For subscribers

More sizzle and soul for Chinatown, please

The place has morphed into a commercial and tourism-driven district. We need to revive its lived-in spirit.

ST20250520-202524400190-Lim Yaohui-pixgeneric/

People's Park Complex in Chinatown being repainted in red and white on May 20, 2025.

People’s Park Complex is a 31-storey 99 years leasehold mixed residential and commercial building. The commercial part was built in 1970 whereas the residential block was built in 1973. It is situated in the heart of Chinatown at 1 Park Road Singapore 059108 in district 01. The commercial space is primarily used for office, F&B and retails shops sale and rental.

(ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI)

Without a strong resident base to sustain organic community life, Chinatown risks being largely a tourist commercial zone, says the writer.

ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI

Chin Soo Fang

Follow topic:

SINGAPORE - The time is now.

The

Chinatown Heritage Centre

in Pagoda Street has just reopened in January following a revamp. Besides trying to bring back the sights and sounds of Chinatown’s yesteryears, it aims to be a community space, working with other groups in the precinct to support local events.

Meanwhile,

Smith Street is being rejuvenated

by the Chinatown Business Association with new tenants to bring back its vibrancy and drive greater footfall to the area.

More sizzle and soul for Chinatown, please

Follow topic:

See more on