Bukit Merah Area Guide

A large neighborhood in the central-south region of Singapore, multiple train stations such as Redhill, Labrador Park, Telok Banglah, Tiong Bahru, Habourfront and Outram Park connects Bukit Merah to the rest of the city. Besides Habourlights, Tanglin View, Reflections @ Keppel Bay and Carribean at Keppel Bay residents can also choose among upcoming condominiums like Echelon, Skyline Residences and The Foresta. Nearby, visitors can access Sentosa, the island resort which houses apartments like Seascape Sentosa, The Coast @ Sentosa Cove and The Oceanfront @ Sentosa Cove condominium. Singapore's largest conglomerate, Keppel Group, ExxonMobil Asia Pacific and Bank of Merill Lynch hold offices in HabourFront Office Park while Mapletree Business City, Alexandra Technopark and Servcorp PSA Building make up an integrated business hub located at the fringe of the CBD. Alongside Crescent Girls’ School and Bukit Merah Secondary School, other educational institutions are Blangah Rise Primary School, Radin Mas Primary School and CHIJ St Theresa 's Convent.

Public transport and amenities in Bukit Merah

Situated in the southernmost part of the Central Region of Singapore, Bukit Merah is the most populated planning area in the Central Region. Its name, which translates into 'Red Hill' in Malay, is attributed to the fertile red-coloured soil located there; it is also said to be based on an old legend in the Sejarah Melayu.

Once holding a major role in the Kingdom of Singapura's maritime trade, Bukit Merah is now a primarily residential district located an enviable distance from the Central Business District (CBD) and Orchard Road Shopping Belt. Additionally, Bukit Merah is elderly-friendly with Dorcas Home Care Service located in the neighbourhood.

Bukit Merah is bounded by Alexandra Canal and the Singapore River to the north, HarbourFront and Keppel Bay to the south, Kim Seng Road, Outram Road, and Cantonment Road to the east, and Alexandra Road to the west. There are several subzones within the planning area, namely Alexandra, Bukit Ho Swee, Bukit Merah, City Terminals, Depot Road, Everton Park, HarbourFront, Henderson Hill, Redhill, Singapore General Hospital, Telok Blangah and Tiong Bahru.

Housing Options in Bukit Merah

Most of the available properties in Bukit Merah are Housing Development Board (HDB) flats. These vary in size but mostly fall within the 3-bedroom or 5-bedroom categorization. Recent BTO launches in Bukit Merah include Bukit Merah Ridge and Telok Blangah Beacon. With its favourable, convenient location, these HDB flats would make great homes for young couples and families, or even individuals working in the CBD.

MRT Stations - Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah is well-connected by Singapore's extensive MRT network, enhancing accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors alike. The first MRT station in Bukit Merah, Outram Park MRT station, opened in 1987. This was followed by Redhill and Tiong Bahru MRT stations in 1988. Today, Bukit Merah boasts seven MRT stations across four lines: the East-West Line, Circle Line, North East Line, and the Thomson-East Coast Line.

• Havelock (TE16)
• Outram Park  (EW16/NE3/TE17)
• Tiong Bahru (EW17)
• Redhill (EW18)
• Labrador Park (CC27)
• Telok Blangah (CC28)
• HarbourFront (NE1/CC29)

Future MRT Developments

Bukit Merah's MRT network is set to expand further with the construction of two new stations as part of Stage 6 of the Circle Line, slated for completion by 2026:

• Keppel (CC30)
• Cantonment (CC31)

These upcoming stations will further enhance connectivity within Bukit Merah, making it even more accessible and convenient for daily commuting and travel across Singapore.

Employment Opportunities in Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah is home to several business hubs and commercial centres, providing ample job opportunities in sectors such as finance, marketing, and administration. The Henderson Industrial Park and Tiong Bahru Industrial Estate, for instance, are both located in Bukit Merah. The presence of numerous small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and multinational corporations (MNCs) fosters a vibrant business environment. 

The rise of technology firms and startups in Bukit Merah has spurred demand for professionals in IT, software development, and digital marketing. The district’s proximity to tech hubs like One-North further enhances its appeal for tech-savvy job seekers. Bukit Merah is also a short commute away from the CBD and Orchard Road.

Shop and Dine - Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah is hardly short on dining options, from sweet treats to local snacks. In the realm of desserts, 99. co is especially familiar with and excited to share our recommendations! For one, the Bakery Chef is a haven for those with a sweet tooth, offering a drool-worthy range of pastries and desserts, including Matcha Toast, Red Velvet Cake, and soft-serve ice cream. Another great place for your dessert stomach would be Butterscotch, which is known for its Ondeh Ondeh Waffles. Its Eggs Benedict comes highly recommended as well!

