JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR – Singapore’s Jewish Community

Jewish Heritage Tour

Learn about the Jewish community and meet the Rabbi of a Synagogue!

Singapore’s Jewish community dates back to 1841 during the British Straits Settlements, a time when Singapore was a thriving port attracting merchants from around the world. Amongst the newcomers were the community’s “founding fathers”, six immigrants from Baghdad who were in search of a plot of land for their first Synagogue and cemetery.

Jewish traders since followed, coming from geographically diverse locations, including Iraq, Russia, India, and Indonesia. Together, they formed the foundation of Singapore’s current community. Prominent members include David Marshal, the first Chief Minister of Singapore; Jacob Ballas, a successful stockbroker, and philanthropist; and, Menashe Mayer, who owned the majority stake in Singapore’s real estate market.

We will start our tour with a visit to the Chessed El Synagogue. This gazetted art deco style building was completed in 1905 and served as a private synagogue of Sir Menashe Meyer.

During our visit we will have a chance to speak with the Rabbi and see the Baghdadi Torah Scrolls inside the holy ark.

We will walk to what used to be the Jewish neighborhood known as “Mahalla” and will see Jewish education establishments and prominent buildings, such as the David Elias Building, buit in 1928.

We will visit the Maghain-Avot Synagogue and the adjacent Jacob Ballas center where we will visit the Kosher store. The tour will include a presentation about Judaism; an overview of Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish customs, and a discussion with the local Chief Rabbi about the current community and its connection to Singapore.

Our tour will include a visit to the recently opened Jews of Singapore Museum where we will learn about the Jewish holidays and calendar, symbols, and practices.

Your guide, Sarah Lev, is an Israeli and a member of the Jewish faith who has been active with the Jewish community in Singapore. Sarah sees this tour as a unique opportunity to share her heritage and customs with visitors.

This tour takes place every Monday, 0930-1230hrs.

Notes: Tour is recommended for all ages| Advance booking of at least 1 week required for this tour | Tour will only commence with a minimum of 4 participants. For dates outside of the fixed schedule, you can email bookings@tribe-tours.com to enquire

Solo travelers and tours departing within 48 hours: Please email bookings@tribe-tours.com to confirm availability before booking.