1. What is the history behind the iconic Jalan Besar Stadium?
The Jalan Besar Stadium was built in 1932 and is one of the oldest sports stadiums in Singapore. It was originally known as the People’s Association Stadium and served as a community gathering place for sports, recreational, and cultural events.In the mid-20th century, the stadium became closely associated with football in Singapore. It hosted international matches and was the main home ground for various local clubs such as Singapore Armed Forces Football Club and Tampines Rovers Football Club.
In addition to football, Jalan Besar Stadium also hosted other sporting events such as athletics, rugby, and hockey. It also served as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events.
Over the years, the stadium underwent several renovations and upgrades to improve facilities and accommodate larger crowds. In 1981, a new grandstand was built which could hold up to 8,000 spectators. In 2001, an artificial turf pitch was installed to meet FIFA standards.
Today, Jalan Besar Stadium continues to be a popular venue for major sporting events and remains an important part of Singapore’s sporting history.
2. What are some significant events that have taken place at Jalan Besar Stadium?
– In 1954, Jalan Besar Stadium hosted the first Malaya Cup final between Singapore and Malaya (now Malaysia). This annual soccer tournament became one of South East Asia’s most prestigious football competitions.
– The 1973 Southeast Asian Peninsular Games (SEAP Games) were held at Jalan Besar Stadium. This marked the first time in history that Singapore hosted a major international sporting event.
– In 1989, Chinese national team played against English club Arsenal FC at Jalan Besar Stadium in front of a massive crowd of over 42,000 spectators.
– From 1996 to 2006, Jalan Besar Stadium was home ground for Tampines Rovers FC, whose fan base grew in tandem with the club’s success.
– In 2006, the stadium underwent a major facelift and was named one of the FIFA World Cup training venues for teams participating in the 2007 AFC Asian Cup.
– In 2012, Jalan Besar Stadium hosted several football matches during the inaugural Youth Olympic Games.
– The national team’s historic AFF Suzuki Cup final win against Thailand in 2013 took place at Jalan Besar Stadium. It was also the venue for several international matches during the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers in 2014.
– In recent years, Jalan Besar Stadium has hosted major regional events such as the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Championship and the SEA Games.
2. Can you recommend some must-visit historical landmarks in Jalan Besar area?
1. Jalan Besar Stadium – This iconic stadium is the oldest sports facility in Singapore and has been a part of the local sports scene since 1932.
2. Masjid Sultan – Built in 1826, this mosque is one of the oldest in Singapore and features stunning Islamic architecture.
3. Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall – This museum was once the headquarters of Dr. Sun Yat Sen, a Chinese revolutionary leader who played a significant role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty. The museum now showcases his life and legacy.
4. Church of Our Lady of Lourdes – This beautiful church was built in 1888 and is known for its Gothic Revival style architecture.
5. Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman Temple – Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, this temple has been an important place of worship for Singapore’s Tamil community since 1889.
6. Kampong Glam Heritage Trail – Take a walking tour through Kampong Glam, a historic Malay-Arab district, to learn about its cultural and historical significance.
7. Hong San See Temple – Located at Waterloo Street, this Taoist temple has been around since 1908 and features intricate architecture and colorful decorations.
8. Tan Teng Niah Residence – This colorful house is a rare surviving example of a late 19th-century Chinese buildings in Little India area.
9. Bukit Brown Cemetery – Once the largest Chinese cemetery outside China, Bukit Brown Cemetery offers a unique glimpse into traditional Chinese funerary practices and houses some ornate tombs dating back to the early 1800s.
10 NUS Baba House – A beautifully restored Peranakan heritage home that provides insights into the culture and history of Peranakan community in Singapore.
3. Is there any significant event or festival held at Kampong Glam Sultan Mosque?
Yes, one of the significant events held at Kampong Glam Sultan Mosque is the annual ‘Kampong Glam Ramadan Bazaar’ during the month of Ramadan. This bazaar features a variety of traditional and modern Malay-Muslim delicacies, handicrafts, and other goods. The mosque also holds special events and sermons during major Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The annual ‘Start Small Dream Big’ charity walk is also organized by the mosque to raise funds for various community projects.
