That experience sums up the complicated state of many local council-run food courts today. If customers find it easier to tap an app than to patronise dimly lit, rundown premises, food courts will continue to lose foot traffic. That said, there are clear examples of food courts that thrive when planning is done right. The question then is not whether food courts should be kept, but how. With appropriate upgrades, improved monitoring and a better understanding of community needs, food courts can remain relevant to the neighbourhoods they serve.

Source: The Star January 31, 2026 10:40 UTC