How Singapore Chinatown went from slum to diverse tourist hub that puts heritage first
Chinatowns are often portrayed as gritty underworlds riddled with prostitution, gambling and drug trafficking. Some of this is rooted in truth, but that unfair depiction is largely the result of rampant xenophobia and cultural ignorance, especially in the West.
In
a series of articles , the Post explores the historical and social significance of major Chinatowns around the world and the communities that shape them.
In October 2023, the Tai Thong Cake Shop, a family-owned bakery in
Singapore 's Chinatown, closed after 73 years.
The bakery, famous for its handmade
mooncakes and egg tarts, had a loyal customer base, and news of its closure triggered an outpouring of emotion from regulars.
In October 2023, the Tai Thong Cake Shop, a family-owned bakery in Singapore's Chinatown, closed its doors after 73 years in business. Photo: Koh Kim Tat Dean
'I have eaten the traditional handmade mooncakes and nice Cantonese pastries from Tai-Thong since my childhood days … Feeling sad about this piece of news,' wrote one customer on the bakery's Facebook page.
'Gonna miss your dowry cake – have been eating them since I was young,' wrote another. 'This is so sad, my family and I grew up eating your mooncakes. We love the quality and the rich heritage,' lamented another.
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