Many Singaporeans have seen HDB-like residential buildings in Hong Kong or the UK while traveling abroad. However, according to Uchify, very few people know that Singapore’s HDB itself once built a complete housing project outside the country.
That project still stands today on Christmas Island, an Australian territory about 1,330 kilometers away.
The Beginning of History
In a video posted to their social media channels, uchify.sg speaks about these buildings. Until 1958, Christmas Island was under the administrative control of Singapore. Later, it came under the control of Australia. In the 1960s, when the phosphate mining industry expanded on the island, many workers from Southeast Asia went to work there.
To meet their housing needs, an agreement was signed with HDB under the Asian Housing Program in 1968.
HDB’s First Trip Abroad
In a project worth about two million dollars (around S$2,574,270), HDB sent 150 workers to build seven residential blocks in the Poon Saan area. Named for ‘middle of the mountain’ in Cantonese, the area was HDB’s first international project.
In 1969, the Straits Times described it as Singapore’s first overseas application of professional services.
Familiar Design
Five blocks still stand today. These three- to four-story buildings are reminiscent of old Singaporean HDB areas. The flat roofs, pastel-coloured walls and long corridors are all familiar. Today, about 100 families live there.
Modern Touches and Community
Initially, the flats did not have tiles or hot water. Later, satellite dishes were installed to provide internet access. The ground floor houses small shops, coffee shops and a community club.
This is where Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are celebrated: a sign of the Singaporean culture still prevalent.
Reaction on Social Media
People commented with their opinions, and observations online.
Some also said that the HDB design is seen other areas in the region. Many see it as a lost chapter in Singapore’s history.
Price and Prestige
In 2015, a four-room unit cost around $250,000 (around S$321,771). Surprisingly, these are freehold properties. That’s why Pun San has become a subject of curiosity for many Singaporeans today.
The historic area is listed as a Commonwealth Heritage Site in Australia, so its design will be preserved.
Watch the video here.
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