“Princess of Golden Beauty.” That’s quite a name isn’t it? We’re standing near the Radin Mas Flyover. This flyover isn’t just concrete and steel. It carries a story of royalty and resilience.
Radin Mas Flyover is named after Radin Mas Ayu. She was a Javanese princess. Her story is woven into the very fabric of this area. Let’s delve into the tale behind the name.
Radin Mas Ayu’s life was one of adventure. Following her mother’s death in a planned fire, she fled Java with her father. They sought refuge in Singapore. They were escaping persecution from her uncle. He was the sultan. This area became her new home.
She was buried near her first home in Telok Blangah. Her tomb is now a shrine. It is known as Makam Puteri Radin Mas. It still stands today. You can find it near the junction of Mount Faber Road and Telok Blangah Road.
Once, a village mosque stood nearby. It also carried her name. Sadly, it was removed in 2001. This was to extend the road leading up to Mount Faber.
The Radin Mas area gained prominence in 2007. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong mentioned it during the National Day Rally. He envisioned it as a model for Singapore by 2020. This was when a significant portion of the population would be over 65.
While no street directly bears her name today, the area is still known as Radin Mas. Besides this flyover, other structures commemorate her. Radin Mas Primary School is named after her. Also, Radin Mas Community Club honors her. Even Radin Mas SMC, a ward, carries her name. It existed from 1976 to 1988 and again since 2011.
There is also a Tahfiz school that has her name. It is called Sekolah Ugama Radin Mas. It has been running since 1956.
So, as cars zoom over the Radin Mas Flyover, remember the princess. Remember her journey from Java. Remember her lasting legacy in Singapore. The Radin Mas Flyover isn’t just a road. It is a reminder of a princess of golden beauty.