In 1822, Telok Ayer was the primary area set aside by Raffles for the Chinese community. As the main landing site for Chinese immigrants, it become one of the first streets in Chinatown and formed the backbone of development of the Chinese immigrant community in early Singapore. As the street used to run along the seashore, it earned the name Telok Ayer, meaning “water bay” or “watery bay” in Malay.
Temples and mosques are plentiful in this area as they were built by Chinese and Muslim immigrants to show their gratitude for safe passage. Temples were constructed not only for religious reasons but also social
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| ones as they were often used as meeting places for various clans and dialect groups. The more well known temples and mosques in Telok Ayer are Tak Chi Temple, now restored as a museum, the Thian Hock Keng Temple, the Nagore Durga Shrine, and the Al Abrar Mosque. |
| Another feature in the area is Speakers’ Corner. Located in Hong Lim Park, Speakers’ Corner provides Singaporeans with a venue to speak freely in public on almost any issue. Drop by the park between 7am and 7pm daily to watch Singaporeans share their views on issues close to their hearts. |
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