70 minute read
ANZA Action
Volunteering in Singapore goes back over a century. We look into how our community gives back through ANZA Action and ask why do we volunteer anyway?
If you’re looking at volunteering in Singapore, ANZA Action is for you. This charitable arm of our community offers members the chance to give back to our adopted home through fundraising and volunteering - and we're always open to new opportunities!
The history of charitable activities in Singapore can be traced back to the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819 and the foundation of modern Singapore. Indeed, despite the pandemic's toll on life, Singapore continues to rank highly in the Southeast Asia region today for its philanthropic spirit. According to a recent report in The Straits Times, Singaporeans gave generously to charity throughout 2021. There were more than 4,800 fundraising campaigns on Giving.sg (an impressive 21 per cent jump from 2020), which provides plenty of inspiration.
As we re-enter a new normal, volunteering will rebound to suit the modern volunteer. “At ANZA Action we’re seeking less commitment, shorter termbased roles, and there are three primary areas in which you can give your time,” explains ANZA’s Community Service Coordinator, Debra de Reeper.
● EVENT BASED ROLES
Assist in fundraising campaigns or benefit events such as the yearly toy drive for LOVE, NILS who work to support children with cancer. Or maybe staff a fundraising booth for IC2 who support children with visual impairments
Volunteer with Kodie at Riding For The Disabled Association Singapore (above) and as a coach with ANZA soccer (below)
● SERVICE BASED ROLES
Join organisations to provide services such as meal preparation and delivery, or aid the elderly in arts and crafts. Alternatively, play a game of mahjong with the Salvation Army or help out at Riding For The Disabled Association Singapore (RDA Singapore) assisting physically and mentally disabled children and young adults with horse riding therapy sessions (Hippotherapy). Lending your time and skills to youth sporting groups such as ANZA Soccer, Netball or Nippers is also a great way to get involved ● SKILLS-BASED VOLUNTEERING
This is where you can use your knowledge and experience to support an organisation. For example, volunteer at styling sessions for Dressed for Success, use your research expertise to assist AIDHA in the fields of education, migration, gender and development, or join ANZA Knitters to make cute clothing for newborns
Sense of achievement
“We volunteer for many reasons,” says Debra. “These include a sense of giving back to the community, learning new skills, personal growth, a feeling of achievement and making a difference in people's lives, and finally, for the social aspect of working together with peers.”
Whilst no one should ever pressure anyone to volunteer, know that in doing so you will reap as many benefits as the organisation you donate your time to. ANZA’s website (anza.org.sg) has a list of organisations in Singapore requiring volunteers, with links directly to their volunteer sign-up pages. Giving.sg and SG Cares also have sites showcasing volunteer jobs and events at giving.sg/ virtual-volunteer and volunteer.gov.sg
Not only is local artist Yeni Lim-Borde responsible for this issue’s stunning magazine cover, but she’s as sunny and delightful as the pieces she creates.
Some people baked bread during the pandemic. Others used the time as an opportunity to get fit. Yeni Lim-Borde realised that she is a very skilled artist. The 39 year old ex computer programmer and mother of two girls discovered her hidden talent just over two years ago. As life closed in on itself due to Covid-19, she decided to use her new-found creativity to bring some joy, positivity and colour into the world.
“I was struggling a little with being a new mum again and maintaining my sense of identity,” she tells us from her bright and cosy new store, YeniDraws (yenidraws.com) in Tiong Bahru. “I started to play around with digital drawing on my computer, using images and ideas I’d formed in my head, just experimenting to see what happened.”
What happened was a charming selection of simple, stylish artworks which pay homage to Singapore’s heritage and bring together Yeni’s fascination with local history, tiny details and memories of her own upbringing in Telok Blangah. “I want my art to be accessible, playful, nostalgic, a little eclectic, and fun,” she says. Here she talks us through her journey so far and shares her hopes of keeping the past alive through her designs.
What is it that takes the time?
I think because I’m not copying an image, I can keep playing with no restraints. Each of my shophouse pieces has something different about it - the blue one has two lanterns, the mint one includes the addition of a bicycle, the yellow one features a chilli padi plant, and so on. Choosing the colours is time consuming because I need to balance them out and make sure they contrast but still pop. I love yellows, lilacs and blues. I keep adding layers to the image and then taking them away. Sometimes I have up to ten layers on one artwork.
How much does your own heritage influence your designs?
Tell us about your art …
All of my pictures are digital illustrations. I create them on screen and use local history and heritage as my inspiration. I rarely sketch out the designs beforehand, I just start and see what happens! My first drawing was a blue shophouse and it wasn’t based on anywhere in particular, although I do love the shophouse books by expat artist Tatyana Kildisheva (kildi.com). Each piece of artwork takes around two to three weeks to complete, but sometimes they can go on for a few months.
So much! My mum is Indonesian-Malay and my father is Singaporean-Chinese, so I grew up within a family of many cultural influences. When I was younger, my family celebrated different occasions and the food we ate was very different to that of my friends. My Great Aunt lived on Blair Road and I have such strong memories of visiting her as a child. It was not a nicely renovated home back then. I remember being terrified of going up the
Yeni’s ‘Shelfie’ illustration captured on a tea towel (above right)
stairs which were so steep with large gaps in the floorboards. The house had a cockatoo and German Shepherd dogs and I really felt like I was stepping into the past. The property is no longer there which is a great shame.
It’s incredible that you only discovered your artistic flair a few years ago ...
Once I’d developed my illustration style, I started out by putting my designs on to small postcards. When these became popular, I ventured to tea towels and bamboo plates. The plates are really helpful for teaching children how to do the washing up because they are unbreakable! At the same time, I set up my social media platforms to promote my work and sell my wares. A few local stockists got onboard, and I opened my physical store in March this year.
Had you owned a store before?
No! It’s been quite a whirlwind! But I wanted to do something big and significant before I turn 40 this year, and this is it. Once I started drawing and getting a following, I began to have vague ideas about owning my own shop. I kept browsing property websites, but not seriously. Then, one night this shop popped up and I recognised where it was in Tiong Bahru. I contacted the agent who sent a video through of the space, and I just got this instinctive feeling it was right.
How has opening Yenidraws been so far?
I love it. Along with my own custom postcards, prints, notepads, tapestries, plates and totes, I stock lifestyle items, accessories, bags and jewelry from local artisans. You can find items from the likes of Northbridge Paper (facebook.com/Northbridge. Paper), Colorfull store (colorfullstore.com), Nodspark (nodspark. com), Brass in the Sun (brassinthesun.com), and Pinacola girls (@ pinacolagirls). There are some gorgeous throws and cushions by HeyRumah, as well as a small selection of vintage clothing. I try to choose pieces that are unique and fun, and can bring a bit of happiness into your life.
Yeni outside Yenidraws which showcases her artwork dedicated to Singapore’s past
What’s your personal favourite piece?
I love my ‘Shelfie’ artwork which showcases all of my favourite foods. The strawberry jam is for my dad because he’s very particular about his spreads, the cookbooks remind me of my mum, and the mugs are quintessentially Singaporean.
Which other local history would you like to immortalise in your work?
There’s an old building along Moulmein Road which is part of Tan Tock Seng Hospital and it’s amazing. I keep driving past it and capturing it in my mind.
What are you working on now?
I’m very excited about my National Day series which is coming out imminently. It’s my first foray into glassware and ceramic plates and will only be stocked in the Tiong Bahru store. My artwork is a way of preserving the past and an ode to a bygone era. My wish is for coming generations of Singaporeans to celebrate our local culture. It’s always important to progress as a nation, but we also need to remember our roots.
