March 21, 2019

In 2005, the varsity-wide NUS Campus Green Committee (CGC) embarked on a mission to promote a cleaner and greener campus, as well as a greater appreciation of the natural environment among the NUS community. In particular, they focused on NUS’s own backyard—Kent Ridge, the rocky ridge that runs parallel to Singapore’s western seashore.

Together, their efforts have resulted in a new book, Kent Ridge: An Untold Story (NUS Press, 2019), which not only documents their findings, but also features a special piece by Emeritus Professor Edwin Thumboo from the NUS Department of English Language and Literature. This is in addition to the contributions by former FASS staff, such as Professor David Higgitt and Associate Professor Victor Savage from the NUS Department of Geography, as well as Dr Ho Chi Tim, Dr Erik Holmberg, and Mr Tan Chye Guan from the NUS Department of History.

Dotted with beautiful photographs, vivid illustrations, and maps, the book explores the lesser-known facets of the Ridge, including its changing human geography, flora and fauna, as well as its role in history. It also features several interesting factoids, including an introduction to the variety of animal species in Kent Ridge Park, and even Kent Ridge’s historical significance in the battle of Opium Hill, where Malay regiments held off the Japanese forces in the Second World War.

According to Dr Peck Thian Guan, the Director of the NUS Office of Safety, Health and Environment (OSHE) and leader of the project, Kent Ridge: An Untold Story was lovingly crafted by a group of people who have a passion for the Ridge. It is their hope that their passion rubs off on all its readers as well.

Get the book here.