STB to partner Temasek Holdings for Mandai nature project

Temasek is the majority shareholder of Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), which operates the existing stable of Mandai attractions and Jurong Bird Park. It submitted a “compelling proposal to build on their existing attractions to shape Mandai into a leading nature destination in Asia”, says MTI.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) will partner Temasek Holdings to create a large-scale nature project in the Mandai precinct, the Miniustry of Trade and Industry (MTI) announced in a press release on Wednesday (Jan 14).

Temasek is the majority shareholder of Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), which operates the existing stable of Mandai attractions and Jurong Bird Park. It submitted a “compelling proposal to build on their existing attractions to shape Mandai into a leading nature destination in Asia”, said MTI.

Mr S Iswaran, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Home Affairs and Trade and Industry, said: "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.

"As a major stakeholder in Mandai, Temasek appreciates its uniqueness and importance to Singapore. With the expertise and experience it has gained from WRS, and its international network, Temasek will be able to create outstanding content for a world-class development in Mandai. The Government looks forward to working with Temasek to bring this project to fruition," he added.

The planned development of Mandai was first announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in September last year. When completed, the precinct outside the Nature Reserves will comprise about 120 hectares, MTI said.

This will include the development of new attractions that will be integrated with the existing Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari. A multi-agency collaboration will guide Mandai’s development, according to MTI.  Temasek will be commissioning a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), with guidance from the National Parks Board.