Get an ice cold treat at Dandelion, which specialises in hand-crafted gelato. They have a wide range of flavours, including some that are locally inspired, such as their salted egg yolk cereal ice cream. This cafe is yet another place that is said to have good waffles, a fact that many will be happy to hear.

As for the local fare, head over to Good Chance Popiah Eating House, which serves up Chinese cuisine and of course, popiah. Other than popiah, its signature dish is the Pork Trotters Bee Hoon, so make sure to try it!

Outlets of crowd favourites such as Domino's, KFC and McDonald's can also be found easily. However, it's not just Western food that is accessible in Bukit Merah - other coffee shops and eateries can be found throughout the neighbourhood, such as Wan Feng Seafood, Thye San Hup Kee Eating House, and 111 Coffee Shop, so residents of Bukit Merah can rest assured that they will never want for food.

The shops in the Bukit Merah neighbourhood are largely located below HDB flats; apart from the Block 112 Market, from which residents can buy fresh produce, there is also an NTUC Fairprice at Bukit Merah Central. Also near Bukit Merah Central are shops such as Watsons, eateries such as KFC and Bukit Merah Hawker Centre, and other miscellaneous stores that are meant to settle residents' daily needs.

Bike enthusiasts can head to My Bike Shop, along Henderson Road. Also along Henderson Road are clothing stores Covetella and Wacoal, furniture store Scanteak as well as several gift shops. Another speciality shop of note is Big Fish Gold International, located along Bukit Merah Central. A club-fitting studio for golfers, it is acknowledged by local golfers as one of the best, if not the best, club-fitting studios that offer a wide variety of services such as swing analysis.

The Salvation Army is also located at Bukit Merah, and its thrift store can hold many (good) surprises in terms of pre-loved goodies that can either be used as they are, or repurposed in some way or another, for those with talent in handicrafts.

Educational Facilities in Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah, a well-established residential area in Singapore, is home to a variety of reputable educational institutions. These schools cater to different educational needs, from primary to tertiary levels, providing quality education and fostering holistic development. Here are some notable schools in Bukit Merah:

• Radin Mas Primary School
• Zhangde Primary School
• CHIJ St. Theresa’s Convent
• Bukit Merah Secondary School
• Gan Eng Seng School
• ISS International School
• Duke-NUS Medical School

Bukit Merah is also home to a special education facility, Rainbow Centre - Margaret Drive School. This special education school caters to children with special needs, providing a range of educational and therapeutic services. Rainbow Centre focuses on enhancing the developmental and learning outcomes of its students through individualised education plans and specialised programs.

These educational institutions in Bukit Merah offer a wide range of learning opportunities, ensuring that students receive quality education tailored to their individual needs and aspirations.

Public Library - Library@Harbourfront

Formerly known as Bukit Merah Public Library, the new Library@Harbourfront is relocated to VivoCity, one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore. Located on level 3 of the mall, Library@Harbourfront will be easily accessible by train and bus, as VivoCity shopping mall is directly linked to the HarbourFront MRT station which is connected to the North-East and Circle lines, and the HarbourFront Bus Interchange. There are different sections for different purposes in the library. 

For instance, there is the Newspaper Reading Area where patrons can read the newspaper while enjoying the scenic view of Sentosa. There are also the Reading Longue housing about 120 seats and the Children’s Area which will offer an Early Literacy collection for young readers aged 6 and below, as well as books for older children aged 7 to 12. On top of that, the former site of Bukit Merah Public Library will provide a variety of services and programmes including a mini-library and reading corner supported by NLB. There are currently 12 reading corners in the Bukit Merah area, offering over 5,000 books and 250 seats in total.

Parks and Gardens in Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah is home to the Labrador Nature Reserve. Thus, nearby residents won’t have to travel far to enjoy an oasis of tranquillity and natural wonders. Built on the edge of the secondary forest with a prime vantage point of the cliff-side vegetation and a picturesque view of the sea, the nature reserve is thriving with wildlife. It will be really exciting for the bird lovers to hear songs from a variety of bird species including those of the Oriental Magpie-robin and Black-naped Oriole. 

The 22-hectare parkland is a perfect destination boasting several family-friendly attractions for kids and their parents to enjoy. On top of that, health fanatics can find the park interspaced with fitness stations. A jogging track that goes around the reserve also offers a scenic route for those looking to work out. 

Another greenery you might want to enjoy is Bukit Purmei Hillock Park. Most say it is one of the best relaxing picnic spots in Bukit Merah. A lovely nature play area with a fully accessible children’s playground, covered picnic shelter, and an outdoor concert shell offer you and your family endless hours of quality time. Besides, the park has ample areas for playing sports fields and it has outdoor fitness equipment as well. 

