Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen

Good morning. It is always a pleasure to visit Pulau Ubin. I am happy to join you here this morning to mark the launch of the Ketam Mountain Bike Park.

A Quality Living Environment

2   Singapore prides itself on being a premier Garden City, where residents enjoy a quality living environment that is enhanced by the lush greenery and rich biodiversity that we have. This did not happen by chance. Since our independence over 40 years ago, we have adopted a long term and comprehensive approach to our land use planning. We have set out to achieve economic growth, develop a good living environment, and protect our environment and natural heritage in a balanced and sustainable way.

3   Despite being land-scarce, we have, through judicious planning and innovative land usage, set aside 9% of our land for green spaces, supporting a rich diversity of plants and animals. Even as our population and economy grow, we will seek to conserve as much of our natural heritage as possible, including what we have on Pulau Ubin, so that our people will continue to enjoy a good living environment.

Balancing Nature Conservation and Development

4   Pulau Ubin is a haven to many nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Many seek out the island for its rustic charm which offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Others are drawn here to appreciate nature and enjoy the great outdoors. More than 300,000 visitors come to Pulau Ubin every year for cycling, hiking, camping and other activities.

5   Much effort has gone into conserving the ecosystems on the island. In July last year, we completed the visitor amenities at the Chek Jawa wetlands, including a new boardwalk, a viewing tower and a visitor centre, so that more people could explore its treasured biodiversity without affecting its ecosystems.

Ketam Mountain Bike Park

6   Today, I am pleased to launch the Ketam Mountain Bike Park, which will add to the range of recreational choices, set against the natural beauty of Pulau Ubin. I am told that this Bike Park is the first in Singapore to meet international standards for mountain biking competitions. More significantly, the Bike Park is an example of how we have maximised land use by creatively carving out a quality recreational development amidst the picturesque, natural backdrop.

7   Formerly a degraded quarry site, devoid of greenery, the site was rehabilitated by NParks through the planting of over a thousand trees and shrubs. The site is now a lush habitat for a large number of wildlife, attracting even birds like the Red-wattled Lapwing and Baya Weaver that were previously not found on Ubin! Through innovative planning and development, we have created a mountain-biking activity zone and enhanced our natural heritage at the same time. This is indeed a unique solution to balance nature conservation and development. We must continue to explore new possibilities.

Involving a Passionate Community

8   We hope that the community will actively support and complement the government’s efforts in protecting our natural heritage. Today, NParks works closely with a pool of over 600 passionate volunteers to raise public awareness and appreciation of our rich biodiversity and greenery. These volunteers contribute by leading guided walks in our parks and nature areas, conducting workshops and talks, as well as participating in conservation activities.

9   I am also pleased to note that the biking community has played an active role in conceptualising the design of the Ketam Mountain Bike Park. I understand that the proposal for a Mountain Bike Park on Pulau Ubin was mooted some years back in consultation with the Singapore Amateur Cycling Association. Today, we see the fruits of NParks’ partnership with the Association and the mountain biking fraternity.

10   I urge the biking community to go one step further and come forward as volunteers to help maintain the trails and advocate safe and responsible mountain biking. With your continued support and involvement, I am confident that the Ketam Mountain Biking Park will be a favoured destination for both mountain bikers and nature lovers.

Conclusion

11   We are committed to growing and developing our garden city in a sustainable way. We believe that sustainable development is not only necessary in enhancing our living environment, but it is also a distinctive edge that will set Singapore apart from other global cities. We want to build a vibrant city, within a garden, endowed with rich biodiversity.

12   In our journey towards sustainable development, the Government looks forward to working closely with the people and private sectors. The Ketam Bike Park is a fine example of how we have come together bringing the best solution to our people. Let us build on this example to seek out more opportunities for closer collaboration to develop our city.

13   Have a great ride and a wonderful day ahead. Thank you.

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