February 25, 2025 | 10:49 am
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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Festival and Ramadan Bazaar titled Gemilang Kampong Gelam, Singapore, has started since February 18 and was officially opened by Singapore's Minister for Development Desmond Lee.
The Singapore government provides support in efforts to develop the economy, tourism, traditional and cultural activities such as those taking place in Gemilang Kampong Gelam. The support in question is the formation of a limited liability company with a guarantee and a new inter-agency task force to support this.
"We are pleased to announce that the Kampong Gelam Alliance (KGA) has been officially formed as a limited liability company with a guarantee, guided by MOS Faishal. This new entity will be led by Saeid Labbafi, Zaki Ma'arof, and Ibrahim Tahir, three leaders of our community," said Singapore's Minister for Development Desmond Lee when opening the Gemilang Kampong Gelam Ramadan Festival and Bazaar in Kampong Gelam, Singapore, February 21, 2022.
Historic District
In his speech, Lee said Kampong Gelam is one of Singapore's most historic districts, which is an integral part of the cultural center. He said the confluence of culture, traditional activities and heritage businesses came together, connecting people and working hard to maintain the unique soul and character of Kampong Gelam.
Over the past three years, the Kampong Gelam Alliance has worked very closely with its advisors, from ministers of state and the Urban Development Authority (URA) to maintain and enhance the potential of this historic district. It is hoped that this will lay the foundation for transforming Kampong Gelam into a more dynamic community hub, balancing heritage preservation and business development.
Chinatown and Little India
He further said that apart from Kampong Gelam, other historic districts in Chinatown and Little India are also the cultural heart of Singapore. These historic districts are home to many heritage businesses that provide long-standing goods and services.
In addition, he said, these districts serve as important community and heritage anchors that are synonymous with the character and identity of the area. Businesses in these districts also maintain strong community ties and maintain an entrepreneurial spirit.
Challenges for Businesses in Cultural Districts
However, their businesses face a number of challenges with rising costs, increasing competition and changing consumer preferences. That is why the government has set up a task force.
“The taskforce will bring together key agencies, community partners and heritage business owners to develop and sustain businesses and activities that play a critical role in keeping our heritage precincts alive for future generations,” said Lee.
The taskforce will focus on two areas: first, exploring how to provide sustainable support for traditional businesses and activities such as skills transfer, workforce support and business transformation. Second, looking at the spaces, infrastructure and placemaking initiatives that may be needed to sustain Singapore’s cultural heartland.
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