Former Kandang Kerbau Hospital to be Designated National Monument: Inaugural Ceremony Scheduled for Hampshire Road Site

September 5, 2025

Kandang Kerbau Hospital Set for National Monument Status in Singapore

Singapore – Three architectural blocks of the former Kandang Kerbau Hospital, located on Hampshire Road, are poised to gain recognition as the nation’s 76th national monument. The National Heritage Board (NHB) formally proposed the designation on September 5th, extending significant protections to these historically significant structures.

A Legacy of Maternal Healthcare

The impending gazette signifies the importance of these buildings in Singapore’s medical history. Constructed between the 1930s and 1950s, they represent crucial stages in the advancement of midwifery, maternal, and gynaecological care within the country. Currently leased to the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for office space, the buildings nonetheless retain their ancient significance.

The hospital first opened in 1858 as Singapore’s fifth general hospital,located in the Kandang Kerbau area. It later became widely known as KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital following a relocation in 1997 to its current site on Bukit Timah Road.

Pioneering Medical Advances

Kandang Kerbau Hospital was officially established as a free maternity hospital on October 1, 1924, initiating its specialized focus on maternal healthcare. The hospital grounds were also the site of several groundbreaking medical procedures. Dr. Benjamin Sheares, head of obstetrics and gynaecology starting in 1942, pioneered a surgical technique for creating neovaginas-a procedure that dramatically improved the lives of many women. Dr. sheares later served as singapore’s second President until his passing in 1981.

The dedication of doctors and midwives at Kandang Kerbau hospital significantly reduced infant and maternal mortality rates, playing a vital role during Singapore’s post-war baby boom between 1945 and the 1960s. Singapore’s total fertility rate in 1965 was 4.7 births per woman, a figure that highlights the impact of improved maternal care.

Architectural details and Preservation

The three blocks slated for monument status each have unique characteristics. Block 2, the oldest, opened in 1933. Block 3 was completed in 1940, and Block 1, finished between 1953 and 1955, served as the hospital’s primary facade. Designed partly by Dr. Sheares and former chief government architect K.A. Bundle, Block 1 featured modern amenities like air-conditioned wards and an operating theater.

The buildings are noted for their modern architectural style and innovative use of materials. Block 2’s smaller, wooden-louvred windows represent 1930s designs, while Block 1 showcases the architectural progress of the 1950s with larger windows and reinforced concrete features.

block	Completion Date	Key Features
Block 1	1953-1955	Main facade, air-conditioned wards, operating theatre
Block 2	1933	Early example of hospital architecture, wooden-louvred windows
Block 3	1940	Representative of the hospital’s growth during the mid-20th century

Over 1.2 million babies were born at the hospital between 1924 and 1997, cementing its place in the memories of generations of Singaporeans.

The LTA has a two-week period, starting September 5th, to voice any objections to the preservation order. The NHB is legally obligated to provide a reasonable timeframe for owners and occupiers to object before finalising the monument status.

Did You Know? Kandang Kerbau translates to “cattle shed” in Malay, reflecting the area’s original use before the hospital was built.

Pro Tip: Visiting the vicinity of Hampshire Road offers a glimpse into Singapore’s evolving urban landscape and its commitment to preserving its rich heritage.

What role do you think heritage buildings play in shaping a nation’s identity?

How can we balance preserving historical landmarks with the need for modern urban advancement?

Singapore’s National Monument System

Singapore’s national monument system is a cornerstone of its heritage conservation efforts. As of september 2025, there are 76 national monuments across the island, encompassing a diverse range of sites from civic and religious buildings to natural landmarks. These monuments are protected under the Preservation of Monuments Act,ensuring their preservation for future generations. Other healthcare-related monuments include the College of Medicine Building and the Tan Teck Guan Building, both found near the Singapore General Hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kandang Kerbau Hospital

• What is a national monument in Singapore? A national monument is a site officially recognized by the Singaporean government for its historical,cultural,or architectural significance.
• Why is Kandang Kerbau hospital being considered a national monument? The hospital played a pivotal role in maternal and women’s healthcare in Singapore, and its buildings represent significant architectural periods.
• What does gazetting as a national monument mean for the buildings? It means the buildings are legally protected, and alterations that affect their character or significance are prohibited.
• Who currently occupies the Kandang Kerbau Hospital buildings? The buildings are currently leased to the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for office use.
• How many babies were born at Kandang Kerbau Hospital? More than 1.2 million babies were born at the hospital between 1924 and 1997.
• What is the significance of Dr.Benjamin Sheares to Kandang Kerbau Hospital? He pioneered a surgical technique for creating neovaginas and later became Singapore’s second President.
• Where is KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital located now? it is currently located at 100 Bukit Timah Road.