Bukit Merah Sports Centre

Active lifestyle enthusiasts residing in Bukit Merah can count on the nearby Delta Sports Centre located at 900 Tiong Bahru Road to cater to their needs for sports facilities. Besides the multi-purpose sports hall that could accommodate 850 people, other facilities housed in Delta Sports Centre include four badminton courts, three swimming pools including teaching, competition, and wading pools, a covered grandstand, as well as a football field. 

On top of that, the new quality hockey pitch in the complex has contributed to the local development of this less famous kind of sport. The rejuvenation of its facilities and the many sports programmes offered keep continuing to serve the community and even reaching a wider range of patrons. Besides the nearby residents, its central location and proximity to the central business district also make the place a favourite for the white-collar workers.

Places of Worship in Bukit Merah

Bukit Merah, known for its cultural diversity, is dotted with religious buildings of different beliefs. Here are some notable places of worship in Bukit Merah:

• Church of St. Teresa

Inspired by the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paris, the Church of St. Teresa is a beautiful Roman Catholic church known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. It serves as a spiritual centre for the Catholic community, offering regular masses, sacraments, and a variety of community activities. The church's picturesque setting and historical significance make it a notable landmark in Bukit Merah.

• Wat Ananda Metyarama

Wat Ananda Metyarama is one of the oldest Thai Buddhist temples in Singapore. It features traditional Thai architectural elements and a tranquil environment ideal for meditation and reflection. The temple provides a range of religious services, including chanting sessions, meditation classes, and Dhamma talks. It is a serene haven for Buddhists and visitors seeking spiritual solace and cultural enrichment.

• Masjid Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim

Located near the busy port area, Masjid Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim serves as a historical and spiritual landmark for the Muslim community. The mosque is named after a notable Johor ruler and offers daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and religious classes. Its serene setting and historical significance provide a peaceful retreat for worship and reflection.

• Dong Yue Miao

Dong Yue Miao, also known as the Temple of the Eastern Peak, is dedicated to the Taoist deity Tai Shan Dong Yue Da Di. The temple is a vibrant centre of Taoist worship, known for its intricate architectural details and colourful religious ceremonies. Visitors can experience the rich traditions of Taoist rituals and enjoy the temple's tranquil surroundings.

• Masjid Kampong Delta

Masjid Kampong Delta is a vital place of worship for the Muslim community in Bukit Merah. It offers a range of religious services, including daily prayers, religious education, and community activities. The mosque fosters a strong sense of community and spirituality, providing a welcoming space for worshippers and visitors alike.

• Ban Siew San Temple

Ban Siew San Temple is a traditional Chinese temple dedicated to various deities worshipped by the local Chinese community. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant festivals. It serves as a cultural and spiritual hub, offering a peaceful place for reflection, prayer, and community gatherings.

Bukit Merah Hospitals

Bukit Merah, a well-established residential and commercial district in Singapore, is home to a range of top-notch medical facilities, ensuring residents and visitors have access to comprehensive healthcare services. Here are some of the prominent hospitals and medical centres in Bukit Merah:

1. Singapore General Hospital (SGH)

As one of the oldest and largest hospitals in Singapore, Singapore General Hospital is renowned for its high-quality medical care and extensive range of services. SGH offers specialised treatment across various medical disciplines, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopaedics. The hospital is also a leading centre for medical education and research, continually advancing healthcare standards.

2. National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS)

Located within the SGH campus, the National Heart Centre Singapore is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to cardiovascular care. NHCS provides a comprehensive suite of services, from preventive cardiology to complex cardiac surgeries. The centre is known for its cutting-edge treatments and commitment to patient-centred care, making it a premier destination for heart health.

3. Outram Community Hospital (OCH)

Adjacent to SGH, Outram Community Hospital offers sub-acute care, rehabilitation, and palliative services. OCH aims to provide seamless transitional care, helping patients recover and regain independence after hospitalisation. The hospital’s holistic approach ensures that patients receive compassionate and personalised care tailored to their specific needs.

4. Bukit Merah Polyclinic

Part of the National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, Bukit Merah Polyclinic provides a wide range of primary healthcare services, including chronic disease management, immunizations, health screenings, and dental care. The polyclinic focuses on delivering accessible and affordable healthcare, promoting overall community health and well-being.

5. Alexandra Hospital

Alexandra Hospital is known for its patient-centred approach and comprehensive medical services. The hospital offers various specialities, including geriatric care, general surgery, internal medicine, and rehabilitation. Alexandra Hospital’s integrated care model ensures that patients receive coordinated and efficient treatment across different medical disciplines.

5 Best Things to Do in Bukit Merah, Singapore

Bukit Merah offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different interests. Here are the top five things to do in Bukit Merah:

1. Visit Mount Faber Park

One of Singapore's oldest parks, Mount Faber Park offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, Sentosa Island, and the southern waterfront. Take a scenic cable car ride to Sentosa, enjoy the lush greenery, and explore the various walking trails and lookout points. The park is also home to the iconic Henderson Waves, Singapore’s highest pedestrian bridge, which is perfect for an evening stroll.

