A Rattan Business

Wicker furniture can be seen in any stylish furniture label's outdoor collection, but there was a time when it was known by the humble name of 'rattan' in Singapore. The ubiquitous chairs were seen on almost every balcony and patio, thanks to its affordable price (compared to imported upholstered sofas) and its suitability for our hot, humid climate before air conditioning became an everyday necessity.

As a neighbour of Indonesia (from where it was originally exported) and a place to which skilled Chinese craftsmen migrated in the early days, Singapore tapped into the industry quite rapidly, and until the 1980s, was likely the biggest exporter of rattan furniture in Southeast Asia.

Rattan furniture shops could be found in Victoria Street, Middle Road, and Bras Basah and there were even rattan factories dotted along places like Toa Payoh.