Articles
Singapore's Coastal Communities
Topic
Society
Subtopic
Community stories
Heritage
Identity and values
16 July 2025
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At Islanders’ Day on 14 June this year, many braved the heat at West Coast Park to celebrate the culture and stories of Singapore’s coastal communities that once lived off the land and sea. From the martial arts of Pulau Sudong to the rhythmic Joget Dangkong dance, participants got a glimpse into the lives of these former offshore islanders.
As many of these former islanders were very young when they were relocated to the mainland for national development in the 1970s, there is now a sense of urgency to record and preserve the disappearing memories and heritage of these seafaring folk.
Initiatives such as this festival are important to help Singaporeans understand our diverse heritage and strengthen our unique multicultural identity as Singapore continues to progress.
Do you know there are more than 60 islands in Singapore? Learn more about them via our series.
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