I would like to commend all those responsible for this latest Heritage project.
This is certainly a most worthwhile and meaningful project that should go a long way in
ensuring that the past history of this little nostlagic corner of NE Singapore is not lost and
forgotten amidst a sea of huge changes in our landscape!
However I feel that more can be done especially for the senior and older folks who grew up and lived in this area for as long as they could remember.
They have much history of the old days to share with the younger generation.
What life was like before the War, during the Japanese occupation and the post war years...in the NE enclave of Serangoon, Hougang and Kangkar.
A serious Suggestion from me:
In all the HDB estates and towns, there are many beautiful upgraded corners, pavillions,halls, residents' committee rooms, gardens, gathering points, relaxing areas etc... for the general purpose of allowing HDB residents to get together, neighbours to meet and socialise, children to play together, old folks to gossip and chat. All very commendable indeed.
They have been a success in all the HDB estates.
Question is:
What about those living in the landed estates, those in their so-called private homes?
As far as I know, nothing along the lines of the HDB approach has ever been seriously attempted. Residents in private estates are left to their own fate generally.
Yet, as I move around in many private estates...there are invariably many parcels of land that belong to the Government. Some have been there for ages and ages. No buildings. No parks.
Nothing! Just grass that needs to be cut by servicing contractors.
It is such a waste and a heartache to see this little exotic parcels and corners so un-utilised.
The Neighbourhood Committees of these estates should identify some of these exotic corners and make a proper approach to whoever is i/c ( obviously the MP should be involved ) and convert part of these small parcels of land into " covered relaxing pavillions" with seats, benches and concrete/wood tables so that.... my vision of the older folks, all hidden inside their private homes hardly venturing out, would change for the better.
How?
Now..if they have a lovely "Pavillion" surrounded by not lallang but sweet smelling flowers and plants, it would be so much easier for fellow neighbours in the estate to meet their fellow seniors for a chat, a gossip, a discussion, a game of chess, etc...
Even MPs can use such a strategic place to meet up with residents as a group...once in a while.
I hope someone will take up my suggestion...seriously!
To find out more interesting details and see some old and nostalgic photos of these
mentioned sites along the HERITAGE TRAIL go to the various blogposts in this website.
Start with ...Old Lim Tua Tow Market............
Then continue your journey in the other posts that feature Serangoon's Heritage.
Dick Yip
Posts
