According to Singapore Street Names1, Kim Yam Road got its name in 1899. It was named after Wee Kim Yam (1855-1914). Kim Yam is the eldest son of Wee Ah Hood (1828-1875), a prominent pepper and gambier plantation owner in 19th century Singapore. Kim Yam held the licenses to operate opium and spirit farms, two very lucrative enterprises of that period, under his father's brand, Chop Khoon Lee. On the other hand, he was also actively involved in public service, and served in various public service committees including that of the Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Chinese Advisory Board.