STB, Temasek to lead Mandai zoo revamp

STB, Temasek to lead Mandai zoo revamp

SINGAPORE - The major makeover and expansion of the zoo precinct at Mandai in Singapore's north will be led by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Temasek Holdings.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) said yesterday that the partnership will help to realise the Government's vision for Mandai to become a world-class, nature-themed attraction.

In September, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that Mandai would be transformed into a bigger and better zoo by about 2020.

The 41-year-old Singapore Zoo is located at Mandai, along with the Night Safari and the relatively new River Safari. The proposals include using other land in the area to build the larger precinct.

Temasek is a majority shareholder of Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), which operates the existing stable of zoos as well as Jurong Bird Park.

It responded to STB's invitation to explore concepts for Mandai in about 2010.

MTI said Temasek shared the Government's vision for Mandai and submitted a compelling proposal to build on its existing attractions to shape Mandai into a leading nature destination in Asia.

It is envisioned that the Mandai project will have a total site area of 120ha when completed, with tranquil and rich, green spaces to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

New public spaces and waterfront trails are likely to be built.

Mr S. Iswaran, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, said in a statement: "Temasek's concept builds on and significantly enhances the current WRS attractions in Mandai.

"The proposal is sensitive to the area's unique environment, while including exciting ideas and developments that will bring benefits to both Singaporeans and tourists."

Temasek head of enterprise development group Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara said in a separate statement: "We see the new Mandai as a haven for our broader community of Singaporeans and visitors, young and old, to enjoy nature in a fun and inspiring way.

"We aim to do this through an integrated, sustainable and inclusive approach, with Mandai developing as a nature destination to celebrate and protect our biodiversity."

Temasek said it will work with the National University of Singapore to undertake an environmental-impact assessment of the development and to ensure sustainable solutions in the areas of water and energy use.


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