National Parks Board

We’re thrilled to share that the rejuvenated Chinese and Japanese Gardens are now open, marking the completion of the development of Jurong Lake Gardens – Singapore’s first national gardens in the heartlands. Visitors can enjoy refreshed features and amenities with the rejuvenation of Chinese and Japanese Gardens complete. Familiar landmarks such as the Twin Pagoda and Bonsai Garden at Chinese Garden, have been retained following public feedback that they hold fond memories for many Singaporeans. New features like an edible garden with an outdoor kitchen and indoor plant factory, the Jurong Lake Gardens Gallery and curated gardens such as Sunken Garden are introduced. A wide range of stakeholders, including residents, students, volunteers and donors helped to shape the Gardens. Micron Technology donated S$1 million through the Garden City Fund, NParks’ registered charity and IPC, supporting the Gardens’ sustainability efforts through the implementation of a smart water management system in the Water Lily Garden and the larger Japanese Garden. Another key partner is Tote Board, which enabled the development of key features across the Gardens. Donations from Mr Jimmy Koh and Mr Han Jok Kwang also contributed towards the rejuvenation of Chinese and Japanese Gardens. We also worked with JTC Corporation to develop the design concept and partnered students from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, ITE College East, as well as volunteers from Friends of Jurong Lake Gardens to design and co-create five community plots at the Floral Garden located within Japanese Garden.   Guest-of-Honour Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration Desmond Lee joined us today to unveil a commemorative plaque and planted a Syzygium aqueum tree (commonly known as Jambu Ayer) to mark the completion of Jurong Lake Gardens. The Chinese and Japanese Gardens were designed with sustainable features such as mass-engineered timber buildings, vegetated detention ponds and carbon dioxide mineralised footpaths, continuing the Gardens’ focus on sustainability. The second phase of the development achieved the Building and Construction Authority’s Green Mark 2021 Platinum Super Low Energy certification for its best-in-class energy efficiency and use of intelligent energy management strategies. In conjunction with the opening, the largest edition of Lights by the Lake will be held with festivities spanning across Chinese and Japanese Gardens, as well as Lakeside Garden. Enjoy over 300 lantern displays – the most number of lanterns displayed to date – as well as light shows, cultural and music performances, carnival games and a food market. More info: https://lnkd.in/gfCj-xNU

Good news for Bidadari residents and the community, as Bidadari Park is officially open today! Located right in the heart of the Bidadari estate and set amidst a lush and hilly landscape, Bidadari Park features a variety of habitats including woodlands, open woods, grasslands, and marshlands. It serves as a sanctuary for resident and migratory birds and features a wide variety of recreational options for park visitors, including: 🌺🌳 Immersing in greenery and nature 👀 Learning more about Bidadari’s heritage 🏃🏻♀️🏃🏻♂️ Engaging in exploration and play In planning and designing the park, the multi-agency team saw the opportunity to retain the wooded and rustic nature of Bidadari and create a unique park experience for visitors. Visitors may explore the Woodland Experiential Trail to get up close to a variety of majestic mature trees such as Tembusu (Cyrtophyllum fragrans) and Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina), and spot birds or hear their calls at dedicated birdwatching hides along the trail. A hillock at Bidadari, nestled between the Woodleigh Glen and Woodleigh Hillside Build-to-Order (BTO) developments, has also been purposefully retained to ensure it remains a conducive stopover site for migratory birds. The park also features a marshland comprising an ephemeral upper section that serves as a habitat for biodiversity such as amphibians, insects, and birds, and a permanent lower section that serves as a water source and habitat for aquatic fauna, such as the Variegated Green Skimmer dragonfly (Orthetrum sabina) and the native Slaty-breasted Rail (Gallirallus striatus). Plants such as Geli-Geli (Lasia spinosa) have also been planted to filter pollutants, helping to help improve the water quality. For families visiting the park, a new nature playgarden featuring a 5 m tall treehouse with slides, climbing nets and an observation pod serves as an exciting new play area for children. The result of a multi-agency collaboration by NParks together with Housing & Development Board, PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and National Heritage Board, Bidadari Park provides a peaceful retreat for the community right at their doorstep. Earlier today, Minister for National Development and Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration Mr Desmond Lee, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment and Transport, Dr Amy Khor, and Adviser to Potong Pasir SMC GROs, Mr Sitoh Yih Pin, joined residents in planting trees at Bidadari Park and helped put the finishing touches to the park’s landscaping. Find out more about Bidadari Park here: https://lnkd.in/geAdETvN #CityinNature #CityinNatureSG #NParks #NParksBuzz

