Discovering Singapore's Skate Scene with Kenny Kamil

It’s always exciting to look beyond the usual skateboarding hotspots and explore emerging scenes around the world. We’re often bombarded with content from the same major skate hubs, so discovering something fresh and unique is always a welcome experience. That’s why when we received Kenny Kamil’s “Eirie” video part, we knew we had to share it with our audience, especially those who might not be familiar with the skateboarding scene in Singapore.

Singapore, often known for its cleanliness and strict regulations, might seem like an unlikely place for a thriving skate scene. However, as we delved deeper, we found a community filled with untapped spots and passionate skaters. Kenny Kamil’s story offers a unique glimpse into this world, revealing not only the challenges but also the vibrant energy that defines skateboarding in Singapore.

Interview with Kenny Kamil

It’s interesting that you’re sponsored by a barbershop. How did that come about, and do they give you free haircuts?
It’s pretty funny, actually. I don’t know of anyone else in Singapore who’s sponsored by a barbershop. It was a novel thing for everyone. Since then, they’ve sponsored others with free haircuts. I was surprised when it happened, and I remember showing my friend, “Hey, this barbershop wants to sponsor me”. I just need to put their sticker on my board.

So, you’re always looking fresh in your videos?
[Laughs] Yes, definitely! I always get a haircut before any event.

Singapore is an island nation surrounded by water, but I imagine you don’t get much surfing, right?
[Laughs] No, we don’t have any waves here, it’s pretty flat. The waters around Singapore have too many offshore ships, and they’re full of oil, so going to the beach is not really an option for surfing.

You mentioned you visited Los Angeles recently. What were your first impressions of the skate scene there?
Last year I went to LA, and I couldn’t believe I was actually there. I had the chance to meet many pro skaters, like Stevie Williams at J-Kwon. We talked about where I was from and how long I was staying. Before that, I was in Phoenix, Arizona, and I skated at the Phoenix AM contest. It was a good experience even though I didn’t do well. It was my first big skate contest. Oh, and I was also surprised to see a three-wheeled car!

Did you get to experience In-N-Out Burger? Was it as good as everyone says?
Oh yes, it was delicious. Being a Muslim, it’s often hard for me to find halal food, so I ate a lot of halal rice and sushi because most sushi is halal.

Have any American professional skaters come to skate in Singapore?
The New Balance team visited, including Jack Curtin. He’s the only one I can remember at the moment. Nyjah Huston has also been here before and Wes Kramer.

What’s unique about skateboarding in Singapore that people might not know?
The best thing is we have a lot of great spots. Lots of marble ledges. Whatever you want to skate is usually around the city. You can go to nearly any area and find skate spots. Because the ground is smooth, you can easily cruise almost anywhere.

Is it true that chewing gum is banned, and is Singapore really as clean as they say?
Yes, chewing gum was banned by the government. Although, I think a lot of people still do it anyway. We often smuggle it from Malaysia. When I was in LA, I was surprised at how different it was.

“Yeah, chewing gum was banned by the government.”

I’ve heard some stories about strict Singaporean police officers. Have you had any bad experiences?
I have been fined once, around $300. I think that’s rare, but it can happen if you’re unlucky. In the past, cops used to chase skateboarders, and I’ve heard that they saw us as criminals. But, after the Olympics, I think things have calmed down.

Do you plan to represent Singapore at the next Olympics?
I’m not really into contests. We don’t have a lot of facilities for training here. There are only two skateparks in Singapore, one that has been around for 15-20 years and the other is just as old. They are currently building a new one.

So between Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, which country has the best skate spots?
I think for me it’s Thailand. Bangkok has a lot of spots. They have more fun places to skate, and most people in Asia will go there to film. Although, finding food there is difficult.

You often wear Levi’s and vintage tees. Do you thrift in Singapore?
Every thrift shop in Singapore is expensive, it can cost like $40. I often travel to Malaysia’s capital city, Kuala Lumpur. They have cheap thrift shops. I often go there with friends, and I am usually the first one to find good stuff. I always find the collared shirts with buttons.

Do you work, or is skateboarding paying your bills?
I am currently serving my National Service. In Singapore, it is compulsory for every male above 18. You serve for two years as an army, firefighter, or police officer.

Which branch are you in?
I’m a firefighter, but I work in administration. My job is to assign people to different courses like medic, firefighter, and driver. I only have five months left, and then I will complete my two years.

Did you go through military training?
No, I didn’t. I am not interested in that. I don’t want to risk my life.

“I am currently serving the nation. Service is compulsory for every guy above 18.”

What’s your monthly pay?
As an administrator, I get paid $630 (USD) each month.

Are you looking forward to visiting America again so you can chew gum without restrictions?
[laughs] Yes, I would love to visit America again and be able to chew gum freely!

Have you ever thought about smuggling American gum into the country? Would it be easy, or very difficult?
[laughs] I’m a bit scared to answer this kind of question. Singapore is a very strict country.

Guest Skaters

Video by: Su’waidi Said (https://www.instagram.com/susuwaidi/)
Additional filming by: Khalis Krisna (https://www.instagram.com/45.kza/), Syukri (https://www.instagram.com/prophecy00000/), Mark Khor (https://www.instagram.com/mark_khor/)
Photos: Nasrullah (https://www.instagram.com/nasky.nsrlh/)
Title Graphic: Syafiq (https://www.instagram.com/obscnlyvile/)
Q&A by: Ben Komins (https://www.instagram.com/pressure.cracks/)

This interview with Kenny Kamil offers a great insight into the skateboarding culture of Singapore. From the unique challenges of skating in such a regulated city to the vibrant community of skaters, it’s a scene that deserves more recognition. Kenny’s passion for skateboarding and his determination to overcome obstacles is truly inspiring, highlighting the global nature of skateboarding and the diverse communities that make it so special.