In a bold move, couple Amanda Cheong and Stanley Chia decided to leave their jobs in the banking and finance sector to establish a tour company focused on exploring abandoned places in Singapore. This decision came after they became parents for the first time, facing greater challenges amid difficult economic conditions.
Despite Amanda's father's discouragement, who believed potential visitors would only seek unsafe locations, the couple insisted on pursuing their dream. After three years of hard work, their company, Hidden Heritage, has proven successful, now organizing approximately 20 tours each month.
Details of the Tours
The Hidden Heritage tours include visits to a variety of locations, ranging from a former Shell oil blending factory to one-bedroom rental homes in the Lavender area. Their client base has expanded to include schools and organizations, offering educational trips and corporate events.
Stanley Chia, aged 27, describes his experience by saying, "Who would have thought we could earn a full income from exploring abandoned places?" The couple began this adventure after meeting on Instagram, where Stanley documented abandoned sites in Singapore.
Background & Context
Historically, Singapore has been known for its rapid development and transformation into a modern city, leading to the demolition of many old buildings. However, abandoned places hold rich historical and cultural stories, making them intriguing destinations for visitors.
Hidden Heritage was founded in 2020, after the couple faced challenges in obtaining the necessary permits from local authorities. Nevertheless, they managed to overcome bureaucratic obstacles, allowing them to successfully launch their tours.
Impact & Consequences
The Hidden Heritage tours provide a unique experience, offering visitors the chance to explore places that were previously closed to them. These tours also contribute to raising cultural and historical awareness among local residents, helping to preserve the city's cultural heritage.
The experience demonstrates an increasing interest among young people in exploring their local history, reflecting a shift in how people view their city. Additionally, these tours foster community spirit by supporting local businesses and residents.
Regional Significance
The Hidden Heritage experience serves as a model for the Arab region, where countries with rich histories can benefit from exploring historical and heritage sites. These tours can enhance cultural tourism and create new job opportunities.
There is also an urgent need to preserve cultural heritage in Arab countries, as many historical sites are threatened by urban development. This experience could inspire the development of similar projects in the Arab world.