Singaporeans urge forest protection at rally as housing plans spur concerns

Thousands of Singaporeans have rallied against plans to build homes on two forested sites, highlighting the ongoing tension between housing demand and conservation. The protesters gathered in Hong Lim Park, carrying banners and chanting "Hands off, hands off Gillman! Hands off, hands off Maju!" They demanded protection for the mature forests in the areas, while the government argued that preserving more greenery would result in fewer homes for Singaporeans.

The Housing Development Board (HDB) announced it would construct homes at Clementi's Sunset Way and Gillman Barracks, clearing around 15 of 23 hectares of Maju forest and at least 10 hectares of the forest near Gillman. HDB stated that it considered environmental and heritage studies and would refine its plans based on public feedback gathered from July 10 to August 6.

The rally, organized by SG Climate Rally, estimated that over 2,000 people attended. Julie Tang, a climate organizer, emphasized that the event aimed to push the issue forward and increase visibility. Many rally participants were dressed in red and green, handing out fliers with mock-ups of barren plots to illustrate the impact of the proposed developments.

Yap Zi Jing, a 38-year-old outdoor education coach, spoke about the importance of these areas for children to connect with nature and urged a better plan for development. Diana Mikazuki, a 33-year-old barista, expressed her devastation over the loss of forests, which help regulate temperature. Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan announced adjustments to the redevelopment plans to preserve more greenery, but some, like Kareen Looi, remain skeptical of the transparency in the process.