Yishun: Latest News & Highlights
- Driver in 2024 Yishun Crash Sentenced | July 14, 2025
A driver involved in a car crash at the junction of Yishun Avenue 6 and Yishun Avenue 1 on June 11, 2024, was sentenced on July 14, 2025. The accident, which injured two people, led to a wider investigation that uncovered the driver’s connection to an organized crime group. - Recent Incidents Highlight Community and Building Safety | June 2025
Two separate events in Yishun this month have highlighted the importance of vigilance. A man was unfortunately injured in a stabbing incident at Yishun Avenue 6 on June 13, and just days later on June 19, a resident was hurt by falling concrete in his HDB flat’s toilet. - Chencharu BTO Development Progresses | Feb 2025
The new Yishun housing estate, Chencharu, is taking shape with the launch of its first BTO projects, Chencharu Green and Chencharu Vines. This marks the beginning of a major transformation that will add 10,000 new homes, a park, and integrated community facilities, including a future mixed-use site with private homes next to Khatib MRT.
Yishun overview
Yishun is a mature residential town located in the northern part of Singapore. It offers a mix of public housing (HDB flats) and private condominiums, catering to a diverse population. The town is well-planned with a range of amenities and green spaces, aiming to provide a self-sufficient and comfortable living environment for its residents.
Key amenities in Yishun:
- Shopping malls: Northpoint City, Wisteria Mall, Junction 9
- Hawker centres/markets: Yishun Park Hawker Centre, Chong Pang Market
- Parks: Yishun Pond Park, Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, Sembawang Park
- Schools: A wide range of primary and secondary schools, along with Yishun Innova Junior College and Republic Polytechnic
- Healthcare: Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital, several polyclinics and specialist clinics
- Community centres: Numerous community clubs offering various activities and services.
Real estate trends in Yishun
Yishun’s real estate market has seen significant growth in recent years, reflecting the neighbourhood’s increasing popularity and improved image. Property prices, both for HDB flats and private condominiums, have been on an upward trend. Several factors contribute to this positive trajectory.
From 2015 to 2019, we see a decline in average PSF, dropping from about S$700 to below S$500. This trend aligns with a few key realities.
During this period, Yishun was still considered relatively underdeveloped compared to other heartland towns like Punggol or Sengkang, which were benefiting more directly from aggressive development under the HDB’s Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme. Yishun’s older housing stock and limited appeal likely kept prices subdued, despite stable transaction volumes.
However, from 2019 onward, the graph shows a notable uptick in both average PSF and, shortly after, transaction volume. This can be strongly correlated with several government and private sector developments in Yishun.
The opening of Northpoint City in late 2017—Singapore’s largest mall in the North—and the expansion of healthcare infrastructure (like the new Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Yishun Community Hospital) significantly boosted the town’s liveability and attractiveness. These improvements may have taken a year or two to be fully priced into the market, explaining the lagged but steady rise in prices from 2019 onward.
Furthermore, the rise of decentralised employment nodes—as part of Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Master Plan—also helped draw more people to live and work outside the city core, boosting demand for housing in Yishun and other non-central areas.
This decentralisation effect became even more pronounced post-2020, as remote work and flexible commuting gained traction during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Buyers started to prioritise space and suburban living over proximity to the CBD, lifting prices in previously overlooked areas like Yishun.
By 2023–2024, the average PSF crosses S$750, a record high for the decade. This reflects not only the infrastructural transformation but also the spillover demand from other pricier districts. Yishun became an increasingly viable option for young families and HDB upgraders priced out of more central towns.
The enhanced accessibility via the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) and improved road networks have made Yishun more attractive to buyers and tenants. The development of new amenities, such as the Chong Pang integrated development, and the upgrading of existing ones have boosted the desirability of the area.
Compared to more central locations, Yishun now offers relatively more affordable housing options, attracting families and individuals seeking value for their money. The combination of factors mentioned above has led to strong demand for properties in Yishun, driving up prices and creating a competitive market.
The perception problem: Income and image
The perception of Yishun as a crime-ridden area, as noted by Institute of Policy Studies senior research fellow Leong Chan-Hoong, likely stems from socioeconomic factors. He points out that lower-income neighbourhoods are often perceived as having higher crime rates, a bias that can overshadow the actual statistics.
