Singapore’s Former Kandang Kerbau Hospital Becomes National Monument

The former Kandang Kerbau Hospital (KKH) has officially been designated as Singapore’s 76th national monument as of October 1, 2023. This recognition encompasses three blocks of the hospital and underscores the site’s socio-cultural importance and historical value, according to the National Heritage Board (NHB). The hospital, located at 1 Hampshire Road, was the only government facility in Singapore that specialized in obstetrics and gynaecology at the time of its operation.

At a ceremony marking the gazetting, David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, highlighted the significance of the site, which has played a pivotal role in Singapore’s medical history, witnessing over 1.2 million births. The event also commemorated the 101st anniversary of KKH’s establishment as a dedicated maternity hospital.

Historical Significance of KKH

The name Kandang Kerbau, which translates to “buffalo enclosure” in Malay, reflects the site’s history dating back to when buffalo pens operated in the area. Established in 1858, the site initially served as a general hospital before evolving into a maternity facility known as Kandang Kerbau Hospital in 1924. During World War II, it functioned as an emergency general hospital and was temporarily renamed Chuo Byoin, meaning “central hospital” in Japanese.

One notable figure associated with KKH during this time was Dr. Benjamin Henry Sheares, who later became Singapore’s second president. He introduced the lower-segment Caesarean section at the hospital, significantly improving maternal safety and reducing complications related to childbirth. This advancement had a lasting impact on obstetrics in Singapore.

After the war, KKH resumed its role as a leading maternity hospital, introducing advanced medical technology and care practices that gained international recognition. In 1966, known as the “year of the birth-quake,” the hospital recorded a remarkable 39,835 deliveries, setting a Guinness World Record for the highest number of births at a single maternity facility in one year. At its peak, KKH delivered a baby every 13 minutes and 11 seconds, solidifying its status as the largest maternity hospital globally during that period.

Architectural and Cultural Legacy

Constructed using modern materials for its time, the former KKH buildings are noted for their innovative design. The facades were created to provide protection from the tropical climate while allowing natural light and ventilation. Blocks 2 and 3 were built in 1933 and 1940, respectively, and are among the oldest structures on the site. Block 1, completed in 1955, was designed by Dr. Sheares with assistance from chief government architect KA Bundle.

According to the NHB, the “concrete fins” framing the windows of Block 1 were designed to minimize solar heat and glare, enhancing patient comfort. This architectural innovation contributed to KKH’s reputation as a facility that prioritized patient care and recovery.

In recognition of the hospital’s rich legacy, Professor Alex Sia, CEO of KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, expressed gratitude for the designation as a national monument, stating that it honors the dedication of the hospital’s pioneers and the trust families have placed in its services over the years.

The NHB’s Preservation of Sites and Monuments (PSM) division oversees the protection of national monuments in Singapore, ensuring that these sites are preserved for future generations. The former KKH is the first site to be gazetted as a national monument in over three years, following the designation of the Padang in August 2022.

Ms. Melissa Tan, director of heritage policy and research at NHB, emphasized the importance of national monuments in keeping alive the stories of Singapore’s history and its people. She noted that many families in Singapore share personal stories related to KKH, making its recognition as a national monument a tribute to its enduring legacy.

To celebrate this significant milestone, visitors can explore a special exhibition titled The Architecture of Care, which will be available at the former KKH site from October 1 until December 31, 2023.