Straits Times: Conserve Linguistic Heritage of Singapore

“Look beyond brick and mortar preservation and save dialects from becoming extinct
By Paul Tan

THE recent debate on saving the Butterfly House at 23, Amber Road is heartening on two counts.

One, it points to the growing interest many Singaporeans have in protecting the island's architecture. The 20-member group that was formed to lobby for its preservation, the Historic Architecture Rescue Plan, has its forebears in the enthusiastic Singaporeans who petitioned against the demolition of Eu Court along Stamford Road in the early 1990s and, more recently, the old National Library.

Two, it underscores the uniqueness of certain parts of Singapore. The individuals interviewed for the Straits Times report identified themselves as Katongites and spoke passionately of the distinct character of the area. In a modern era of homogeneous public housing and families who change homes every few years, that unique historical flavour should be valued, not least by the country's urban planners.

But in this popular discussion to conserve heritage and foster the rootedness of Singaporeans, one wonders, can preservation be extended beyond brick and mortar? For instance, should we also try to save Singapore's rich linguistic heritage?
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One wishes the Katongites well in their petition to save 23, Amber Road. It will be an uphill task, given that the prime land the mansion sits on belongs to a private entity and the planning authorities' track record when it comes to petitioners.”

Read the full article at the Straits Times website.