MEMORIES

 

This is an project by TAN KIM SWEE "to recall memorable scenarios and experiences on life as I knew it, more than half a century ago. It is a collection of snippets of memories of places, happenings and personalities that have withstood the passage of time in my mind. They are purely my own observations, recollections and reflections of places, people and the activities they found themselves performing either out of necessity to eke out a living, or as entrepreneurial or recreational pursuits. What I have been able to recall and recount are these that have left a greater impression on me."

"To a large extent, life in Singapore half a century ago was rather idyllic without the distractions that we have today. Life to a large extent gravitated within communities, and social interactions among the residents were cordial and frequent, perhaps even on a daily basis.

However the presence of street vendors and hawkers, some from other communities were a regular feature and contributed to the vibrancy of life The activities and routines of people, particularly the housewives were intrinsically influenced by the presecnce and schedules of these street hawkers.

If a certain food vendor was scheduled to visit the area on a particular day, housewives might plan to include the item that would be available for dinner that evening

If the haberdashery vendor was due, his clientele would make a check on their needs and purchase what they required, for it might be quite a while before he returned to the area. 

Similarly, if the household vendor was expected, housewives would plan their shopping lists which might include long bamboo sticks for drying clothes, frying pans or pots and pans. These were usually bulky or large items which would have been inconvenient to cart back from shops.

Life has certainly changed! There are certainly more distractions and options: Departmental stores, shopping malls, food courts and hawker centres can be found in most communities. The only street vendor around is the ice-cream seller who goes around usually on a motorised cart. The street hawkers and vendors of old were a sturdy breed, performing tasks that were mentally and physically demanding , with strong and unwavering commitment, and a level of perseverance that would be quite difficult, if not impossible to emulate today. 

All the mobile street food stalls  were part of my growing-up years, and they provided an experience that  has left some indelible memories. The food and service they provided were manifestations not only of their desire to succeed in their professions, but also of the pride in their culinary creations. It is a rare treat to come across a food outlet that can come close to the taste of the offerings they dished out!

These accounts are treasured memories that I would willingly share"