2. Explore Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre

A food lover's paradise, Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre is renowned for its wide variety of local hawker delights. Sample famous dishes such as chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes), Hainanese chicken rice, and char kway teow (stir-fried flat noodles). The market also features a wet market on the lower level, offering fresh produce and local delicacies.

3. Discover the Southern Ridges

This 10-kilometre network of green spaces connects several parks along the southern ridge of Singapore. Start your journey at Mount Faber Park, and traverse through Henderson Waves, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and HortPark. Enjoy the scenic views, rich biodiversity, and serene walking trails. It’s an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts and fitness buffs.

4. Visit the Singapore General Hospital Museum

Located within the Singapore General Hospital campus, this museum offers a fascinating look into the history of medicine and healthcare in Singapore. Explore exhibits featuring medical artefacts, historical documents, and multimedia presentations that chronicle the evolution of medical practices and the hospital’s significant contributions to healthcare.

5. Relax at VivoCity

As one of Singapore's largest shopping malls, VivoCity offers an extensive range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy retail therapy at numerous international and local brands, catch a movie at the state-of-the-art cinema, and indulge in a variety of cuisines at the many restaurants and food courts. The mall’s rooftop Sky Park is a great place to unwind, offering stunning views of Sentosa Island and the harbour.

These activities showcase the best of Bukit Merah, blending natural beauty, culinary delights, historical insights, and modern entertainment. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Bukit Merah has something to offer for everyone.

Bukit Merah Transformation - Remaking Our Heartland

Bukit Merah residents can eagerly anticipate a host of transformative changes in their town centres and community spaces, as well as enhanced connectivity to natural havens such as the Rail Corridor and Southern Ridges. These exciting developments are integral to the ongoing Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme, an innovative blueprint that harmonises urban living with the natural world. Here are some highlights of Bukit Merah’s transformation:

Revamped Town Centre

The Bukit Merah Town Centre will be given a makeover to enhance its attractiveness and provide a more comfortable shopping experience for residents:

• A new and larger sheltered event space with seating will replace the current sheltered stage next to the Rubikon building. 
• The pedestrian malls in the town centre will be upgraded to include more seating and play areas.
• New pedestrian and cycling paths, as well as sheltered linkways, will be added along Redhill Close to make it safer and more convenient for residents and visitors to travel between the Bukit Merah Town Centre and Redhill MRT station.
• Come 2026, the opening of two new MRT stations – Keppel and Cantonment Stations of the Circle Line – will further enhance connectivity.

Upgraded Neighbourhood Centres

The common areas of existing Neighbourhood Centres (NCs) in Bukit Merah, such as  Alexandra Village NC,  will be refreshed with more amenities such as outdoor seating, play facilities, pocket greens and spaces for community events.

More Senior-friendly Environment

In Bukit Merah, more than one-third of residents are aged 60 years old and above. A key focus of the renewal plans for Bukit Merah is to make the homes and neighbourhoods more senior-friendly so that residents can go about their daily activities and lead active and healthy lifestyles:

• The common spaces in the Town Centre, NCs, and housing estates will be upgraded with sheltered walkways, ramps and non-slip flooring, as well as more seating areas. 
• Across various parks in Bukit Merah, active ageing amenities such as therapeutic gardens, fitness trails/corners, and exercise equipment will be added.
• To make wayfinding easier, signages with larger and more colourful fonts and distinctive murals on building facades will also be installed.

New and Refreshed Green Spaces

Celebrated for its urban character, Bukit Merah is also well-known for its ample green spaces which residents visit regularly. Residents have shared that they would like to see improved access to the scenic 24-km long Rail Corridor, which passes through Bukit Merah, as well as parks around the town. With this in mind, HDB, together with the National Parks Board (NParks), has planned the following enhancements:

• A new pocket park next to the existing multi-storey carpark at Block 119 Bukit Merah Central, together with new cycling paths at the Town Centre, will provide seamless connectivity from the Town Centre to the Rail Corridor.
• The pedestrian paths along Henderson Road, which connects Alexandra Canal, the Southern Ridges and Telok Blangah Estate to the future Greater Southern Waterfront, will also be enhanced. New rest points with landscaped seating areas will be added along the paths.
• At the Telok Blangah Hill Park and Mount Faber Park managed by NParks, fitness amenities will be upgraded to encourage active living.
• Improvements at neighbourhood parks like Alexandra Hill Park and Bukit Purmei Park will include intensified greenery, new sheltered pavilions, and multi-generational facilities.

Latest News on Bukit Merah

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