Siglap

Siglap was one of the oldest residential places in Singapore. According to history keeper, (Cikgu Anis Tairan), the area was discovered by a group of explorer lead by a man name "Tok Lasam" from Minangkabau. He became the head of the village later.

There was two stories with regards to the name Siglap. After landing on the eastern beach of Temasek(Old name for sea-city of Singapore) as they were clearing the thick vegetation growth, they found a darkened place. Likely a jungle with thick vegetation that obstruct most light. This place was then term Si-Gelap(translation from malay means 'the dark place'). In a shortened malay spelt as SiGlap or Siglap as it is now known. There not much written on the history of this place, however what is left is a muslim cemetary somewhere in Jalan Sempadan, Siglap where it was believe the family members and people of Tok Lasam was made to rest. The second story also goes into the same line, but as they were clearing the vegetation the sky turn dark and they head towards a thick jungle that provide them coverage from the strong thunderstorm that might befell. It was then call this place Siglap.

Another historical remain that link Siglap back to the olden days was the Masjid Kampung Siglap. This mosque was rebuilt three times to its present location after the first two was hit by high waves. A fun note to know the early people of siglap settlement where a fishing village, where time are spent at seas and under the hot suns. The people complexion are normally dark, and often call the "the dark children" or "anak SiGlap". In early 20th century a teacher school was built in this kampong and Siglap was famous for being a Malay Kampung with alot of teachers.

KATONG

Katong, or Tanjung Katong is a nice residential area siting at the seafront of the east of Singapore. Was impressed by the infotainment Malay program "Jalan" which make me decide to start compiling about name of the places in Singapore for myself, family especially my children and anyone who will like to share and understand the history of names of Singapore's places.

The name "Katong" may have evolved from a malay word for a species of turtle which was found in that area in the early 19th century. So Tanjung Katong  or in english mean 'Katong cape' or  ' a species of turtle's cape' was the part of area fronting the sea, which has now grown inwards due to land reclamation.

Another version, which derives from the malay word "katung" or often refers as in "terkatung-katung" means floating or hanging. It was understand that the image of the land and coconut trees floating or hanging on the waves creating a soothing and relaxing imagery to the fishing villagers. So the name can also been evolved from this. Which version is the right one is still an answer i wish to search, however knowing this much make me feel enough to know abouth the place that I always frequent.

Looking at the school badge of Tanjung Katong girls school may just be a hint as a sea turtle can be found with strengthen the association to the area.