Seminar 12: Pulau Brani Histories – Asal Pulau Brani

The island of Pulau Brani (Pulau Ayer Berani) was home to four main villages – Telok Saga, Selat Sengkir, Masak Timah, and Spedo. The islanders were primarily composed of Singapore’s Orang Selat and included those who had migrated from Singapore River. Over the course of the nineteenth century they were closely connected to the British army base on Pulau Brani, which provided the Brani men with jobs such as marine engineers, lighthouse attendants, and ferry service crew. Another company that provided ample jobs for the residents of Brani was the Straits Trading Company which had set up a tin-smelting factory on the island.

What set apart the islanders of Brani from all the other islands was the influence of the British within the small space. The strong British presence coupled with the idyllic way of life gave the islanders a unique perspective – encouraging a more open way of thinking while being rooted to the traditions of ancestors.

In this Seminar, the speakers Ms Izyan Nadzirah and Mr Md Nadjad will share the reasons behind the project, and the work accomplished to document the experiences and memories of Pulau Brani residents and produce a book titled Brani, Memories of an Island. A number of former islanders will also recollect significant community memories.

The presentation will include memories of a few children of officers in the British Army who grew up on the island, who will reflect on their experiences beginning from their childhood days on Brani.

The moderator of the session, Dr Imran bin Tajudeen, will provide a brief overview of previous Seminars on the Southern Islands and water village (kampung air) communities of Singapore.

Hope to see you there!