museum.nus.edu.sg cultures practicing along the back lanes of cultural districts in the city. Reflecting on the rigorous and intense training behind the performance, the artist seeks to bring out the consistent determination of the performers. The emphasis of the installation work is on the process rather than on the final RADIO MALAYA: ABRIDGED outcome. The dance performance in CONVERSATIONS ABOUT ART the video is presented by Apsaras Arts NUS Museum, South and Ltd, Era Dance Theatre and Singapore Southeast Asian Gallery Hokkien Huay Kuan Dance Theatre. Monday | Visits by appointment for schools and faculties only For more information, please Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 6 pm visit nationalmuseum.sg

- 68 - EVENTS LISTING

SINGAPORE HISTORY GALLERY WE BUILT A NATION National Museum of Singapore National Museum of Singapore Ongoing Stamford Gallery, Level 1 Daily | 10 am to 7 pm Ongoing $15 for adults and $10 for students Daily | 10 am to 7 pm and seniors with valid ID $15 for adults and $10 for students Free admission for Singapore Citizens and and seniors with valid ID Permanent Residents (unless otherwise Free admission for Singapore Citizens and stated) and visitors aged 6 years and below Permanent Residents (unless otherwise stated) and visitors aged 6 years and below STORY OF A FOREST BY The Singapore History Gallery’s TEAMLAB AND SINGAPORE, updated narrative charts the Through a selection of more than VERY OLD TREE BY ROBERT development of the island as it 100 artefacts, and archival images ZHAO (AN INSTALLATION) was known through the years as and documents, this exhibition National Museum of Singapore Singapura, a Crown Colony, Syonan- explores the first ten pivotal years Glass Rotunda, Level 2 To, and finally, Singapore. This gallery of independence (1965–1975) that Ongoing chronicles Singapore’s journey from shaped Singapore’s history, and the our earliest beginnings 700 years ago Daily | 10 am to 7 pm important roles and leadership of to the colonial days, to the Japanese Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors with valid ID Occupation and post-war struggles, Kuan Yew and his team who laid the and to the global city we enjoy today. Free admission for Singapore Citizens and foundations for modern Singapore. Permanent Residents (unless otherwise For more information, please For more information, please stated) and visitors aged 6 years and below visit nationalmuseum.sg visit nationalmuseum.sg The Singapore History Gallery has been enhanced by two new immersive art GOH SENG CHOO GALLERY: installations that greet visitors before DESIRE AND DANGER they enter the main gallery. The first National Museum of Singapore work is a digital art installation inspired Ongoing by the William Farquhar Collection of Daily | 10 am to 7 pm Natural History Drawings, titled Story $15 for adults and $10 for students of the Forest. Visitors will experience and seniors with valid ID the treasured collection of the National Free admission for Singapore Citizens and Museum brought to life through a Permanent Residents (unless otherwise WORK @ TJ: THE INDUSTRIOUS spectacular digital presentation, and be stated) and visitors aged 6 years and below PIONEERS OF JURONG transported to 20th century Malaya as National Heritage Board Discover the fine line between viewed through the eyes of the artists Desire at this stimulating new Foyer, Level 1, Taman Jurong Community Club of that time and reimagined today by and Danger exhibition at the Goh Seng Choo Ongoing until July interdisciplinary art collective teamLab. Gallery. Featuring a selection of Monday to Friday | 3 pm to 9 pm At the end of their multimedia journey, drawings from the William Farquhar Saturday | 10 am to 9 pm visitors are able to see a photography Collection of Natural History Drawings, Sunday | 10 am to 6 pm installation titled Singapore, Very Old the gallery explores the complex Closed on Public Holidays Tree by Singaporean artist Robert Zhao and sometimes uneasy relationship Free admission that explores the discourse of nature between man and nature. Work @ TJ: The Industrious Pioneers in Singapore, before they continue to For more information, please of Jurong showcases the changing explore the Singapore History Gallery. visit nationalmuseum.sg landscape of Jurong through its For more information, please changing trades and occupations. It visit nationalmuseum.sg is the third in a series of community co-created thematic exhibitions incorporating the community memories of Taman Jurong residents. For more information, please visit facebook.com/OMATTJ or email [email protected]

