The Uncertain Future
Where do we go?
That was the question that divided most shopkeepers. There was nowhere to go, said some, given the exorbitant rents in surrounding malls. I'll bring my business home or retire, said those who were here to pass time, and rid the monotony of their everyday lives. Others however were indebted to the Malay culture. We have a duty to preserve and carry on its legacy, they said. Tanjong Katong Complex might be no more, but Geylang would still be Geylang.
Our Main Challenge
The lack of any certain confirmation from the management, Cushman and Wakefield Services, regarding Tanjong Katong Complex's future plans meant that we had no affirmative answer towards its future. The management told us the decision laid with the Singapore Land Authorities, whom declined comment when contacted.
Mr Siamak Mazouchian, 61, manager of carpet shop Fotohi confirmed a lease extension of 10 years made sometime in 2011 by the authorities. According to their calculations, however, there are a few years more to go with the mall's extension contraction set to be due in 2021, confirmed by a Berita Harian article published in 2013.
Yet till today, shop owners do not know its fate. Mr Zaini, 63, owner of Kresai Indah shop said that he heard from other shop owners that the lease will expire sometime in 2021-2022. He will retire when the lease is over. Like Mr Zaini, many small shops will fold as they cannot keep up with high rental costs in surrounding malls.
There have been rumours of an en-bloc, and demolition plans for a new mall to take its place. But for now, the many questions towards the fate of Tanjong Katong Complex remain unanswered.
