Hotel Miramar, a 1971 landmark on Havelock Road, will cease operations at the end of October after more than five decades in business. The decision, announced on August 29 in a joint statement with the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), followed what management described as a “careful and comprehensive evaluation of the hotel’s long-term business outlook.”
The closure will impact 108 employees. Both management and the union confirmed fair retrenchment packages, including additional recognition for long-serving staff. Even employees with less than two years of service will receive ex gratia payouts.
Among the longest-serving is 69-year-old Chen Jin Feng, who spent 52 years in housekeeping since joining the hotel at 17. She was awarded 52 months’ salary in severance—one month per year of service—despite being on contract. “I was deeply touched by the gesture,” Chen said, recalling three generations of owners who “treated employees like family.” The hotel reportedly retained staff through the COVID-19 pandemic without layoffs or pay cuts.
Hotel Miramar was part of Singapore’s early international tourism growth, hosting weddings, corporate events, and nurturing close ties between staff and management. But rising costs and competition from newer hotels have made survival increasingly difficult. “Ever since COVID came, things have changed,” said Ivan Lim, director of operations. “Now, you have to do so much just to get someone through the door.”