Find Yenidraws at 55 Tiong Bahru Road, Unit 01-53, 160055 yenidraws.com @yenidraws
More local talent
Great arts & crafts to know
ARCH
ARCH is a hallmark heritage gallery offering wood crafted masterpieces put together by hand. Choose the style and design and they’ll painstakingly create a superdelicate bespoke piece for you. PS. They make fab gifts! archsingapore.com.sg KIN’S MINIATURES
Those who love the little things in life will adore these miniature models of local dishes and activities (think bowls of laksa and mahjong tables). Kin also conduct clay food making lessons for those with particularly nimble fingers. kinsminiature.com LEFT-HANDESIGN
The brainchild of Radhika Mayani, Left-Handesign sell a range of plantable stationery (yes, you read that correctly). The range of pens, pencils, notebooks and gift tags can all be planted, sprouting herbs such as tomato, chilli, tulsi (Indian basil), spinach, okra, and mustard seeds. left-handesign.com DIRTY HANDS ONLY
Love the plates and bowls taking centre stage in your favourite restaurant? It could be the work of Dirty Hands Only. This local company have a fresh and modern selection of homeware, and they also host bespoke pottery classes. dirtyhandsonly.com
Small Business
Payroll, accounting, marketing - argh! Starting your own business is exciting but it can also feel overwhelming. Read on for tips on how to manage without a meltdown.
As we slowly exit the pandemic and enter into a time perpetuated by the “Great Resignation”, starting your own business has become an increasingly popular direction for many expats and locals in Singapore. Whether you’re seeking a better work-life balance and quality of life, or finally feel ready to take the leap with that business idea that’s been bubbling under for a while, now is the ideal time to try out a new direction ˗ and Singapore is a great place to do it.
As an expat, there are a few additional hurdles to consider when it comes to incorporation and work passes, but you don’t have to do it all alone. A consulting agency can help with everything you’ll need as a small business owner from incorporation and finance services to HR, marketing and public relations.
“Throughout the pandemic, we’ve seen a huge demand for new companies to incorporate and launch in Singapore,” says Louisa Meredith, Director of Finance & Corporate Secretary for Accela Group. “We have incorporated more than sixty five new companies in Singapore since the start of 2021 alone.”
Easy & pain free
From company incorporations to annual compliance, Accela is a consulting agency that helps clients to meet Singapore’s regulatory needs, quickly and efficiently, meaning they have your back from the moment you start your business. Once you’re up and running, you’ll also want to consider a partner for financial services such as bookkeeping, payroll and more.
When it comes to Financial Services, Accela is a trusted Xero partner, meaning the company can help to manage all of your accounting needs with one easy to use software. Founded in 2006, Xero now has 3 million subscribers and is a leader in cloud accounting. For small business owners directly or bookkeepers and accountants at an agency like Accela, Xero’s mission is to be the most insightful and trusted small business platform, and make life better for small businesses, their advisors and communities around the world.
If you’re not quite ready to engage a third party, accounting software like Xero is intuitive for small businesses to use on their own. As a cloud-based system, it can be securely accessed anywhere in the world and has multi-currency functions that make recording foreign currency transactions easy and stress-free.
What’s more, its functionality allows you to take care of your bookkeeping in a fast and efficient manner. “Bank reconciliations in Xero can take just minutes, and the simplicity helps many of our clients to balance their ‘financial housekeeping’ with the busy workload that comes with starting a new enterprise,” says Louisa.
If you’re seeking an accounting solution for your start-up, here are some considerations to keep in mind:
REPORTING: Consider what kind of reporting you’ll need to provide for your new business. Xero offers clear and concise reporting which can also be customised to suit your needs who will require access to your accounts. Using a platform like Xero makes it easy to give access to accountants, auditors or tax advisors
SECURITY: Relieve stress about keeping your account details secure - Xero guarantees safe storage of information
INVOICING: Xero can raise and send invoices, which are then directly linked to your accounts receivable ledger, so transactions are seamless
EFFICIENCY: Managing a small business means you have endless details to keep track of, so finding a one-stop shop for your accounts and contact management is key. Xero also offers complimentary software products such as Hubdoc which can be fully integrated to capture data automatically
SHARED ACCESS: Chances are you won’t be the only one
Accela Group provides businesses with localised expertise across communications, finance and talent – empowering them with the knowledge needed to grow and evolve. As a professional yet compassionate partner, Accela Group connects clients to new communities, people and ways of working. For more information about our services, visit accela.asia or get in touch at hello@accela.asia
Local heritage enthusiast Jerome Lim documents the unseen, unheard and unappreciated parts of Singapore. He talks to ANZA about history, storytelling, and the time an Australian Prime Minister popped to his HDB for tea.
If you want to find Jerome Lim, head to the 11th floor archives in the National Library where he’ll be immersed in archival material. Indeed, there is little about Singapore’s history and heritage that he doesn’t know. A naval architect by trade, Jerome became interested in learning about - and preserving - his homeland’s history back in 2007. Interestingly, it was leaving the red dot that ignited a fresh new interest in it. “I was posted to Penang, Malaysia for work. While there, I’d walk around the neighbourhood in my spare time, and I realised how much it reminded me of the Singapore I grew up in,“ he says. “The architecture, the old English churches, the eateries by the sea - I started to miss the ‘old Singapore.’”
Jerome, 57, started to get flashbacks to the Lion City of the late 1960s. “I remembered the stories my father would share back in the day, and how my parents used to take me to places in Singapore that have now completely disappeared,” he says. “Did you know the island used to have a wonderful coastline with cliffs? There were beaches you could not imagine here today!”
Connecting the present & past
his experiences of childhood. Upon returning from Penang, he spent his spare time exploring and doing research. “I started with my time growing up in Toa Payoh. I was an urban kid, but I spent a lot of time in the kampongs. One friend of the family had a chicken farm in Punggol, alongside pig farms and vegetable farms, in what my father would call ‘the fresh country air!’” Keen to connect the present with the past, he started his blog, The Long & Winding Road, as a way of rediscovering Singapore.
“As luck would have it, at around the same time I started blogging, there was an announcement about the closure of the railway track between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (the track known today as the Rail Corridor),” he says. “I got interested in highlighting what was happening. I’d go to the old Tanjong Pagar train station at 6am to take photos and talk to the staff - I became a bit obsessive!”
This makes sense when Jerome admits to having an emotional attachment to the train route. He continues; “Back in the 90s, I spent a lot of time riding that journey to see a really nice girl who lived in KL. Weekends were spent travelling to see one another, and that girl is now my wife!”
Thanks to his persistence and passion, Jerome began to work
Above: Inside 5 Kadayanallur Street. Below: Former Kallang Airport Bukit Timah Railway Station in 1968
The old Rail Corridor before the train line was closed down. Image: We Support The Green Corridor with the Nature Society Singapore (NSS) who were also highlighting the plight of the rail service. Together, they hosted talks and walks about the route before closure, and Jerome kept the public up to date with the latest news on his blog. Before it closed on 30 June 2011, he organised a farewell commemorative gathering and a final journey. “I’m sad the railway closed, but glad that the Rail Corridor has been preserved and it’s been kept as rustic as possible,” he says.
History tours & research
Jerome’s participation in the railway project got him noticed, and he started helping out the likes of the National Heritage Board (NHB), the National Library Board (NLB), and the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). His contributions include taking photographs and collaborating on exhibitions, hosting history tours and carrying out general research. Essentially, he gets the opportunity to learn about parts of Singapore history that not many people know about.
Indeed, the places Jerome has researched are extensive and include Pasir Panjang Power Station, Old Changi Hospital, Beach Road Police Station, Old Admiralty House in Sembawang, Woodbridge Hospital, and View Road Hospital, an old British naval building which is believed to be haunted. “Recently, I’ve been researching Orchard Road which is fascinating. Beyond the shops you can find derelict mansions, such as Chee Guan Chiang House at 25 Grange Road, which was left abandoned after it became the New Leonie Guest House which was closed in 1972.”
Despite loving his research and knowing that change is necessary, Jerome is sad to see the rapid development of his country. “To me, the closure and demolition of buildings is such a shame and it’s very wasteful, especially when we think about environmental damage,” he says. “Unfortunately, it’s something we see a lot in Singapore, which is why my documentation and the telling of stories of our past is so important to me.”
Singapore’s Top
Heritage Spots
Jerome reveals some of his favourite historical places and spaces to ANZA.
Hidden in plain sight
Jerome’s favourite heritage buildings “So many! The Art Deco Quadrant building at 19 Cecil Road which was built in 1929 as the Overseas Chinese Bank; Pasir Panjang Power Station which is a photographer’s dream; and the Golden Mile Complex on Beach Road come high on my list. Singapore’s very first civil airport, Kallang Airport is particularly special - did you know that Amelia Earhart flew into it on 20 June 1937, just eight days after it opened? The airport was equipped with a paved landing strip during the Japanese Occupation (it was used as a fighter airfield by the allies in the lead up to the Fall of Singapore), and then in 1951 an extended version was built which became the Old Airport Road we know today.”
