The National Parks Board (NParks) of Singapore is repurposing five vacant kampong houses on Pulau Ubin for commercial and community use [1].
This initiative aims to strengthen the heritage value of the island. By converting these structures, the government intends to allow future generations to experience the traditional kampung life that characterized early Singaporean society [1].
Of the five houses selected for the project, two are earmarked for community use [2]. The remaining three houses will be repurposed for commercial purposes [3]. These changes are designed to integrate the island's historical architecture with functional spaces that serve both residents and visitors [1].
NParks is currently managing the planning phase for the project. A tender for the consultancy design works is expected to be awarded by the end of 2026 [4]. This timeline ensures that the architectural adaptations align with the island's unique environmental and cultural landscape, maintaining the rustic charm of the village while updating the facilities for modern use [1].
Pulau Ubin remains one of the few places in Singapore where traditional village living persists. The repurposing of these vacant homes prevents the decay of historical structures and ensures that the island's heritage is not lost to time [1].
“NParks is repurposing five vacant kampong houses on Pulau Ubin for commercial and community use.”
This move signals a strategic effort by the Singaporean government to balance urban modernization with the preservation of cultural identity. By designating specific houses for commercial and community use, NParks is creating a sustainable model for heritage tourism and local engagement that prevents the total disappearance of the kampong lifestyle in a rapidly developing city-state.
