In a city filled with towering buildings, bustling streets and the constant hum of activity, a slower way of life still exists just a short boat ride from mainland Singapore.
On Pulau Ubin, where visitors can trade traffic jams for cycling trails and concrete landscapes for lush greenery, 18-year-old Isaac spends his weekends and school holidays with his grandparents, helping out at their provision shop that has been standing for more than a century.
The Republic Polytechnic student, who lives with his parents on the mainland during the weekdays, shared a glimpse into his life on the island in an episode of Mediacorp’s Gen Z Crash Course, posted on YouTube.
Pulau Ubin offers Isaac a quiet retreat from city life, though living there also comes with its share of challenges.
Helping out at a century-old provision shop
The provision shop sells snacks, drinks, coconuts and ice cream to tourists, and it also serves as a mini-mart for island residents, stocking everyday necessities such as rice, canned food and soap.
His grandmother’s coffee is another draw for customers.
Having grown up around the island’s community, Isaac said residents had watched him grow up and treat him like family.
On weekends, more visitors come to the island, so he helps his grandparents at the shop.
“I help out (by) watching the store, collecting payments, and making sure the monkeys don’t come in and steal anything,” Isaac said.
Life without a conventional shower
Life on Pulau Ubin does not come with conveniences that many mainland residents take for granted.
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