Firstly, I am very glad and honoured to be part of this trail. It will be interesting to do a research on a neighbourhood I have been living for almost 9 years. Wow, in just a blink of an eye, it has been 9 years since then! I can still remember how little i was when i first moved into Toa Payoh.

After doing some basic research, I have came to realise "Payoh" comes from the word "paya" which means swamp. Toa Payoh is the Chinese equivalent of the Malay Paya Lebar which means “big swamp land”. Prior to 1960, the area was a huge residential colony. Toa Payoh New Town was built in 1970 and is the republic’s second satellite town after Queenstown. Toa Payoh was once an extensive and notorious squattar district. Most squatters were engaged in farming. The others were hawkers, factory workers, mechanics or domestic helpers. The squatters started moving out in 1962 as a result of increased compensation rates and other practical inducements offered by the Government. Clearance work was able to commence and the redevelopment started in early 1964.

I do not have much childhood memories in Toa Payoh Estate as my family moved to China to stay for a period of time. However, I still do remember the times I had in my primary school and the hang outs at the playgrounds. Not forgetting, the drastic change from an old and warm bus interchange into a beautiful and convenient air-conditioned bus interchange we have today. It is also the first fully air-conditioned bus interchange in Singapore. Nevertheless, Toa Payoh Central has been one of the most convenient places for me to purchase daily necessities. Also, Toa Payoh town centre has its own cinema, hawker centres, coffee shops, a library and a nearby park. Visitors will be spoilt for choice at the range of merchandise, food and entertainment options available. Recently, I went to Toa Payoh Park for a photoshoot with my friend. It was a great experience as I have not been visiting there for quite some time. Both my friend and I enjoyed the pleasant nature and environment there.

I am glad to be a part of Toa Payoh Estate for the convenience and would definitely love to explore it more whenever i have the chance to.

Love,
Claris (: