Ways to improve footfall at Geylang Serai Market being looked at: Zaqy

By the Editorial Team · Monday, July 27, 2026

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad announced plans to revitalize Geylang Serai Market after observing declining visitor numbers during a recent walkabout with local MPs. The initiative aims to strengthen community ties and sustain cultural vibrancy amid economic challenges, with upcoming discussions involving residents and stallholders to develop targeted support measures.

Concerns over declining visitor numbers at Geylang Serai Market have prompted government officials to explore measures to revitalize the area, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad said on July 26. The market, located in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights Group Representation Constituency (GRC), serves as a key cultural and communal hub for Singapore’s Malay/Muslim community.

Following a walkabout at the market on the morning of July 26, Zaqy announced that Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, also an MP for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC, will meet with local residents and stallholders in the coming week to further discuss the issue. The walkabout, which took place from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., also involved MPs Hazlan Abdul Halim from East Coast GRC and Wan Rizal Wan Zakariah from Jalan Besar GRC. The group spoke directly with patrons and merchants to gauge community sentiment and concerns.

Zaqy indicated that the slowdown in foot traffic at the market is largely attributed to broader economic conditions affecting spending behavior. As acting minister, a role he assumed on July 20 following Faishal Ibrahim’s resignation, Zaqy said he is focusing on initiatives to increase engagement and strengthen ties within the Malay/Muslim community. Faishal stepped down after serving about 14 months in the position amid controversy over inappropriate conduct.

Wisma Geylang Serai and Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre are prominent gathering points within Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC, particularly for the Malay/Muslim population. Zaqy underscored the importance of maintaining vibrancy at these focal points, including sustaining events and programming that encourage weekend congregations.

In addition to efforts centered on the market, Zaqy is actively engaging with Malay/Muslim organizations and community leaders. He highlighted plans to continue the M+ initiative, which extends collaboration beyond the existing M3 partnership—a coalition comprising self-help group Mendaki, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), and the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council. This expanded partnership aims to foster broader community support and development.

Since his appointment, Zaqy has participated in multiple community engagements, including a dialogue on July 21 with community leaders alongside Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam. On July 24, he marked his first Friday prayer as acting minister at Darul Aman Mosque in Eunos, joined by MUIS chief executive Kadir Malideen and mosque officials.

The government’s ongoing engagement efforts underscore a commitment to preserving the cultural significance of Geylang Serai Market while addressing the challenges posed by shifting economic realities and ensuring continuity in leadership following Faishal’s departure.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.