Singapore's most significant and oldest flea market has bid farewell after 87 years. It was an essential part of the local heritage, where the locals could hunt for old bric-a-brac or second-hand goods, a cheap replacement for one's faulty or lost item. It was also where the well-known Sungei Road Laksa, a local spicy noodle soup, originated.
Sungei Road is a childhood recollection.
During my childhood in the 70s, Sungei Road was like a playground, with pre-war shophouses and open-air stalls dealing with all types of electronic goods, including cassette and music recorders. The latest fashion wear, street food and even an illegal mini-casino were in the open.
Then, the Singapore government decided to demolish the pre-war houses there around the 80s. As a result, many trades ceased operation or resettled elsewhere. After completing the demolition, the Thieves' Market returned and began its weekend business. Makeshift tables, cardboard boxes, or canvas mats on the roadside marked the beginning of their attempt to renew their businesses.
These photographs were captured in the last two weeks, before the end of 87 years, when Singapore's most significant and oldest flea market finally became history. It was an essential part of our heritage, where the locals could hunt for old bric-a-brac or second-hand goods, a cheap replacement for one's faulty or lost item. It was also where the well-known Sungei Road Laksa, a local spicy noodle soup, originated.