4. Could you tell me about the heritage and architecture of Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple?
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Little India district of Singapore. It was built in 1881 by a group of Indian immigrants who wanted to have a place of worship in their new home.
The architecture of the temple is heavily influenced by South Indian Dravidian style, characterized by intricate carvings and sculptures. The main structure of the temple is made primarily out of granite and features colorful ornamental towers, known as gopurams, adorned with many deities and mythical figures. These towers are each decorated with layers of various Hindu gods and goddesses, depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
The entrance of the temple is guarded by two large statues of Nandi, the sacred bull mount of Lord Shiva. The main prayer hall known as the sanctum sanctorum houses three main deities – Sri Durgai Parameshwari (Goddess Durga), Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman (Goddess Kali) and Sri Bala Vinayagar (Lord Ganesha).
Inside the temple compound, there are also smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Murugan, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Krishna. The intricate carvings and statues throughout the temple provide visitors with a visual feast while also serving as objects for devotion.
The temple has undergone many renovations over the years but still maintains its historical charm. It continues to attract thousands of devotees and tourists every year, making it an important cultural landmark in Singapore’s diverse society.
In 2014, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple was designated as a National Monument by the National Heritage Board due to its historical and architectural significance in Singapore’s multicultural identity.
5. Are there any walking tours available to explore the cultural diversity of Little India in Jalan Besar?
Yes, there are several walking tours available to explore the cultural diversity of Little India in Jalan Besar. One popular option is the “Little India Heritage Walking Tour” offered by Monster Day Tours, which takes participants on a 2-hour journey through Little India’s bustling streets and colorful shops, markets, and temples. Other options include self-guided walking tours or guided group tours organized by local community groups or cultural societies. Visitors can also explore the area on their own and create their own walking route based on sights and experiences that interest them.
6. What is the background story of Tan Teng Niah, one of the last surviving Chinese villas in Singapore?
Tan Teng Niah Villa is one of the few remaining Chinese villas in Singapore and it holds a rich history dating back to the late 19th century.
The villa was built by Tan Teng Niah, a wealthy Chinese businessman who migrated to Singapore from the Fujian province in China. He made his fortune in the sugar trade and was known to be a generous philanthropist.
In 1900, Tan Teng Niah commissioned the construction of a villa for his two wives and extended family. The unique architecture of the villa combines traditional Chinese elements with European influences, showcasing his wealth and status.
Located in Little India, the villa was strategically situated near his sugarcane plantations. It also served as a social hub for the Chinese community, where they would gather for festivals and celebrations.
However, Tan Teng Niah’s fortune took a turn for the worse when his plantation was hit by several natural disasters and economic downturns. As a result, he lost most of his wealth and had to sell off properties, including the villa.
Over time, the once-grand villa fell into disrepair and became home to squatters. In 1983, it received conservation status from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) as it was recognized as an important heritage building. The URA later restored and repainted the villa in its distinctive colors in 2000.
Today, Tan Teng Niah Villa serves as a popular tourist attraction and is surrounded by bustling shops and restaurants. It stands as a reminder of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage and is a symbol of resilience amidst changing times.
7. How did Jalan Besar get its name and what does it mean?
Jalan Besar is a major road located in the central part of Singapore. The name “Jalan Besar” is derived from Malay, with “jalan” meaning road and “besar” meaning large or big. Therefore, the name can be translated to mean “big road”. The road was given this name due to its wide and expansive size compared to other roads in the area.
Some sources also suggest that the road may have gotten its name from its location near the Sungei Rochor (Rochor River) and Sungei Kallang (Kallang River), which used to be wider before land reclamation projects took place. These rivers were also known as besar in Malay, so Jalan Besar could have been named after them as well.
The area where Jalan Besar is located also used to be a prominent commercial and trading hub for Chinese immigrants, who called it Yi Tai Po, meaning “seventh-mile market” in Hokkien. As such, Jalan Besar is sometimes referred to as “Yi Tai Po” by locals of Chinese descent.
