HELLO! SINGAPORE TOURS GUIDE TO KAMPONG GLAM

The iconic Sultan Mosque, built-in 1824, is a landmark of the Kampong Glam district which attracts many who are keen to discover the culture and history of Malays, one of Singapore’s main ethnic groups. Also known as Masjid Sultan, the mosque’s name pays homage to Sultan Hussein Mohamed Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore and 18th ruler of Johor. In 1975, it was gazetted as a national monument.

The mosque’s mass prayer hall can host up to 5,000 visitors. While its two giant golden domes make for an impressive sight, their bases are adorned with glass bottle ends, which were donated by poor Muslims during its construction, so that all Muslims, not just the rich, could contribute.

Guided tours are given by multilingual docents in English, Malay, Japanese and Chinese, among other languages. Visitors can write in two months in advance to arrange for a more specific and detailed tour than a walk-in visit. Tours are subject to the availability of the presenter on the group’s chosen day and will range from 30 minutes to an hour.

Address: 3 Muscat Street
Tel: +65 6293 4405 / +65 6293 4043 Fax: +65 6293 2463
Website: www.sultanmosque.sg
Email: info@sultan.mosque.org.sg
Opening Hours: Mon–Thu, Sat & Sun 10am– noon, 2–4pm; Fri 2.30–4pm

HELLO! SINGAPORE TOURS GUIDE TO KAMPONG GLAM

Along this stretch are some of the most beautifully-restored shophouses. The street is also known for restaurants serving nasi padang (steamed rice served with various pre-cooked dishes) and the Rich and Good Cake Shop, an old-school bakery famous for its Swiss rolls that come in local flavors like kaya (a traditional jam made from coconut and eggs), durian (a spiky tropical fruit that is unique to Southeast Asia) and mango.

Kandajar street

HELLO! SINGAPORE TOURS GUIDE TO KAMPONG GLAM

A short ten-minute walk from Bugis MRT station will bring visitors to the vibrant streets of Haji Lane. The area is lined with multi-label stores, quirky boutiques as well as hip bars and cafes. Another draw to Haji Lane is the collection of street art murals in vibrant hues of blues, yellows, greens, and reds that adorn the facades of bars and stores along the street. These works were created by local and international names such as Didier Jaba Mathieu, Sheryo x The Yok and Oak.

Back alley of Haji Lane

Visitors will be able to admire these artworks as they explore Haji Lane and use them as a backdrop for Instagram- worthy photographs. Haji Lane is also home to an exciting bar scene. Visit Going Om to enjoy live music and a variety of drinks including vodka, gin, wine and beer as well as mains, bar grubs, and even desserts.

Address: Various locations within Kampong Glam

HELLO! SINGAPORE TOURS GUIDE TO KAMPONG GLAM

Flanked by Victoria Street and Beach Road, Arab Street is home to trendy hangouts and shops selling brightly coloured fabrics and textiles, basketry, hand-knotted Persian rugs, aromatic Arab teas, as well as other traditional wares such as Persian carpets, kebaya dresses (a traditional blouse-dress incorporating Malay and Chinese motifs) and handmade perfumes.

A night view of crowd outside the shophouses in Arab street

The area also has many halal eateries featuring Malay and Middle Eastern cuisines. Visitors can also stop by Bajupura to rent kebayas and walk around the area to take Instagrammable photos in front of art murals and colourful architecture.

KAMPONG GLAM GUIDE TO THE BEST SINGAPORE MUSEUMS

The Malay Heritage Centre is a must-visit for visitors who are keen to learn about the rich heritage and culture of Singapore’s Malay community. Formerly the royal residence of Malay sultans in Singapore, the museum houses exhibitions and a diverse collection of artefacts from the National Collection and the Malay community. In 2015, the museum was gazetted as a National Monument.

Visitors to the Malay Heritage Centre can learn about the rich heritage, culture and contributions of Singapore’s Malay community, as well as the community’s connections to the wider Nusantara (Malay Archipelago) through artefacts and exhibitions.

An exhibit with display of sampans (boats)

The centre occupies the grounds of the original Istana Kampong Gelam—‘Istana’ in Malay stands for ‘palace’—which was built by Sultan Hussein Mohamed Shah (the then Sultan of Johor) and was home to Malay royalty for more than 50 years. The centre organises a variety of programmes for children and adults throughout the year. Purchase 20 or more adult tickets to receive 20% off the admission fee.

Address: 85 Sultan Gate Tel: +65 6391 0450
Website: www.malayheritage.org.sg
Email: nhb_mhc@nhb.gov.sg
Cost: Free admission for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, 1st caregiver of Persons with Disabilities and visitors aged six and below; Adult S$6, Child & Senior Citizen S$4
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun 10am–6pm (Last admission: 5.30pm; Closed on Mon)
Nearest MRT: Bugis Station / Nicoll Highway Station