9 Kallang Airport Way, 397750
“For a real taste of old Singapore, head to the heartlands. Toa Payoh offers an insight into the old and new. A number of temples there predate the housing estate, including the Toa Payoh Seu Teck Sean Tong and the large Siong Lim Temple complex (Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery). The crest of the hill at Toa Payoh Hill points to where one of the major public hospitals in Singapore once stood. You’ll also find the grounds of the former Thomson schools, now occupied by SJI International School.
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) there also come with a story. When I was growing up in the late 1960s and early 1970s, we lived on the top floor of a block that had been built intentionally with a vantage point of the latest public housing project, Toa Payoh New Town. For this reason, various dignitaries came to visit our humble 3-room flat. Not only did we welcome HM Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip and Princess Anne, but also John Gorton, Prime Minister of Australia back in 1968. I was too young to understand, but I do remember a towering man giving me a gold-coloured tie-pin with a kangaroo on it!”
“There are many architectural gems in Singapore which I consider to be ‘hidden in plain sight.’ One example is quite a plain looking building opposite Maxwell Market. You would never know to look at it, but it was built in 1923 and used as a hospital before and during the Japanese Occupation. The installation of a lift in 1929 was carried out to aid the treatment of children afflicted with a rare and debilitating tuberculosis of the bones and joints. The unusual triangular-shaped design of the building with a hole in the middle for an airwell was the only opportunity for these children to gain access to sunlight and fresh air. The lift is still in working order and comes complete with wooden panels and collapsible gates - it may be the oldest lift in existence in Singapore today.”
5 Kadayanallur St, off Erskine Road, 069183
Where to find an old slice of life
Singapore’s oldest national monument
Best for vintage shopping
“The Arts House (also known as the Old Parliament House) at Empress Place was built in 1826-1827 to be the colonial home of Scottish merchant, John Argyle Maxwell. However, after building the house, it was discovered that it shouldn’t be in an area designated only for government buildings. Maxwell kindly rented what was supposed to be his home to the government and it was used as public offices. The courthouse moved out in 1865 because of the noise from the boatyard and blacksmith shop nearby. In 1992, it was gazetted a national monument, and in 2004 it became the venue for the literary arts that it is known for today.”
1 Old Parliament Lane, 179429
See them before they go
“I think the View Road Hospital will be demolished soon, which is very sad as it’s a fascinating site with a huge history. It was built in 1941, then in the 1950s it became the Naval Base Policemen’s accommodation until 1971. In 1975 it became a branch of the mental hospital before closing in 2001. Other buildings already being demolished or under threat include parts of the former Police Academy at Thomson Road, remnants of ammunition bunkers at Attap Valley (Woodlands), and the buildings around Khalsa Crescent (Woodlands) and Guillemard Camp, once the home of the 1st Regiment of the Singapore Armed Forces.”
View Road Hospital, View Road, off Admiralty Road West, Woodlands
“Singapore’s black and white houses Black & White sites are incredible because there are so many different styles which each showcase a period of development. They represent a captivating part of our history and a full range of architectural evolution from the 1910s to the 1950s. Adam Park was developed in the 1920s and 1930s, partly to house Singapore Improvement Trust (SIT) officers. Kay Siang was built from the 1930s to the 1950s and includes typical black and white houses to ones with Art Deco and modernist features. Those built from 1939 were built with air-conditioning in mind and had low ceilings for this purpose.” “Eng Tiang Huat is a Chinese cultural shophouse and home to floor-toceiling wooden shelves filled with old artefacts. Known for its handmade Chinese embroidery services and products, it’s now helmed by Jeffrey Eng, the third-generation proprietor of the family business. Festive red ang chai bai (red decorative cloth) used to hang above doorways and ceiling, and it’s the only shop to contain preserved Chinese instruments - Jeffrey’s father used to supply all of the instruments to the Chinese opera.”
10 Lor 24A Geylang, 398534
Kay Siang SIT Modernist built in the 1950s
Follow Jerome’s work on @jeronimoloco, at facebook.com/thelongnwindingroad, and at his blog thelongnwindingroad. wordpress.com/ Secret Singapore, by Heidi Sarna and Jerome Lim, is available from local bookshops.
We know the cuisine in SG is great, but how do you know if you’re dining on the best? Ask the locals! Here’s their personal guide to getting your fill in this foodie wonderland.
Make no mistake, Singaporeans love to eat. Virtually every cuisine on the planet is available here and the best spots for an authentic bite are undoubtedly the hawker stalls and local kopitiams. But while the island’s most popular dishes are everywhere, it’s not easy to know which stalls and options to go for. Check out these tried and tested favourites to sip, slurp, and satisfy your hunger pangs.
Nasi Jenganan
Gerai Nenek Obek, Geylang Serai Market, #02-136, 402001
“Everyone in Singapore is familiar with nasi lemak, but they may not know nasi jenganan, a similar dish of Javanese origin. The recipe at Gerai Nenek Obek is from the 1960s and has been passed down through generations. It’s now in its fourth generation and the flavours remind me of when I was young. It comes with a spicy signature peanut gravy called “sambal pecel” which is almost like satay peanut sauce, but thinner and more tangy, with a hint of belachan. The rice is topped with tempeh, tofu, and vegetables like kangkung, beansprouts, and long beans. It also works as a vegetarian dish if you don’t add the meat. It’s so good, I don’t think you can find it better in Malaysia, or even Indonesia. Singapore is the linchpin of food!” Fadhli Rahmat
Hokkien Mee
Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Noodles, Tiong Bahru Hawker Centre, 30 Seng Poh Road, #0201,168898
“I’ve been going to this stall for the last 15 years. The noodles and thick bee hoon are fried to perfection, coupled with the prawn stock, fresh prawn, sotong and egg. With the noodles and ingredients well immersed in the prawn stock and fried until semi-wet, it looks like science at its best! Expect to queue if you go at lunchtime and expect to get nothing if you go after lunchtime, meaning it’s sold out at lunchtime! Personally, I think it tastes better when you have this dish as a takeaway at lukewarm temperature. The stall has got such a reputation, and they have been honoured with a Michelin star.” Alex Neo
Prawn Noodle Lor Mee
Mei Xiang Prawn Noodle Lor Mee 208B New Upper Changi Rd, #01-10, 462208
“This stall only has three dishes on their menu – prawn mee soup, dry and lor mee. You can choose your noodles: flat Hokkien mee, kway teow flat rice noodles and bee hoon thin rice noodles. From the thickened sauce, fried fish and braised pork belly to the condiments of black vinegar, sambal chilli and garlic purée, it’s the best in town. It’s only $3 and there is always a queue by 11am.” Luke Ng
Curry Puffs
Soon Soon Huat (SSH), 220 East Coast Rd, 428917
“Every puff here is handmade from scratch, from the different puff fillings to the pastry dough. I believe they use an original recipe from SSH’s founder who started out in the 1990s. I like the chicken curry and curry sardine flavours best. They’re spicy without being oily, the pastry is really buttery, and they make the perfect on-the-go snack.” Ying Tong Soo
Wanton Mee
Brunners Coffeeshop, 228 East Coast Rd, 428925
“I don’t know why, but the Wanton Mee here tastes different from all the others. The dish usually features thin egg noodles, sliced char siew, boiled vegetables, fried wanton, and a side bowl of wanton soup. I love how fresh and springy the noodles are, and how the sauce tastes a little charred, but in a good way!” Beryl
Carrot Cake
26 Carrot Cake, 127 Lor 1 Toa Payoh #0226, 310127
“Black carrot cake is a childhood favourite and still my comfort food now. I prefer the black to the white, when the cake cubes are not too mushy and with lots of egg! I’ve been asked by the hawker if I actually want the egg or the carrot cake more and honestly, I don’t know!” Rae Mok
Chendol
Mei Yeong Yuen Desserts, 65B Temple St, 058604
“With a 50-year history behind them, this chain serves traditional Singaporean desserts including hot and cold puddings, snow and shaved ice, pastes and icecream. Their Shaved Ice Chendol on a hot day is a total treat with its red bean, glass jelly, attap chee and coconut milk. A bottle of (addictive) gula melaka syrup is also provided to add as you go.” Chong Heng Poh
