For a charming peek into Malay culture in Singapore, visit the Istana Kampong Glam – also known as the Sultan’s Palace or Residence.  The Istana Kampong Glam forms part of the Kampong Glam conservation area, and was converted into The Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) to preserve the rich Malay culture and its heritage.

Malay Cultural Contributions

Visitors can learn more about the significant contributions of prominent Malays such as:

Yusof bin Ishak 
Yusof bin Ishak was Singapore’s first President. He was a former journalist who founded the first Malay newspaper, Utusan Melayu, and aided the educational progress of Malays.

Said Zubir
Best known as the composer of Singapore’s national anthem, Majulah Singapura (Onward Singapore), Said Zubir was also a scorewriter and arranger for Cathay-Keris film productions. He was first approached by the City Council of Singapore to write a song for the city’s official functions. The song-writing took a year to complete. The original music score can still be seen and is housed in the MHC.

Exhibitions, Seminars and Performances

The Malay Heritage Centre also hosts a series of changing exhibitions, seminars, talks and performances which showcase the Singapore Malay community’s rich cultural heritage. Check out their website to see what’s going on and make a date for your next visit.

Adapted from an article first published on 15 May 2013 on the Dads for Life Toolbox.

Photo Credit: rcoulstock via Compfight cc