Once known as Pulau Blakang Mati, translated by some as “the island of woe” or more ominously as “the island behind which lies death,” Singapore’s Sentosa has transformed into a thriving hub of peace and tranquility. This island, shaped like the large end of a smoking pipe, now stands as a testament to Singapore’s ingenuity, evolving from a rural, mostly uninhabited space into a bustling urban playground.
Fifty years ago, in September, the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) was established, marking the inception of a journey to reshape this island. With its strategic location curving around the southern side of Singapore, Pulau Blakang Mati was historically frequented by traders and pirates raiding passing ships. It comprised four primary kampongs with a diverse population of Chinese, Malay, and Bugis residents from Indonesia’s Sulawesi island.
In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles arrived in Singapore, leaving an indelible mark on the region. During the second half of the 19th century, the British built fortifications on Sentosa, including Fort Serapong, Fort Connaught, Berhala Reping, the Imbiah Battery, and Fort Siloso. Soldiers and laborers resided on the island, contributing to the military efforts.
The 1970 renaming to Sentosa reflected the island’s shift from a military outpost to a leisure destination. While the moniker changed, historical remnants persisted. Fort Siloso, now a National Monument, coexists with a beach, jungle walkway, and tram station bearing the same name. The abandoned Fort Serapong attracts urban exploration enthusiasts, and The Barracks Hotel Sentosa, once housing British artillerymen, now offers luxurious accommodations.
Sentosa’s evolution mirrored Singapore’s journey to independence in 1965. While commerce and industry flourished in Singapore, Sentosa remained mostly rural. By the 1970s, residents relocated to the mainland, and rapid changes ensued. Cable cars and trams facilitated transportation, and in 1992, the Sentosa Causeway linked the island to the mainland.
Sentosa witnessed the rise and fall of tourist attractions, from the delayed opening of Underwater World in 1991 to the closure of The Asian Village in 2000. Luxury resorts like Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort (1993), Capella Singapore (2009), W Singapore – Sentosa Cove (2012), and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa (2015) emerged, catering to international visitors.
The iconic Sentosa Merlion, a sibling to the famous Singaporean one, no longer stands, exemplifying the ever-changing landscape. Today’s tourists seek experiences over landmarks, prompting plans for new attractions and nighttime activities.
While Sentosa’s expansion through land reclamation may contribute to misconceptions, the island retains its natural charm. Amidst the vibrant attractions, peaceful retreats like The Capella Singapore offer serene escapes, reminding visitors of Sentosa’s commitment to tranquility.
Sentosa gained unexpected global attention in 2018 when the Capella hosted a historic meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The island’s modernization included bringing full-time residents to Sentosa Cove, a gated luxury community featuring high-end real estate.
Looking ahead, Singapore eyes Palau Brani, a former Navy base between Sentosa and the mainland, as the next development opportunity. The Sentosa-Brani Master Plan envisions a comprehensive tourism offering, dividing the two islands into sections such as waterfront, island heart, beachfront, vibrant cluster, and ridgefront. The plan includes new attractions, expanded nature and heritage trails, and beach makeovers.
Despite pandemic-related delays, the Sentosa-Brani Master Plan is poised to redefine the island experience. A sensory walkway connecting the northern and southern parts of Sentosa is set to open next year, offering visitors an immersive journey through the evolving landscape of this iconic island.
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