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Chinatown has a rich history of manufacturing and trade. Chinese
health products, gold and bak kwa (barbequed meat) are just some
of the products that Chinatown has become famous for. With time,
the small family-run businesses that provided the goods and services
grew to become household brand names that people around the
globe have come to enjoy.
Since the 1900s, Singapore has earned a reputation as a place
for the production of top quality medicated oils and balms.
These products are often given as gifts and have become part
of Singapore’s heritage. Besides Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
and medicinal products, Chinatown is also a great place to shop
for gold and jewellery. The Chinese-speaking community in the
past did not trust banks and preferred to buy gold as a way to
safeguard their assets.
This TCM shop was founded in 1879. Its founder Eu Kong saw
coolies in Perak suffering from the hardship of physical toil and
opium addiction. Realising that the health and lives of these workers
were at risk, he imported Chinese herbs and medicines and taught
them how to care for their bodies. Today Eu Yan Sang markets
over 280 products under the Eu Yan Sang brand name and over
1,000 different types of Chinese herbs and medicinal products
and has outlets in Hong Kong, Macau, Guangzhou, Taiwan, Malaysia
and Singapore.
This equally reputable TCM shop opened in 1955. It offers health
consultations, herbs and specialises in ginseng and bird’s nest which
has manifold health benefits.
Established in 1916, this is Singapore’s oldest medical oil firm.
Over the years its legacy has grown and customers swear by
the efficiency of its products.
A modern heritage jeweler
established since 1936, charms
with its exciting mix of traditional
and contemporary Asian and
Western designs. Each is a
masterpiece of elegance and
ultimate perfection, exuding a
timeless charm that always
appeals. Serving its customers with dedication and professionalism,
jewellery lovers can also look forward to creative services for
designs reflective of their unique personalities. Recently embarked
on a re-branding program, its newly renovated retail showrooms
spot a brand new look with interiors styled after art-deco expressions.
Bak kwa is another famed
Chinatown produce and is a
popular food item during
Chinese New Year. They are thin
slices of sweet and salty meat
that are roasted over charcoal
to flavourful perfection. There
are two well-known brands that
are favourites with the local residents - Lim Chee Guan and Bee
Cheng Hiang. Founded by Lim Kay Eng in 1938, Lim Chee Guan
still follows the same exacting process to ensure highest quality.
The other bak kwa brand is Bee Cheng Hiang and this was
established in 1933. It now has more than 100 outlets across six
countries. A visit to Chinatown is not complete without buying a
box of bak kwa back to share with friends and family.
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