Bukit Timah: A Historical Look at Singapore's Most Iconic Hill
Bukit Timah, or “Tiger Hill”, is a hill located in the Central Region of Singapore. It is the highest point in Singapore, standing at a height of 164 metres (538 feet). This iconic hill has a long and varied history, and has played an important role in the development of Singapore as a nation.
The name Bukit Timah comes from the Malay language, and is derived from the words “bukit”, meaning “hill”, and “timah”, meaning “tin”. This is due to the fact that the hill was once the site of a tin mining operation during the 19th century. The hill has been an important source of tin ore for the region since the 1820s, and the mines were a major source of income for the local community.
The hill has also been an important site for military activity. During World War II, the Japanese occupied Singapore and set up a base on the hill. This base was heavily fortified, and was used as a strategic point for the Japanese to launch attacks against the British forces. After the war, the British set up a military base on the hill, which was used for training and other military activities.
In addition to its military history, Bukit Timah is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The hill is covered in lush tropical vegetation, and is home to a wide variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects. It is also home to a number of endangered species, including the critically endangered Rafflesia hasseltii, a parasitic flower.
Bukit Timah is also a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hill is home to a number of attractions, including the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Orchid Garden, and the Singapore Zoo. Visitors to the hill can also explore the rainforest trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Bukit Timah is an important part of Singapore’s history and culture, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its long and varied history has made it a symbol of Singapore’s past, present and future.