Where did Pulau Meskol go? This small island was once part of a cluster south of Jurong. It was a 6.1-hectare speck of land. Today, it is part of Jurong Island.
Pulau Meskol’s story is one of transformation. It shows Singapore’s drive for economic growth. The island’s name offers a clue to its past. “Pulau” means island in Malay. “Meskol” comes from “miskol”. This refers to a water vessel made from a coconut shell.
Nearby islands also had names linked to water vessels. Terumbu Gayong refers to a ladle. Pulau Ayer Chawan means teacup. These names paint a picture of the area’s maritime past. Orang Laut likely used these islands. They were sea nomads familiar with boats and the sea.
In 1995, a massive project began. The goal was to merge several islands. Pulau Meskol was one of ten islands. These islands became Jurong Island. This new island would house petrochemical and petroleum industries. The reclamation cost S$1.3 billion. It was the largest contract ever awarded at the time.
Today, Jurong Island is a major industrial site. It is home to many companies. They produce a wide range of products. These range from petroleum to plastics. Jurong Island is divided into nine districts. Each district carries the name of a former island. Sadly, “Meskol” was not chosen as a district name.
Pulau Meskol’s identity is now lost. It is part of a larger whole. Yet, its name reminds us of its origins. It was once a small island with a unique connection to the sea. The island’s story is one of change. Small islands can become part of something much bigger. They are part of Singapore’s story. Pulau Meskol may be gone but its story lives on.