Wong Chee Meng

What convinced me to collaborate in this project on the well-being of seniors in Kreta Ayer is the perspective that they are cultural assets, not just hapless victims of marginalisation.

As an independent researcher in history and heritage, I have focused for close to a decade now on the physical and intangible heritage of Singapore’s historic district of Chinatown. Since 2022, I have had the opportunity to conduct a class in Cantonese on Chinese history and culture, attracting enthusiasts regardless of dialect-group background, especially seniors. It’s held at the clan association Kong Chow Wui Koon, where I also volunteer to guide tours for school groups. I have otherwise been active in Cantonese opera activities in Chinatown, which helps me connect with seniors.