This is a walk in the dark. We meet at 7pm at Springleaf MRT station, 28th December 2024. From there, we’ll take bus service 138 to the former Mandai Tekong Village. Once, part of the massive SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) training areas, Mandai Tekong was a familiar training ground for many who served their National Service in the 60s, 70s, up to the early 80s.
Nearby, Hill 265 was a notorious hill for many of us. And yet, it holds so much memories for those who still remember the foxholes we used to dig. And what about that pretty girl who used to sell us her fried kway teow at the foot hill of the village not too far away.
Jalan Ulu Sembawang used to run through part of the larger Mandai Tekong. The villagers here were accustomed to soldiers stealing a rambutan or two during the fruit seasons. Villages dotted the entire stretch of Jalan Ulu Sembawang.
Most of us have forgotten that this road once led all the way to Sembawang Road. On its way, the route passed through several farms that look much like the Cameron Highlands. The ponds that kept the ducks busy had an authentic kampong look (and feel). The veggie farms, though without modern technology, looked much like they were professionally manicured.
All these ended when Singapore decided that we cannot look into the past with loving tenderness. To move ahead, we must look forward to new challenges. Today, part of the PCN (Park Connector Network), Jalan Ulu Sembawang sits forlorn in its own quiet days - while awaiting its future. But, for the true nature lovers, this presents us with an opportunity to re-awaken our night training era during our NS days.
Bring your torchlights – the brighter the better! There are no streetlights here. We meet at Han’s Café, next to Springleaf MRT at 7pm on the 28th December. Take Exit 2 to street level. This tour ends at about 9.30pm, maybe 10, at Woodlands South MRT. Bring your bus card. We’ll be taking the bus to Mandai Road.
Note:
- We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour. Tipping guide as follows: $20 for a satisfactory guide, $20+ for a guide who exceeds expectations, and $30 for an outstanding guide.
- We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and no-shows.
- Call or message Uncle Chris at +65 91814298 for corporate, private, or student bookings.
Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Please understand this method of booking platform can only perform its best with your full sincerity. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule. We look forward to your graciousness and generosity!
