As you explore the bustling streets of Chinatown Singapore and enjoy the vibrant colours and enticing smells, take a moment to remember that beneath the lively façade lies a dark, mysterious past filled with secret societies of Chinatown Singapore.
During the 18th century, the secret societies of Chinatown Singapore ruled the streets and businesses along with opium dens and notorious criminal activity. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a thrilling journey through time, unveiling the hidden history of Chinatown Singapore and exploring the world of secret societies that once held power in its shadowy corners.
Afterwards, you’ll have a grand appreciation for how far the community and country have come towards making Chinatown Singapore a cultural hub, celebrating the diversity and inclusivity of the country.
Let’s get started!
The Origins of Secret Societies in Singapore
Secret societies in Chinatown Singapore had their origins in China’s Fujian province. Many early Chinese migrants who settled in Singapore came from this region. These organisations emerged as a source of support and protection for early Chinese migrants, fostering a sense of community and assisting in navigating their unfamiliar surroundings.
Despite the hands-off approach of the British colonial government, these societies began to gain notoriety for their involvement in various illicit activities. These secret societies adopted an organisational structure similar to their parent organisation in Fujian, China. One such society that made its mark in Singapore was the Tian Di Hui, the first triad set up in the city-state. But why were these secret societies formed, and how did they evolve alongside the growing Chinese community in Singapore?
While the primary function of secret societies was mutual support, over time, some members became involved in criminal activities. These activities included extortion, smuggling, illegal gambling, and protection rackets.
Secret societies also influenced the social and cultural aspects of the Chinese immigrant community. They often organised festivals, rituals, and cultural events that helped maintain a sense of identity and belonging among their members.
We’ll explore each society in more detail in this blog post. As we go through them, remember that secret societies in Chinatown Singapore during the 18th century had different characteristics and functions than those that emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries. They often had ties to the Chinese community. They were engaged in various illicit activities, but historical records may not be as comprehensive as those from later times.
Arrival of Chinese Immigrants
Chinese immigration to Singapore began in the early 16th and 17th centuries. It was followed by an influx of immigrants entering the country in the 18th century, with many seeking a better life in the burgeoning city-state. These immigrants:
- Joined secret societies as a means to fit in and receive help from their fellow countrymen
- Started new industries like rubber and tin mining
- Helped build the city’s infrastructure
Their arrival profoundly impacted Singapore’s economy, culture, and society. Chinese migration to Singapore is an ongoing process, and the community’s impact on the city’s economy and culture remains potent.
The early Chinese migrants who joined secret societies laid the foundation for the growth and development of the Chinese community in Singapore, shaping the city’s identity and leaving an indelible mark on its history.
Let’s look into a few prominent secret societies in Chinatown Singapore during that time.
The Tian Di Hui: The First Triad
The Tian Di Hui society was founded by five Shaolin monks who survived the destruction of the Shaolin monastery. The name “Tian Di Hui” symbolizes the harmony between Heaven, Earth, and Man, reflecting the central beliefs of Chinese culture and the society’s involvement in activities such as opium smoking.
Initiation ceremonies for secret societies in Singapore were elaborate affairs, with members going through different gates, answering tricky questions, reciting oaths, and drinking a mix of blood, rice wine, and sugar.
Triad members highly regard the values of loyalty, righteousness, and brotherhood. These values provided a sense of belonging and support for newly arrived Chinese immigrants, who would otherwise struggle to adapt to their new environment. The Tian Di Hui and other secret societies significantly influenced the lives of these immigrants in Singapore.
The Hai San
The Hai San secret society originated in China. It was in various parts of Southeast Asia, including Chinatown in Singapore, during the late 18th century. The society was established and grew due to a combination of factors, including the influx of Chinese immigrants to the region and the need for mutual support and protection in an unfamiliar and sometimes hostile environment.
Like many secret societies of its time, the Hai San society had its roots in the Chinese diaspora. It was initially formed to provide support, security, and a sense of community for Chinese immigrants who had migrated to Southeast Asia in search of economic opportunities.
The Hai San Society served as a mutual aid organization for its members. Chinese immigrants often faced discrimination, exploitation, and harsh working conditions in a foreign land. The society offered a support network that could assist in times of need, including financial support, legal aid, and protection against local criminal elements.
Another thing to note is that the society was known for its rivalry with another secret society, the Ghee Hin, which also had a presence in the region. These rivalries sometimes led to violent conflicts and clashes, known as secret society wars. The Penang Riots in 1867, for example, were a result of tensions between the Hai San and Ghee Hin societies.
Ghee Hin
Like its counterparts, the Ghee Hin secret society was established to serve the needs of Chinese immigrants who faced challenging circumstances in their new homes. These challenges included discrimination, exploitation, and the need for social and economic support.
