Kampong Glam (currently known as Arab Quarter) is an enclave of streets and landmarks between Rochor Canal Road and Beach Road. It was used to house the Muslim settlement (and it still do) under the Raffles Town Plan in 1822. The nearest MRT station is Bugis station (along East-West line), but it is not exactly that nearby. You will have to take a short 15-minute walk along North Bridge Road to reach the Masjid Sultan (Sultan Mosque), one of the main attractions in Kampong Glam.


the Masjid Sultan

The Masjid Sultan was built in 1820s under the instructions of Sultan Hussein, who wanted a mosque befitting his status, close to his palace. The Singapore’s main mosque has the Islamic architecture style of the mosque, defined as Saracenic, is a blend of Persian, Turkish, Moorish and Indian elements. You are most welcomed to wander around freely (except into the prayer hall) through its worshippers. Reny thinks that this is the biggest and grandest mosque she has ever been to, and she highly recommends it.

During Ramadan (a period of time in the year when the Muslims fast in the day), local Muslims will come to the grounds to break their fast at the end of the day.


Bussorah Street


a shop along Bussorah Street

Directly behind the Masjid Sultan is the well-shaded Bussorah Mall, which has been converted into a pedestrian zone – Bussorah Street. There are many shophouses along the street, selling a wide range of souvenirs and handicrafts. It is great to stroll along around this area because it has a rather slow pace of life, unlike the rest of Singapore.


Malay Heritage Centre

Right next to the Masjid Sultan is the modest place of the last Sultan of Singapore and has now been converted into a museum. The Malay Heritage Centre (S$3; S$2 concession; free under 7s), also known as Istana Kampong Glam, tells the story of Singapore’s place in the Malay world. There are also various cultural performances on Wednesdays and Sundays. Suhartono is extremely impressed with this simple and sweet palace-converted-to-museum, because of the exciting stories behind it.


Bugis Prahu Boat inside the heritage centre

While Little India is especially memorable for its fragrances, it is the vibrant colours of the shops of Arab Street and its environs that stick to the mind. This street has the highest concentration of shops in Kampong Glam, so make sure you walk through the obstacle course of carpets, cloths, baskets and bags and source for some good bargains! Although textile stores predominate the street, there are also leather, gemstones, gold and jewellery for sale along the street.


a Malay handicraft shop

So here are some accommodations around the area.


Sleepy Sam's Bed & Beakfast

Sleepy Sam’s Bed & Breakfast (from S$28) on Bussorah Street provides free internet access, maps, a cosy bed and more! There is also the New 7th Story Hotel (from S$18) along Rochor Road. For a more luxurious experience, there is the Golden Landmark Hotel (from S$105) located within walking distance of the Masjid Sultan, on Victoria Street.


Did you know?
Kampong Glam derives its name from the gelam (eucalyptus) tree, which once was abundant in this neighbourhood. Medicinal oil was extracted from the trees and the bark used to caulk boats.