Whispers of history linger at Sarimbun Reservoir. This isn’t just any body of water. Sarimbun Reservoir holds a significant place in Singapore’s past and present. Its creation involved damming the Sungei Sarimbun and widening nearby waterways. Construction began in November 1977.
Sarimbun Reservoir’s story is deeply intertwined with Singapore’s military history. It sits within the SAFTI Live Firing Area. Access is restricted since 1992. You can only enter through TRMC Gate M or N. The public can access it via Bahtera Track.
But Sarimbun Reservoir is more than just a military zone. It’s a place of natural beauty. A place where Sungei Sarimbun once flowed freely. It’s where General Tomoyuki Yamashita landed his troops during World War II. The battle raged on Sarimbun Beach. Today peace prevails.
The area also played a different role in Singapore’s development. Sarimbun once housed numerous small farms. Vegetable and fruit farms flourished. Health farms too existed here. This peaceful scene was a stark contrast to the battles fought there decades before.
Several permanent campsites once called Sarimbun home. The Singapore Scout Association’s Sarimbun Campsite was one. Girl Guides Singapore’s Camp Christine was another. The Ministry of Education’s Jalan Bahtera Adventure Centre stood amongst them. Sadly these will close by 2032. The expanding SAFTI Live Firing Area will replace them.
The name Sarimbun itself whispers of nature’s abundance. It’s a Malay name likely dating back to the early 19th century. “Rimbun” means lush or plentiful. It perfectly describes the area’s former vibrant ecosystem. The name echoes in the nearby Pulau Sarimbun a small island in the Straits of Johor. This too is part of the SAFTI Live Firing Area.
Even today Sarimbun Reservoir’s story continues. It’s a testament to Singapore’s ever-evolving landscape. A place where history and nature quietly coexist. A reminder of the land’s past and its ongoing transformation. A blend of military significance and ecological wonder. Sarimbun Reservoir is a unique part of Singapore. A place worth remembering.