Malay Heritage Center – Istana Kampong Gelam
Malay Heritage Center – Istana Kampong Gelam
The only useful knowledge I know about the Malay culture is that they are part of the Filipino lineage and history. They are one of the earliest dwellers of the Philippines, so generally, Filipinos have the tendency to have some Malay features here and there. Apart from that, that’s about it for me. Zero knowledge! So when I found out about the Malay Heritage Center, it kind of make sense to go check it out - it is a relevant place to learn not only Singapore’s roots, but also to learn of other places and cultures where Malays have settled in.
From the Arab Street, it’s less than ten minutes of walking. The façade is sweet and spacious. The clean walkways and clear lighting makes the entrance area look like you entered a posh landed house in Singapore. There’s a ticketing counter at the side area, where you have to pay a minimal fee. Of course, the amount paid is inexpensive compared to the museums interiors and information.
The Malay Heritage Center is complete with exhibitions about their rich history. It’s a two floor museum housing nine galleries worth of culture and stories of struggles, success, and nation-building. There are interactive audio-visual presentations, replica models, and preserved paintings that are just incredible!
Even if it’s small in size, the Malay Heritage Center is packed with all the culture trinkets needed for anyone who wants to know and understand about the Malay culture, whether in Singapore or elsewhere. It’s definitely one that is simplistic yet multi-dimensional in the way the art, music, and literature are represented.
Address: 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
Operating Hours: Daily 8:00 A.M. - 9:00 P.M.
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