A 44-year-old Malaysian woman was convicted in court today, Feb. 26, 2026, following a violent knife attack at Upper Serangoon Shopping Centre that shocked the local community in October last year.
Chong Yet Ying pleaded guilty to charges related to the incident, which occurred on Oct. 26, 2025. The court heard that Chong suffered from schizophrenia, a factor that was central to the legal proceedings and sentencing.
Violent Incident in a Quiet Shopping Mall
The attack took place around 12:20pm on the third floor of the aging Upper Serangoon Shopping Centre. The unit involved was the Manmin Resource Centre, a shop registered for the sale of religious books and materials.
Armed with a blue “Jaya Mata” knife featuring a 16.5cm blade, Chong attacked two women, aged 36 and 44, who were inside the unit at the time. The victims sustained slash wounds to their arms and thighs.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic environment. A neighboring shop owner reported hearing loud screams as people fled the corner unit. Approximately 30 people, including many families, were present at the premises when the violence broke out.
Heroic Intervention by Public
The situation could have been significantly worse if not for the quick thinking of bystanders. A 59-year-old man, identified as Mr. Xu, intervened to detain Chong before the Singapore Police Force (SPF) arrived.
While the two female victims were conveyed conscious to the hospital, the 59-year-old man suffered minor injuries during the struggle but declined medical transport.
Mental Health and Legal Proceedings
Following her arrest, Chong was referred for psychiatric assessment under the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act. Medical reports confirmed her diagnosis of schizophrenia, which the court took into account during the hearing.
The police seized the 28.5cm knife as a case exhibit. Under Section 324 of the Penal Code, the offense of voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapon carries a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, caning, or a combination of these. However, as a woman, Chong is exempt from judicial caning under Singapore law.
Impact on the Upper Serangoon Community
The attack briefly turned the spotlight on the quiet mall located at 756 Upper Serangoon Road. Following the incident, the Manmin Resource Centre removed posters from its storefront to address the concerns of its visitors and avoid public misunderstanding.
Community leaders and the SPF have since reiterated the importance of public vigilance and the “SGSecure” spirit, praising the members of the public who stepped in to prevent further harm.
