Kampong Gelam is a cultural gem here in Singapore. Home to Arabian-influenced sights and attractions, it’s also where you can find the widest variety of halal food in the country.
But if you’re planning on driving there for dinner plans, do note that starting Friday (22 Jul), some roads in the area will be closed to vehicles at selective timings in order for activities to be organised on these streets.
The affected roads include Bussorah Street, Baghdad Street, Haji Lane, and Bali Lane.
Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, Dr Muhammamad Faishal Ibrahim announced the new measures via a Facebook post on Friday (22 Jul).
Source: Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim on Facebook
According to the post, agencies will be resuming regular road closures at the following locations from Friday (22 Jul):
Dr Faishal also took the opportunity to announce that Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) will also be reviewing plans to resume regular road closures in the city centre too.
This comes after a 2.5-year suspension of such road closures during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Apart from Kampong Gelam, other areas with regular road closures include Circular Road and Liang Seah Street.
Explaining the move, Dr Faishal said such road closures allowed “businesses, cultural, and community activities” to be held on these streets.
Additionally, it also gives visitors more freedom to explore on their feet and adds “vibrancy and charm” to the Kampong Gelam district.
To jog your memory for a bit, here are some activities and events that were synonymous with Kampong Gelam:
Before the pandemic, Haji Lane was a hub for nightlife entertainment.
A popular spot among locals and tourists alike, live gigs often took place at the Blu Jaz Cafe, drawing huge crowds whenever someone takes over the mic.
Source: Blu Jaz, Bali Lane on Facebook
The junction between Haji and Bali Lane is also home to many bars and pubs that use the paths in front of their shophouses to seat many of their customers.
Source: Thanathip Moolvong on Flickr
On the other side of Kampong Gelam, Bussorah and Baghdad Streets are also steeped in culture and that shows in the numerous events that take place there.
The yearly Ramadan Bazaar also takes place in these locations, serving food to visitors who come from all corners of Singapore.
Source: Choo Yut Shing on Facebook
Though road closures are likely to cause inconveniences for motorists, they will no doubt go a long way in enhancing the appeal and charm of Kampong Gelam.
Most importantly, as highlighted by Dr Faishal, it’ll also allow for events to be held along the streets, adding to the lively atmosphere of the area.
If you happen to be heading to Kampong Gelam over the weekend, be sure to take note of the road closure timings.
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image adapted from Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim on Facebook.
The repair and cleaning costs set the owner back S$10,000, excluding the costs of new…
There were rumours that the woman was a family member of a male teacher at…
He will be succeeded by Vice President Mohammad Mokhber until elections.
The ring was suspected to be fake due to its low gold density.
Beyond politics, he also serves as an elder at a Presbyterian church.
The review of the arrest warrant application can take several weeks to months.