This perception, coupled with Yishun’s history, may have contributed to its image, regardless of the reality.
So, what strange things have happened in Yishun that have contributed to this image?
Animal lovers may remember the disturbing string of cat abuse cases between September and December 2015, when 17 cats were reportedly killed or seriously injured. The abuse was brutal—cats were thrown from high floors, bludgeoned, or found with gruesome injuries. While two suspects were arrested, the killings didn’t stop. As recently as April 2021, three kittens were found dead at the same block within four days—chillingly, the same location had similar cases in both January and October 2020.
In what sounds like a plot from a TV drama, Yishun has also seen not one, but multiple incidents involving stun guns. In August 2016, two men were caught playing with a stun gun outside Northpoint. Then in January 2017, two suspects trying to steal from a car decided it was a good idea to attack police officers—with a stun gun. Spoiler: they were quickly arrested. The bigger question though—how did they even get their hands on these weapons in the first place?
Yishun also battled a rat infestation in parts of the town. One determined shop owner took matters into his own hands, killing eight rats in two days using a bamboo pole. Some residents joked that the rising rat problem might be karma for the cat killings. Either way, it didn’t help the town’s image.
In 2016, Yishun made headlines again—this time for its involvement in a drug syndicate bust. Authorities arrested 111 suspected traffickers, with the leader found operating out of Yishun. Fast forward to April 2020—yes, during the Circuit Breaker—five more individuals were arrested in the area, and drugs worth at least S$360,000 were seized. But the most shocking case? A Yishun resident, Barry Zheng Chongde, was allegedly involved in a S$64.6 million cocaine syndicate in Australia. He was later charged in court overseas in 2016.
Adding to the strange reports, there was the mysterious man from November 2016 who went around knocking on doors asking for people’s children. No, really—he would show up unannounced and ask parents if he could have their kids. It’s like the stuff of local horror shows, only it happened in real life.
Yishun’s name has also come up frequently in connection with violent crimes, particularly murders and suicides. One of the most horrific incidents was the 2008 triple murder at Blk 349 Yishun Street 11, where a man killed his three housemates. Other cases include deaths involving acquaintances and church members.
More recently, in April 2025, a molestation incident shocked commuters on a Yishun Ring Road bus. An elderly man was arrested after allegedly molesting a young girl during the ride. According to police reports, he was promptly charged in court within the same week.
The reality: Declining crime rates and a neighbourhood on the rise
Each of these incidents when taken in isolation paint a very dreary picture of the estate. However, recent figures from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) tell a compelling story of improvement. A decade of dedicated effort has yielded impressive results, with both Yishun North and Yishun South Neighbourhood Police Centres recording a remarkable drop of at least 50% in annual crime cases from 2013 (Source).
This significant decrease in crime rates is a testament to the effectiveness of community policing initiatives and targeted interventions.
Beyond crime statistics, several key drivers are contributing to Yishun’s revitalisation. The upcoming integrated development in Chong Pang City, slated for completion in 2027, is a game-changer.
This ambitious project will rejuvenate the area’s oldest hub, bringing modern amenities, improved market facilities, and enhanced community spaces. It signals a significant investment in the heart of Yishun, boosting its appeal as a vibrant and self-sufficient town centre.
Increased focus on elder care and accessibility
Yishun’s focus on its ageing population is another defining characteristic. With approximately 10% of residents aged 65 or over, the neighbourhood is geared towards providing comprehensive eldercare.
The presence of Yishun Community Hospital, supplementing Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, along with upcoming nursing homes, underscores this commitment. Yishun’s designation as Singapore’s first dementia-friendly neighbourhood, with grassroots initiatives and community involvement, further solidifies its reputation as a caring and inclusive community.
Accessibility, a long-standing challenge, has also seen dramatic improvements. The addition of Springleaf MRT station on the Thomson-East Coast Line has significantly enhanced connectivity, particularly for the previously underserved Springleaf enclave.
Improved road infrastructure, such as Yishun Avenue 8, and the integration of Northpoint Mall with the transport hub have made commuting and getting around much easier for residents.
Yishun: Things to do
Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Lower Seletar Reservoir Park: A tranquil spot popular for kayaking, dragon boating, and leisurely walks along the water promenade.
