Rise and shine with the vibrant heartbeat of Little India as we take you through an early morning exploration of Tekka Market — one of Singapore’s most storied and culturally rich wet markets. This tour begins before the bustle peaks, when stallholders are setting up, regulars are picking out the freshest produce, and the aroma of breakfast fills the air.
You’ll meet veteran stallholders like a chicken seller who’s seen Tekka evolve from its original days as a Chinese-only market to the multicultural hub it is today. Hear firsthand accounts of the days when villagers brought live chickens to sell — and watch as they were slaughtered on the spot, blood draining into the earth. Learn how a fire in the 1970s forced the community to relocate to the current Tekka Centre in the 1980s, where the spirit of the old market lives on in the people who still call it home.
Discover how the market has adapted to its new customers, with specialty stores now catering to foreign workers and their tastes — like freshwater fish that are less familiar to Singaporeans used to their usual saltwater favourites. Then take a break from the sensory feast with a comforting cup of teh tarik at Ar-Rahman Cafe — the same stall where former President S R Nathan used to get his fix. Watch a live demonstration of this pulled tea in action, and taste why it’s stood the test of time. Come hungry for stories — and breakfast.
Chan Boon Kian is a Singapore-based educator deeply involved in both curriculum development and student mentorship. He wears many hats: geography teacher, community heritage volunteer, and active participant in professional teacher associations. Outside of work, he’s a traveller, athlete, and lifelong learner who shares content on Instagram and engages with global communities via Couchsurfing.
Chan Boon Kian is a Singapore-based educator deeply involved in both curriculum development and student mentorship. He wears many hats: geography teacher, community heritage volunteer, and active participant in professional teacher associations. Outside of work, he’s a traveller, athlete, and lifelong learner who shares content on Instagram and engages with global communities via Couchsurfing.
Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and wear covered shoes with good soles
Parking is available at Tekka Centre (665 Buffalo Road Singapore 210665)
After Hours @ My Community
After Hours @ My Community
After Hours @ My Community
After Hours @ My Community
After Hours @ My Community
After Hours @ My Community
