Strolling Along Bussorah Street

Originally called “Sultan Road”, Bussorah Street is one of the most famous streets in Sultan gate, drawing many tourists who flock to see the noteworthy Sultan Mosque. In the past, Bussorah Street was known as Kampong Kaji (Pilgrim Village), as it was where many pilgrims undertaking the haji to mecca would gather. Along and around this street, there would be many sheikh haji, pious men known for their knowledge of the haj, who would help with their preparations.

Today, Bussorah Street is lined with Middle Eastern restaurants, tourist shops, and other interesting little shops (such as Lickety, Wardah Books, Konditori Bakery). By day, it is filled with tourists keen to learn more about Malay culture. However, by night, this becomes an entirely different area.

In the evening, the droning peaceful prayer calls resound through the area as muslims make their way to Sultan Mosque to pray. During the period of Ramadan, just past 7pm, a temporary lull settles over the community. Time halts as everyone settles down to eat and drink in the company of friends and family. A flurry of activity surrounds the food bazaar, with people queueing up to the fragrant aroma of delicious foods.

And as I stroll through Bussorah Street taking in all these sights, eating my lavender-honey ice cream beneath the moonlight, I am overcome by an immeasurable sense of peace.

Written By Stephanie Heng