BACK HOME
I used to live in this rented flat for a good 17 years since the day I was born.
The market was burnt down a few years after my family moved out.
The market may no longer be the original but it seemed like I was transported back to the past where the old market sat on.
I'm not here for the taste of the food but to reminisce the past, sweet and bitter all rolled into one. I sat here sipping teh-Si and ate my favourite chicken rice, and old films of the past started rolling in my mind even as I typed these.
My childhood revolved around the wet market where I would sit and squat in front of the small kiosk in the market to watch the ornamental fishes swimming in the tank and always hoping I would get one at home. Years later, I fulfilled my wish at around 9-10 years old in getting two tortoises only to be frozen by the ice cubes that were thrown into their little fish tank by my father.
Those were the distant memories of my life.
The AMK wet market has been a central part of many locals’ lives, serving not just as a place to buy fresh produce but also as a hub of social interaction and cultural heritage. Although the market has undergone renovations and changes over the years, including periods when AMK Hub was closed for cleaning or refurbishment, the essence of the place remains deeply ingrained in the community's collective memory. Many longtime residents remember flocking to the market for their daily needs but also cherishing moments of leisure—like watching ornamental fish at the kiosks or enjoying traditional hawker fare. These experiences highlight the importance of wet markets beyond commerce: they are spaces that foster intergenerational bonds and preserve traditions. Moreover, with ongoing renovations like the Ang Mo Kio 628 market refurbishment and nearby developments such as Evergreen Care AMK, it’s clear the area continues to evolve to meet modern needs while maintaining its unique local charm. As someone who grew up nearby, revisiting these places brings a profound sense of nostalgia mixed with hope for the future. Through sharing these personal stories and observations, I hope to encourage others to appreciate the cultural value of wet markets and support their preservation amidst urban changes. It’s these everyday places that shape our identities and community spirit, reminding us of where we come from and the simple joys that connect us all.