Share your thoughts on this historical preservation effort in the comments below!

What specific aspects of KKH’s history led to its designation as a National Monument?

A Landmark Decision for Singapore’s Medical Heritage

The former Kandang Kerbau Hospital (KKH), a site steeped in Singapore’s medical and social history, is set to be officially designated a National Monument. The inaugural ceremony, marking this important milestone, is scheduled to take place at the Hampshire Road site on [Date – to be confirmed, likely September 2025]. This designation recognizes KKH’s pivotal role in shaping healthcare in Singapore, notably in the areas of women’s and children’s health. The move underscores the nation’s commitment to preserving its architectural and past landmarks.

Historical Importance of Kandang Kerbau Hospital

Originally established in 1854 as a small dispensary, Kandang Kerbau Hospital evolved over the decades to become a leading maternity hospital and a crucial healthcare provider for generations of Singaporeans. The name “Kandang Kerbau” translates to “buffalo stable” in Malay, referencing the area’s past as a grazing ground for buffaloes.

Here’s a timeline of key developments:

1854: Initial establishment as a dispensary.

1860s: Expanded to include a small hospital ward.

Early 20th Century: Became a dedicated maternity hospital, delivering countless babies.

1950s-1980s: Witnessed significant growth and modernization, becoming a major public hospital.

1997: Relocated to its current site in Novena.

The Hampshire Road site holds particular importance as it housed the hospital for a considerable period, witnessing many crucial moments in Singapore’s healthcare journey. Preserving this location is vital for understanding the evolution of Singapore healthcare and its impact on the nation’s population.

The National Monument designation: What it Means

Being declared a National Monument offers the highest level of protection under Singapore’s preservation laws. This designation means:

Legal Protection: The building and its surrounding grounds are legally protected from unauthorized alteration or demolition.

Preservation Efforts: The National heritage Board (NHB) will oversee the preservation and restoration of the building’s architectural features and historical elements. Heritage conservation will be a key focus.

Public Access & Education: Plans are underway to explore potential public access and educational programs to share the hospital’s history with future generations. This could include museum exhibits or guided tours.

Recognition of Cultural Value: The designation acknowledges KKH’s profound cultural,historical,and architectural significance to Singapore.

Architectural Features & Style

The former KKH building showcases a blend of architectural styles reflecting its various phases of development. Key features include:

Neo-Classical Elements: Visible in the original building structures,showcasing symmetrical facades and classical detailing.

Art Deco Influences: Introduced during later expansions, adding geometric patterns and streamlined designs.

Distinctive Wards & Pavilions: The layout of the hospital, with its separate wards and pavilions, reflects the medical practices of the time.

Historical Signage & Artifacts: Original signage, medical equipment, and other artifacts remain on site, offering valuable insights into the hospital’s past. Architectural heritage is a core element of the site.

Future Plans for the Hampshire Road Site

While the exact plans are still being finalized, the NHB is exploring various options for the future use of the former KKH site. Potential uses include:

Heritage Center: A dedicated centre showcasing the history of KKH and Singapore’s healthcare system.

Community Space: A venue for community events, exhibitions, and workshops.

Educational facility: A space for healthcare-related training and education.

Limited commercial Use: Carefully considered commercial ventures that complement the site’s heritage character.

The goal is to repurpose the site in a way that honors its past while contributing to the vibrancy of the surrounding community. Urban redevelopment will be carefully balanced with preservation.

The Importance of Preserving Medical Heritage

The designation of KKH as a National Monument is part of a broader effort to preserve Singapore’s medical heritage. Other significant sites include:

College of Medicine Building: A historical landmark representing the early days of medical education in Singapore.

Tan Tock Seng Hospital: One of Singapore’s oldest public hospitals, with a rich history of serving the community.

Former General Hospital: Another significant hospital site with a long and storied past.

Preserving these sites is crucial for:

Understanding Medical Advancements: Learning from the past to inform future healthcare innovations.

Honoring Healthcare Professionals: Recognizing the dedication and contributions of doctors,nurses,and other