- 69 - EVENTS LISTING

and other works using materials GUIDED TOUR OF WORK ranging from crystal to horn. @ TJ EXHIBITION For more information, please National Heritage Board visit spm.org.sg Foyer, Level 1, Taman Jurong Community Club Ongoing until June Monday to Friday | 3 pm to 9 pm A LITTLE MAGIC SUNDAY Saturday | 10 am to 9 pm Singapore Philatelic Museum Sunday | 10 am to 6 pm May to October Closed on Public Holidays Daily | 10 am to 7 pm Free admission $8 for adults; $6 for children (from 3 to 12 years) Join the free guided tours of Our Free admission for Singapore Citizens Museum @ Taman Jurong’s new and Permanent Residents exhibition and learn more about the development of Jurong and the evolving Enter the fantastical realm of fairy occupations of its residents. For large tales through beautiful stamps from groups, please email us for bookings. all over the world and engage your STITCHES OF LOVE – HIDDEN senses with interactive and hands- BLESSINGS IN CHILDREN’S For more information, please visit on exhibits. Relive the magic woven CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES facebook.com/OMATTJ or email by Hans Christian Andersen, the (慈母手中线 – 儿童 [email protected] Brothers Grimm, Charles Perrault 服饰里的祝福 ) and more. For children aged 4 years Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and above and all who believe in May 27 to March 4, 2018 magic. Held in conjunction with Tuesday to Saturday | 10 am to 5 pm Children’s Season Singapore. Free admission for Singaporeans For more information, please and Permanent Residents visit spm.org.sg A collaboration between Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and the Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen’s Mansion in Guangzhou, this special exhibition highlights the SINGAPORE NIGHT FESTIVAL 2017 secret motifs embedded in children’s National Heritage Board clothing and accessories from the Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct late Qing to early Republican period. August 18 to August 26 The collection on display includes 7.30 pm to 12 midnight clothes, hats, ear muffs, bibs and Performance nights are on August 24, 25 and 26 shoes that feature a variety of motifs derived from the natural world, Take a walk down memory lane PRECIOUS EGGS: OF ART, history, literature and folklore. with the Singapore Night Festival BEAUTY AND CULTURE as it celebrates ten magical years Singapore Philatelic Museum Some of these motifs seek to bestow this August! This year’s edition will Ongoing to October 8 blessings of good fortune, longevity rekindle the romance and beauty Daily | 10 am to 7 pm and health on the young wearer, while of night lights and exhilarating others confer protection from harm. By $8 for adults; $6 for children (from 3 to 12 years) performances, bringing back previous wearing clothing and accessories which Free admission for Singapore Citizens crowd favourites in a refreshing are imbued with auspicious blessings, and Permanent Residents retrospective, while looking forward to children thus carry these unspoken its bright future as Singapore’s largest The exhibition showcases a collection messages of love, hope and affection. of 148 precious eggs from the outdoor performing arts festival. For more information, please Liechtenstein National Museum. The visit sysnmh.org.sg egg’s unique form and life-giving symbol have inspired artists and craftsmen, resulting in historical pieces like the Russian Imperial porcelain eggs, Fabergé egg pendants

- 70 - EVENTS LISTING

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

PRESERVE/CONSERVE/RESTORE: STUDIES AT 157 NEIL ROAD NUS Free admission The initiative seeks to tap the under explored potential of 157 Neil Road as an asset for engaging with the disciplines NUS BABA HOUSE of urban development and technical NUS Baba House conservation of built heritage. The gallery is repurposed as a laboratory in Free admission which a few studies run simultaneously, Now conceived as a heritage house presenting field notes, test results, facilitating research, appreciation and illustrations, images and artefacts. reflection of Straits Chinese history and culture, the NUS Baba House at Free-of-charge tours five times 157 Neil Road was built around 1895 a week. Email babahouse@nus. and was once the ancestral home of a edu.sg to reserve spaces. Peranakan Chinese family. During the one-hour tour, guests will be introduced to the history and architectural features of the House, and experience visiting a Straits Chinese family home in a 1920s setting, furnished with heirlooms from its previous owners and other donors. Free-of-charge tours five times a week. Email babahouse@nus. edu.sg to reserve spaces.

