Chess has long been associated with strategy, intellect, and patience. While often perceived as a European pastime, its roots run deep in Singapore, where it has flourished over the decades. The city's chess scene has witnessed legendary players, historic matches, and visits from grandmasters that shaped its evolution. From its colonial-era origins to its multicultural identity, chess in Singapore tells a fascinating story.
In the early 1900s, chess in Singapore was a pursuit largely enjoyed by the expatriate community. The Singapore Chess Club, a hub for enthusiasts, became the centre of local chess activity. One of the most notable figures was Eugene Ernest Colman, a Cambridge graduate and a magistrate who brought a renewed energy to the club. Under his leadership, club meetings became more frequent, and participation surged.
The competitive spirit extended beyond Singapore's shores. By 1902, the Hong Kong Chess Club issued a challenge to Singapore, setting the stage for inter-city rivalries. Chess matches were also held by telegraph, allowing players in different countries to compete without ever meeting in person - a remarkable feat at the time.
By 1908, Singapore's chess players were making waves. That year, the Singapore Chess Club played a match against the Bangkok Chess Club via cable. While the results remain partly unknown, Singapore secured at least one win, demonstrating its emerging prowess.
A major milestone came in the 1920s when international grandmasters began to visit. In 1925, Serbian chess master Boris Kostić arrived in Singapore during his world tour. Over several days, he played 40 games, winning 37 and losing just one. His matches drew much attention, showing that Singapore was becoming a respected stop for global chess champions.
The 1930s brought another high-profile visitor—none other than reigning World Chess Champion Alexander Alekhine. In 1933, he played a simultaneous exhibition at the Adelphi Hotel against 25 of Singapore’s best players. Remarkably, he won every single game, reaffirming his dominance. Beyond his matches, Alekhine had a grand vision: he wanted to create a universal form of chess that combined elements from different cultures, further bridging East and West.
While initially dominated by European players, Singapore’s chess scene became increasingly multicultural. By the late 1920s, records show that several Chinese players were making a mark. Matches between local clubs, such as the Straits Chinese Recreation Club and the Singapore Chess Club, became more competitive. By the 1930s, chess was no longer just an expatriate pastime—it had become a truly local passion.
Courtesy of National Archives of Singapore
Even during wartime, chess found a way to endure. In 1942, the Syonan Sports Association listed chess as one of the indoor activities available to the public. After the war, in 1947, the Singapore Chess Club resumed operations, with a match against the Medical College marking its revival.
Despite fluctuating popularity over the decades, chess has maintained its place in Singapore’s rich sporting heritage. From colonial-era matches to visits from world champions, it has been more than just a game—it has been a bridge between cultures, a test of intellect, and a source of community.
As the city continues to evolve, chess remains a testament to Singapore’s long-standing love for strategy and competition. Whether played in clubs, schools, or online, the game lives on, proving that the spirit of chess is timeless.