Singapore’s Southern Islands are a cluster of isles steeped in history, legends, and breathtaking natural beauty. While today they are known for their pristine beaches and tranquil escapes from city life, these islands hold fascinating tales and folklore passed down through generations. From mystical turtles to tragic love stories, the Southern Islands are more than just scenic spots—they are living testaments to Singapore’s rich maritime heritage.
Let’s journey through the intriguing legends, histories and folklore surrounding six of the most famous Southern Islands: Kusu Island, St John’s Island, Lazarus Island, Sisters’ Islands, Sentosa Island, and Pulau Tekukor.
1. Kusu Island – The Island of the Sacred Turtles
Kusu Island, meaning ‘Tortoise Island’ in Chinese, is one of the most famous Southern Islands due to its deep spiritual significance. According to local legend, a giant turtle transformed into an island to save two shipwrecked sailors—one Malay and one Chinese. To honor this miraculous event, a Chinese temple, Da Bo Gong Temple, was built on the island, and it remains a site of pilgrimage, especially during the annual Kusu pilgrimage season.
The island is also home to Malay shrines known as ‘keramats,’ dedicated to pious figures believed to grant fertility, wealth, and good fortune. Visitors leave offerings and prayers, hoping for their wishes to be fulfilled. Adding to its charm, Kusu Island is famous for its gentle turtles, which can be seen swimming in the temple pond or near the shore.
2. St John’s Island – From Quarantine Station to Serene Retreat
St John’s Island, originally called Pulau Sakijang Bendera, has an intriguing history that spans centuries. It was once a quarantine station for immigrants arriving in Singapore who needed medical clearance before entering the city. Later, it was also used as a detention center for political prisoners. Today, it is a peaceful getaway with stunning beaches, clear waters, and marine biodiversity.
While not widely known for folklore, the island is believed to have mystical energy, with old tales suggesting that spirits roam the island at night. Some fishermen and island visitors have reported hearing whispers in the wind or catching glimpses of shadowy figures. Whether these are remnants of its past or mere superstitions, St John’s Island holds a certain enigmatic charm that continues to attract visitors.
3. Lazarus Island – The Hidden Gem of the South
Lazarus Island, located just a short bridge away from St John’s Island, is often regarded as one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets. With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, it has an almost Maldivian feel—yet remains largely untouched by commercial tourism.
Unlike other Southern Islands, Lazarus Island doesn’t have a well-known legend attached to it, but its very name evokes a sense of mystery. Some believe it was named after a leper colony that once existed nearby. Though no concrete evidence supports this theory, the island’s seclusion and unspoiled beauty make it a fascinating location for urban explorers and nature lovers alike.
4. Sisters’ Islands – A Tale of Sacrifice and Love
Among all the Southern Islands, Sisters’ Islands hold one of the most emotional and dramatic legends. According to folklore, two sisters, Minah and Linah, lived on the mainland. When Linah was forced into marriage with a cruel pirate, Minah attempted to save her, but both were tragically swept away by strong currents. The next day, two islands appeared in the very place they disappeared—hence, they were named the Sisters’ Islands.
Today, the islands are part of Singapore’s first-ever marine park, boasting a rich underwater ecosystem teeming with coral reefs and marine life. Divers and snorkelers visit the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park to witness the vibrant marine biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers.
5. Sentosa Island – From the ‘Island of Death’ to ‘Island of Fun’
Sentosa is Singapore’s most famous island, known today as a world-class resort destination. However, its history and original name paint a starkly different picture. Previously called Pulau Blakang Mati, which means ‘Island of Death from Behind’ in Malay, it was once believed to be a cursed place.
Historical records suggest that the island was a burial ground, and it was also the site of pirate ambushes and battles. Locals avoided the island due to superstitions of it being haunted. However, in the 1970s, Singapore transformed Pulau Blakang Mati into ‘Sentosa,’ which means ‘peace and tranquility’ in Malay. Today, Sentosa is a lively paradise featuring theme parks, luxury resorts, and golden beaches, shaking off its dark past and embracing a vibrant, tourist-friendly identity.
6. Pulau Tekukor – The Island of Death and Gunpowder
Pulau Tekukor is one of the least accessible Southern Islands, adding to its eerie aura. Unlike its neighboring islands, it is uninhabited and rarely visited. Historically, it was used as a storage site for explosives, and before that, it was said to be a mass execution ground for pirates.
The name Tekukor translates to ‘dove’ in Malay, but ironically, there are no doves on the island. Instead, the island is overgrown with dense foliage, and its abandoned structures add to its ghostly reputation. Some say they’ve seen shadowy figures moving through the trees at dusk. While it remains closed to the public, Pulau Tekukor continues to intrigue those fascinated by Singapore’s forgotten past.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s Southern Islands are more than just idyllic getaways—they are steeped in legends, history, and mystery. Whether it’s the miraculous story of Kusu Island, the tragic love of the Sisters’ Islands, or the haunting whispers of St John’s Island, each island carries a unique narrative that adds to Singapore’s maritime folklore.
Next time you set sail to these islands, take a moment to appreciate their deeper stories. Who knows? You might just feel the presence of the past lingering in the sea breeze, whispering the tales of old.
Which of these islands’ legends intrigues you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
