More than 1,000 rally at Hong Lim Park over Maju Forest, Gillman Barracks plans

Over 1,000 people gathered at Hong Lim Park on Sunday to protest plans to develop Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks, days after the government pledged to retain more greenery in response to public feedback. The demonstrators, many wearing green and red attire, called for the protection of nature areas during the "Maju for the People" rally organized by SG Climate Rally.

Amid the heat, activists sat on picnic mats and held signs with messages like "Forests are our family" and "Destroying forests is not maju." The rally featured activities like postcard writing and speeches by environmental advocates, and participants voiced concerns about the loss of green spaces, the irrevocable nature of deforestation, and the need for more transparency in land-use decisions.

The Housing and Development Board announced on July 10 that the sites would be developed for housing, clearing about 15 hectares of Maju Forest and 10 hectares at Gillman Barracks. The government has since held engagement sessions to gather feedback, with Minister of State Alvin Tan announcing on Friday that plans would be adjusted to retain more greenery, though the exact amount remains undetermined.

Opposition politicians and artists attended the rally, emphasizing the importance of public participation and the need to consider the concerns of younger generations facing the impacts of climate change.