iProperty.com Singapore has a chat with two residents of Jurong West: I”dil Roslan and Marco Lim, Business Development Managers of an online news and information provider.
( Jurong Point is just around the corner. Image courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board.)
iProperty: Why did you choose to live in this area?
I’dil Roslan: It’s further away from the hectic town we call Orchard Road. And as I’m a frequent traveller to Malaysia, the Second Link in Tuas makes it very convenient for me to cross over.
Marco Lim: I’ve been living in Jurong for the past 20 years because of:
1. Food and shops galore: From my knowledge, Jurong West Avenue 1 has one of the highest ratios of eatery/shops to residents. A single 2km straight stretch of road encompasses about 14 coffee shops, three super-marts, two big markets, two petrol kiosks, two MacDonald’s, a sport complex, two community centres and over 100 stores of all nature.
2. Good investment opportunity: Located near the PIE exit and Chinese Garden, this area is great for investment purposes, especially since the Government has already outlaid details to fully develop Chinese Garden into a water recreational park. Such plans should see an rather exponential increase in value of the area, as proven by past records of other estates. One other thing to highlight is the abundance of schools. There are two reputable primary schools, a secondary school and a junior college within this area as well.
3. Transport convenience: Jurong West Ave 1 is definitely one of the best areas in Jurong with regards to public transport. There are Lakeside and Chinese Garden MRT stations nearby, and over 10 direct buses to areas such as Toa Payoh, Woodlands, Orchard, Holland Village, Bukit Merah and more. It also has one of the highest densities of taxis.
iP: What are the pros of living in this area?
IR: Jurong has got really good amenities. Jurong Point is only a few bus stops away, providing me with a 24/7 supermarket, a Golden Village cinema and some pretty cool shops. Transportation in the area is really great as well, as the PIE, KJE, and BKE are easily accessible. The bus feeder service is spot on, with minimal waiting time for those going to Boon Lay MRT station. Living in the West, evenings are really lovely. When the sunset turns the sky orange, it’s definitely a beautiful sight to see after a hard day at work.
ML: Besides what I mentioned earlier, there are good public transport links and a great variety of well-known foods, especially at the famous Jurong 505 Market. For leisure and entertainment, there are shopping malls and cinemas nearby, and a sport complex with a swimming pool, a stadium track and gyms. If you want a leisurely stroll in a park, try Chinese Garden.
iP: Are there any negatives about living in this area?
IR: No.
ML: It’s not centrally located, although Singapore is too small for this to be a factor.
iP: If there was one thing that would improve this area, what would you like to see?
IR: They should build a mosque in Jurong West. The Muslim community there would greatly appreciate it.
iP: Would you advise people to move to this area and why or why not?
IR: No, I would not advise people to move to this area – because I do want this place to become overcrowded with people!
ML: I would definitely encourage people to relocate here. It is simply one of the best places for living, for eating, as well as one with a great view of the Chinese Garden park.
iP: What is your favourite place for dinner in the area and why?
IR: The perfect place for dinner in the area would be right at home. Jurong is for the family-oriented.
ML: Definitely the renowned Jurong 505 Market. This big market is famous for the two gigantic fruit stalls that sell almost all types of fruits at competitive prices. Imagine buying a big papaya at $0.50 or a three to four kg watermelon at $1! It is also famous for many time-tested food stalls, especially the silk-smooth chicken congee, and the vegetarian noodle stall that has a never-ending queue on weekends.
iP: Do you have a local bar or pub and what’s good about it?
ML: The beauty of family living around this estate is the absence of pubs within the neighbourhood. However, if you wish to quench your thirst, there is a beer garden at the nearby Chinese Garden.
iP: Are there any special finds in the area?
IR: Jurong Bird Park, Chinese and Japanese Garden, Singapore Discovery Centre, Snow City, Science Centre, Sungei Buloh Go Kart Speedway… Need I say more? Jurong is the perfect place for nature lovers.
ML: Definitely the lovely Chinese Garden trail where I do my running.
For our District Guide, featuring Jurong West living, eating and drinking, click here.
For professional analysis of the Jurong West property market, click here.
