THE SINGAPORE PAGES Halloween is here!

Investigating the island past and present, with tips, trivia and time travel – and the occasional tricky challenge for readers!

Events To commemorate the spookiest day of the year, here’s a list of four freaky spots that are regarded by many as the most haunted in Singapore. (And check out our longer feature at expatliving.sg.)

#1 Old Changi Hospital:

Falling into disrepair after its closure in 1997, Old Changi Hospital is said to be haunted by the souls of those killed by Japanese troops in World War II. Some allege that the building was used as a torture chamber rather than to treat the wounded, and stories abound of shadowy figures and screams heard in the halls.

#2 The Amber Tower:

This beacon tower in East Coast Park has a grim tale to tell. Around 30 years ago, a couple were walking at night on this spot when they were attacked by a gang; the male was knocked out and his female companion murdered. Nobody has been caught for the crime, and some have claimed to see a female figure near the tower at night.

#3 Woodneuk House:

Located in thick jungle near the Botanic Gardens, Woodneuk House is well known for scary sightings. Once occupied by the Sultan of Johor, the abandoned house is covered in vegetation and decay. This home is missing from most maps of Singapore, which makes it out of bounds and truly mysterious!

#4 St John’s Island:

St John’s was formerly a quarantine island for those with infectious diseases, then a penal settlement and a prisoner-of-war camp – no wonder it makes the list of haunted locations! One particular story is of visitors hearing sports being played or balls bouncing, but seeing nobody where the sounds are coming from.

On this month:

“Murder at Old Changi Hospital” is a new virtual escape-room experience for Halloween 2021. Written by awardwinning playwright Chong Tze Chien, it involves decoding puzzles and deciphering video footage and flashbacks to solve a terrifying mystery. When: Friday to Sunday nights, 8 October to 7 November How long: 90 minutes How much: $45 per entry (for group access via one device) What next: Visit thefuturestage.com to book tickets