The planned mural at Yan Kit Playfield, commissioned by Sport Singapore, reinterprets a 1950s mural from the former Yan Kit Swimming Pool, blending history with a fresh artistic vision. Designed by local artist Nur Aida Sa’ad, the artwork celebrates the site’s heritage with a lively underwater scene featuring native marine wildlife and the distinctive ticket counter grill design. More than just a visual landmark, the mural connects the community to the rich cultural narratives of Tanjong Pagar, transforming the playfield into a space where art, history, and recreation come together.
Beyond the mural, the Yan Kit Pool Heritage Gallery serves as a tribute to the former swimming complex, which opened in 1952 as Singapore’s second public pool and the largest of its time. Named after philanthropist Look Yan Kit, the facility played a significant role in the nation’s sporting history, nurturing young athletes, including former national swimmer Oon Jin Teik. Oon, who trained under Singapore’s first Olympic swimmer Neo Chwee Kok, recalled the challenges of learning to swim at Yan Kit, where overcoming fears in its deep pools helped shape his confidence. His experience exemplifies how the facility provided not just a training ground but also a foundation for personal growth.
The significance of Yan Kit Pool extends beyond competitive sports, as seen in the memories of former national athletes like Lim Teck Yin and Tay Chin Joo. Lim, a six-time SEA Games gold medallist, reminisced about the camaraderie built around water polo, where friendships flourished despite makeshift infrastructure. Tay, Singapore’s youngest SEAP Games gold medallist, highlighted the importance of preserving such spaces, noting that a facility is defined not only by its structures but by the people who bring it to life. As Minister Indranee Rajah emphasized during the gallery’s launch, remembering Singapore’s past is key to shaping its future—ensuring that places like Yan Kit continue to inspire generations to come.
