Singapore's former chief planner Liu Thai Ker dies aged 87

Singapore's former chief planner Dr Liu Thai Ker died on Sunday (Jan 18) morning at the age of 87. 

AsiaOne understands that Dr Liu was hospitalised following a fall about a week ago. He passed away peacefully at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, surrounded by family members.

Dr Liu was widely known as the architect of modern Singapore. He was involved in the planning for 20 out of the 24 Housing and Development Board (HDB) towns during his time as the agency's chief architect and later chief executive officer from 1969 to 1989.

He later became the Urban Redevelopment Authority's chief executive officer and chief planner from 1989 to 1992.

In an interview with AsiaOne in 2024, Dr Liu shared his belief that the purpose of urban planning is for people and the land.

Dr Liu explained: "People to create the environment that is liveable for them, and also to create the environment that gives people a sense of belonging and community."

When asked about what makes a good planner, Dr Liu said that a planner's job is to understand the fundamental, unchanging needs of human beings.

He also shared with AsiaOne his wishes for the future of Singapore's urban planning.

"I really hope that we plan long term, create some new master plans for new needs such as housing the aged population and medical services for them."

Dr Liu left behind his wife Gretchen Gustafson and five children, including Daniel Liu, who contested as the People's Action Party's candidate for Aljunied GRC in the 2025 general election.

'He played a pivotal role': Chee Hong Tat

In a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon, Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat said he was "deeply saddened" by Dr Liu's death, noting that the late planner was a "pioneering figure" in Singapore's housing and urban development journey.

"Dr Liu devoted his life to building our nation, with quality homes, strong communities and beautiful living spaces," Chee wrote.

"As the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Housing and Development Board and later the first CEO of the Urban Redevelopment Authority, he played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore's public housing programme and long-term urban planning framework."

The minister also noted the impact Dr Liu made during his tenures leading HDB and URA.

He credited Dr Liu for laying the foundation for home ownership and strong communities across Singapore, and for bringing jobs and amenities closer to homes through the 1991 Concept Plan.

Recalling a meeting they had two weeks ago, Chee said that Dr Liu spoke with clarity and conviction about Singapore's urban future.

"Dr Liu Thai Ker's legacy will live on in the beautiful neighbourhoods we call home, this dynamic garden city we are proud of, and the generations of people whom he has inspired over the years," Chee added.

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editor@asiaone.com