The riches of tin

Rich river deposits of tin were the impetus for the settlement of the muddy flats that became known as Kuala Lumpur.

Tin produced vast fortunes, though not for the coolies who laboured to extract it. Chinese businessmen dominated the trade and their countrymen worked in the hot sun as indentured labourers, dreaming of a return home with plenty of cash, perhaps to find a wife and buy a house and farm.

The railway that connects Singapore today with Malaysia can be found in the heart of the city and it features a beautiful early 20th century building erected at the time when the island state was still a part of Malaya. The main salon is decorated with large panels showing aspects of life and business – including tin. The picture shows the tin panel.

Having completed the long rail journey from Singapore up to Penang, the advice is don´t bother unless you like looking at endless palm plantations and enjoy films played at full blast on a TV set in each carriage that can´t be turned off or down. However, the Singapore station is well worth a visit.

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©Phillip Bruce 2009.