Founding Amidst Wartime Turmoil (1943)
In 1943, during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore, Mr. Tan Ai Meng, a signaling specialist formerly with the Singapore Harbour Board (now the Port of Singapore Authority), recognized the peril his expertise posed under the new regime. Anticipating that his skills could be perceived as a security threat by the occupiers, he prudently resigned from his position. Leveraging his mechanical and electrical acumen, Mr. Tan established a modest enterprise named Cycle & Electric, operating from a shophouse on Tras Street. This venture provided essential handyman services, addressing the community’s needs during a period of widespread hardship.
A Beacon of Hope for Orphans
The wartime chaos left many children orphaned and families shattered. Moved by compassion, Mr. Tan and his wife, Khoo Kim Koek, dedicated their resources and time to support these vulnerable individuals. The proceeds from Cycle & Electric were channeled into feeding, housing, and caring for numerous orphans. Their humble two-room apartment became a sanctuary, sheltering dozens of children throughout the occupation. This selfless commitment not only provided immediate relief but also laid the groundwork for the company’s enduring ethos of community service.
Post-War Reconstruction and Growth
Following the end of the occupation in 1945, Singapore faced the monumental task of rebuilding its infrastructure. Mr. Tan’s team at Cycle & Electric played a role in this national effort, applying their skills to restore essential technicals services and support the maritime industry. Their contributions were instrumental in revitalizing the city’s economy and infrastructure, setting the stage for the company’s future growth and evolution into what is now known as Cyclect.