Mee Pok
Hua Bee, 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #0119,162078
“This restaurant has been operating for more than 70 years, and there’s even a film named after it (Mee Pok Man). The soup portions are quite generous, filled with bouncy fishballs, fishcake, minced meat and “hu kiao” (meat dumpling) with a chilli and vinegar flavour. It’s the noodles that make me return each time - they’re really al dente, comforting, and good for a slurp.” Li Jun Ji
Bak Kut Teh
Sin Heng Claypot Bak Kut Teh, 439 Joo Chiat Rd, 427652
“This famous place has been going since the 1980s and offers the Teochew and Hokkien version of bak kut teh. The broth is herby and peppery with crisp lettuce, large juicy button mushrooms and tender pork ribs. Besides the traditional dish, they also serve dry bak kut teh, claypot noodles, tofu, omelette and yam rice.” Tony Chan
Chwee Kueh
Ghim Oh Chwee Kueh, 20 Ghim Moh Rd, #01-54, 270020
“Chwee Kueh is a type of steamed rice cake topped with radish relish and Mr. Lee has been making it since he was eight years old, helping his mother and brother to push their street food cart. Today he still insists on making Chwee Kueh the old-fashioned way and rumour has it that he spends 16 hours a day perfecting it! What makes this dish so addictive is that he uses garlic and pork lard (instead of vegetable oil) which adds more fragrance to the radish. The radish also seems chunkier than the usual type and therefore provides a very nostalgic eating experience.” Zhi Qi
Prata Saga Sambal Belada, Tekka Market, 665 Buffalo Rd, #01-258, 210665
“This place has a great variety of murtabak (cooked meat in the double flour prata) which can be eaten without the curry or sambal. It’s all handmade, from the dough to the flipping part, and the result is thin prata which is crispy in the middle with little pockets of air to soak up the ingredients. I like the one doused with fish curry. It melts in your mouth.” Ismail Hakim
Prawn Mee
Whitley Road Big Prawn Noodle, #01-98 Old Airport Road Food Centre, 390051
“This stall has a Michelin Plate under their belt so you know it won’t let you down! The prawns are boiled for many hours which makes the taste and the aroma so good. The noodles are coated in a spicy-savoury and home-made chilli paste with some zing. Don’t be fooled if you see a short queue at the stall as a buzzer system is being used!” Raemier. J
Nasi Goreng Kampong
Seisan Bukit Batok West, 132 Bukit Batok West Ave 6, #01-308, 650132
“Nasi Goreng is a Malay fried rice made with eggs, onions, cucumbers and spices for the kampong taste. The onions, shallots, garlic and hot peppers are puréed and fried with the anchovies in oil which give the fried rice just the right amount of spicy kick and wok hey. Nasi goreng kampung (countryside-style fried rice) is usually garnished with tomato or cucumber slices and with a few dried anchovies on top. The true identity of Southeast Asian food. Try it today!” Michael Morgan
Biriyani
Biriyani Express, Geylang Serai Market, #02-119, 402001
“The Briyani portions here are huge and really well-priced. You can get chicken, beef and mutton. The sauce is always thick and the rice fragrant and not too oily. There’s always a long queue, but it’s worth the wait.” Fadhzli Osman
Curry
Samy’s Curry Restaurant, 25 Dempsey Rd, 249670
“This is an institution in Singapore! I love the authenticity of eating straight off of a banana leaf, the massive portions and the general ambience. The spicy fish head curry is their signature dish and also my favourite. I always try to replicate it at home, but never can.” VeronicaRai
We may know Singapore as a modern and thriving metropolis, but it hasn’t always been this way. JO UPCRAFT meets three locals who have watched the red dot rise up over the decades as they take us on a trip down memory lane.
Raelene Tan was born and bred in Adelaide, South Australia and moved to Singapore with her Singaporean husband, Soo Ren, back in 1970.
You met your husband before you moved to SG. Please share your love story!
Soo Ren and I met in London in April 1965. He was studying architecture and I was with the Australian High Commission. We lived with three other boarders in a boarding house in West Hampstead and were good friends before romance blossomed. We married in August 1968 at Westminster.
When did you first travel to Singapore?
I arrived on board ‘Flotto Laura’ on a National Day public holiday in August 1970. This was also when I met my parents-in-law for the first time. We lived in the family home at Cuscaden Road, off Orchard Road. The imposing, 14-bedroom home, set in large grounds, housed about 30 people, comprising Soo Ren’s parents and his siblings. My husband is one of 12 siblings, 10 boys and two girls. It was a lively household! A bevy of traditional amahs looked after the extended family.
Tell us about life back then …
In the 1970s, newlyindependent Singapore was like a big country town, rustic and unhurried.
Extended families tended to live together, such was the simplicity of life. Around our house it was junglelike, where today Regent Singapore and Hotel Jen now hold fort. The wet market, where Tanglin Mall now stands, bustled daily with sights, sounds and smells that were unfamiliar to me. A walk to the market entailed my traversing through foliage, keeping clear of frisky monkeys and avoiding kampong roosters and dogs. Orchard Road had two-way traffic, large open odorous storm-drains, one department store of repute (C. K. Tang) and two hotels (Crown Prince and Singapura), both long since gone. The Hilton Hotel Singapore opened in 1970.
Raelene Tan, who moved to Singapore in 1970, with her extended family in April 2022
Did you experience culture shock?
Learning different customs, culture and etiquette filled my early days in Singapore, as well as getting to know my new family and adjusting to then-unfamiliar tastes (rice for breakfast, lunch and dinner!). Not long after arrival, I commenced work at the Australian High Commission. I relished familiar accents, humour and camaraderie – I had the best of both worlds.
Above: A birthday party for Raelene’s daughter at the family home in 1979. Below: Raelene demonstrating at the opening of Shangri-La Hotel’s Rose Verandah Lounge, 1991
Cosmopolitan Women’s Club (CWC) brochure, 1974
How did you find the local food?
In the 1970s there were barely a handful of restaurants that served fare other than local Singapore favourites. Mandarin Hotel in Orchard Road took the country by storm in 1971 when its newly opened Chatterbox Coffeehouse served chicken rice, previously only found at hawker centres. I remember a humble bakery, Dong Log Wee, on the corner of Orchard and Killiney Roads, being popular for its local coffee and snacks. I would often sit on a chair by a marble-top table with hessian bags of flour, taking up floor space to enjoy a cake reminiscent of a Victoria sponge, for just a few cents. Two supermarkets offered ‘foreign’ fare like frozen meat, packaged biscuits and canned items. Vegemite and All-Bran were unheard of.
How easy was it to settle in and meet friends?
It was not easy in those early days to meet like-minded people with a view to making friends. Action was needed! Through my work, I came across Australian women married to Singaporeans who also found it difficult and who understood the ups and downs of cross-cultural unions. With the blessing of the then Australian High Commissioner, an enlightened and caring gentleman, I gathered names and contacts of 20 such young ladies when they were renewing their passports or registering their presence in Singapore. My colleague and I then invited those ladies to lunch at the now defunct Cockpit Hotel. We had much to talk about and quickly became friends.
Tell us about the Cosmopolitan Women’s Club (CWC) …
In 1973, CWC, founded by myself and friend Patricia, was officially registered as a society to provide emotional support and encouragement to ladies who were partners in cross-cultural marriages. Members and their families flourished, receiving monthly newsletters that my husband printed, collated and posted, with events such as couples’ nights, family outings, playgroups, cooking classes and talks on culture. The CWC had about 200 members in its heyday. It was deregistered after 33 successful years when it outlived its original aim, and such marriages became more acceptable in society. When did you first come across ANZA?
ANZA and I first met in 1970 through my work at the Australian High Commission. We have remained loyal friends ever since! ANZA was small then, comprising mainly Australian and New Zealand members, unlike now with its international appeal. The monthly newsletter was a simple roneoed page received in the post. Giving monthly culture-related presentations at the regular newcomers’ mornings for a number of years was something I enjoyed, as well as penning regular thoughts for ANZA magazine since 2003. I cannot imagine myself without ANZA.
How have you seen Singapore change?
