The Legend of Kusu Island
Do you visit Kusu Island every year to pray for blessings? Then you’ll know this…
In traditional Chinese culture, the Three Stars Prosperity, Status, and Longevity are known to represent material riches, descendants, and a long life. Many Chinese families display statues of these deities, and Singapore even has commercial buildings named after them (such as Fu Lu Shou Complex). However, most Singaporeans don’t know that we have three “biggest” and “most natural” manifestation of the Three Stars!
If Grand Master Tan Khoon Yong hadn’t pointed it out, we’d never have guessed that Singapore’s natural Three Stars are actually three of the Southern Islands: Kusu Island, St John Island and Lazarus Island. Of course, we can’t just pick any three islands and call them the Three Deities – they have to meet certain criteria to be part of this feng shui formation.
In the case of Kusu Island, traditional feng shui theories indicate that it is the “Star of Longevity”, which represents good health and a long life. That’s why this “tortoise island” is named after the animal with the longest lifespan. Apparently, this name stems from a legend that a magical tortoise transformed itself into an island in order to save a group of shipwrecked fishermen. In their gratitude, the people named this place Kusu Island. Whether this is true or just a made-up tale to explain the island’s name…we still like it!
Although Kusu Island means “tortoise island”, this island looks nothing like a tortoise. In other words, Kusu Island isn’t shaped like a tortoise but simply represents health and longevity. Developing it into a destination for leisure and relaxation should be a good (and profitable) idea!
Now that you know Kusu Island represents Longevity, you’re probably curious about the “identities” of the other two islands! Instead of getting the answer from us, how about putting on your ”feng shui glasses” and finding out which island is “Prosperity” and which is “Status”?
Fu, Lu, Shou (the three islands) are located at Singapore’s southern tip, serving to protect the country. The upcoming 9th luck cycle (years 2024-2043) indicates prosperity in the south, so there’s definitely room for growth here. Perhaps the authorities could consider developing these islands along with Sentosa to promote Singapore’s Southern Islands as an all-round tourist destination! On the flip side, these tranquil retreats will then be subject to economic concerns like “visitor traffic” and “ROI”. What are your thoughts on this?
