Speech by SMS Low Yen Ling at the Opening Ceremony of KADA at Maxwell

Introduction

1. Good afternoon. It is my pleasure to be here with you to celebrate the official opening of KADA. Today, we mark the transformation of a century-old heritage building into a modern lifestyle hub.

2. In 2023, I was privileged to visit Margaret Market, a charming, preserved heritage building that has become a modern marketplace. The same visionary team behind it has invited me to open KADA, another conservation project turned lifestyle destination. KADA and Margaret Market exemplify our collective commitment to preserving our buildings’ heritage and architectural integrity while allowing them to become contemporary spaces for lifestyle businesses and activities.

Preservation of an Iconic Heritage Building

3. KADA is an iconic historic building that has stood the test of time.

   1. Established as the St Andrews Mission Hospital for Women and Children in 1923, it survived an air raid during World War II and served as a wartime hospital, a dispensary, and a polyclinic. Today, it embarks on a new journey.

   2. By blending its historical mission with contemporary wellness and lifestyle concepts, KADA captivates us with its new energy and inspires us to celebrate and explore its past.

4. The transformation of KADA shows how preservation and innovation can coexist. It is fascinating to see how iconic elements of the building, such as its century-old lift, have been deliberately preserved. Even before its official opening, its presence is felt on social media.

Promoting Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs

5. KADA is more than just a building; it is a launchpad for local entrepreneurs and a crucible of innovation. The spirit of enterprise is not only celebrated but actively fostered here. Most of KADA's tenants are first-time business owners who have taken bold steps to bring their unique visions to life.

6. KADA offers creative and accessible spaces for small businesses to thrive and collaborate. For instance, the coffee culture at KADA is a prime example of the entrepreneurial spirit. With several speciality cafes in close proximity, they form a thriving community where each café brings its unique flavour to the table, both literally and figuratively. They share a collective identity that makes Kada a premier coffee destination.

7. KADA’s commitment to entrepreneurship also extends beyond traditional business models. For example, Eternami is a medical technology startup revolutionising the way we approach healthcare. Its AI-driven tools make proactive health monitoring accessible and engaging. By partnering with established medical practices, Eternami is bridging the gap between technology and wellness, and help make preventive healthcare a way of life.

Creating a Sense of Community

8. KADA is designed to be more than a retail space in the heart of our bustling city. It is a gathering place where people celebrate milestones and foster relationships. For example:

   1. KADA’s atrium has a charm that is picture-perfect for weddings;

   2. Gyms like Limitless are attracting like-minded fitness enthusiasts who get together for rigorous exercises.

9. KADA is also a community space in our busy downtown where people can rejuvenate their physical and mental well-being.

Conclusion

10. We look forward to more events and activities transforming KADA into a thriving lifestyle destination for Singaporeans and tourists alike. Iconic buildings like these play a role in preserving our heritage and also enliven our downtown. I am confident that spaces like KADA will invigorate our city and motivate us to continue innovating in our use of historic buildings.

11. Finally, it is my honour to declare KADA officially open. Thank you.