Toa Payoh - Historical Background
'Payoh' originates from the Malay word 'paya' for swamp. Toa Payoh is the Chinese equivalent of Paya Lebar, that is, the "big swamp land". It was an extensive and notorious squatter district. Most squatters were engaged in farming and rearing pigs. The others were hawkers, factory workers, mechanics or domestic helpers. The squatters started moving out in 1962 as a result of increased compensation rates and other practical inducements offered by the Government. Clearance work was able to commence and the redevelopment started in early 1964. The Toa Payoh New Town, HDB's second satellite town, was built in 1970. The housing estate was self-contained and had a town centre acting as a focal point for the shopping and entertainment needs of the residents. Industrial developments were also build within the town to provide residents with job opportunities close to home while schools were built within the neighbourhood.
Siong Lim Temple, built in 1902, is located along Jalan Toa Payoh. The 4-hectare site was owned by Low Kim Pong, a wealthy Chinese Hokkien merchant and devout Buddhist.The funds used for its construction were raised by Low Kim Pong and Yeo Poon Seng, one of the saw mill pioneers during the period. In 1950s, the temple area was reduced to about 2 hectares when part of the land was acquired by the Singapore Improvement Trust for public housing. Today, the temple still stands as a landmark amongst the HDB flats. It has become a national monument under the Preservation Order. The temple reflects the social and cultural roots of the early Chinese immigrants.
