Various explanations have been offered as to how the Changi area got its name. Some claimed that it was derived from a climbing shrub or tree growing in the area, called the ‘changi ular’ (‘Apama corymbosa’), which was commonly referred to as ‘chengal pasir’ or ‘chengal mata kuching’. Others suggested that it was named after another variety of tree called the ‘chengal’ (‘Balanscorpus heimii’). The plantations and Chengai trees were cleared in 1927 to make way for the construction of a British Royal Air Force base. In the 1970s, a housing precinct was developed in the area. With its serene and laidback charm, Changi is now a popular location for weekend getaways.
