Orchid Extravaganza - Orchids of the East Tropics at Gardens by the Bay

This year’s Orchid Extravaganza uncovers the allure of orchids in the east tropics that have captivated early botanical explorers and plant hunters.

Venue: Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome
Dates: 28 Jul - 17 Sep 2023
Admission: Admission to Flower Dome applies

This year’s Orchid Extravaganza, presented in partnership with Embassies of Indonesia and Thailand and High Commissions of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, uncovers the allure of orchids in the east tropics that have captivated early botanical explorers and plant hunters.

Each country is represented by orchids cultivated from species native to their land, as well as a recreation of their traditional house and display of cultural handicrafts and artefacts. There will also be a showcase of kebaya by each country, in support of the joint bid by Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand to inscribe the kebaya on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. 

Lath House

A lath house is a type of structure that provides support, shade, and protection for plants, particularly shade-loving ones such as orchids. Thin strips of wood or metal are arranged in a parallel pattern, with small gaps between them, allowing diffused light, air and rain to enter while ensuring direct sunlight, excessive wind or other harsh weather conditions are kept out. Begin your journey at the viewing gallery as you walk through the Lath House display.

Kebaya

Kebaya is a traditional blouse worn by women in various countries in Southeast Asia, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Form-fitted, embroidered or brocaded, it is typically made of lightweight fabric like silk or cotton and worn with a sarong or batik skirt. Discover the cultural significance of Kebaya during your visit.

Singapore Shophouse

The archetypal Singapore shophouse is a two or three-storey building with a commercial shop on the ground floor and living accommodations above. Built in adjacent blocks with common party walls, they have a distinctive sheltered five-foot way for pedestrians which was introduced by Sir Stamford Raffles as part of his town plan for early Singapore.

Rumah Tungkap

Rumah Tungkup refers to the traditional houses with pyramid shaped roofs in Kampong Ayer, an area of Brunei's capital city Bandar Seri Begawan that is situated after the Brunei Bay. An elaborate style of traditional house favoured by Malay nobles and dignitaries, Rumah Tungkup features a hip roof which covers the whole of the indung rumah (main house).

Spot the country’s national flower, Dillenia suffruticosa, also known as simpor, displayed alongside the house during your visit.

Ruean Thai

Ruean Thai, also known as a Thai house, refers to a style of traditional architecture in Thailand. It reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, embodying distinctive characteristics and design elements passed down through generations. 

Spot the country’s national flower, Cassia fistula, commonly known as golden shower displayed alongside the house during your visit.

Rumah Toraja

Rumah Toraja, also known as Tongkonan, refers to the traditional houses found in the Toraja ethnic group of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Characterised by its distinctive boat-shaped roof resembling an upturned boat or buffalo horns, the roofs are adorned with intricate carvings and designs, a reflection of the rich cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Toraja people. 

Spot the country’s national flower, Phalaenopsis amabilis, commonly known as moon orchid, displayed alongside the house during your visit.

Rumah Pahang

Rumah Pahang refers to the traditional houses found in the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia - Pahang. The traditional architecture of Rumah Pahang reflects the cultural and environmental influences of the region. 

Spot the country’s national flower, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, well known for its bold flowers, displayed alongside the house during your visit.