- 71 - MUSEUM ROUNDTABLE

A CHINESE HERITAGE H THE ARMY MUSEUM OF CENTRE2 HDB GALLERY1 SINGAPORE2 Nanyang Technological HDB Hub, Basement 1, 520 Upper Jurong Road, University, 12 Nanyang 480 Toa Payoh Lorong 6, Singapore 638367 Drive, Singapore 637721 Singapore 310480 +65 6861 3651 +65 6790 6176 hdb.gov.sg/hdbgallery http://www.mindef.gov.sg/ chc.ntu.edu.sg HEALTHZONE imindef/mindef_websites/ CIVIL DEFENCE HERITAGE Level 2, Health Promotion atozlistings/army/ GALLERY1 microsites/armymuseum/ Board, 3 Second Hospital index.html 62 Hill Street, Singapore Avenue, Singapore 168937 179367 1800 435 3616 ART RETREAT MUSEUM*1 +65 6332 2996 hpb.gov.sg/healthzone/ 10 Ubi Crescent, Lobby C, www.scdf.gov.sg #01-45/47, Ubi Techpark, HOME TEAM GALLERY*1 Singapore 408564 THE CHANGI MUSEUM1 501 Old +65 6749 0880 1000 Upper Changi Road Road, Singapore 698928 artretreatmuseum.com North, Singapore 507707 +65 6465 3726 +65 6214 2451 ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM I changimuseum.com.sg The Museum Roundtable (MR) is an 10 Bayfront Avenue, IEXPERIENCE CENTRE Singapore 018956 B1-10/18 Esplanade E initiative led by National Heritage +65 6688 8826 Xchange, 90 Bras Basah EURASIAN HERITAGE Road, Singapore 189562 Board since 1996. It represents and marinabaysands.com/ CENTRE museum.html +65 6820 6880 139 Ceylon Road, iexperience.sg comprises a collective of public and ASIAN CIVILIZATIONS Singapore 429744 private museums, heritage galleries, MUSEUM2 +65 6447 1578 INDIAN HERITAGE 1 Empress Place, www.eurasians.org.sg/ CENTRE2 and unique attractions of science Singapore 179555 eurasians-in-singapore/ 5 Campbell Lane, +65 6332 7798 eurasianheritage-centre Singapore 209924 and discovery in Singapore. With +65 6291 1601 acm.org.sg F Indianheritage.org.sg more than fifty members currently, B BABA HOUSE*1 Island, Siloso THE INTAN *1 the MR strives to develop a stronger Point, Singapore 099981 157 Neil Road, Singapore 69 Joo Chiat Terrace, museum-going culture in Singapore 088883 1800 736 8672 Singapore 427231 +65 6227 5731 sentosa.com.sg +65 6440 1148 while positioning museums as the-intan.com nus.edu.sg/museum/baba FU TAK CHI MUSEUM 2, 3 unique and fascinating destinations. BATTLEBOX3 76 , IRAS GALLERY1 Singapore 048464 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore Revenue House, 55 179622 +65 6580 2888 Newton Road, Level 1, Please visit museums.com.sg for Singapore 307987 +65 6338 6133 +65 6351 2076 more information. http://www.battlebox. G com.sg/ GAN HERITAGE CENTRE* www.iras.gov.sg/ 18 Bukit Pasoh Road, irashome/About-Us/ THE BUILDING & Singapore 089832 Our-Organisation/ CONSTRUCTION +65 6223 0739 IRAS-Gallery AUTHORITY GALLERY*3 ganclan.sg Building Construction & L Authority GRASSROOTS HERITAGE LAND TRANSPORT 200 Braddell Road, CENTRE1 GALLERY1 Singapore 579700 National Community 1 Hampshire Road, Block 1 +65 6248 9930 Leaders Institute, 70 Level 1, Singapore 219428 bcaa.edu.sg/learning- Road, +65 6396 2550 journey-sites/ Singapore 118176 lta.gov.sg/ltgallery/index. bca-gallery +65 6672 5200 html nacli.pa.gov.sg/ LEE KONG CHIAN C grassroots-heritage- CHINATOWN HERITAGE NATURAL HISTORY * centre.html By Appointment Only CENTRE3 MUSEUM 1 Free 48 Pagoda Street, 2 Conservatory Drive, 2 Free for Singapore Singapore 059207 Singapore 117377 Citizens and Permanent +65 6224 3928 +65 6601 3333 Residents chinatownheritagecentre. lkcnhm.nus.edu.sg 3 Opening soon com.sg