The Ghee Hin secret society, in common with similar organizations of the time, served various functions. The society provided:
- A support network for its members.
- Offering financial assistance.
- Protection.
- Assistance in navigating unfamiliar surroundings.
This was especially important for immigrants who often had limited resources and were vulnerable to exploitation.
The Ghee Hin and other secret societies often exerted considerable influence within the Chinese communities where they operated. They could control certain neighbourhoods, industries, or economic activities, contributing to social and economic dynamics.
Life in Chinatown’s Dark Underworld
Beneath the façade of a bustling Chinatown, a dark underworld thrived, teeming with opium dens, brothels, and gambling dens. The seedy side of Chinatown was far from today’s vibrant streets, with cramped living conditions and rampant criminal activities. These illicit establishments, often run by secret societies, catered to the vices of Chinese immigrants, providing them with an escape from their difficult lives.
The consequences of these activities were dire, with “death houses” for the terminally ill, slave traffic centres on Pagoda Street, and Samsui women dying in sick-receiving houses on Sago Lane. The appeal of these establishments held secret society members captive, facilitating a steady influx of recruits and reinforcing the influence of secret societies in Chinatown.
Opium Dens and Addiction
Chinatown, also known as China Street, was once riddled with opium dens. In 1848, only 45 opium shops were operating with a valid license. But by 1900, this number had grown to an astonishing 550. People from all walks of life flocked to these rundown shophouses to get their opium fix. Wealthy patrons smoked high-quality opium in private rooms. At the same time, most smokers, mainly Chinese coolies, could only afford dregs and shared pipes.
Opium addiction and its associated crime were rampant in Chinatown, leading the government to ban the drug in 1943. The consequences of this addiction were far-reaching, as the opium trade fueled criminal activities and kept secret society members trapped in a vicious cycle of dependency and crime.
Brothels and Gambling Dens
Brothels and gambling dens also played a significant role in Chinatown’s dark past. Smith Street, known as Singapore’s red-light district, was lined with brothels catering to the desires of single male immigrants. Many women who worked in these establishments came from China and Japan, lured by the promise of a better life.
These dens were also hubs for drug trafficking, money laundering, and other criminal activities, often involving ex-gang members. Today, only subtle traces of this seedy past remain, such as nondescript white lightboxes with red words and numbers on Keong Saik Road.
The widespread presence of brothels and gambling dens in Chinatown underscores Singapore’s past dark secrets, revealing a darker history and warning about the repercussions of uncontrolled criminal activity.
Policing and Suppressing Secret Societies
Efforts to suppress secret societies in Singapore involved a combination of education, engagement, and proactive enforcement. Laws such as the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act (CLTPA) successfully curbed serious criminal activities and gang involvement. Furthermore, establishing the Secret Society Branch (SSB) demonstrated the government’s commitment to eradicating these organizations.
The British colonial government struggled to control secret societies, and the media often portrayed arrested members as “criminal gangsters.” This portrayal, coupled with increased violence during the 19th century, contributed to the negative perception of secret societies in Singapore.
Legislation and Ordinances
Laws and ordinances, such as the Societies Ordinance, the Peace Preservation Act of 1867, and the Dangerous Societies Suppression Ordinance of 1869, were enacted to control and suppress secret societies in Singapore.
The Societies Ordinance of 1889 aimed to curb their growth by requiring registration and deterring Chinese immigrants from joining secret societies.
These laws and ordinances were instrumental in regulating secret societies, diminishing their membership and curtailing their sway over the Chinese community in Singapore. The government’s efforts to combat secret societies through legislation and registration undoubtedly contributed to their decline.
Strengthening the Police Force
To better combat secret societies, the police force in Singapore underwent significant improvements, including:
- Increased funding
- Better equipment
- Proper training
- Recruitment of Chinese police officers
These enhancements allowed the police to address the growing number of secret societies within the Chinese community more effectively.
The reinforced police force, supported by the colonial government, was leading in suppressing secret societies and upholding law and order in Singapore. The strengthened police force and strict legislation ultimately led to the decline of secret societies in the city-state.
The Decline of Secret Societies in Singapore
The decline of secret societies in Singapore can be attributed to the establishment of the Chinese Protectorate and the evolution of worker unions. The British authorities set up the Chinese Protectorate in 1877 to provide aid and security to Chinese immigrants, thereby reducing secret society membership.
Worker unions in Singapore evolved from secret societies and clan associations, leading to a more organized and legitimate form of representation for the Chinese community. These developments and the government’s measures to suppress secret societies contributed to their decline and the eventual transformation of Chinatown into the vibrant, colourful district it is today.
Establishment of the Chinese Protectorate
The Chinese Protectorate set up in the Straits Settlements in 1877, strived to safeguard the Chinese community and secure the welfare of ethnic Chinese residents. The Chinese Protectorate played a significant role in reducing secret society membership by providing support and protection to Chinese immigrants.
