Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on making the Southern Islands more accessible

Sep 11, 2017

Mr Christopher de Souza: To ask the Minister for National Development how can the Southern Islands be made more accessible as national parks so that more Singaporeans can enjoy them and their rustic charm and rich biodiversity can still be preserved.

Answer:

The Southern Islands comprise 7 islets south of Sentosa island. Apart from Pulau Tekukor, all are accessible for recreational activities.  In fact, many visitors already enjoy these beaches, rustic landscapes, and dive spots.  These islands are accessible via commercial ferry services from Marina South Pier or through chartered yachts.

We have recently designated the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, comprising the two Sisters’ Islands, their surrounding waters, and the western reefs of Pulau Tekukor and St John’s Island, as a public park under the Parks and Trees Act.  This affords greater protection to key biodiversity hotspots within the Southern Islands.

NParks has introduced guided intertidal walks and dive trails and will be facilitating visits for schools, institutes, and organisations to the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park.  We will also add infrastructure to make Big Sister’s Island more accessible.  For example, NParks is sensitively developing a boardwalk, intertidal pools, and a floating pontoon there.  Rules will be put in place for the Marine Park so that different activities can co-exist harmoniously.