- 72 - MUSEUM ROUNDTABLE

M NEWATER VISITOR REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE SINGAPORE MARITIME MALAY HERITAGE CENTRE1 NAVY MUSEUM1 GALLERY1 CENTRE2 20 Koh Sek Lim Road, 112 Tanah Merah Coast Pier, Level 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore Singapore 486593 Road, Singapore 498794 2, 31 Marina Coastal Drive, 198501 +65 6546 7874 +65 6544 5147 Singapore 018988 +65 6391 0450 www.pub.gov.sg/water/ www.mindef.gov.sg/navy +65 6325 5707 newater/visitors maritimegallery.sg malayheritage.org.sg REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE MARINA BARRAGE1 NGEE ANN CULTURAL AIR FORCE MUSEUM1 SINGAPORE PHILATELIC CENTRE1 MUSEUM2 8 Marina Gardens Drive, 400 Airport Road, Singapore 018951 97 Tank Road, Teochew Singapore 534234 23-B Coleman Street, Building, Singapore 238066 Singapore 179807 +65 6514 5959 +65 6461 8504 +65 6737 9555 +65 6337 3888 www.pub.gov.sg/marina www.mindef.gov.sg/rsaf ngeeann.com.sg/en/ spm.org.sg MEMORIES AT OLD FORD ngee-ann-cultural-centre SCIENCE CENTRE FACTORY2 SINGAPORE2 SINGAPORE SPORTS NUS MUSEUM1 MUSEUM2 351 Upper Bukit Timah 15 Science Centre Road, Road, Singapore 588192 University Cultural Centre, Singapore 609081 6 Stadium Walk, Singapore 50 Crescent, +65 6425 2500 397698 +65 6332 3255 Singapore 119279 science.edu.sg +65 6653 9710 nas.gov.sg/moff +65 6516 8817 S sportshub.com.sg/venues/ MINISTRY OF EDUCATION nus.edu.sg/museum Pages/singapore-sports- HERITAGE CENTRE THE SGH MUSEUM1 museum.aspx 402 Commonwealth Drive, P Singapore General PERANAKAN MUSEUM2 SUN YAT SEN NANYANG Singapore 149599 Hospital, Bowyer Block MEMORIAL HALL2 +65 6838 1614 39 Armenian Street, Clock Tower, Outram Road, Singapore 179941 Singapore 169608 12 Tai Gin Road, Singapore moeheritagecentre.sg 327874 +65 6332 7591 +65 6326 5294 +65 6256 7377 MINT MUSEUM OF TOYS peranakanmuseum.org.sg www.sgh.com.sg/museum wanqingyuan.org.sg 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382 POLICE HERITAGE SINGAPORE ART CENTRE*1 MUSEUM2 +65 6339 0660 T 28 Irrawaddy Road, 71 Bras Basah Road, TAN TOCK SENG emint.com Singapore 329560 Singapore 189555 HOSPITAL HERITAGE +65 6478 2123 +65 6589 9580 MUSEUM1 N NATIONAL HEALTHCARE police.gov.sg/spfheritage singaporeartmuseum.sg 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, GROUP POLYCLINICS’ Level 1, Singapore 308433 GALLERY OF MEMORIES1 SINGAPORE CITY +65 6357 8266 R GALLERY1 Level 3 of RED DOT DESIGN ttsh.com.sg/ 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Polyclinic, 50 Bukit Batok MUSEUM1 TTSH-Heritage-Museum West Avenue 3, Singapore Centre, Singapore 069118 Ground Floor, Red Dot 659164 +65 6321 8321 MUSEUM Traffic Building, 28 +65 6355 3000 Maxwell Road, Singapore www.ura.gov.sg/uol/ 460 Sims Avenue, Singapore 387601 nhgp.com.sg 069120 citygallery +65 6744 3551 +65 6327 8027 SINGAPORE COINS AND NATIONAL LIBRARY www.tanswiehian.sg GALLERY1 museum.red-dot.sg NOTES MUSEUM 20 100 Victoria Street, REFLECTIONS AT BUKIT W Crescent, Singapore Singapore 188064 CHANDU2 WOODBRIDGE MUSEUM1 608928 +65 6332 3255 31-K Pepys Road, 10 Green, +65 6895 0288 nlb.gov.sg/golibrary/ Singapore 118458 Buangkok Green Medical scnm.com.sg exhibitions.aspx +65 6375 2510 Park, Singapore 539747 +65 6389 2000 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF www.nhb.gov. SINGAPORE DISCOVERY SINGAPORE2 sg/museums/ CENTRE www.imh.com.sg reflections-at-bukit-chandu 93 Stamford Road, 510 Upper Jurong Road, Singapore 178897 Singapore 638365 +65 6332 3659 +65 6792 6188 nationalmuseum.sg sdc.com.sg

- 73 - MUSE SG is supported by the Cultural Matching Fund

All rights reserved. Views of writers and contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior permission in writing from the Publisher and copyright owner. Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication, the Publisher accepts no liability for damages by misinterpretation of information, expressed or implied, within the pages of the magazine.

If you have any feedback, please email muse@nhb. gov.sg or go to roots.sg

©JUNE 2017 NATIONAL HERITAGE BOARD

ISSN: 2424-7766