70-Year-Old Kite Doctor in Singapore Revives Kites

Kite flying is a cherished pastime that transcends generations, bringing joy and creativity to those who partake in it. In Singapore, one remarkable individual has taken this love for kites to a whole new level. Meet Mr. Tan Poh Wah, a 70-year-old lorry driver who is affectionately known as the "kite doctor." Every Sunday, he can be found at Marina Barrage, where he dedicates his time to repairing kites and sharing his handmade creations with fellow enthusiasts.

Mr. Tan's passion for kite flying began in his childhood, but it wasn't until his 30s that he started making kites himself. His workshop, which he describes as a "chaotic but organised mess," is filled with an impressive collection of kites made from recycled materials like plastic bags and discarded umbrellas. This resourcefulness not only showcases his creativity but also highlights his commitment to sustainability.

During a recent visit to Marina Barrage, Mr. Tan was greeted by a crowd of eager kite flyers seeking his expertise. As he repaired their kites, he was offered drinks and snacks as tokens of appreciation. Once the repairs were complete, he joyfully launched one of his kites into the sky, embodying the happiness that kite flying brings him. "Watching people fly my kites makes me really happy," he expressed, a sentiment that resonates with many who share this hobby.

Mr. Tan is part of a group called Singapore Original Kites, which consists of adults in their 60s and 70s who share a common interest in kite making and flying. The group's founder, 75-year-old Ong Cheng Her, emphasizes that the only requirement to join is the ability to create a kite from scratch. This community fosters a spirit of camaraderie and creativity, allowing members to learn from one another and share their unique designs.

Among Mr. Tan's proudest achievements is a 70-meter-long "dragon kite" that he first constructed in 2000. After it broke during a kite festival in Taiwan in 2019, he dedicated four Sundays to repairing it, showcasing his determination and love for the craft. He believes that creating intricate kites, such as dragons and phoenixes, is a rite of passage for any serious kite maker.

Meanwhile, at East Coast Park, another group of kite enthusiasts has gathered, showcasing a different style of kite flying. Johnny Yap and his wife, Maggie Mok, are the founders of Show Kites Singapore, a group dedicated to inflatable show kites. These kites, which can be several meters long when inflated, do not rely on rigid frames like traditional kites. Instead, they catch the wind and require anchoring to the ground.

Mr. Yap and Ms. Mok's journey into the world of kites began nearly 20 years ago when they took their children kite flying. Over time, they became captivated by the thrill of flying larger kites and eventually discovered inflatable ones. Their passion has led them to participate in international kite festivals, where they showcase their unique designs, including a kite shaped like Singapore's iconic Merlion.

As kite flying continues to evolve, it remains a beloved activity that fosters creativity, community, and joy. Whether it is through repairing kites, creating new designs, or simply enjoying the thrill of watching them soar, individuals like Mr. Tan and Mr. Yap remind us of the simple pleasures that come from this timeless hobby. Kite flying is not just about the kites themselves; it is about the connections we make and the happiness we share with others.