This morning, we welcomed His Excellency António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, to the National Orchid Garden. On the occasion of his visit, an exquisite and free-flowering orchid hybrid, 𝘋𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘶𝘮 António Guterres, was named in his honour. The 𝘋𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘶𝘮 António Guterres produces gracefully arching inflorescences of 35 to 70 cm in length, each carrying 20 to 40 neatly spaced flowers that measure approximately 5 cm in width. Its striking twisted petals display a mahogany hue, while the curled sepals exhibit an amethyst purple shade, complemented by a purple lip with white striations. The Orchid Hybridisation Programme in the Singapore Botanic Gardens has produced many significant orchid hybrids over the course of its history. Many of these orchids are named after foreign dignitaries and celebrities to commemorate their visits to Singapore and to the Gardens. For more information on orchid hybridisation, visit: https://lnkd.in/gGcfZHzc

We had shared plans for a new recreational green network at Clementi Nature Corridor that includes Clementi Nature Trail, Old Jurong Line Nature Trail and Jurong Town Hall Park Connector in July 2021, and we are happy to share some updates. A section of Clementi Nature Trail that starts from Ulu Pandan Road was opened to the public in 2023. Enhancement works for the trail, along Clementi Forest Stream and part of Bukit Timah First Diversion Canal, will be carried out to improve accessibility for visitors while protecting the existing flora and fauna. To inform the plans and ensure that enhancement works are carried out sensitively, we carried out Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for the nature trail where enhancement works will be carried out. The EIA findings indicate that the predicted impacts can be mitigated to ‘minor impact’ or less, and we will implement mitigation measures throughout the project period. The EIA reports are now available for public viewing and feedback until 1 October. After reviewing the feedback, we target to commence works by the fourth quarter of 2024. More info is available at https://lnkd.in/gmq4H5ZZ To supplement the findings from the EIAs, NParks organised a BioBlitz in August 2022 where student volunteers and Friends of Clementi-Ulu Pandan Nature Corridor (FoCUPNC) surveyed flora and fauna along Clementi Forest Stream. The information collected will help inform the habitat enhancement efforts, such as what can be planted to support the biodiversity. We also engaged stakeholders from the nature community and the FoCUPNC to discuss the design concept and findings of the EIAs. In addition, we will also be starting works for the Old Jurong Line Nature Trail next year to allow the public to experience the old rail line. The first phase of development will be between Jurong Town Hall Park Connector and Ulu Pandan Park Connector. It will include a new community node with a nature playgarden, seating areas, and the remnant train tracks that families can enjoy! Works for the first phase of Old Jurong Line Nature Trail are targeted to commence in the first quarter of 2025 and the trail will progressively open from end-2026. Later in September, the new Jurong Town Hall Park Connector which runs along Jurong Town Hall Road and Ayer Rajah Expressway will also open. This will provide a direct connection between the Rail Corridor and Jurong Lake Gardens, so residents in the nearby estates can enjoy a more seamless experience. Altogether, these routes will enhance connectivity and accessibility for the public to enjoy our green spaces while conserving and enhancing the habitats and biodiversity. We hope that you are looking forward to these enhancements as much as we are! #CityinNatureSG #NParks #NParksBuzz #FoCUPNC #ClementiNatureTrail #RailCorridor Photos: 1. Clementi Forest Stream 2. Bukit Timah First Diversion Canal 3. Artist’s impression of the new community node along Old Jurong Line Nature Trail

