Kodak, Singapore

Malcolm is a subzone of the Novena Planning Area in Singapore. Covering 1.319 square kilometres, it had a population of about 3,210 in 2024. With a population density of 2,433 persons per square kilometre, Malcolm is one of the least densely populated parts of Novena. Between 2020 and 2024, its population grew by 2.1%, reflecting its steady attraction as a residential enclave1.

Etymology

The name “Malcolm” is derived from Malcolm Road, which runs through the subzone. The name is of Scottish origin, reflecting the colonial-era practice of naming local roads and areas after British and Scottish figures or places. In Chinese, Malcolm is written as ?? (pinyin: Mŕijin), which is a phonetic transliteration rather than a literal translation.

History

Malcolm developed primarily in the mid-20th century as part of the broader residential growth of central Singapore. Its proximity to the prestigious educational institutions of the Bukit Timah belt and the city centre attracted middle- and upper-income families. Unlike nearby commercial centres such as Balestier, Malcolm retained its residential and institutional character, with minimal industrial or commercial land use.

Geography and Boundaries

Malcolm is centrally located and bordered by Mount Pleasant to the north, Balestier to the east, Moulmein to the southeast, Nassim to the southwest, and Dunearn to the west. Its geography is defined by low-rise residential estates, educational institutions, and green surroundings.

Population and Demographics

As of 2024, Malcolm is home to 3,210 residents. The subzone is characterised by a diverse demographic mix, including Singaporean families and expatriates who are drawn by its quiet residential setting and the presence of nearby international schools. Its relatively low population density contributes to a sense of exclusivity and space.

Land Use and Character

The land use in Malcolm is largely residential, with a mixture of landed housing and private condominiums. The area also hosts several educational institutions and community facilities, adding to its suburban character. Unlike more commercialised areas, Malcolm maintains a tranquil, family-oriented identity, with greenery interwoven into its built environment.

Transport and Connectivity

Malcolm is well connected to Singapore's transport network. The Caldecott MRT Station, an interchange on the Circle Line and Thomson-East Coast Line, lies within the subzone, offering direct links to the city centre and other key districts. The area is also served by major roads such as Thomson Road and the nearby Pan Island Expressway, facilitating easy access to other parts of the island.

Community and Amenities

Community life in Malcolm is enriched by its proximity to educational institutions such as Catholic Junior College and the Singapore Chinese Girls' School, both located nearby. Recreational spaces, including green corridors linking to the central catchment area, enhance its livability. Residents also enjoy quick access to the healthcare and retail amenities of the wider Novena district, including Tan Tock Seng Hospital and shopping centres.

Neighbourhood Identity

Malcolm is recognised for its quiet, exclusive neighbourhood identity, defined by low-rise housing and greenery. Unlike busier subzones such as Balestier, Malcolm emphasises residential comfort and educational excellence. Its identity is closely tied to the surrounding schools, making it popular among families seeking stability and prestige.

Interesting Sights

Among the notable landmarks in Malcolm are Catholic Junior College and St. Joseph's Institution International, both respected educational institutions. The area's lush greenery, coupled with its proximity to the Singapore Botanic Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir, adds to its scenic appeal.

Real Estate (Sept 2025)

Real estate in Malcolm is largely private, with condominiums and landed homes making up the bulk of housing. The average size of condominium units ranges from 1,000 to 1,800 square feet, while landed homes can exceed 3,500 square feet. As of 2024, property prices in Malcolm typically range from SGD 2,100 to SGD 2,700 per square foot for condominiums. Rentals for private apartments average between SGD 4,000 and SGD 7,500 per month, while larger landed homes command significantly higher rents, reflecting the subzone's exclusivity.

Fun Fact

A fun fact about Malcolm is that despite its small size, the subzone is home to several well-known educational institutions, making it one of the most school-centric neighbourhoods in Singapore.

Quick Facts

References

  1. City Population – Singapore Subzones

Page Details

This page was created on 16 September 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.

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