It has emerged from a big country town to a bustling, thriving, cosmopolitan City in Nature. The cleaning of the Singapore River, and of the country as a whole, has been transformative. Public transportation has taken leaps and bounds, making it relatively easy to move around, unlike the days of unreliable buses and pirate taxis. The skyline is modern and creative, reflecting the Republic’s aspirations. I appreciate the mod-cons, but do often miss the charm of days of yore.
What do you miss?
Wandering through Chinatown several decades ago was always surprising, with changing scenes, from moments of life and death, to haggling over best prices for market vegetables, clothing and cooked food. Aziza’s on Emerald Hill was the go-to restaurant, from 1979 for 24 years, while Prima Tower Revolving Restaurant, atop a grain silo on Keppel Road, afforded harbour views while enjoying Beijing fare, from 1977 for 43 years.
Murugaia Ramachandra moved to Singapore from South India in 1947 aged 16 years old to live with relatives. After working as a librarian for a local publisher, he opened Jothi Store & Flower Shop, an ottukadi (hole in the wall), in Little India in 1960. We speak to his son, owner Rajakumar Chandra.
Tell us about the store your family opened in 1960 …
The shop mainly catered to the first generation of Indians in Singapore who had moved here alone for work while their wives remained in India. The men would all live nearby with groups of friends and work in jobs such as construction, at the bus depot or for the electricity board. The shop would open at 4.30am so they could buy cigarettes, cigars, snacks and betel leaves as they went on their way each morning. Did your family live nearby?
In the beginning, my family lived in a big bungalow house by the sea in Katong on Meyer Road. There would be three or four families living in one home. My grandmother was a very strong lady and she would welcome anyone who came over from India, so there were always around twenty people around. In the mid 1960s we moved nearer to the store in Little India - twelve of us in a two-room flat! it was not just the men who moved to Singapore, but whole families came together looking for a better life. So my father started stocking items for females such as bangles and makeup. More temples in the area meant that we started selling flower garlands for the prayers from local farms in Toa Payoh and Bishan. The shop soon grew bigger than a five-foot square space.
What age did you start working with your father?
How did Jothi Store & Flower Shop progress?
Over time I was about nine years old in 1967 when I started to help out during weekends and school holidays. The staff at the store taught me how to tie flower garlands and speak respectfully to the customers, no matter who they were. I started to take care of the business in 1985 after studying Computer Science. My father still comes to the shop every morning. Before the pandemic he would handle the cash register, but not so much now.
Above: Murugaia at his shop in the 1970s Left: Father and son at Jothi Store & Flower Shop
What was life in Little India like back then?
In the 1960s it was not called Little India, it was called Tekka. Tekka Market was an especially popular wet market and people from all over the island would visit. Trishaws were the main source of transport and hawker stalls would set up in the back lanes from 4am - 10pm. Things changed when Singapore became more sanitised, but there is hope that Little India will remain authentic.
What do you wish for Jothi in the future?
We’re one of just a handful of shops from the old times, except we are now a five storey building and have been since the 1990s. As time has moved on, we have adapted to cater to all ethnic groups from India. There has been an integration of local customs which means there is always a festival or celebration to prepare for. I hope we evolve with the generations and continue to adapt to provide the community with what they need.
Will you ever retire?
In time my son will take over the business, but I can’t see me ever wanting to retire or my son agreeing to stand up for 18 hours a day! Jothi was originally started for the community, and now we stay for the community.
Jothi Store & Flower Shop, 1 Campbell Ln, 209882. jothi.com.sg
Kenny Ng and his brother run Sin Hin Chuan Kee (SHCK), a local haberdashery. The shop was opened by his grandfather, Mr Ng Koon Teng in 1965 and business is still in operation today.
(From right) Kenny Ng with his uncle, Ng Cheow Kok, his father, Ng Cheow Poh, and his brother, Adrian Ng
What made your grandfather open a shop?
Back in the 1960s, our family was very poor and had to make ends meet. My grandfather was a taxi driver and doing many other jobs to feed his family. It was by chance that he entered the shop trade after learning the ropes from a trading company he worked in for a few years. When the company closed down my grandfather took over the clients and continued where it left off with Sin Hin Chuan Kee. Our first shop was at 47 Clyde Street, where Parkview Square currently is.
What did you sell?
We were a trading shop dealing primarily in YKK zippers and lace. My grandfather relied on his bare hands as well as his children - my father and his siblings - to help out with deliveries and sorting the goods. Education wasn’t the most important thing then. Fast forward to 2022 - we are now located on North Bridge Road. Most of our stock comes from China, Taiwan, Japan, SE Asia and some parts of Europe.
SHCK was so popular, we’ve heard stories of legendary queues ...
Hahaha, yes! There is an old saying for our business - it is akin to seeing a doctor. There would always be a queue to purchase the YKK zippers and lace. Everyone ordered by the hundreds, or whatever they could get their hands on!
Did you live at the store?
Yes, we also stayed in Clyde Street with the shop just downstairs. During that time, there were about ten of us in a very small house. Every day was like Chinese New Year as everyone in the neighbourhood was up early - and when one person starts cooking, everyone else follows! We were a very close knit community and still remain close today. Our business remains 80% run by our family members.
What are some of your favourite memories?
Top: Kenny’s father (left) at 47 Clyde Street Bottom: Mr Ng Koon Teng at North Bridge Road
While growing up, SHCK was my Toys R Us! My brother Adrian and I would use the YKK zipper boxes to create a race track and me and my cousins would race mini battery Tamiya cars while we were supposed to be ‘at work’! Back then, my favourite customers were those who gave us sweets and treats. Today my favourite customers are those who pay on time!
How has living in Singapore changed?
Singapore is a great place to live. Living expenses are high but there are many things we take for granted like security, food and the convenience to get things done. I studied in Perth, Australia for three years but I always wanted to come home when there was a break.
What hopes do you have for SHCK?
That it will ride out this difficult period. Business has been affected for the last two years and we are thankful that we managed to get through. We have become closer as a family and more resilient as a company. Watching everyone pulling their weight and getting involved has been very encouraging.
Sin Hin Chuan Kee, 796 & 798 North Bridge Road,198766. shck.com.sg
If your mind seems to be suffering from memory problems, a lack of mental clarity or an inability to focus, brain fog could be to blame.
We’ve all had moments when we’ve forgotten what we walked into a room for, the point of what we were talking about mid-story, and people’s names, but sometimes our forgetfulness or ‘brain fog’ seems a little more serious. It can be a freaky feeling, and one that’s not only linked to ageing and the menopause, but more recently as a symptom of Covid-19. Dr Trisha Upadhyaya from Osler Health International shares insights and highlights when to be concerned.
WHAT EXACTLY IS BRAIN FOG?
Brain fog is a lay term and not a medical diagnosis. It’s also known as ‘cognitive disturbance’ and can be described with symptoms including:
Difficulty concentrating Forgetfulness Inability to focus Slower thinking or not thinking as sharply as usual Mental fatigue or mental haziness Underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, deficiencies in iron or other vitamins, viral diseases (such as Covid-19 and its prolonged effects), menopause, dementia, mental health conditions (depression, anxiety), stroke or heart-disease related conditions
You may experience some or all of the symptoms above at the same time, depending on any underlying health and medical conditions, or due to underlying neurological inflammation. The key thing to consider is the chronicity of these symptoms. The more longstanding the symptoms have been, the greater the degree of underlying neuro-inflammation there may be.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
There can be several causes behind cognitive disturbance. These include:
Lack of sleep Poor nutrition Stress - both physical and/or mental Alcohol, smoking or recreational drugs Medication
ARE CERTAIN PEOPLE MORE PREDISPOSED?
Some research has shown that certain individuals may be prone to developing mild cognitive impairment in later life. Typically, these are people who may have a degree of neuroticism in their personalities, and whose approach to life and setbacks is with stress, anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed. Identifying risk factors can help individuals and healthcare professionals in optimising their overall health and therefore lowering their risk profile.
HOW MUCH DOES BRAIN FOG PLAY A PART IN PERI-MENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE?
Symptoms affecting mental health such as mental fatigue, memory disturbance, and a lack of concentration are often experienced by women during the perimenopause and menopausal phase. Brain fog can have a significant impact on a woman’s life, affecting her both personally and professionally. Some can often benefit from medication during this phase to help with symptoms of brain fog. If this sounds like you, make an appointment to speak further with a medical professional.