8. Is Thieves’ Market still a popular spot for flea market shopping and how did it get its name?
It is difficult to accurately measure the popularity of Thieves’ Market as it can vary depending on the time and day. However, it is still a popular spot for flea market shopping.
The market got its name from its notorious reputation in the late 19th and early 20th century for being a place where stolen goods were sold. It was also known for being a gathering spot for criminals. However, over time, this reputation has diminished and the market now primarily sells second-hand items and antiques.
Some theories suggest that the name may have originated from pickpockets who would steal items from unsuspecting shoppers at the market, while others believe it may have been named after thieves who would steal goods and then sell them at the market. Another theory suggests that during World War II, soldiers stationed in Athens would bring back souvenirs or items they “borrowed” from local homes, giving rise to the name “Thieves’ Market.”
9. Can you suggest a good place to learn about traditional Chinese medicine in Jalan Besar?
One good place to learn about traditional Chinese medicine in Jalan Besar is the TCM Cultural Academy, located at 195 Lavender Street. The academy offers a wide range of courses and workshops on traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Tui Na massage. They also have experienced instructors and a well-equipped learning environment that can provide students with a comprehensive understanding of traditional Chinese medicine. Other options include the Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Raffles Community Odyssey’s TCM program, both of which are located nearby in Bendemeer and Little India respectively.
10. Did you know that Rochor Centre is scheduled for demolition to make way for new developments?
Yes, I am aware of this. The government announced plans in 2011 to demolish Rochor Centre as part of the development of the new North-South Expressway. The building, which has been a distinctive landmark in Singapore since its completion in 1977, will be torn down to make way for new developments in the area. While it is sad to see such an iconic building go, I understand that urban development is necessary for the progress of a city.
11. What can I expect to see at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, a museum dedicated to Dr Sun Yat Sen’s revolutionary activities in Southeast Asia?
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall is a museum that gives a glimpse into the life and activities of Dr Sun Yat Sen, one of the greatest Chinese revolutionaries. Visitors can expect to see various artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that showcase Dr Sun’s revolutionary ideas and achievements in Southeast Asia. Here are some highlights of what you can expect to see at the museum:
1. Dr Sun’s Life: The museum showcases Dr Sun’s early years, education, and family life through artifacts like his personal diaries, letters, and photographs.
2. Revolutionary Activities in Southeast Asia: Visitors can learn about Dr Sun’s contributions to overthrowing the Qing Dynasty and establishing a republic in China through interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and historical artifacts.
3. Memorabilia: The museum houses original items used by Dr Sun including his handwritten calligraphy, personal seals, pen sets, and medicine box.
4. Wax Figures: The lifelike wax figures of important figures in Dr Sun’s life give visitors the feeling of being transported back to that era.
5. Audio-Visual Theater: The theater shows video recordings of historic speeches from Dr Sun himself as well as other key leaders during the Chinese Revolution.
6. Garden Pavilion: Surrounded by lush greenery, this pavilion is a replica of the one built in 1918 where Dr Sun held important meetings with overseas Chinese leaders.
7. Cultural Events: Throughout the year, the museum hosts cultural events such as festivals and workshops related to Chinese culture and heritage.
8. Gift Shop: Visitors can purchase souvenirs like books, postcards, and other memorabilia related to Dr Sun Yat Sen at the gift shop located within the museum.
Visiting Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about an important chapter in Chinese history through immersive exhibits and displays. It also serves as a reminder of how Southeast Asia played a crucial role in Dr Sun’s revolutionary efforts.
12. Have any famous local artists or musicians performed at Aliwal Arts Centre?
Yes, there have been famous local artists and musicians who have performed at Aliwal Arts Centre. These include Tanya Chua, Charlie Lim, Inch Chua, The Sam Willows, and more. The centre also hosts regular live music events featuring emerging local musicians.
