Bukit Merah blocks painted red get so hot, it feels like living in furnace: Resident

19/11/2025 3 Views

“Merah” means red in Malay, but this might be taking it too literally.

A Jalan Bukit Merah resident complained that after several blocks were painted red, it felt like living in a furnace on sunny days.

The buildings appeared to be on fire in more ways than one, according to Stomper SamY.

“Blocks 12, 13 and 14 at Jalan Bukit Merah look like they are burning,” said the resident.

“Residents are complaining. During hot sunny days, the rooms feel like a furnace. Even after heavy rain, the whole flat still feels hot and humid.”

The Stomper highlighted recent news about a Housing Board initiative to coat blocks with heat-reflective paint that will be rolled out to all HDB estates by 2030.

He wondered: “Are they really using real reflective paint or is the town council is not considerate enough towards the residents by painting the buildings red?”

In response to a Stomp query, a Tanjong Pagar Town Council spokesperson pointed out that the part of Bukit Merah historically known as the Brickworks Estate was once a key centre of Singapore’s brick-making industry.

The name “Bukit Merah”, which means “red hill” in Malay, is also associated with the distinctive red soil in the area, which made it ideal for brick production.

“Many long-time residents would remember that the residential blocks in this estate were traditionally painted in shades of red to reflect this heritage,” said the spokesperson.

She explained that as part of the ongoing Repairs & Redecoration (R&R) works, which are scheduled for completion at the end of next year, the blocks are receiving a fresh coat of paint.

“During the colour selection process, residents voted for the red-themed scheme to retain the rich culture and identity of the Brickworks Estate, and to bring greater vibrancy to the neighbourhood,” revealed the spokesperson.

Jalan Bukit Merah blocks painted red. — PHOTO: STOMP

“Over the past months, we have received some feedback regarding the intensity of the red colour and how it reflected light into some units.

“In response, we worked closely with the R&R contractor to adjust the colour scheme by incorporating more white surfaces to tone down the overall redness.

“These mitigation measures have been implemented, and so far, no further related feedback has been received. Residents appear to be adapting well to the refreshed look as the R&R works continue.”

She added: “We thank residents for their patience and for sharing their concerns, and we remain committed to maintaining a comfortable living environment while preserving the unique heritage of the estate.”

In 2023, Tampines North residents also complained about red-themed blocks not because of the heat, but because the colour made the buildings look “like a horror movie“.

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