NParks, Keppel in S$2.08 mln Partnership for Restoring Singapore Forest Wetlands

The National Parks Board (NParks) and Keppel Corporation today unveiled plans for a partnership to restore the freshwater forest wetland ecosystem historically found in the vicinity of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Located in the upcoming Learning Forest extension, the restored 1.8 hectare forest wetland will enhance the biodiversity found there, and for the very first time, provide educational opportunities for the public to access and experience a freshwater forest wetland habitat, right in the heart of the city.

Keppel Corporation has committed S$2.08 million to the Garden City Fund (GCF) to support the forest wetland restoration efforts. In recognition of Keppel Corporation's contribution, the restored freshwater forest wetland will be named the Keppel Discovery Wetlands. The Keppel Discovery Wetlands will be designed with ecological considerations in mind and a carefully curated plant collection of over 200 species.

To mark the occasion, Minister for National Development and Second Minister for Finance Mr Lawrence Wong, Chairman of Keppel Corporation Dr Lee Boon Yang, and CEO of Keppel Corporation Mr Loh Chin Hua planted a Keppel Tree (Stelechocarpus burahol) at Keppel Discovery Wetlands. Also present were over 50 volunteers from across the Keppel Group who planted trees of many various species at the Wetlands, as a symbol of Keppel's commitment to environmental conservation.

Chairman of Garden City Fund Professor Leo Tan said, "NParks is glad to have Keppel Corporation on board with us for this project. The Keppel Discovery Wetlands will enhance the biodiversity of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, and provide habitats for a rich diversity of wildlife. The Wetlands will also create opportunities for the public to learn about freshwater swamp forests, the plants and animals in it. In the process, they can gain a greater appreciation of our native biodiversity and conservation efforts. We hope that Keppel's support could inspire more organisations to join us in conserving our native flora and fauna for future generations."

Chairman of Keppel Corporation Dr Lee Boon Yang said, "Keppel is committed to protect the environment. We believe that Singapore's natural heritage is a precious resource and all Singaporeans share a responsibility to care for the environment. The Keppel Discovery Wetlands, developed with our donation, will conserve a unique freshwater forest wetland habitat that will be of aesthetic and educational value as a wildlife refuge in our city. Through this initiative, we hope to encourage and engage more Singaporeans to discover, understand and embrace our biodiversity."