While many Singaporeans wish to have a more efficient and extensive MRT system, we often do not consider the possible ramifications entailed with the construction of a new station.
Saving
Sungei, a reminiscent documentary by Shintaro Tay,
highlights the unfortunate plight of the peddlers in Sungei Road Thieves Market.
The market will cease its operation this year due to the development of the
upcoming Sungei Road MRT station.
Plastered across the green metal barriers
at the construction site is a phrase “going home for dinner earlier” commented
by an anonymous future resident. Yet, these peddlers who are mostly in their
60s to 80s will be unable to even afford another meal because of the imminent
erasure of their livelihood.
The juxtaposition in the film is a blatant
emphasis on the depressing situation of the progression of society that
benefits a side more than the other. Furthermore, the peddlers’ daily sales
only amount to a meagre sum sufficient to keep their stomachs full and a roof
above their heads. With little education and mobility, they are also unable to
find another job easily.
Sadly, the decision to build Sungei Road
MRT station at the location of the Thieves Market will eradicate 80 years of
historical value. Yet, its value is not only recognised by the sellers. Regular
patrons at the Thieves Market stem from diverse backgrounds and races too.
From locals to foreign workers and
tourists, the Thieves Market undeniably holds some value (perhaps economic) to
its visitors. It is indeed unfortunate that this heritage site, which is rich
in historical and cultural value, will give way to accommodate Singapore’s
expanding transport system.
With our limited land space in Singapore,
it is commonplace to relocate territories to make way for our technological
advancements. Yet sometimes I wonder, at what (or whose) expense are we
advancing to?
Making its world premiere at the Sheffield
International Documentary Festival in 2015, Saving
Sungei is most relevant as the market has unfortunately officially closed
in mid-July 2017.
Nonetheless, there has been some exchange
with the government to allocate resources to aid these peddlers and we can only
hope that the trade will not die off.
You can watch the short film here.