Film-maker Benny Loh's short-form documentary shines the spotlight on the urban enclave.
SINGAPORE – Jalan Besar’s special draw as an urban enclave that has become a home away from home for Singapore’s foreign workers is the subject of a new short-form documentary that premieres online on July 26.
The 10-minute visual narrative sheds light on why migrant workers from India and Bangladesh are drawn to the area. Loh shot at various locations in the Jalan Besar area, located within and near the Little India and Kampong Glam Historic Districts. A highlight of his portfolio is a 2022 short-form documentary titled Experiences, which takes a peek at tenants in Peninsula Shopping Centre in Coleman Street, one of Singapore’s ageing malls built in the 1970s.His more recent Jalan Besar project, which took more than seven months to shoot, was an “eye-opener” for the veteran film-maker, who found micro-spaces within the precinct that different groups gravitate towards.
“The spaces are filled with transient workers gathering, eating and shopping, coupled with some tourists who visit to soak in the sights and sounds,” he says. “This is very important for me and my friends. We can socialise around Mustafa Centre in Syed Alwi Road, eat in Race Course Road or shop for gold along Serangoon Road in safety.”
“This helps to promote a positive work environment, enhances diversity and contributes to long-term business growth.”The documentary also zooms in on the aspirations of young migrant worker A.K. Zilani, who has a passion for theatre. He is currently a member of theatre group The Birds Migrant Theatre.
“Throughout the interview and filming, I experienced happiness reflecting on my accomplishments and hope for a better future,” he says, highlighting that he is happy and proud to be able to pursue his passion for art and culture in Singapore. Resident playwright of The Necessary Stage, Haresh Sharma, has worked with Zilani on several arts projects before as part of The Birds Migrant Theatre, of which Sharma is a mentor.The Birds Migrant Theatre, a theatre group formed by migrant workers from Indonesia, Bangladesh and the Philippines in 2018, approached Sharma to be a mentor as they needed guidance.Power of theatre
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