“Kampong Bedok Laut and Kampong Bedok Darat.” Those are the former names of this place. Longtime residents affectionately call this place Bedok Corner. We are standing at the Bedok Heritage Corner. It marks the start of a journey through time.
This area has a rich history. In a nutshell, it was once full of fishing villages. Kampongs dotted the landscape. Markets bustled with activity. Rich men built beachside manors. Even military installations had a presence here.
Back in the day, Bedok was a seaside resort. The East Coast retained its laid-back vibe. The National Heritage Board launched a heritage trail. It guides you to historically significant spots in the Bedok and Chai Chee area. The Bedok Heritage Trail covers 15km. It is marked by 10 markers. These markers are installed at heritage points along the trail. Little of the old landscape remains today.
Bedok Corner was completed in 2005. It features Minangkabau style architecture. This style comes from the Sumatra highlands of Indonesia. It is a nod to Bedok’s kampong past.
Kampong Bedok was founded in the 1850s. Imagine luxury bungalows lining sunny beaches. Seaside motels were popular. Wealthy people resided here. Think of Great Gatsby-like beach parties.
Before Singapore’s land reclamation project, the seashore was close. It was practically at your doorstep in pre-1960s Bedok.
Bedok Corner marks a perilous turn. Illegal motorcycle and car races occurred here. They used the long straight stretch of Upper East Coast as a racing track late at night. This is recorded at a marker beside the hawker centre.
Near Bedok Corner, Villa Kahar still stands. It was once the home of Singapore’s first female doctor. Her name was Dr Lee Choo Neo. She was the grand aunt of Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
Many must-try eats are available here. Suka Ramai Mama Power nasi goreng is popular. Bedok Corner Hokkien Fried Squid Prawn Mee is another favorite. Yang’s Epok-Epok is known for excellent curry puffs. Nasi rawon is available at the Satay Solo stall.
For dessert, try the cheng tng at Ye Lai Xiang. The recipe has been passed down three generations.
Bedok is one of the earliest recorded areas of Singapore. It had been mentioned in maps as far back as the 16th century. So take a moment to appreciate the history around you at Bedok Heritage Corner. As we continue our tour, remember the stories of the past. They have shaped Bedok into what it is today.