A mega-Mandai experience
Artist's impression of the new mega-nature attraction in Mandai to be completed around 2020 (Photo: Temasek Holdings)
The Mandai precinct in Singapore is set for major rejuvenation as part of the government's plans to build a mega-nature attraction in the area, which will provide green public spaces for recreation and education.
The project, announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on 7 September 2014, will be helmed by Singapore investment company Temasek Holdings (Temasek) and the Singapore Tourism Board. Proposals for the new endeavour will cover 120ha'including current attractions the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Safari and, possibly, the to-be-relocated Jurong Bird Park. It is slated for completion around 2020.
Temasek will partner NUS across several fronts as part of Temasek's long-term plans to not only develop a top attraction but also strong research and educational facilities. For a start, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum at NUS will be helping to conduct a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), together with national agencies like the National Parks Board and Public Utilities Board. Tapping on the biodiversity expertise of the Museum, the EIA will ensure that development plans are environmentally sensitive and that the integrity of the natural environment is maintained.
The Museum will also be working with experts from other NUS faculties and research institutes to help ensure that the development is a sustainable one. To this effect, the partnership will explore sustainable solutions in water and energy use, green designs, recycling, as well as environmental mitigation and protection. The intention is to also enhance the nearby Nature Reserves, in line with world best practices and contributing to the national green agenda.
Head of the Museum Professor Peter Ng, who leads the NUS advisory panel, said: "This is an exciting development. The land being targeted is, after all, state land and one can easily imagine it being developed into a new condominium or resort. So to have a green project that is sustainable, good for the people of Singapore, can further education and research in biodiversity and conservation as well as add value and improve our nature reserves, is indeed a wonderful endeavour. Many ideas have been floated but Temasek has assured us that it is still a ‘work in progress' and they welcome our inputs to make this a one-of-a-kind facility.
Visitors can look forward to an "immersive zoo-type experience. Several ideas, including aerial walkways, a waterfall cavern and wildlife crossings are being explored, even as the masterplan for the area is being drawn up. Both ticketed attractions and free public spaces will feature in the integrated wildlife and nature heritage project which is designed for recreation, education and conservation purposes, explained Temasek spokespersons.
