Singapore – Residents have expressed unusual public opposition to government plans to rezone forested areas for housing in the city-state. Joanne Teoh, 68, has lived overlooking Maju Forest for over three decades and has documented its wildlife since 2021. She fears the loss of this habitat due to the government's proposal to clear approximately 15 of Maju Forest's 23 hectares (37 of 56 acres) for residential development, as well as at least 10 hectares (25 acres) of Gillman Forest, located about 6 kilometers south.
Teoh stated, "Even if you build homes on part of this forest, as my sons tell me, we don’t want to live beside the graveyard of a desiccated ecosystem." The Housing and Development Board's announcement has prompted public petitions that have gathered over 60,000 signatures, reflecting a rare instance of vocal opposition in a country where planning decisions are typically made without public contestation.
The debate coincides with Singapore's National Day, prompting discussions about the type of progress the country desires. Tensions between development and conservation have previously surfaced, notably with the rezoning of Dover Forest, which led to the government retaining part of it as a nature park.
Concerns have also been raised regarding Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's recent announcement about merging several southern islands for industrial and defense purposes, which could impact marine life and local history. Rachel Tan, an organizer with SG Climate Rally, noted the public's increased awareness of environmental issues and the importance of preserving green spaces.
Earlier this month, over 2,000 people gathered at Speakers’ Corner, the only venue in Singapore for public assembly without a permit, to rally against the development plans. Official assessments indicate that Gillman Forest supports 178 animal species, while Maju Forest supports 113, including the critically endangered straw-headed bulbul.
Victoria, a resident near Gillman Forest, expressed her commitment to advocating for the area, stating that the government’s handling of the issue motivated her to take action. She initiated a Telegram group to assist others in navigating environmental assessments.
The Singapore government has emphasized the necessity of the housing plans, citing high demand for public housing, but has also indicated a willingness to retain more green space than initially planned. Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan acknowledged the need to balance housing development with environmental concerns. Activists, however, argue against the notion that housing and nature are mutually exclusive, questioning whether the government’s concessions will adequately address public opposition. Teoh has begun documenting the effects of development on the forest on social media, emphasizing her connection to the natural environment.