Our Common Vision

"Ubin to remain as a familiar and rustic getaway, where we can reminisce the past and celebrate the present, where our children can learn about and enjoy thriving biodiversity, where we can come together to enhance its idyllic charm through sustainable means and practices, for future generations of Singaporeans."

Its rustic charm, rich history, lush greenery, and varied biodiversity make Pulau Ubin a unique sanctuary. Recognising the value of the island to Singaporeans, the Government has been working with the community over the years to preserve its natural environment. We are committed to retain Ubin in its rustic state for as long as possible.

We want to build on our efforts and further explore ways to sensitively enhance the island, so that it remains an enjoyable destination for all Singaporeans –the old, the young and the young at heart – alongside the flourishing biodiversity.

The Ubin Project

Started in 2014, The Ubin Project aims to reach out to as many Singaporeans as possible to collect ideas and suggestions on how we can build on existing efforts to sensitively enhance the rustic charm and natural environment of Pulau Ubin so that the island can continue to be enjoyed by Singaporeans for generations to come.

To help achieve this, the Friends of Ubin Network (FUN) was formed in 2014. It comprises youths, residents, volunteers, researchers and members from the heritage and nature communities.

With the collective support of FUN, many of the ideas received have been implemented. One example is Pesta Ubin, an annual “open house” to bring together groups and individuals who are passionate about Pulau Ubin. With support from the National Parks Board (NParks), this ground-up initiative sees various stakeholders organising activities to share their favourite aspect of the island with the public.

Another idea supported by FUN was to have a single government agency managing Pulau Ubin. Pulau Ubin was then managed by 12 agencies with technical and land ownership responsibilities. It was a challenge to holistically address concerns such as coastal erosion, biodiversity conservation, waste dumping and ageing infrastructure.

In 2016, NParks was designated as the central managing agency for Pulau Ubin. The new approach allows NParks to have greater oversight of Pulau Ubin, to better manage it to achieve The Ubin Project’s vision, and preserve the island’s rustic charm, natural environment, biodiversity and cultural heritage. This approach also facilitates better community engagement as NParks is now the one-stop agency to address stakeholder interests and public feedback.

Corporate Partners

The corporate community has also lent their support towards the vision to keep Pulau Ubin’s rustic charm for our future generations. Many companies have stepped forward to provide funding through the Garden City Fund to further conservation and outreach projects, and even mobilised their staff to help out in activities like reforestation, mangrove restoration, coastal clean-up and nature guiding.