新山镇安古庙

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Singapore’s spiritual landscape, discover the captivating story of the 新山鎮安古廟. The year was 1937. 新山鎮安古廟 was established along the Sungei Plentong River in Kangkar Tebrau. The temple nestled near the Kangkar Tebrau coal mine, becoming a beacon of hope for the local Chinese community. 新山鎮安古廟’s main deity, Zhao Da Yuan Shuai (Grand Marshal Zhao), watched over his devotees. The temple quickly became a vital part of the community. Two Chinese temples thrived in Kangkar Tebrau during this time, serving a relatively small Chinese population. To ensure a flourishing community, guided by divine inspiration, the decision was made to relocate 新山鎮安古廟. Around the same time, the residents of Kampung Bahru, a fishing village also known as “New Pearl of the South Shore”, yearned for a place of worship. They wished to honor their deities and pray for safe journeys and bountiful catches. In 1939, under the leadership of Huang Gongying, 新山鎮安古廟 embarked on a remarkable journey. The temple’s deities were transported by wooden boat across the Tebrau Straits, then through the Johor Strait, to their new home in Kampung Bahru. The villagers welcomed the temple with open arms. Their combined efforts, both financial and physical, ensured the temple’s successful establishment. 新山鎮安古廟’s new location offered a unique and auspicious setting. Perched atop a hill, overlooking the sea, the temple commanded a breathtaking view. The spacious grounds before the temple welcomed worshippers. The temple’s fame and spiritual presence grew. In 1965, the Singaporean government, recognizing the strategic location of 新山鎮安古廟, acquired the temple land for the development of new towns in Woodlands and Sembawang. As compensation, the government allocated a two-hectare plot of land near the three-story residential area of Race Course Road and provided $30,000 in funding. The villagers, along with devotees, matched the government’s contribution, raising a total of $60,000. The new 新山鎮安古廟 was completed in 1977, standing proudly on Jalan Sungei Lanchar in Woodlands. Today, 新山鎮安古廟’s golden sign, adorned with the inscription “新山鎮安古廟,” welcomes visitors. A couplet flanks the entrance: “鎮南疆威扶四海” (Zhen Nanjiang’s power protects the four seas) and “安社稷恩惠及萬方” (Ansheji’s kindness reaches all directions). This couplet speaks to the deep reverence and faith the community holds for the temple’s deities. 新山鎮安古廟 remains a testament to the resilience and devotion of the Chinese community in Singapore. It stands as a vibrant symbol of their enduring faith and cultural heritage.