An island with a story to inspire .
By Foong Pek Yee
THE cranking sound from the bumboat’s engine triggers a feeling of anticipation inside me.
It is June 11, 2022 and we are on our way to Pulau Ubin – the treasure trove of Singapore’s rich heritage.
The 1,020 – hectare island promises a glimpse of Singapore in a bygone era, bringing to focus how the city state has evolved over time into the most competitive economy in the world.
According to Singapore’s Economic Development Board, Singapore which marks 57 years of independence this year ranks first in Asia for quality living and, first in Asia for expatriates to live in.
A journey : It is just a 20-minute boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to Pulau Ubin.
Hot spot: The little commercial hub in Pulau Ubin is often the meeting point for visitors
In the mood for discovery : Pulau Ubin offers a different kind of experience for kids from urban areas.
Show time: The stage for opera shows during festive seasons like Tua Pek Kong Festival since time immemorial
Old is gold: The signboard showing the way to Fo Shan Ting Tua Pek Kong Temple which is perched on a hillock. The temple was built in 1869.
Taking in the sights: Bicycling is popular on the island.
That’s the way: The road leading to Butterfly Hill.
Relaxing: And watching the world go by.
On the spot : Information on tropical plants. This is assam or tamarind fruit which is widely used in Asian cuisine.
Of significance: Little red shrines are common in predominantly Chinese areas.
Big crowd: Good business during weekends .
In demand: Bicycle rental is good business on the island.
It was in 1824 when the then Second Resident of Singapore, John Crawfurd landed on Pulau Ubin and declared the island a British Territory.
In 1942, the Japanese Army occupied the island which was known for granite mining in its heyday.
Other economic activities on the island in the old days included rubber planting and prawn rearing.
With education always close at heart, the Chinese residents on the island raised money to build Bin Kiang School in 1952 and, dwindling enrolment saw the school closed in 1985.
The 1990 population census reported less than 200 residents on the island.
Today Pulau Ubin is a tourism destination and popular among natural and cultural heritage lovers in particular.
For elderly Singaporeans, it is a place to take a walk down memory lane.
An elderly man in our bumboat recalls his younger days at the Outward Bound School that was opened in 1967.
He reckons that it is good for young people to get to know more about the island.
The beautiful and well kept island is certainly more than meets the eye.
One for the album: A photo montage on activities on Pulau Ubin
Interesting and useful : Information and guide on Pulau Ubin for visitors
It is a showcase on the public and private sectors’ efforts to preserve the country’s rich heritage.
