Iconic arch tops off Geylang Serai cultural belt rejuvenation

The rejuvenation works for the Geylang Serai cultural belt has been completed, with an arch that stretches across the junction of Geylang Road and Joo Chiat Road being the landmark of the area.

The arch, which is designed after Malay kampung houses, is located at the corner of Geylang Serai Market and Hotel 81 Tristar.

Road paintings inspired by traditional weaving craft at the junction and a new shared path for pedestrians and cyclists at the Geylang Serai Market are among other rejuvenation efforts in the cultural belt.

At Joo Chiat Complex shopping mall, improvements include a new glass entrance canopy, a playground and bicycle parking spaces, as well as an upgraded drop-off point and pathway.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who was guest of honour at the launch of the arch on Sept 7, said Geylang Serai has become a wellintegrated community that reflects Singapore's multiracial and multi-religious society.

"The Government is fully committed to ensuring that Geylang Serai will continue to have the best of the new and the old - a vibrant place with modern amenities, and also one that retains its distinctive Malay heritage," he added.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Maliki Osman, who chairs the steering committee for the Geylang Serai Cultural Precinct, said the arch is the first of its kind in Singapore.