As Hari Raya Puasa celebrations begin, here are the best places to be at in Geylang Serai
By Pamela Chow
Known as the heart of Singapore’s Malay community, Geylang Serai is an exciting hub of activity, especially now that Hari Raya Puasa celebrations are underway. Its name was derived from the Malay words kilang (meaning “factory”) and serai (“lemongrass”), referring to the lemongrass plantations that used to flourish here in the 1800s.
Geylang Serai was also home to many other plantations such as coconut, rubber and tapioca, leading to its other name, Kampong Ubi (or “tapioca village”).
If you’re in the area for the occasion, or happen to pop by this culturally rich part of town, here are the top places to explore for a greater appreciation of the neighbourhood.
The new civic centre, Wisma Geylang Serai, is scheduled to be completed in 2018. (Photo: Wisma Geylang Serai / Facebook)
7. Coming soon: Wisma Geylang Serai
The old Malay Village at Geylang Serai will soon be replaced by a new civic centre, Wisma Geylang Serai. The five-storey and 10,000sqm centre will house a community club, a Malay Heritage Gallery, arts facilities, family service centres and more. It is slated for completion in 2018.
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