SOULLESS SINGAPORE: SAVING OUR CEMETERY SPACES

Abstract

Cemeteries in Singapore have long been spaces that are much neglected and often deemed sacrificial for other architectural development. However, in light of the recent green light given by the government to exhume the graves and clear Bukit Brown Cemetery, a significant portion of Singaporeans has woken up to recognize their value, not just architectural, but also social and environmental. Nonetheless, many still deem these historical spaces as "unwanted" and "inauspicious". This study aims to highlight the potential losses that our nation faces should our last remaining major cemeteries be cleared. A number of case studies, both local and foreign, have been investigated and it was found that with better social and urban integration to the society, these spaces can be better understood and appreciated by society and with that, their conservation can then be carried out more effectively and efficiently.