I went to Pulau Ubin today, the last reserve of the kampongs. Except for the absence of chickens, ducks and turkeys, [the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) has banned all poultry on Ubin since 17 June 2005 as part of ongoing efforts to keep the deadly bird flu out of Singapore] the island has not changed much since my last visit some 15 years ago. The rustic settings and slow pace of life in Pulau Ubin is still well preserved and is a refreshing change from the main island of Singapore.
Today, it remains as a picturesque relic of Ubin's history.
First thing I did on arrival was to make a bee-line to the NParks Info Kiosk and say hello to the friendly staff out there. Unlike most visitors who rent a bike to explore the island, I decided to walk instead. Took a leisurely stroll through the village town center and headed towards Noordin Beach. The scenery is beautiful and after passing Pekan Quarry, I spied a number of durian trees heavily laden with fruits. After slightly more than an hour or so, I arrived at Noordin Beach. It is a small beach, and the view was ruined by the "fence" that was erected to thwart the landings by illegal immigrants.
I continued to explore Noordin beach. There was a lone feral dog that kept following me around. I saw a pair of Grey Heron perched on the "fence" motionless waiting for prey. As thunder clouds started to gather, I decided to head back to the village town centre.
I was sun-burnt, hot, sweaty and tired. My leg muscles were aching and I thought it was best to stop at a roadside stall for some fresh coconut juice before catching the bumboat back to Changi Point.