WHAT’S THE LINK BETWEEN BRAIN FOG AND COVID-19?
Post Covid-19 syndrome, otherwise known as long Covid, can present symptoms of brain fog. At this stage it’s still difficult to ascertain who may experience cognitive disturbance post infection and how much it may impact them. From the latest research, it appears that even those who may have had asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic disease can still experience post Covid-19 syndrome.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE MORE SERIOUS THAN ‘BEING FORGETFUL’?
Most people will have occasional episodes of forgetting things - not many of us can remember what we had for lunch three days ago! However, if you find your absent-mindedness seems to have increased lately, or your family, friends or co-workers have noticed a change in your tendency to remember things or your behaviour, it may be worth seeking medical advice.
The treatability of brain fog depends on the underlying cause. For example, symptoms of disturbed cognition caused by thyroid disease will be treated differently than those caused by dementia. With appropriate assessment and management, we can help patients to overcome and manage their symptoms.
HOW DO YOU MEDICALLY DIAGNOSE BRAIN FOG?
When a patient complains of brain fog, we try to identify their symptoms and find out possible underlying causes behind them. Healthcare professionals can perform tests to gauge the degree of memory problems. The results can then be used to decide whether any further investigations need to be performed and/or what next steps an individual would benefit from.
For example, in somebody with low mood, tearfulness or anxiety, lack of concentration may be due to underlying mental health disorders. Similarly, if you’ve recently recovered from Covid-19 and you have new symptoms of mental exhaustion, slowness in your thinking or difficulty focusing, the brain fog may be due to the infection. Brain fog needs to be holistically assessed so specific treatment can be provided not only for symptoms, but also for any other potential underlying medical conditions.
BEFORE MEDICINE, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO SHARPEN YOUR MIND?
The theory behind cognitive disturbance is that there may be some neurological inflammation present which impacts our regular cognitive functioning. The good news is that this inflammation can be reduced and improved by taking up certain practices in our day-to-day lives: Managing stress levels with regular exercise, meditation and mindfulness Adequate nutrition in our diet, so avoiding high-calorie, high-fatty foods. Some individuals may need to consider vitamin supplements Stopping smoking. Even casual smoking can affect multiple organs in our body, including our brains Monitoring alcohol intake and keeping to weekly limits or less Staying away from any recreational drugs or substances Maintaining social connections. The pandemic has shown us how isolation can negatively impact our mental and physical health, which takes a toll on our brain health Keeping our minds active through learning new skills, continuing our hobbies, and engaging in mental games such as Sudoku puzzles
It’s understandable that brain fog can feel a bit confronting, and your mind can rush to extreme places when it comes to a diagnosis. Most often, doctors can identify underlying causes and help you get back to your previous sharp and savvy cognitive form.
HOW CAN A GP HELP?
Find Osler Health clinics at 328 North Bridge Road, #02-27 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 188719 and 1 Vista Exchange Green, #B1-27, The Star Vista,138617. Email us at raffles@osler-health.com or starvista@osler-health.com Dr Trisha is a British trained family GP based at Osler Health International. She is located in their Star Vista clinic. osler-health.com
Being cold is hot right now thanks to The Wim Hof Method. The aim is ultimate mastery over your body and mind, but can this be achieved in a carpark in Kallang? JO UPCRAFT dives in and investigates.
There are many reasons why I moved from the UK to Singapore, and one of them involves the climate. As someone who is perpetually cold, the idea of year-round clement temperatures is an appealing one. No matter that I’m often wrapped in a blanket at work, have been known to experience onset pneumonia at Golden Village Vivocity and am never more than three metres away from a cardigan, I still live a life several degrees warmer than I would back in Blighty.
So how I found myself bikini-clad with my arm elbow-deep in a giant sack of ice in a carpark in Kallang one recent Saturday is still somewhat baffling. Perhaps I was struggling from momentary heatstroke when I agreed to join the Breathwork & Icework (Wim Hof Method) session at wellness studio, Altered States? But there I was. And it wasn’t the promise of a cashmere jumper or steaming hot chocolate at the end of it, but rather the potential of increased clarity, focus, calm, positivity, energy, immunity, better sleep patterns and general wellbeing. In short, I was there to be reborn.
INNER POWER
Welcome to the world of Wim Hof - a Dutch extreme athlete who got his nickname ‘The Iceman’ by breaking records related to cold exposure. It’s safe to say that he’s serious about his art: running a half marathon above the Arctic Circle barefoot, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in shorts, and standing in a container while covered with ice cubes for more than 112 minutes are just some of his party tricks.
Wim’s extensive cold training has enabled him to learn to control his breathing, heart rate, and blood circulation and to endure extreme temperatures. “Over time, our relationship with the world has changed,” says Wim on his website (wimhofmethod. com). “Our lifestyles have disconnected us from the natural environment. Our age-old survival mechanisms are no longer triggered and we’ve lost touch with our inner power.”
Through decades of self-exploration and scientific studies, Wim created The Wim Hof Method, a simple behaviour combining powerful breathing, cold therapy and an unwavering commitment to stimulate our deep physiological processes to realise our full potential. After years of being viewed as completely woo-woo, his method has recently gained popularity. The idea of ice baths has become less crazy and celebrity fans are said to include Oprah Winfrey, David Beckham and Harrison Ford.
“A big portion of participants who try the method here in Singapore are expats, I believe mainly due to Wim’s huge influence on international media and personalities around the world,” explains our teacher, Wim Hof Method Level 2 Instructor, Chun Yih Tan, who first discovered the practice in 2016 after several failed GP diagnosis’ for inflammation. “A smaller portion repeat the experience when they find their personal reasons for doing so. These are usually professionals between 30-50 years old, but I have also guided 75 year olds.”
INHALES AND EXHALES
Today’s session did not begin with Siberian conditions. Rather, a group of sixteen of us kicked off in a comfortable and relaxing room furnished with cushions, throws, and Chun’s soothing tones. He explained the theory beyond Wim’s method and highlighted its many benefits: clinical trials have proven it to help with depression, anxiety, mood, mental focus, and pain management. “The pandemic definitely accelerated the urge in people to find something that can reduce stress and promote recovery in a short amount of time,” says Chun. “What better way to ‘biohack’ your system than with a method that’s practically free, fast, effective and easy?” To the tranquil sounds of the handpan, Chun guides us through a breathing exercise that involves a variation of specific inhales and exhales. “The goal of Wim Hof Method breathing is to teach you to develop command over your nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems to help you be happier, stronger, and healthier,” he says.
Once mastered, we head outside to waiting bags of ice and paddling pools to put our new skill into practice. We proceed slowly, starting first with sliding our hands and then our arms into a bag of ice. The pace picks up as we step up to our ankles and then our knees in a paddling pool of icy water at a temperature of 3 - 6 degrees Celsius, for around 10 seconds each time. I do a lot of “ooh ooh ooh, ahh ahh arrrrgh!” and promptly forget the breathing technique we’ve just learnt.
The session moves quickly. Next, we pair up and sit down in the freezing water. It’s a simultaneously oddly stressful, painful and exhilarating feeling. The beauty (and madness) of it is that for the short period (around one and a half minutes) that you’re immersed, your brain cannot focus on anything external. I stop thinking about deadlines I have to meet, why I said what I did back in 1998, and why I’m practically naked outside Lucali. Instead I turn all of my attention into, well, staying alive.
Above: Wim Hof. Right: Our instructor, Chun Yih Tan. Below: Chun takes participants through the breathing exercises with the help of the handpan
LAZY PERSON’S SPA
The maximum amount of time that anyone needs to stay in the water to reap the full benefits of ice therapy is two minutes. I manage to make it for the duration during our final immersion, although I have to lift my arms out halfway through because they physically hurt. Nevertheless, I do feel pretty proud that I’ve managed to stay the course and have not had a heart attack.
