KFF Badminton Arena Opens: A Historic Landmark Reborn as Singapore’s New Community Hub
- John Yeong
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Singapore Badminton Association Revives Singapore’s Sporting Heritage with a Modern Community Hub, as Historic Singapore Badminton Stadium Reopens
Singapore, 6 September 2025 – The Singapore Badminton Association (SBA) has officially reopened the historic Guillemard site as the KFF Badminton Arena, ushering in a new era for both sports and community life in Singapore.
The grand opening, officiated by Minister Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and President of the Singapore National Olympic Council, welcomed around 200 guests and featured exhibition matches with national stars and ex-national athletes.
A Star-Studded Opening Ceremony
Badminton legends and household names gathered to celebrate the revival of this iconic venue. Among them were Li Li, Singapore’s first Commonwealth Games badminton gold medalist, Kendrick Lee, Derek Wong, and Loh Kean Yew, the 2021 BWF World Champion. Their presence highlighted the venue’s deep ties to the nation’s sporting legacy.
The exhibition match was more than just a showcase of talent—it was a tribute to generations of athletes who have graced these very courts, from Singapore’s first men’s singles SEA Games champion Wong Shoon Keat to today’s rising stars. More Than a Stadium: A Community Hub for All
Thanks to the Karim Family Foundation’s (KFF) generous support, the rejuvenated complex is more than just a badminton arena—it’s a multi-faceted community hub. The facilities now include:
12 badminton courts (9 in the historic hall, 3 premium air-conditioned courts with corporate boxes)
Food and beverage outlets for families and players
A 24-hour gym and spa for fitness and wellness
A Li-Ning sporting apparel store
Advanced smart training technology by JK Technology, including autonomous cameras to track gameplay
This transformation makes the KFF Badminton Arena not just a space for competitive badminton, but also a vibrant destination for recreation, wellness, and community bonding.
Preserving History, Inspiring the Future
The Guillemard site, first opened in 1952, has long been a cornerstone of Singapore’s sports and cultural heritage. It hosted historic tournaments like the Thomas Cup (1955, 1958) and the 1983 SEA Games, where Singapore claimed its only men’s singles badminton gold medal.
Beyond sports, the venue has staged iconic performances by Cliff Richard and the Shadows (1961) and The Rolling Stones (1965). It also played a role in Singapore’s political history, hosting election speeches and even the vote-counting for the 1962 merger referendum.
Designated Singapore’s first historic sports site in 1999, the stadium’s revival ensures its legacy continues while offering modern amenities for today’s community.
Voices of Legacy and Hope
Two-time Olympian Derek Wong, son of Wong Shoon Keat, reflected:
“My father and I trained at Guillemard while representing Singapore. Seeing it come alive again, with cafés, a spa, and young athletes training where we once did, is nostalgic and inspiring.”
Ms Cindy Karim, Lead Principal of the Karim Family Foundation, emphasized their vision:
“Generations of badminton stars trained here. We hope budding talents will be inspired by the champions before them and create their own path to greatness.”
A New Era for Singapore Badminton
SBA President Mr Lawrence Leow described the opening as a milestone:
“Infrastructure and facilities form the backbone of badminton development in Singapore. The KFF Badminton Arena will not only nurture talent but also bring families and communities together.”
Inspiring the Next Generation, a Hub for All Ages
The KFF Badminton Arena stands as a shining example of how sports infrastructure can blend heritage, innovation, and community spirit. With its mix of world-class facilities, historic significance, and commitment to grassroots development, the arena is set to become a hub where Singaporeans of all ages can play, train, relax, and connect. #SgBadminton #Badminton
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