MSE has no mandate on land use planning for Gillman Barracks & Maju Forest: Grace Fu

The Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE) does not hold authority over land use planning and zoning decisions, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu clarified. The Ministry of National Development (MND) is responsible for these choices, taking into account various interests and compromises among government departments, such as conservation of biodiversity.

This was stated by Fu in an August 7 social media update, following the Housing and Development Board's (HDB) announcement to build new homes at Gillman Barracks and Maju Forest (Sunset Way). While the projects have prompted discussions about potential impacts on natural habitats, Fu emphasized that her agency and the MND each have distinct roles.

The planned developments, which include residential housing at Gillman Barracks and public housing at Maju Forest, have generated debate about potential consequences for green spaces and wildlife. Fu reiterated that Singapore's government agencies collaborate closely to address national issues like climate change, with the Singapore Green Plan as an example of such collaborative efforts.

The MSE coordinated the plan, but it was the result of numerous internal discussions and Cabinet consultations involving all relevant ministers. Fu acknowledged the public's concern over the Gillman Barracks and Maju Forest developments. She expressed appreciation for the community's care for green spaces but stressed that Singapore, as a small island nation, must strike a balance between environmental protection, housing needs, infrastructure development, and economic growth.

In April, the Workers' Party's Kenneth Tiong questioned why MSE had not been more proactive in advocating for the green spaces under scrutiny, especially since 2026 was designated as the Year of Climate Adaptation. Responding to the criticism, Fu reiterated that ministries operate collectively on national policies, and the government makes decisions in the best interest of Singaporeans, not the other way around.