In the tapestry of Singapore’s urban evolution, Kampong Ubi stands as a poignant chapter—a locale that has transitioned from humble agricultural roots to a bustling industrial and residential enclave. This transformation mirrors the broader narrative of Singapore’s relentless pursuit of modernization, often at the expense of its rustic past.
Origins Rooted in Agriculture
The name "Kampong Ubi" translates to "Tapioca Village" in Malay, a nod to its agrarian beginnings. During the Japanese Occupation, the area’s coconut and rubber plantations were replaced by tapioca, which gave nearby Kampong Ubi its name (‘ubi’ means tapioca in Malay).
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| Headquarters of Singapore Civil Defence Force, located in Ubi | Image source: Wikipedia |
The village's layout was characterized by roads named after vegetables—Jalan Kobis (cabbage), Jalan Bayam (spinach), Jalan Tauge (bean sprouts)—reflecting the community's close relationship with the land.
The March Towards Urbanization
The late 20th century marked a turning point. Singapore’s rapid urbanization led to the resettlement of Kampong Ubi's villagers to nearby areas like Bedok and Bedok Reservoir. The original Jalan Ubi was largely expunged, leaving only a short lane in the Eunos area.
In its place rose the Ubi Estate, predominantly industrial, with a southeastern corner developed for residential use, comprising about 50 HDB blocks.
Industrial Hub and Automotive Nexus
Today, Ubi Estate is synonymous with industrial activity, particularly in the automotive sector. The Kampong Ubi Industrial Estate, managed by JTC Corporation, comprises four blocks of four-storey warehouses and 12 blocks of industrial workshops.
Units in the estate are suitable for food-related, automotive and motor-related, general manufacturing and generic industrial usage. Major dealerships, body-and-paint shops, and small to medium-sized enterprises have established their presence here, contributing to the area’s economic vitality.
Residential Developments and Community Life
While industry dominates, residential life persists. Estates like View@Ubi and Ubi Greenville provide housing options, and by the last quarter of 2023, the new BTO estate by HDB called Ubi Grove was completed, on a plot of land next to Manjusri Secondary School. Educational institutions, including Manjusri Secondary School and Maha Bodhi School, serve the community, fostering a sense of continuity amid change.
Cultural and Religious Tapestry
Despite urbanization, Kampong Ubi retains elements of its cultural heritage. Chinese temples such as Sheng Hong Temple, Hong Hian Keng Temple, and Kew Huang Keng Temple dot the landscape, offering spiritual solace and preserving traditions. The Teochew Temple & Funeral Parlour, managed by Ngee Ann Kongsi, caters to the Teochew community and the general public, underscoring the area's multicultural fabric.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
The opening of Ubi MRT station on the Downtown Line on 21 October 2017 enhanced the area's accessibility. Located near the junction of Ubi Avenue 1 and Ubi Avenue 2, the station serves mainly industrial workers and residents in and around the Kampong Ubi estate . This development underscores Singapore’s commitment to integrating transportation infrastructure with urban planning.
Reflections on Heritage and Progress
Kampong Ubi's metamorphosis from a tapioca-growing village to a modern industrial and residential area encapsulates the broader themes of Singapore's development—balancing economic growth with cultural preservation. While the physical landscape has transformed, the spirit of the community endures, manifesting in the temples, schools, and the very name "Ubi" that harks back to its agrarian roots.
As Singapore continues to evolve, Kampong Ubi serves as a microcosm of the nation's journey—a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enduring importance of remembering one's origins amidst progress.
Note: This article is a synthesized account based on historical and contemporary sources to provide a comprehensive overview of Kampong Ubi's transformation.