13. Is there a reason why there are so many coffee shops along Lavender Street?
There could be several reasons for this. One possible reason is that Lavender Street is a popular and busy road with a high volume of foot traffic, making it an attractive location for businesses. Additionally, the area may have a high concentration of young professionals or students, who are often frequent consumers of coffee. Finally, there may be lower rental prices or incentives for businesses to set up shop along Lavender Street compared to other locations in the city.
14. Do any of the old shophouses along Tyrwhitt Road have interesting histories or stories associated with them?
Yes, some of the shophouses along Tyrwhitt Road have interesting histories and stories associated with them. For example:
1. The shophouse at 118 Tyrwhitt Road was built in the 1920s and was previously occupied by a Peranakan family. It features intricate Peranakan tiles on its exterior walls, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the area.
2. 107 Tyrwhitt Road was once home to a popular Chinese opera troupe called the He Nan Opera Troupe. It is believed that they would hold performances in the open courtyard area behind the shophouse.
3. 112 Tyrwhitt Road used to be a provision shop run by a man known as “Ah Heng”. He was famous for his homemade pineapple tarts and attracted many customers from all over Singapore.
4. The corner shophouse at 110/110A Tyrwhitt Road has been in the Lim family for over four generations and is now owned by Mr Lim Siew Moi, who operates a traditional medicine shop on the ground floor.
5. In its early days, 306/308 Tyrwhitt Road was home to Seah Brothers Hardware Store, one of Singapore’s oldest hardware stores established in 1922.
6. The shophouse at 323/325 Tyrwhitt Road is known as “Number One Coffeehouse” due to its long history as a popular kopitiam (coffee shop) in the neighbourhood.
Overall, these shophouses serve as reminders of Singapore’s past and showcase the diverse cultures that have shaped this vibrant cityscape.
15. Does anyone still perform traditional puppet shows at The Legend of Rythem Puppet Theatre?
The Legend of Rythem Puppet Theatre is an animated movie and does not have live performances. Therefore, traditional puppet shows are not performed at this venue.
16. Why are there so many Indian restaurants along Race Course Road?
There are a few reasons for the high concentration of Indian restaurants along Race Course Road.
1. Historical Influence: Race Course Road is situated within Little India, a neighborhood that has been populated by Indian immigrants since the late 19th century. These early immigrants brought their culture and cuisine with them, making it a hub for authentic Indian restaurants.
2. High Demand: With the large Indian population in Singapore, there is a high demand for Indian food, leading to the establishment of many Indian restaurants in the area.
3. Tourist Attraction: Race Course Road and Little India are popular tourist destinations in Singapore, known for their vibrant culture and delicious food options. As a result, many Indian restaurants have set up shop to cater to both locals and tourists.
4. Affordable Rents: The rent prices along Race Course Road are relatively lower compared to other parts of Singapore, making it an attractive location for small businesses like restaurants.
5. Competition: As there are already many established Indian restaurants on Race Course Road, new restaurant owners may choose to set up shop in the same area to benefit from the existing customer base and competition.
Overall, the cultural influence, high demand, tourist attraction, affordable rents and competition all contribute to the large number of Indian restaurants along Race Course Road.
17. How has Tekka Centre evolved from being a wet market to a bustling food center today?
Tekka Centre, located in Singapore’s Little India district, has undergone many changes and transformations since it first opened as a wet market in the 1910s. Over time, it has evolved into a bustling food center that is popular among locals and tourists alike.
One of the main factors that contributed to the transformation of Tekka Centre was Singapore’s rapid modernization and urbanization in the 1970s. This led to a decline in demand for wet markets and many were converted into hawker centers to cater to the growing population.
In 1982, Tekka Centre underwent renovations and was revamped into a modern food center with new facilities such as proper seating areas, clean washrooms, and modern cooking equipment. This made it more attractive to both customers and hawkers.
Another key factor was the rise of tourism in Singapore. As more tourists began to visit Little India, there was a growing demand for authentic local food experiences. The variety of cuisines offered at Tekka Centre – from traditional Indian dishes like dosai and biryani to Chinese-style roasted meats – made it a popular spot for tourists looking to try out different types of food.
