Step back in time with Uncle Chris as we explore Clementi – a once-rural outskirt that has transformed into one of Singapore’s most vibrant HDB heartlands.

I served my National Service from Jan 1973 to Jan 1975, based at the 2nd Battalion of the Singapore Infantry Regiment along Holland Road.

Back then, Clementi was nothing more than countryside. Our training grounds included a spot known to us as Colombo Hill – today, it’s the site of Clementi MRT Station. At the time, we had no idea it was once the location of Colombo Camp. The road to the hill was just a muddy track where 3-Tonners dropped us off for field training.

Clementi Road itself was a narrow colonial-style two-way road. No one could have imagined that this sleepy part of Singapore would become the bustling estate it is today.

Just across the road stood the Ulu Pandan Cemetery, later cleared to make way for one of Singapore’s earliest condominium projects. Many think Bishan was the only HDB town built over a former cemetery, but Clementi quietly did it first.

Meanwhile, my old army camp? It’s now a cluster of high-end landed homes. There were even whispers that the camp was haunted – though, to this day, no one’s confirmed any ghostly tales.

On this tour, we’ll explore Clementi’s lesser-known past, walk through its modern streets, and visit its outer edges. You’ll also be introduced to two key figures who helped shape Singapore: Mr. Cecil Clementi Smith and Dr. Albert Winsemius – one a colonial administrator, the other an economic adviser who helped steer Singapore’s transformation.

Meeting Point:
We gather at Clementi MRT Station (street level) at 9am sharp on Sun, 16th Nov 2025. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, as we’ll be covering quite a bit of ground.

We expect to finish by 11:30am, possibly extending to 12pm–12:30pm depending on the pace.

Join us for a walk through nostalgia, transformation, and untold stories – and see a different side of Clementi you may never have known.

For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com

Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.