More malls?

Oh no, another mega mall is in the pipeline. There is a mall everywhere you turn in Singapore. As if not enough, mega malls are all the rage. Our mall density in land-scarce Singapore is probably higher than most cities around the world.

The proposed mall measuring 36,000 sq m, is part of a new Sports Hub at the Kallang waterfront. Three consortiums are vying for this mega project which is slated for completion in 2011. While this is still at the drawing board, the developers of Singapore’s first integrated resort at Marina Bay slated to open in 2009, have been teasing the public with promises of compelling attractions, entertainment and, more mega malls.

With a population of 4.5 million, do we need that many malls? I know we welcomed 10 million visitors into our country last year, and these integrated resorts will send more flocking this way, but…but… do we need more malls?

Now let’s turn to some of the pressing social problems. That's what I gleaned from the newspapers…new malls.. flip... mall sales.. flip.. old people killing each other. Why like that?

In Singapore, if you are old and single with no place to call your own, you can rent a tiny flat from the state-owned Housing & Development Board. With limited stock and heavily subsidised rentals, the rental policiy is aimed at optimizing flat use and getting these singles to pair up to optimize space.

But often when elderly singles have to live with complete strangers (with different habits) in a small space out of circumstance, conflicts arise. There are cases of bullying and there are those who quarrel from day to night. In few cases, the fights have resulted in deaths.

It’s about time to revamp the concept of housing for the elderly and let their golden years be filled with joy and warmth instead of pain and suffering.

Hey people, let’s stop mall hopping and start looking at more pressing issues. Don't forget we're one of the fastest ageing population in Asia.