S'pore plans to designate second marine park in its southern islands

Southern part of Lazarus Island, Kusu Reef are home to rare rocky shore, coral habitats

- Shabana Begum and Leow Wen Xuan

Singapore's rich marine biodiversity may lie out of sight for many, but a second marine park that is being planned for the nation's southern islands could offer people here a glimpse of the thriving ecosystems underwater.

National Development Minister Desmond Lee announced on May 9 plans to designate the southern part of Lazarus Island and the reef off Kusu Island as the Republic's second marine park. From knobbly sea stars and fluted giant clams hiding in rocky shores to intact coral reefs, the area is home to exceptionally rich marine life.

Speaking to the media on Lazarus Island, Mr Lee said: "When we finally designate the second marine park, it will enable us to strengthen marine and terrestrial conservation, provide tremendous opportunities for education and research, and provide spaces for nature-based recreation to be done sensitively." The country's first marine park -the 40ha Sisters' Islands Marine Park - was announced in 2014, and 2024 marks its 10th anniversary.

With a second marine park, island hoppers will have more opportunities to learn about marine biodiversity in the southern waters while enjoying recreational activities.

By 2025, the boundaries of the proposed marine park are expected to be finalised, after the National Parks Board (NParks) finishes discussions with government agencies and community partners.

The discussions will also cover the types of features and amenities, such as walking trails, that visitors can expect from the second marine park.

The authorities will also be working with heritage experts, as the history of Lazarus Island is tied with the orang laut (sea nomads) and colonial Singapore, which stored ammunition on the island, added Mr Lee.

Singapore's first marine park comprises Big Sister's Island, Small Sister's Island, and the western reefs off both St John's Island and Pulau Tekukor.