Tai Seng Village might not be on the usual walking tour radar, but it holds a rich and fascinating history that’s worth uncovering. Known affectionately as “Tai Seng,” this unassuming area has a past steeped in agriculture, crime, and transformation.
Like many early kampongs, Tai Seng was once a quiet village where farming was the main livelihood. It was part of the larger Perseverance Estate, where nutmeg and gambier were cultivated before transitioning to self-sustaining farms and later, large-scale lemongrass farming. The majority of the residents were Teochews, which is why Tai Seng was sometimes called “Charn Mau Herng.”
However, Tai Seng’s story takes a darker turn. From the 1940s, poverty led to an increase in crime, with gangsters and secret societies gaining influence. The construction of Paya Lebar Airport in the 1950s added further tension to the area, but it wasn’t long before Tai Seng began to evolve. With the airport firmly established, the landscape shifted towards commerce and industrialisation, marking the beginning of a new era.
From its humble farming roots to its days as a hotbed of crime, Tai Seng’s transformation into a business hub is truly a “rags to riches” tale. Today, companies like DHL and BreadTalk call Tai Seng home, ensuring its place in Singapore’s modern history.
I invite you to join me for a walk through the evolving Tai Seng, where we’ll explore how this village blossomed from its gritty past to become the bustling commercial centre it is today.
Meeting Point: Tai Seng MRT Station, Exit C (towards 18, Tai Seng). Take the escalator up to street level, and I’ll be waiting next to Hawker Chan, right opposite Tim Ho Wan. Look for my Tourist Guide Badge.
This tour will end at a charming, old-fashioned bakery where you can indulge in their famous homemade coconut buns — you won’t want to miss it!
Come and discover the hidden history of Tai Seng, and experience how a humble village became an integral part of Singapore’s story. I look forward to walking through history with you!
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.