Chun assures me that he hears a lot of “heart stopping” worries, but explains he has various strategies to help people understand that we all have the power within us to get through. According to Chun, the key to mastering the Wim Hof Method is authenticity. “If you can fully accept your body’s messages of fears, worries, pain and sadness, even if it hits you with guilt, mocks your ego, or dangles death in your eyes, the practice can guide you through some incredible moments,” he continues. “After a period of repeated practice, most people perform significantly better in breath exercises and ice dips, and realise that benefits have evolved within them physically, emotionally, mentally and sometimes spiritually. It’s the ultimate lazy person’s spa!” While I’m yet to dedicate all of my weekends to my new hypothermic hobby, I would do a Wim Hof session again. For days afterwards, I was buzzing with uplifting endorphins and felt like my body had been ‘reset’. Best of all, I didn’t even think about slipping into a pair of 40 denier tights for at least a week. Cool, or what?
Every Breath You Take
One round of the Wim Hof Method breathing technique includes these steps:
Take in a strong inhalation through the nose Let out a relaxed exhalation through the mouth Repeat for 30 breaths On the 30th breath, exhale to 90 percent and hold for as long as you can When you feel your body really needs to take a breath, inhale fully and hold for 15 seconds before releasing The basic technique involves three consecutive rounds of the above. Eventually, the breathing may feel like a wave flowing through your lungs.
If getting into the groove of post-pandemic living is proving stressful, you’re not alone. As the world heads out and about again, why do many of us want to stay at home?
How’s your social life looking? Has the recent lifting of rules got you packing your calendar with group meet-ups, minibreaks and plenty of nonmasky activities? There’s no doubt that the lessening of restrictions a few months ago was much welcomed in Singapore, but if the heady days of initial freedom and filling up on missed-out fun now feels done and (whisper it) a little bit tiresome, you’re not alone. After two years of waiting to go out again, why do so many of us just want to stay in?
It could be down to peaking too soon. It might be due to having no new clothes to wear. It’s more likely to be as a result of Cave Syndrome, a non-medical term coined to describe the fear and anxiety that many of us are experiencing about re-joining society as Covid restrictions ease. “Cave Syndrome gets its name from the desire to stay secluded in our safe spaces, instead of venturing out,” explains Kristi Mackintosh, a psychotherapist at Promises Healthcare (promises.com. sg). “It can range from simply being uncomfortable about socialising to absolute fear, and while some hesitancy is to be expected, this fear may start to jeopardise our lives and careers if not monitored and managed appropriately.”
A CERTAIN COMFORT
While it may sound extreme, given the bizarre circumstances of the past few years, apprehension over rejoining society is completely normal. “In part, this is because generally, humans are creatures of habit. We grow accustomed to certain people, places and ways of being, and prefer to stay in the sanctuary of our bubbles,” explains Kristi. “It’s an evolutionary holdover from our prehistoric days when we lived in caves – a protective mechanism which keeps us feeling secure.”
After two years of being in our caves and protecting ourselves, we’ve adjusted to a new baseline. Research suggests that all the changes we made to our daily routines due to the pandemic such as quarantining, avoiding crowds, only dressing from the waist-up and staring listlessly out of windows, have been transformed into longterm behavioural patterns. According to statistics, 49%
of adults* admitted to being uneasy about adjusting to inperson interactions.
Another issue is that many of us enjoyed certain aspects of the pandemic – there was respite from office politics and crushing commutes; a hiatus from society and the endless judgement on everything from outfits to hairstyles; a pause on having to make big decisions as we managed day-to-day living; and greater control over our daily routines thanks to WFH. “Behaviour that is not natural for humans – like isolation, social distancing, and masking – had to be learned and practiced over an extended period of time,” continues Kristi. “As a result, a certain comfort developed.” It’s no wonder we feel a bit weird now.
EMOTIONAL TOLL
According to Kristi, there are certain groups of people who are likely to find the readjustment back to ‘normal life’ more difficult, such as those who were naturally introverted before the pandemic, those who had social anxiety, and those who are in the ‘ageing parent’ bracket and have just got used to staying in. “For this age group, they are often less tech-savvy, and may not have the resources to connect with friends and family once more,” explains Kristi. “Reentering life will have hit this sector harder and can lead to feelings of sadness and hopelessness, and perhaps depression, making it tricky for them to re-engage again.”
Whether it’s you or someone you know who you think might be struggling, the emotional and psychological signs of Cave Syndrome will show up differently for everyone. Says Kristi, “Some may experience anxiety when engaging in activities outside of their home, while in more severe cases people may be unable to leave their home – if this is the case, please speak to your GP, a counsellor or psychologist.”
The emotional toll can manifest in a number of symptoms too, ranging from nightmares to somatic symptoms like headaches, stomach problems, body pains and insomnia.
So, as the good times return, whether it be in the shape of a big blow-out party, a small brunch with friends, or Brix and a party bus, it’s important to consider your re-entry into the world more as a dial, not as a switch. Be mindful of your feelings, and know that you don’t need to go from 0 –100 straight away.
According to Kristi, it can be helpful to implement some practical strategies to help you to feel supported as you go:
PRIORITISE: Make time for your health, prioritising things that you can control, like sleep, diet and exercise. Where possible, try to decrease more negative coping strategies like over-drinking, over-eating or smoking
RELAX: Practice stress-reducing, relaxing activities such as yoga, mindfulness or grounding techniques. Find something that works for you, start slowly and make it a regular habit
BREAK: Take a break from 24/7 news and social media
CONNECT: Stay connected with those whose company you enjoy, and who share the same values and interests
DON’T COMPARE OR COMPETE: Don’t pressure yourself to keep up with anyone else. The pandemic has caused many people to realise that they enjoy a more introverted or ‘smaller’ life and that is okay
START SMALL: Go for a walk with a friend and slowly introduce more challenging situations into your days as you feel more confident
POSITIVE SELF-TALK: Celebrate all of your successes, no matter the size
ACTS OF KINDNESS: Acts of service for others allow us to step out of our usual, often self-involved lives. It develops our compassion for others, in turn having a positive effect on our own happiness. Check out some of the brilliant initiatives that take place within the community by ANZA Action (anza.org.sg/groups/anza-action/)
CHECK IN WITH OTHERS: Although there may be a physical distance, reach out through phone calls or video chat to friends and family you might feel worried about. Say something like: “I notice you’re not going out much recently. Is everything okay?” or strategically invite them to join you in an activity you used to enjoy doing together. If they don’t appear to be adjusting over time, encourage them to speak to their GP, a counsellor or psychologist
JUST DO IT: Humans are inherently social beings, which means living in isolation for prolonged periods can be quite an ordeal which is why we shouldn’t let ourselves delay re-entry out of fear. Research strongly suggests that most people will bounce back eventually, and some will even grow as human beings – a phenomenon known as post-traumatic growth – which sounds like it could be rather lovely, doesn’t it?
Enjoy the summer months in style with our pick of outdoor furniture and accessories to keep your space looking cool when it’s hot, hot, hot!
Whether you’ve got a sprawling lawn, a teeny terrace or a bit of balcony, getting the right outdoor furniture can transform your outdoor space into an extension of your home interior, because why not have a slice of well-designed paradise in your own backyard? Juliet Harper goes in search of the best stores on the red dot to find stylish and durable items and accessories for all budgets. Joyful, comfy, and ready for company and a cocktail, match Singapore’s blue skies with these outdoor beauties.
OHMM Cloud 9 Day Bed Double with Cushion and Side Table Oh, fancy! OHMM BEST FOR: Cool, sleek sofas and dreamy loungers For higher-end, chic, modern furniture, OHMM has over 30 collections to choose from. It offers an extensive range of everything you need for your outdoor setting, including durable Sunbrella fabrics, whether furnishing a larger space, terrace or small balcony. They have the best range of poolside sun loungers that are designed to fit around your shape so you feel beyond snuggly. Prices are not for the faint hearted. Designer Tip: Customise the Cloud 9 day bed, designed for the Marina Bay Sands Skypark poolside 30 Merchant Rd, #03-09 Riverside Point, 058282
10% EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT FOR ANZA MEMBERS!