Career transitions can be transformative as illustrated by the professional journey of Dr Wang Dajun, who is a Scientist within the Biorisk and Biosurveillance branch at the Animal & Veterinary Service, a cluster of NParks. A former zookeeper, Dr Wang has moved across varied fields to pursue his passion for wildlife conservation. He now applies his PhD research to monitor biological threats and support disease biosurveillance. His past experiences in wildlife research projects such as developing smart video collars for animals and understanding catfish species has enriched his expertise to perform his current role at NParks. From pursuing a PhD in Natural Sciences and Science Education at the National Institute of Education, Singapore (NIE) to conducting research at Mandai Wildlife Group, his story highlights the diverse pathways to a career in wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Read more in this article by The Straits Times: https://lnkd.in/gfgGnete #WildlifeConservation #Research #Education #AnimalHealth #InterdisciplinaryStudies

[New Dog Training Standards Workgroup]     We are pleased to announce the formation of a new Dog Training Standards Workgroup by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS), a cluster of NParks, in collaboration with SPCA Singapore.      The Workgroup brings together professionals such as dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups, and representatives of working dog units, to focus on: - Raising public awareness and promoting the adoption of the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) dog training approach. Rewards-based training methods are shown to be as or more effective than traditional approaches, with LIMA framework emphasizing less intrusive methods and the use of rewards. - Reviewing the use of various training devices, including shock and prong collars - Developing regulatory frameworks for the use of such training devices These efforts reflect AVS’ commitment to establish a well-informed, effective, and feasible regulatory framework regarding the use of dog training devices.    In addition, the formation of the Workgroup complements existing initiatives by AVS to enhance standards in the dog training industry in Singapore. These include the publication of two sets of guidelines by the Rehoming and Adoption Workgroup (RAWG) together with AVS, and the launch of the AVS-Accredited Certified Dog Trainer (ACDT) Scheme.    For more information on the guidelines and ACDT, please visit the following links:  - RAWG Guidelines: https://lnkd.in/gy5adhPC - ACDT: www.go.gov.sg/avs-acdt    The announcement of the new Workgroup was made by Mr Kiat How Tan, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and National Development, during an AVS public seminar about insights on canine aggression. The seminar, featuring Dr Jim Crosby, a renowned canine aggression and behaviour expert, was attended by around 200 participants, including dog trainers, pet owners, members of the veterinary profession, and animal welfare groups.    #AnimalWelfare #DogTraining #ProfessionalDevelopment 

As compact cities continue to grow, the role of well-managed urban green spaces (UGSs) has become more important. These spaces provide a multitude of benefits for residents, including improved air quality, a comfortable environment, and improving physical and mental health. With limited land availability, maximising the quality of existing UGSs is crucial. Landscape visual quality (LVQ) plays a significant role in creating a positive living environment. While past research has extensively explored LVQ in urban parks, other types of UGSs such as residential green spaces (RGSs) have received less attention. This is a crucial area for study, especially for densely populated cities like Singapore, where RGSs serve as essential sanctuaries for residents. In collaboration with researchers from National University of Singapore (NUS) and NeuroLandscape (Poland), our colleagues Prof. Tan Puay Yok, Executive Director, National Parks & Gardens & Community, and Group Director, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and Dr. Angelia SIA, Director, Centre for Urban Greenery and Ecology (CUGE), have published a study to explore how Singapore can intensify the use of green spaces. Read more about the research here: https://lnkd.in/geg5_nVV   #NParks #NParksBuzz #CityInNature #CityInNatureSG 

Are you passionate about nature, wildlife and skilled in crafting engaging news stories? NParks is seeking a driven individual to join our dynamic media relations team that spearheads strategic and integrated communications efforts. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic communication plans and initiatives to raise awareness and promote a deeper appreciation of the meaningful work that NParks does. Think media features, exploring fresh story angles, issues management, and opportunities to work on various content deliverables such as videos and long form articles for both NParks and external platforms. If this is aligned with what you are looking for in your next career, we invite you to apply and join us in our journey to create public awareness of NParks and foster a greater appreciation for the work that we do to transform Singapore into a City in Nature: https://lnkd.in/gef67_uv 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Areas of study: Mass Communications, Marketing, English, or related fields, coupled with at least 1 year of relevant integrated communications experience. Fresh graduates with relevant internship experience may also be considered. • Experience in media relations, social media, and/or issues and crisis management • Excellent news sense, ability to think and thrive under pressure and excel at navigating interesting and complex issues. • A keen eye for detail and a passion for writing compelling narratives/stories • A team player who thrives in collaborative environments and can work independently • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and excellent command of English *𝘖𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘥.

The Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) completed its ninth edition yesterday, having opened to the public at Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre (Levels 4 and 6) from 3 to 11 August 2024. One of the highlights were the Best of Show Designer Gardens by 16 local and international award-winning garden and landscape designers. The Floral Windows to the World Championship returned in a refreshed live format for the first time after a six-year hiatus, with 16 participants from around the world competing in front of a live audience. The Balcony Gardens Competition offered small-home and apartment owners inspiration on incorporating greenery into their homes. Another exciting competition was the Floral Table-Top Competition where professional and amateur florists showcased their skills through floral table-top displays. In addition to being a celebration of local and international floral artistry and horticulture excellence, SGF championed various community engagement initiatives to encourage participation in making Singapore our City in Nature. The Singapore Gardeners’ Cup featured competitive displays by over 200 participants from 40 Community in Bloom (CIB) gardening groups, as well as the CIB Gardens of the Year Awards. One of the aims of SGF is to inculcate interest in floristry and landscape design amongst students. Teams of tertiary students implemented landscape displays at the Landscape Design Challenge, while the Floral Harmony competition led by Qihua Primary School featured over 45 youths showcasing their creativity in floral arrangements. This edition marked the first time SGF has partnered with a social enterprise, City Sprouts, to present the Learning Garden which offered a unique botanical perspective across four zones. Visitors could also view a photo exhibition by Holdinghands Studio that showcased Singapore’s flora through the eyes of migrant workers, highlighting nature’s beauty and our shared connection to it. With various other displays by the community as well as a MarketPlace with over 70 retailers offering gardening essentials, SGF showcased a spectacular line-up of horticulture excellence. Stay updated on the latest info about the biennial event at https://sgf.nparks.gov.sg/. #SGF2024 #SingaporeGardenFestival 1. “Engardening” by Ann Teo 2. “Portals to Paradise” by Jules Moore 3. “Neon Biodiver(city)” by Central Singapore District, Singapore Gardeners’ Cup 4. Floral Windows to the World Championship 5. “8:00 PM” by Chen Nina, Floral Table-Top Competition 6. Floral Harmony by Qihua Primary School 7. Learning Garden by City Sprouts 8. Singapore Flora: Through the Lens of our Migrant Workers photo exhibition by Holdinghands Studio

The 8th Global Botanic Gardens Congress (8GBGC), jointly organised by the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), was held at Suntec City Convention & Exhibition Centre from 5 to 10 August 2024. The only global congress dedicated to botanic gardens, this was the first time that the GBGC was held in Southeast Asia, which is home to 80 botanic gardens and nearly a quarter of the world’s plant and animal species. 8GBGC revolved around the theme “Botanic Gardens – People and Plants for a Sustainable Future” to address the pressing challenges such as global biodiversity loss and climate change, and the role of botanic gardens in shaping a sustainable future. About 900 delegates from over 200 botanical gardens and institutions across 73 countries gathered to exchange knowledge, network, and draw inspiration from the various technical presentations, panel discussions, poster sessions, and thematic workshops over four days from 6 to 9 August. Participants also attended pre-Congress and post-Congress technical tours held on 5 August and 10 August respectively, where they had the opportunity to venture outside the Congress venue, explore different parks and gardens across Singapore, and discover more about the various efforts that contribute to our City in Nature. #NParks #NParksBuzz #SingaporeBotanicGardens #GBGC #8GBGC #GlobalBotanicGardensCongress