Tanjong Katong Complex is getting a makeover. The old mall in Geylang Serai has long held a special place in the hearts of the Malay community, serving as a one-stop shop for traditional Malay textiles, spices, and homewares, especially during the festive season. Now closed for refurbishment, it will reopen progressively from 2026, with a full reopening slated for 2029.
Leading the mall refresh is Jun Jie Development Pte Ltd, which was awarded the tender by the Singapore Land Authority on June 28. As with any makeover, the concern is always about losing the building's original charm. However, Jun Jie Development won the bid based on its "strong, community-centric proposal," which also prioritises the sensitive preservation of Tanjong Katong Complex's heritage. What that hopefully means for us: spiffy new features that will attract fresh crowds while retaining the complex's kampung spirit.
Based on SLA's statement and new artist impressions, the refurbished Tanjong Katong Complex will feature a "community spine" that connects retail, communal, and green spaces. One of the key features will be a multi-purpose rooftop community deck, where we anticipate planned activations such as creative markets, wellness activities, and cultural showcases can take place. There will also be a food garden and art and heritage installations telling the story of Geylang Serai's heritage.
Bookworms have something to look forward to as well. The Geylang East Public Library, now a standalone building located a 15-minute walk away from Paya Lebar MRT, will be relocated to the refurbished Tanjong Katong Complex. A whopping 2,400 square metres of space has been set aside for this.
Recognising the complex's significance to the Malay community, 3,600 square metres has also been set aside for Yayasan Mendai headquarters and the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore. An additional 1,500 square metres will be allocated for Malay cultural trades and entrepreneurial incubation spaces, the latter of which aims to promote young Malay entrepreneurs.
All welcome changes, but one important thing will remain the same: Tanjong Katong Complex's iconic façade. While the artist's impressions show a fresh paint job – featuring warm brown and cream hues and Malay cultural motifs – the complex will retain its distinctive features, including its slanted columns and cylindrical towers.
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