08 September 2020

The Cathay Gallery – A Nostalgic Hidden Gem

It all began with a journey. A thirteen year old immigrant left the impoverished shores of Southern China to Singapore, penniless and barely literate. Today, for his success and generous contributions, he is remembered by roads, a scholarship and university hall named after him.

Like many immigrants before him, his rags to riches story is not free from rough waves, but his entrepreneurial accomplishments and philanthropy have inspired across generations.

The story of the Loke family and Cathay Organisation can only begin with Loke Yew.

Get to know this great man, his family, their achievements and interests dating from the mid 1800 through a unique collection of memorabilia that the family has kept over the years.

Opened on 8 September 2006, The Cathay Gallery is a hidden gem tucked away at level 2 of The Cathay. Photography and film enthusiasts will be awed by the impressive personal collection of vintage cameras, the glamorous costumes once worn by actresses and vintage movie posters. Watch snippets of the classic Pontianak and Chinese films from the 50s and 60s including 1957’s Mambo Girl (曼波女郎) starring Grace Chang; learn about how the cinema seats have evolved over the years, the history of the iconic Cathay Building and enjoy the other interesting and nostalgic displays.

Why not take your parents or grandparents here? They’ll definitely enjoy the nostalgia and reminisce the good old memories. Otherwise, the next time you’re waiting for your friends, dinner reservation or movie, be sure to spend some time in the gallery.