Geylang Serai, Singapore

The Malays had been living in Singapore long before the Chinese or the Indians, and Geylang became their enclave in the 1840s after the British dispersed the Malay floating village at the mouth of the Singapore River. Together with the large influx of Malaysians and Indonesians, many wealthy Arabs then congregated in Geylang.

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In the early 1920s, Kampong Glam's Malay population moved out en-mass to Geylang Serai as a consequence of the keen competition for land in Kampong Glam. Malay influence is still strong in Geylang Serai as reflected in the restaurants and shops specialising in Malay cuisine and ethnic goods, arts and crafts.

In the heart of Geylang Serai is the Malay Village, a vibrant cultural showcase of the Malay community.Discover what it was like to live in a village community 'Kampung Days', which showcases the traditional lifestyle of Malays in the 1950s and 60s. You can also experience traditional Malay arts and crafts like batik painting, kite-making and kampong games such as top spinning.

The Cultural Museum features a fascinating collection of artefacts like weaving tools, musical instruments and an extensive display of a traditional Malay wedding complete with hand-sewn garments, accessories, and a Bridal Chamber. Other attractions within the Malay Village include the Muslim Showcase, Hall of Fame and Geylang Serai Corner, all offering insight into the lives of Malays in Singapore.

The daily cultural performances at 6.30pm and 8pm are not to be missed. Catch them daily at the Seafood Restaurant and Restoran Temenggung.

Open: Malay Village, 10am - 10pm (daily)

Location: 39 Geylang Serai, Geylang Serai Malay Village, Singapore 409227
Tel: (65) 6748 4700
Fax: (65) 6741 7794

Admission: Free entrance to the village (Extra charges apply for the two attractions, Kampung Days and Cultural Museum: SGD 5 adults and SGD 3 children)

Getting There: Take the MRT to Paya Lebar Station (EW8) and walk towards Geylang Road.

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