With the various functions and organisations, such as the Community Centre (CC), Community Development Council (CDC) and Malay Heritage Centre under one roof, the civic centre serves as a hub to the community. The emphasis on preserving the Malay heritage makes “heritage” a key feature in the name of this new civic centre.

Located at the former Malay Village, the new name for the civic centre carries the essence of its origins through the word “Kampung”. The word “Kampung” reflects the encompassing nature of the civic centre and how this structure serves as a place where the community can come together and work towards a progressive living environment. “Kampung Geylang Serai” also carries the spirit of the Malay community which is one of unity and support.

“Seri” means glow, brightness and brilliance. The new civic centre is the epitome of a village with the CC/ CDC/ Malay Heritage Centre and other community-related organisations playing an active role in ensuring Geylang Serai stays bright like a light, reflecting the beauty and rapport within the community. In keeping the legacy and relevance of the Malay Heritage, the name “Kampung Seri Geylang” encompasses both the past, present and future aspirations of the Malay community and fellow Singaporeans.

“Medan” refers to an open space. Thus, the simple name, “Medan Warisan Geylang”, depicts the features of the new civic centre in Geylang Serai being a space to be filled with artistic and heritage activities in the community, and for the community.

The word “Mutiara” is translated as “Pearl”. It symbolizes the precious and valuable entity that the place preserves. The name advocates the vision of the Malay community, in hopes to set new benchmarks for individuals to find inspirations and aspirations. “Mutiara Geylang Serai” replicates the heritage, culture and vision of the Malay Village throughout the years and will witness to more memories being carved in the years to come.

“Pusat Sivik” is the Malay translation of “civic centre”. It is important to retain “Geylang Serai” in the name to preserve the cultural heritage and identity of the overall precinct. Having the civic centre named in Malay keeps the emphasis on the heritage strong and relevant to the area. Furthermore, it depicts and reflects the nature and flavour of the purpose of a civic centre.

“Sri” is the traditional Malay word for “Seri”. The name carries the hope that everyone who enters the new civic centre will shine brightly and be filled with joy. It is also a place which brings people to remembrance of the rich Malay cultural heritage and traditions.

The definition of “Gemilang” is glorious, splendid, excellence. This not only refers to the past glory of this site for the Malay community, but also signifies the present and future aspirations for the upcoming civic centre. The name “Wisma Gemilang” hopes to remind the community of the rich Malay cultural heritage.

The word “Wisma” refers to a complex, house or building. Carrying the meaning of “house”, Geylang Serai is signified as the ‘abode’ and origin of the Malay Settlement back in pre-modern Singapore. “Wisma Geylang Serai” aptly describes the nature and function of the civic centre, and it’s easy to remember.

The Malay word “Seri” can be translated as glory, charm and grace. It can also be used to describe something that glitters. So the word “Seri” can add sparkle to its working name “Wisma Geylang Serai”. “Seri” is an easy word to pronounce, short yet meaningful. Importantly it is easily comprehensible by everyone regardless of race, language or religion.