Present your e-membership card to access your exclusive discount. Valid until 31 July 2023 ohmm.sg
Hansen - Bespoke L Shape Sofa from Originals Abaco Lounge Chairs from Crate and Barrel
Designer Tip
For showstopping pieces, splurge on Crate & Barrel’s The Walker Metal Outdoor sofa and dining set or Abaco low-slung chunky lounge chairs 2 Orchard Turn, #04-21/22, ION Orchard, 238801
CRATE & BARREL
BEST FOR: Premium furniture, lanterns, lamps and Sunbrella fabric outdoor cushions and umbrellas Starting from scratch, needing it all and big on budget? Crate & Barrel offer an extensive collection of high-end European furniture and accessories, plus everything from outdoor games, to pillar candles, kitchenware and outdoor décor. Look out for the Weber smart grills, and barbeque utensils, the Cuisinart compact electric smokers and Ooni pizza ovens. Because we all know that pizza is always a good idea.
TEAK & MAHOGANY
BEST FOR: Custom, bespoke products and sophisticated teak furniture We’re calling it: Teak & Mahogany has the most extensive range of outdoor furniture in Singapore. As their name suggests, they specialise in teak and also recycled teak products, synthetic rattan, steel and aluminum. Offering everything from a traditional look to retro and modern Scandi styles, it’s practically impossible to come away empty handed. Don’t miss their pretty range of cushions in geometric, striped and leafy patterns. Designer Tip: Check out The Copenhagen Series with its mid-century modern feel 100E Pasir Panjang, #07-02/03/04, 118521
Square Pillows in Fretwork Cameo and Fretwork Mist
HOUSE OF ANLI
BEST FOR: Outdoor hammocks, lanterns and beanbags House of Anli offers a wide collection of colourful, cheerful and contemporary modern furniture and accessories by big names such as Fatboy and Costa Nova. The Fatboy Toni Tablo table and chairs can seat up to 10 people. They also have outdoor poofs for your pet! Designer Tip: The cordless, rechargeable Fatboy Edison Mini Lamps and outdoor beanbags 163 Tanglin Road, Unit, 02-21/22, #03-17 Tanglin Mall, 247933
Fatboy RocknRoll Original in stonewashed silver grey from House of Anli
Fatboy Edison lamps in various sizes, from House of Anli
Midrange
KONOPI
BEST FOR: Swinging chairs and smaller outdoor furniture sets Konopi is the ultimate in modern, sleek outdoor tableware, towels, accessories and a wide range of furniture for tighter spaces without breaking the wallet. We love their slick range of cotton towels by the Turquoise Beach Co and are partial to their seriously fun range of doormats. Designer Tip: The Tova Furniture range and Touch Swing Scotts Road, #03 -30/31, 228208
ARGOS 3-seater, swivel lounge chair and coffee table
BOULEVARD OUTDOOR INSPIRATIONS
BEST FOR: Modular furniture for small spaces, outdoor bar sets, rocking and swing chairs Here you’ll find an extensive range of contemporary styles perfect for any outdoor areas, big or small. They offer a good selection of sectionals and modular sofas to adapt to changing needs or spaces and use high quality and durable Olefin outdoor fabrics. A complete outdoor lounge suite or table seating won’t break the bank and will withstand the test of time. Designer Tip: Go for the Argos range in powder coated aluminum with solid teak arm panels and Olefin outdoor fabrics 200 Turf Club Rd, 01-18 The Grandstand, South Entrance, 287994
FOR RATTAN, TEAK BALINESE & INDONESIAN FURNITURE
Castlery, Island Living, Layard Interiors OUTDOOR RUGS
Originals, House of Anli OUTDOOR GLASSES AND SERVE WARE TheHomeshoppe.com.sg, Crate & Barrel OUTDOOR PLANTS AND PLANTERS
Far East Flora, Crate & Barrel, Singapore Facebook sites MORE CUSHIONS
Spotlight, Teak & Mahogany
Claro Acrylic Drink Dispenser with Glass Stand from Crate & Barrel Touch Swing from Konopi
Cane Love Chairs with cushions from hemma.sg
HEMMA.SG
BEST FOR: Finding the little thing you really need but have no idea where to look Hemma.sg is your one-stop-shop for everything. They offer a more eclectic range of outdoor furniture styles and have great prices to match. From cane Love Chairs, to folding teak tables or a swish and more traditional rattan set, this store is your go-to. Designer Tip: The Denver Table with Skano” armchairs hemma.sg
Brilliant for a budget
Juliet Harper is the owner of The Style Affair, offering interior design and styling services. the-styleaffair.com
LADIES NIGHT
We are delighted to be resuming our large group Ladies Nights! ANZA organises monthly girls-only get togethers at various hotspots around Singapore. It’s a fantastic way to widen your social circle, meet newcomers to Singapore and have a laugh. We try to find buzzy new venues and great deals on drinks and food. It’s always a fun night out - come join us!
JUL AUG
THURSDAY 21 July 6.30-9.30pm CLUB 5, Park Royal on BEACH ROAD 7500 Beach Road Singapore 199591 THURSDAY 25 August 6.30-9.30pm MISS FITZ, 6 Marina Boulevard #01-17 The Sail @ Marina Bay Singapore 018985
The past few years have left us dreaming of a brighter future, but there are few things more magical than a trip to the past, as these hotels with a colourful history demonstrate.
While we love a bit of modern snazz, there’s something very special about staying at a hotel that is steeped in local history. Creaky wooden floors, retro antiques, grand lounges made for afternoon tea and gossip, and maybe a hidden underground tunnel or two, have the power to practically time machine you into a bygone era. We reveal some of the region’s most majestic places in which to take a satisfying step back.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel, Vietnam
From the neoclassical facade to the interior garden courtyard, this address is golden-era glamour at its finest. Upon opening in 1901, the likes of Charlie Chaplin and writer Graham Greene rocked up at the hotel’s streetside restaurant, often hanging out for the entire afternoon. In the decades following the Vietnam war, the property was revived once more to its former glory, resplendent with gorgeous antique furniture, spacious rooms and the historical Metropole Wing, which showcases preserved furniture, flooring and neoclassical touches. all.accor.com
Temple Tree Resort, Langkawi
Not quite a hotel, but more of a mini-heritage village, Temple Tree makes you feel like you’ve pitched up on a glorious ancient film set. Featuring twenty beautifully appointed suites which come in the shape of lovingly preserved Malaysian heritage houses, the owners of the resort moved each building from around Malaysia, saving them from demolition. Each one, aged from 80 to over 100 years old, was taken apart piece by piece to complete the journey, before being conserved with a unique character. Today guests are treated to the ultimate authentic stay in properties that used to be a century-old Chinese farmhouse, a colonial-style bungalow, and a 1940s-era Malay home. Features corporate stilts, geometric latticework, wooden furniture, and airy layouts. Amenities at the resort include two swimming pools. The restaurant at adjoining Bon Ton Resort, Nam, is one of the best on the island. templetree.com.my
Amansara, Siem Reap, Cambodia
In 1962, King Sihanouk commissioned French architect, Laurent Mondet, to build a guesthouse that would enable visiting dignitaries to enjoy a luxurious stay, and provide them with close proximity to ancient ruins and rice paddies. Step forward Amansara, which now stands on these grounds and embodies a masterpiece of 1960’s New Khmer architecture ten minutes from Cambodia’s Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 24 suites are suitably tranquil with private courtyards and soothing water features, and there’s also a divine spa, curvilinear pool and dining room - previously the King’s screening room. Whether he had a Netflix subscription remains unconfirmed. aman.com
Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas, Hua Hin
This property was originally known as the Railway Hotel. In the early 1900s, Thailand’s southern railway route finally linked Bangkok and the west coast by train, granting easy access to gorgeous beaches. Hua Hin, which was once a small fishing port, suddenly became a seaside magnet for today’s equivalent of hordes of Instagrammers. Ninety-nine years after its opening in 1923, this colonial-style hotel still sets a luxurious tone with its European-style decor, sweeping staircases, deep bathtubs and romantic verandas. centarahotelsresorts.com The Majestic Malacca, Malaysia
This is a heritage hotel that lives up to its name. Located on the banks of the Malacca River, the hotel showcases a standout white facade overlooking the thriving trade port that once drew merchants from all over the world. Originally owned by a tycoon, the original 1920s mansion remains at the heart of the hotel, while a newer building mirrors the original architecture and maintains allure with teakwood furniture, original Victorian tile floors, claw-foot bathtubs, silk drapes and stained-glass windows. The restaurant looks over the river, allowing guests to dine on Nyonya cuisine with a view. Well worth battling the Causeway on a Friday night. majesticmalacca.com
