The Jewish presence in Singapore dates back to the early 19th century, with the first wave of Jewish immigrants arriving from Baghdad. These Baghdadi Jews were part of a broader trade diaspora that spread across the British Empire, seeking new opportunities in emerging trade hubs like Singapore.

The earliest Jewish settlers in Singapore were primarily traders who established themselves in the bustling port city. By 1841, the Jewish community had grown sufficiently to warrant the establishment of a synagogue. Joseph Dwek Cohen, Nassim Joseph Ezra, and Ezra Ezekiel were granted a land lease to build a synagogue in a small shop house at Boat Quay. This synagogue, which inspired the name Synagogue Street, became the heart of the Jewish quarter in Singapore, known as the "mahallah" (meaning 'place' in Arabic).

As the community expanded, so did its infrastructure. In 1873, Manasseh Meyer, a prominent Jewish leader, returned to Singapore and found the original synagogue in a state of disrepair. He spearheaded the construction of a new synagogue on Waterloo Street, which was completed in 1878 and named the Maghain Aboth Synagogue. This synagogue remains one of the oldest in Southeast Asia and continues to serve as a central place of worship for the Jewish community in Singapore.

The Jewish community in Singapore continued to grow and diversify throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By the early 1900s, the community included Jews from various parts of the world, including Europe, the Middle East, and India. This period also saw the construction of a second synagogue, Chesed-El, built by Manasseh Meyer on his private estate in 1905. During World War II, the Jewish community in Singapore, which consisted of approximately 5000 Jews, faced significant challenges. The Japanese occupation of Singapore from 1942 to 1945 led to the internment of many Jews, along with other residents.

Throughout their history in Singapore, Jews have made significant contributions to the country's development. From early traders and merchants to prominent figures in politics, law, and business, the Jewish community has played a vital role in shaping modern Singapore. Notable individuals include David Marshall, Singapore's first Chief Minister, and Dr. Yahya Cohen, a prominent surgeon and community leader.

Today, the community is home to approximately 2,500 Jewish residents, mainly expatriates from Israel, the United States, Australia, and Europe.