We have known for some time that being amidst nature is good for us. Studies published in international journals have shown the positive links between meaningful interaction with urban nature and improved physical and mental well-being. These insights inform our strategies at NParks, guiding science-backed design for a healthier, more resilient society.
New Programmes that Benefit Residents
The Parks for Health Framework was launched in 2025 to enhance residents’ access to greenery so that everyone can better enjoy its restorative qualities. Through active programming and partnerships with healthcare institutions and relevant agencies, more people can look forward to immersing themselves in therapeutic landscapes, gardening or activities that support physical and emotional well-being. This is why NParks continues to build and open therapeutic gardens — this year at Punggol, West Coast, and Pek Kio — for everyone to enjoy.
At the heart of NParks’ work lies a strong partnership with the community. Together, we seek to develop and implement initiatives that enhance public well-being, with residents’ needs and interests guiding our shared journey towards becoming a City in Nature. This commitment to co-creation is exemplified in the rejuvenated Chinese and Japanese Gardens at Jurong Lake Gardens, reopened in September 2024. As our first national garden in the heartlands, the gardens reflect the valuable inputs from many rounds of public engagement — from water-sensitive designs in the Water Lily Garden to the collaborative Floral Garden projects developed with students and volunteers.
This same participatory approach extends to other greening efforts across the island. Bidadari and Tampines Boulevard Parks opened after residents’ inputs were incorporated into their design. And thanks to the strong support of our community, we have now planted over 760,000 trees in our OneMillionTrees movement. We have also integrated greenery into urban areas by developing over 200 ha of skyrise greenery, bringing us another step towards transforming Singapore into a greener and more sustainable home for all.
Bolstering Conservation, Elevating Industry
This past year, we opened the enhanced Sisters' Islands Marine Park, and launched the second phase of the Comprehensive Marine Biodiversity Survey — the most extensive marine biodiversity survey conducted in Singapore. New areas and biomes will be surveyed to complement earlier findings and provide a clearer picture of Singapore’s marine biodiversity. The Survey will also employ novel testing techniques and technologies such as seabed corers and mobile DNA labs for reef monitoring by researchers, staff and students, building up local expertise in marine conservation. These efforts reflect our commitment to marine conservation, uplifting local expertise and fostering greater public appreciation for marine life.
As we adapt to and mitigate the challenges brought about by climate change, it is essential that we also raise professional excellence across partnering industries and institutions. The Landscape Sector Transformation Plan represents a comprehensive approach to elevating professional standards, while strategic partnerships with educational institutions equip our youth with expertise that injects fresh energy into the industry.
In the veterinary and animal sector, we are enhancing legislation by establishing Singapore’s first Veterinary Council to enhance veterinary professionalism, and raising animal welfare standards for shelters, trainers and pet businesses. In the reporting year, NParks organised the inaugural CITES Global Youth Summit, bringing together young conservation leaders from around the world in substantive dialogue and capacity building for the future of wildlife conservation. We seek to seed this awareness of the importance of conservation efforts in children as young as in preschool through nationwide preschool resources and programmes about our native wildlife and responsible human-wildlife encounters.
Investing in Capacity Building for Staff
NParks officers have specialised development plans for core competencies, from arboriculture and horticulture to veterinary science and animal management, ensuring the day-to-day running of our green spaces. Specialist functions such as investigations, enforcement and international relations are also governed by competency frameworks, ensuring that our workforce remains current and competent.
As Singapore marks 60 years of independence in 2025, NParks also celebrates several milestones. Our Centre for Wildlife Forensics has been designated as the first World Organisation for Animal Health Collaborating Centre for Wildlife Trade and Wildlife Health, focusing on risk analysis and management of wildlife movement. We are also heartened that many have started licensing and microchipping their cats, as well as completed the responsible pet ownership courses, as part of the first-year implementation of the Cat Management Framework. This reflects a growing public commitment and investment in animal welfare.
Countering Climate Change
Even as we pause to reflect on our progress, we will continue to look ahead and actively plan for the future. As part of the Draft Master Plan 2025, NParks is collaborating closely with partner agencies to leverage nature-based solutions as a sustainable way to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change in our urban environment, while introducing more integrated green spaces across Singapore. This includes developing the upcoming Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park and the Kranji Nature Corridor that will strengthen ecological connectivity in the northern region of the island as well as the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, while also providing new nature-based recreation opportunities for connecting residents.
I wish to express my deepest appreciation to our dedicated staff, invaluable partners, and passionate volunteers, whose tireless efforts have made these achievements possible. To all our stakeholders, your partnership continues to inspire and advance our City in Nature vision. We remain steadfast in our commitment to build upon this strong foundation, pursuing even greater heights of environmental stewardship, scientific innovation and community engagement.
Together, let us continue this important work to create an even more sustainable, endearing and vibrant Singapore for generations to come.
Loh Khum Yean
Chairman, National Parks Board