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.