The Malay Heritage Centre

Before it was called the Malay Heritage Centre, it was actually called Istana Kampong Glam, which means the Sultan’s Palace. This was as it was actually a home to the Malay royalty in Singapore. Once, it also housed a club, Kota Raja Club, which regularly organized leisure activities for the community in Kampong Glam. From 2005 onwards, it served as the Malay Heritage Centre.

Moving on to my visit, the moment I entered the grounds of the museum, I was welcomed by the wonderful garden view with a mini water display right smack in the middle of the garden.

The outside if the museum with the fountain behind the signage

\There are no entry fees for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents. A small fee is issued to foreigners. However, from 9 May to 31^st August, entrance is free for everyone. It is not stated why. However, I do think that it is because of SG50. It could also be because of the renovations being made at the Visitor Centre.

The silhouette's of some of the most prominent Malays, Arabs, etc with their achievements stated there

A mini theatre showing old shows and music videos

The National Anthem of Singapore

Zubir Said gallery exhibiting his musical instruments 

An example of the more elaborate dressers used then

The Heritage Centre consists of two levels with 6 permanent galleries. Once in a while, the heritage centre will exhibit temporary exhibitions. It was interesting to read about how the Arabs came to Singapore selling their textiles, as I, myself, am half Arab. The museum also talks about how the other prominent races came to Singapore. It exhibited old songs, record players, clothing and many more.

I think that the most interesting exhibit is the Zubir Said gallery. He was the man who composed Singapore’s National Anthem and several other popular songs. I think that it is very interesting as the gallery also displayed how the music was back then. Its nice to see how it has evolved over the years.

All in all, I feel that if you have the time are interested, the Malay Heritage Centre would be nice museum to visit to learn more about how the area used to be back then.