The government’s efforts to promote hawker culture also played a role in Tekka Centre’s evolution. In recent years, there have been initiatives to preserve and promote traditional hawker centers as part of Singapore’s cultural heritage. This has led to increased efforts to upgrade facilities, improve hygiene standards, and attract new generations of hawkers.
Today, Tekka Centre continues to thrive as a bustling food center with over 300 stalls offering a diverse range of affordable and delicious dishes inspired by various cultures. It remains an iconic destination in Little India for locals and tourists alike, showcasing Singapore’s rich multi-cultural cuisine.
18. Are there any prominent historical figures buried at Bukit Brown Cemetery and what is its significance to Singapore’s history?
Yes, there are several prominent historical figures buried at Bukit Brown Cemetery, including:
1. Ong Sam Leong (1851-1918): An influential Chinese businessman and philanthropist who played a key role in developing Singapore’s economy and society.
2. Lim Chong Pang (1869-1935): A successful rubber plantation owner and founder of the Tan Tock Seng Hospital.
3. Swee Say Kiat (1883-1967): A prominent Peranakan community leader and businessman who made significant contributions to local charities and education institutions.
4. Khoo Seok Wan (1869-1927): One of Singapore’s earliest multi-millionaire businessmen, known for his contributions to the development of the local Chinese community.
Bukit Brown Cemetery is significant to Singapore’s history as it serves as a final resting place for many early immigrants who played important roles in shaping the country’s economic, social, and cultural landscape. It is also a reflection of Singapore’s multicultural society, with graves of different ethnicities and religious beliefs coexisting peacefully within its grounds. The cemetery also contains tangible evidence of Singapore’s past through its well-preserved tombs and stories of the people buried there, making it an important heritage site for future generations to learn about their roots.
19.Is there an annual event or celebration organized at The Eurasian Heritage Centre?
Yes, The Eurasian Heritage Centre organizes an annual Eurasian Festival to celebrate and showcase the unique culture and heritage of Eurasians in Singapore. It is usually held in June or July and features food stalls, cultural performances, traditional games, workshops, and exhibitions.
20. Do you have any tips for visiting the vintage furniture stores and retro-themed cafes in Jalan Besar?
1. Plan your route: Jalan Besar is home to numerous vintage furniture stores and retro-themed cafes, so it can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. Before visiting, research the different stores and cafes you want to visit and plan out your route accordingly.
2. Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking around, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. The area is quite colorful and has many interesting sights, so you may end up walking more than you planned.
3. Bring cash: Most of the vintage furniture stores in Jalan Besar are small businesses that may not accept credit cards. Make sure to have enough cash on hand for your purchases.
4. Bargain wisely: It’s common to bargain in vintage furniture stores, but make sure to do it respectfully and within reason. Keep in mind that these items are often one-of-a-kind and may have sentimental value to the store owners.
5. Take your time: Don’t rush through the stores – take your time to browse and appreciate the unique pieces they offer. You never know what hidden gems you may find!
6. Ask questions: If you’re interested in a particular item or have any questions about the history of a piece, don’t hesitate to ask the store owner or staff. They are usually very knowledgeable about their products and can add an interesting backstory to your purchase.
7. Try out the cafes: Jalan Besar is also known for its retro-themed cafes that serve delicious food and drinks with a nostalgic twist. Take a break from shopping and try out some local delicacies while soaking in the ambiance of these charming cafes.
8. Don’t forget cameras: Bring along a camera or use your phone’s camera app as there would be plenty of photo-worthy moments while exploring Jalan Besar’s quaint streets adorned with colorful buildings, vibrant murals, old-fashioned shops and authentic shophouses.
9. Look for discounts and promotions: Keep an eye out for any sales or promotions offered by the stores and cafes. You may be able to snag a good deal on your purchases or enjoy some discounts on food and drinks.
10. Support local businesses: Many of these vintage furniture stores and retro-themed cafes are family-owned, with a rich history and heritage. By supporting them, you are not only getting unique items and experiences but also contributing to the preservation of Singapore’s cultural landscape.