Did you know that the ‘Padang’ simply means “flat field” in Malay?

We thought that the term ‘Padang’ would have an elaborate meaning considering its historical significance and the fact that it is Singapore’s most important civic space. Even now, it is surrounded by the skyline of various prominent buildings such as the Singapore Flyer and the Esplanade.

The Padang was reserved as an open space in Raffles’ 1882 Town Plan. It is located within the Downtown Core of the Central Area in Singapore, at the heart of Singapore’s business district. The Padang has been the venue for many important national events such as the very first National Day Parade in 1966 and other years’ National Day parades followed suit. Although it had been speculated that the Padang would be used for development several times, this plan was abandoned due to public outcry.

Apart from housing historical events, the Padang was the venue for sporting and social activities among the Europeans. Perhaps, this has something to do with the close proximity of the Singapore Cricket Club.

Thus, looking back at the events held at the Padang, it is not wrong to say that Singapore History was made at the Padang.

Can you spot the skyline and the people playing cricket behind us?

Labels: padang

posted by Jaishree

********************