The Workers’ Party releases 后港 Hougang: The Documentary, honouring Hougang’s heritage

In celebration of its 67th anniversary, The Workers’ Party (WP) has launched 后港 Hougang: The Documentary, a film that delves deep into the historical, cultural, and political tapestry of Hougang.

The release, now available on WP’s official YouTube channel, invites the public to explore the significance of Hougang as a vibrant community emblematic of resilience, collective identity, and democratic spirit.

A Journey Through Time: Capturing Hougang’s Heritage

The documentary traces the area’s roots back to the early 18th century when Teochew immigrants from Guangdong Province in China arrived in Singapore, first settling on Pulau Ubin before moving inland.

As Bryan Goh, a PhD student in history, noted: “The Hougang spirit is produced by shared memory, shared experiences, and shared heritage… at a specific geographical location.”

This shared history, marked by farming, fishing, and community bonds, shaped Hougang into a distinct enclave long before it became part of Singapore’s urban fabric.

The documentary paints a vivid picture of the town’s evolution, from its days as an agricultural and fishing village to its transformation amid Singapore’s rapid development.

The documentary features insights from experts like Mark R. Frost, who explained the emotional upheaval experienced by residents:

“If you were a farmer who has tended that land and has been custodian for that land… to suddenly have it taken away by the state… that creates big problems of trust.” said Dr Frost, underscoring the dislocation felt during the urbanisation phase of the 1970s, when traditional kampungs were cleared, and residents were resettled into high-rise Housing Development Board (HDB) flats.

Community Strength Amid Change

The documentary showcases personal stories from past and present residents, interweaving their voices to illustrate the impact of state policies on the local way of life.

For instance, Low Thia Khiang, former Secretary-General of WP and a long-serving Member of Parliament for Hougang, shared how essential community initiatives were established to fill the gaps left by policy changes after he was elected as MP in 1991, just three years after the constituency was first contested in the 1988 General Election.

“When I was elected, they decided to discontinue [the bursary scheme]. So, we started an education trust… to support residents. That’s how the Hougang Education Trust came about.”

Such moments highlight how grassroots efforts reinforced the bonds of trust and resilience, nurturing a sense of belonging even as external changes reshaped the landscape.

The documentary also highlights the cultural losses felt by the community. The prioritisation of English and Mandarin in education led to the gradual erosion of dialects and traditional practices.

Sudhir Thomas Vadaketh, Editor-in-Chief of Jom, commented on the broader implications of this shift: “There are other things like democratic values, discourse, or just wanting alternative opinions and views,” reflecting Hougang’s steadfast commitment to ideals beyond material gains and focusing instead on preserving its voice and advocating for democratic representation.

A Political Symbol of Resilience

Hougang’s unique political identity is a central theme of the documentary. It examines how, following the significant resettlements of the 1970s and 1980s, the town’s residents began to question state narratives and align themselves with leaders who understood their struggles.

This shift is captured in the words of Dr Frost: “Voting for the opposition has created a unique identity for Hougang—one tied to resilience and independence.” This choice marked Hougang as a bastion of alternative political thought, setting it apart from other parts of Singapore.

Former resident Wilin Low shared an anecdote that illustrates the solidarity and compassion of the Hougang community: “I think the Hougang residents are very big-hearted… even during tough times, they continued to support each other and contribute to the community.”

These shared values created a tightly knit network where relationships extended beyond simple neighbourly interactions, embodying the kampung spirit even in the modern era.

Hougang’s Influence on Singapore’s Political Landscape

The documentary presents Hougang not just as an emblem of WP’s success but as a testament to the importance of plurality in Singapore’s political sphere.

Hougang’s voting choices over the decades resonated with broader aspirations for diverse representation and affirmed that varied perspectives enrich Singapore’s political landscape. As Sudhir Thomas Vadaketh remarked, “Singaporeans can’t be so easily bought off… There are other things like democratic values, discourse, or just wanting alternative opinions and views.”

Low Thia Khiang’s leadership further emphasised this point. Under his tenure, community programmes like the Hougang Education Trust—funded by donations from the Seventh Month dinners—reinforced the idea that social support must be community-driven. The documentary shows how these initiatives fostered trust and illustrated the tangible impact of consistent representation.

As Low recounted: “[We] built a foundation and… offer[ed] a wider service to Singapore. Hopefully… change the political landscape to institutionalise… checks and balances.”

A Legacy of Community and Courage

Through the voices of historians, former MPs, and residents, the documentary captures a narrative of resilience, unity, and the desire for a representative voice.

It highlights Hougang as a symbol of what is possible when a community stands together, preserving its shared history and pushing for representation that prioritises its needs.

Lee Li Lian, Deputy Head of The Workers’ Party Media Team, highlighted the documentary’s broader significance: “In many ways, this film captures not just the story of Hougang, but also the spirit that defines this community. The journey of Hougang’s Teochew immigrants echoes the broader Singapore story—one of resilience, courage, and the kampung spirit that binds us together. What stands out about Hougang is the unwavering belief in standing up for what is right and supporting one another, especially the less fortunate. As this film reaches a wider audience, we hope it reminds Singaporeans of the deep bonds we share and the importance of honouring our history. To the people of Hougang, past and present, thank you for your trust, belief, and partnership over the years.”

As the documentary reaches viewers, it serves as a celebration of Hougang’s storied past and an inspiration for communities to uphold their unique identities while embracing progress.