Skip to main content

Advertisement

Advertisement

Community touchpoints vital to S’pore history, too

As we embark on a year of introspection on the Singaporean identity as part of SG50 celebrations, perhaps we can do more to maintain community landmarks that are rich in history and culture.

Follow TODAY on WhatsApp
Edwin Teong Ying Keat

As we embark on a year of introspection on the Singaporean identity as part of SG50 celebrations, perhaps we can do more to maintain community landmarks that are rich in history and culture.

The slated-for-demolition Rochor Centre is one of the many community landmarks that we have had to relinquish for the development of our nation.

While it is commendable that the National Heritage Board often holds exhibitions, programmes and other initiatives, such efforts alone do not suffice in creating greater appreciation for our landmarks.

We harbour high hopes that the Singapore Botanic Gardens may be designated a UNESCO (United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture) World Heritage site, but we should also recognise that while some monuments may not be renowned nationally, they may have emotional or cultural significance for a community.

For instance, the dragon playground in Toa Payoh is one of the many gems treasured by children in the past. What we consider entertainment may have changed, but we should not neglect such landmarks. To preserve them is to be cognisant of the development of our society and, therefore, be able to have a heightened appreciation for what they represent, instead of letting their significance become eroded by time.

The Whampoa dragon fountain is another example. It was once a majestic congregation point, delighting children in the ’70s and ’80s. The plight of it today is truly a huge contrast, for not only is the fountain not functioning, its claws have also been weathered by the elements. It is quite a poignant sight to behold.

The predicament of the Whampoa dragon seems to reflect our pragmatic national mindset — in that even in commemorating heritage sites, their salience on a national level matters most.

It is imperative that we expand our conservation efforts beyond the already-popular tourist attractions, and focus on neglected treasures within specific communities, such as the aforementioned examples. I hope we can have a shift from our parochial mindset that the only landmarks worth preserving are the big, famous ones.

As our country celebrates 50 years of independence and changes, let us not forget about the need to document our past, regardless of whether it is a community touchpoint or a national monument. Both are essential parts of our history.

Read more of the latest in

Advertisement

Advertisement

Stay in the know. Anytime. Anywhere.

Subscribe to get daily news updates, insights and must reads delivered straight to your inbox.

By clicking subscribe, I agree for my personal data to be used to send me TODAY newsletters, promotional offers and for research and analysis.