When I received the media invite for the launch of Bollywood Farms’ new children’s book, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. This was my chance to explore the beautiful countryside of Singapore while immersing myself in art, literature, and nature. As someone who cherishes these experiences, I was especially excited to bring along my 3-year-old daughter, who shares my love for art, nature, and gardening.
Arriving at Bollywood Farms on a breezy Sunday morning, the air was filled with the vibrant energy of the monthly Bollywood Farms Festival. Founded by the passionate and ever-inspiring Mrs Ivy Singh-Lim, Bollywood Farms has long been a sanctuary for city dwellers seeking respite from Singapore’s concrete jungle. The 10-acre farm in Kranji Countryside is a testament to the power of green spaces in an urban landscape.
Kampong Plants & Kampong Planting: A call to action by Bollywood Farms
The star of the day was “Kampong Plants & Kampong Planting,” a delightful 78-page book aimed at encouraging Singaporeans to grow their own food plants, even in the limited spaces of high-rise living. Authored by Carolyn Ortega, who also wrote the beloved “The Bollywood Kampong Book 1” in 2014, this book offers a treasure trove of information. It features a comprehensive listing of local food plants, their benefits, tips on growing them in confined spaces, and a variety of kampong recipes.
The book launch took place in Bollywood Farms’ charming museum, where we were greeted by Mrs. Ivy Singh-Lim herself. Her enthusiasm was contagious as she shared her vision for the book. “At Bollywood Farms, we believe in the power of education and community to transform our agricultural landscape,” she said. “Kampong Plants & Kampong Planting is not just a book; it’s a call to action for our young generation to reconnect with nature and understand the critical role of farming in our food security and industry.”
Embracing the Kampong spirit
The Guest-of-Honour, Tan Jiew Ho, President of the Singapore Gardening Society, echoed these sentiments. “The launch of Kampong Plants & Kampong Planting is a timely reminder of the importance of nurturing our local farming community. As urban spaces grow and farming areas diminish, it is crucial to adopt innovative methods to ensure food security and sustainable living,” he remarked.
As we wandered through the farm, my daughter was captivated by the vibrant hand-drawn illustrations of various local food plants. The book encourages young readers to add their own imagination by colouring these illustrations, making it a truly interactive experience. Watching her engage with the book and the farm around her, I realised how powerful this initiative could be in fostering a deeper appreciation for local farming among the younger generation.
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A vision for the future of Singapore’s farming
Farmland takes up only 1% of Singapore’s land, and with the ambitious “30 by 30” goal set by the government, there’s an urgent need for strategic planning and innovative solutions to secure the future of our farms and food security. Bollywood Farms is leading the charge by promoting the knowledge of local greenery and produce, and by creating opportunities for people to connect with the joy and benefits of countryside living.
The book is available for sale at Bollywood Farms for a modest $10 and is even given out for free to visiting children aged 7 to 12. This initiative not only educates but also inspires, bridging the gap between urban living and the traditional kampong spirit.
Our visit to Bollywood Farms was a delightful blend of learning and leisure. “Kampong Plants & Kampong Planting” is more than just a book—it’s a movement towards sustainable living and a celebration of our local farming heritage. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and understand the importance of growing our own food, even in the heart of the city.
For more information on the monthly Bollywood Farms Festival and other activities, visit Bollywood Farms.
