DEMISE OF A �GREATER � TOWN? - RELOOKING CHINATOWN HERITAGE DISTRICT

Abstract

The definition of public spaces constitutes layers of dominant order which depicted the notion of space and social behaviours. Through various ownership of the district, periodically, they develop certain characteristics within the spatial configurations that allow a sense of uniqueness and flexibility. These dispositions could be distorted from the historical authenticity, dependant on the country’s development. For Chinatown, it was not only the act of conservation but an interest of creating commodity for the country’s development. The district had transformed from a community enclave to a capitalistic end-product in order to boost tourism and economical richness. The street cultures of Kreta Ayer District compromised by the uprising of commercial needs, thus replaced by office and upmarket retails, which serve to appease tourists. The social and economic qualities of Kreta Ayer evolved. Lastly, the creation of thematic streets in Chinatown was a result of a subjective preposition, resultant in an “imagined” and dysfunctional street. The transformations of historic streets in Chinatown were viewed differently both by the government and the citizens over the past decades. The dissertation not only understands how our perception of streets in Chinatown has been transformed throughout history contexts, from its colonial period till in recent years, but critically examines “authenticity” in Chinatown. By understanding the street beyond its mere spatial-formulation entity, the approach took on different perspectives, extracting viewpoints from social, economic and political factors. The report also studies the conflicts and dilemmas constituted by the state government in re-creating street culture, the authentic replicas. Analysis from articles and personal interviews from sociologists, geographers and architects, with the unresolved debates and contradictions presented, subjection to authenticity will be challenged. Lastly, the discourse will continue on how the present Chinatown has become a product of the past; affirming the “legacy” of the once vibrant street behaviours.