- Yishun Pond Park: Located in front of Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, this park features a spiral tower offering panoramic views and is a favorite for evening strolls.
- Thomson Nature Park: A haven for nature enthusiasts, this park is home to diverse flora and fauna, providing a peaceful retreat from urban life.
- Khatib Bongsu Nature Park: Set to be a 40-hectare nature park by 2030, it will feature mangrove and mudflat habitats, enhancing Singapore’s biodiversity.
Yishun Dining & Local Delights
- 928 Yishun Laksa: A local favorite offering hearty bowls of laksa at affordable prices.
- Coba Coba: A cozy eatery serving traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi padang, perfect for those craving authentic flavors.
- Nelly’s Retro Snacks: A nostalgic snack shop offering classic treats such as tapioca chips and Craze Hottis, reminiscent of childhood favorites.
Shopping & Leisure
- Northpoint City: The largest shopping mall in northern Singapore, featuring over 400 stores, a community club, and a public library.
- Yishun Park Hawker Centre: A modern hawker center with family-friendly amenities, including a play area and cashless payment options.
- J² Terrarium: A unique workshop where visitors can create their own terrariums, offering a hands-on experience for all ages.
Yishun Future plans
Upcoming Developments
- Chencharu Estate: A new housing area near Khatib MRT station, set to offer around 10,000 new homes by 2040, with at least 80% designated for public housing.
- Bukit Canberra: An integrated development featuring a polyclinic, senior care center, hawker center, swimming pools, and an indoor sports hall, enhancing the living experience for residents.
Connectivity Enhancements
- North-South Corridor: A major expressway and cycling path project connecting northern Singapore to the city center, expected to improve travel times and accessibility for Yishun residents.
- Springleaf MRT Station: The upcoming station on the Thomson-East Coast Line will further enhance connectivity, making commuting more convenient for residents.
On the bright side, not all is bad
In conclusion, Yishun’s narrative is evolving. While its past reputation may linger, the reality on the ground is changing rapidly.
Improving safety, new developments, a focus on eldercare, enhanced connectivity, and a strong community spirit are all contributing to Yishun’s transformation. The rising real estate prices and increasing demand for housing in the area are a clear indication that people are recognizing Yishun’s potential and are ready to embrace its future.
Perhaps it’s time to look beyond the memes and see Yishun for what it is becoming: a vibrant and thriving neighbourhood in its own right.
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If you found this article helpful, 99.co recommends Is Yew Tee the new Yishun? and Should you buy property in Singapore’s cursed town?
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Yes. the neighbourhood is so full bad news even JI planned to bomb the mrt station pre 9/11. lol
How bad is the crime rate compared to other areas? Did you do any more research to sustaintiate your claims? Are you just capitalizing on popular topics to get attention? Do you dare to tell your friends in Yishun this is what you think of the them.
Ryan, as a Singaporean you should be ashamed of yourself.
Are you even a local ? It is widely known among the heart-landers that Yishun is where all the weird stuff is happening. And indeed, alot of weird man-made incidents happen there. Can you argue that Yishun is as peaceful as say, Ang Mo Kio ? Get your salty ass off the internet if you’re gona get so upset and up tight over a light-hearted post. People like you are why people think Singaporeans are narrow-minded people who don’t know how to have fun. And you should be ashamed of yourself if you are a Singaporean, cos you’re not acting like one.
I used to live in Yishun in 2000 and it was very quiet and peaceful. All of these weird/violent stories are more recent so I don’t know what happened.
Yishun is a nice place to live in. Especially for young parents.
Plenty of preschools around the neighbourhood.
PSA: Our First Steps Preschool is offering S$400 discount off childcare for Yishun residents now. Google them and check it out yourself.
Am leaving in yishun since 35 years, i have not experience any thing like that as such, its a beautiful place to leave,
It’s all depends on the person to person whom u would like to mix with. If you are decent person u will prefer decent type of people. Good& bad are everywhere u can’t point out one area yishun only that ridiculous,
Look at NEA’s website on dengue cluster. Yishun has very few compared to other towns.
Either it is very well kept….or even the mosquitoes don’t want to be there. Could be interpreted in both ways.
Serangoon Gardens is a dengue cluster cuz of all the gardens in the landed homes there. But I would definitely choose Serangoon Gardens over Yishun as my choice place to stay any day!
Slay