Ang Mo Kio market reopens after upgrading; AI robot deployed to help cleaners
The centre underwent upgrading works from June 8 to Aug 7.
The Block 409 Ang Mo Kio Market and Food Centre reopened on August 9 after a two-month renovation. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Ang Mo Kio Group Representation Constituency Member of Parliament Nadia Ahmad Samdin officially opened the market as part of SG61 celebrations. The centre's upgrades, based on feedback from residents and stallholders, included new tables and chairs, additional ceiling and exhaust fans for improved ventilation, refurbished toilets, replaced worn floor and wall tiles, and energy-efficient LED lighting. To address bird-related nuisances, the council installed additional bird spikes.
Upon reopening, the market welcomed Little Red Bot, an artificial intelligence-powered robotic sweeper developed by the Ang Mo Kio Town Council (AMKTC) in collaboration with cleaning services company Maint-Kleen. The robot autonomously navigates common areas, collects litter like cigarette butts, cans, plastic bottles, and fallen leaves, and returns to its docking station when it rains.
A real-time monitoring system tracks the robot's waste bin, alerting cleaners via a mobile app when it is full, enabling them to empty the bin and resume operation.
AMKTC Chairman Henry Kwek, also representing Kebun Baru, highlighted how AI can support cleaning teams, boost productivity, and enhance services. The town council will continue exploring AI applications to improve operations and residents' daily lives. The robot is meant to assist cleaners by handling repetitive sweeping tasks, allowing them to concentrate on detailed cleaning and inspections.
Earlier that day, Senior Minister Lee attended the National Day Observance Ceremony at Teck Ghee Community Club, joining over 1,000 residents in the festivities.
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