This governmental body dealt with Chinese immigration and other issues related to the Chinese population in the Straits Settlements, offering an alternative source of support for immigrants that lessened the appeal of secret societies. The Chinese Protectorate marked a turning point in the history of secret societies in Singapore, contributing to their decline and eventual demise.
Evolution of Worker Unions
Secret societies and clan associations were the first types of labour unions in Singapore. They played a considerable role in emerging worker’s organizations. These organizations laid the groundwork for establishing the Singapore Trades Union Congress (STUC) in 1951, which replaced the Singapore Federation of Trade Unions. The STUC, with the support of the colonial government, played a significant role in standing up for workers in Singapore.
In 1964, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) was officially recognized as Singapore’s official congress for trade unions. The transformation of worker unions from secret societies and clan associations resulted in a reduced influence of secret societies and a more organized representation of the Chinese community in Singapore.
Rediscovering Chinatown’s Hidden Past
Even though secret societies have declined, the history and mysteries of Chinatown are still subtly present. Walking tours, heritage sites, and police bunkers offer glimpses into the mysterious past of this vibrant district. These experiences allow visitors to explore the stories and secrets that have shaped Chinatown, providing a deeper understanding of its history and culture.
While wandering through the lively streets of Chinatown today, pause to acknowledge the intricate and rich history underpinning its vibrant exterior. By exploring the hidden past of secret societies and the dark underworld of Chinatown, we can gain a greater appreciation for the resilience and transformation of this iconic district.
Police Bunkers and Operations Rooms
Police bunkers and operations rooms in Chinatown on Pearl’s Hill Terrace were once used as bomb shelters and nerve centres for police communications. The Combined Operations Room, a British-built police bunker, served as the nerve centre from 1956 to the 1980s.
Today, one of these bunkers is open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the history of policing and secret societies in Singapore. Exploring these once-hidden structures provides an opportunity to better understand the efforts made by the police force to suppress and control secret societies in Chinatown and a chance to visit the Singapore History Museum to learn more about this fascinating period.
Walking Tours and Heritage Sites
Walking tours and heritage sites in Chinatown offer an immersive experience that unveils the hidden history of secret societies and the dark underworld that once thrived in the area. Some of these heritage sites include:
- Thian Hock Keng Temple: This temple was a gathering place for Chinese immigrants, where secret societies often recruited new members.
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum: This site was once a meeting point for secret societies, where they conducted their rituals and ceremonies.
- Chinatown Heritage Centre: This centre houses exhibits containing the history of secret societies in Chinatown.
- Sri Mariamman Temple: Some secret societies used this temple for initiation rituals and secret meetings.
While journeying through the streets of Chinatown on a walking tour, bear in mind the historical layers that have moulded this lively district. From opium dens and gambling dens to police bunkers and heritage sites, the secrets of Chinatown’s past are waiting to be discovered by those who seek them out.
If you're interested in learning more, there's also the Triads Trial Walking Tour. Do check them out.
Triad Trials Tour in Chinatown
Summary
From the origins and growth of secret societies in Singapore to their eventual decline, the hidden history of Chinatown paints a fascinating picture of a district that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Through the exploration of police bunkers, walking tours, and heritage sites, we can rediscover the dark secrets and captivating stories that have shaped Chinatown’s vibrant and colourful presence.
As you walk the bustling streets of Chinatown, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of history beneath its lively surface. In understanding how the hidden past of secret societies captivates the dark underworld of Chinatown, we gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and transformation of this iconic district during a time of prominent rule from the British government.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Labour abuse of the coolies in Singapore?
The labour abuse of the coolies in Singapore included arduous hard work that took a toll on their bodies, with no access to proper healthcare. This, combined with exploitation and mistreatment, poor living conditions, and dangerous voyages overseas, made for a challenging experience for the coolies.
What was the Peace Preservation Act of 1867?
The Peace Preservation Act of 1867 enabled the government to deport Chinese immigrants convicted of crime, limiting the reach of secret societies and discouraging them from joining.
Who were the early Chinese immigrants in Singapore?
The earliest Chinese immigrants in Singapore were coolies, a pejorative term for low-wage labourers typically of Indian or Chinese descent. They were mainly impoverished Chinese who came to Singapore seeking fortune but instead served as indentured labourers and worked in industries such as construction, agriculture, shipping, mining and rickshaw pulling. Before them, the Peranakan Chinese from Malacca and Riau arrived between the 15th and 18th centuries.
What was the first triad to be established in Singapore?
The first triad to be established in Singapore was the Tian Di Hui.
How common were opium dens in Chinatown during the 19th century?
Opium dens were prevalent in 19th-century Chinatown, with licensed shops growing from 45 to 550 in over 50 years.
