Speech by MOS Desmond Lee at the Official Opening of Wings of Asia
Jan 21, 2015
A year ago, I was here to launch the rejuvenated Waterfall Aviary. Today, it gives me great pleasure to be here again for the opening of Wings of Asia.
Wings of Asia
Wings of Asia as I understand, is the crown jewel of conservation breeding efforts right here at the Jurong Bird Park. The goal is for the birds hatched here to be re-introduced into the wild habitats of their native countries one day.
Although Jurong Bird Park boasts world-class bird shows and other fun exhibits for visitors, it is more than just a tourist destination or a recreational place. Since its conception, Jurong Bird Park has grown into a globally renowned reserve with a steadfast commitment to research and conservation. It goes to great lengths to care for, and protect, the 5,000 birds in its collection.
The team has been very successful in its conservation breeding efforts. I heard they have successfully bred threatened species such as the Bali mynah, blue-throated macaw and other significant species such as the black palm cockatoo, hyacinth macaw, red-fronted macaw and the red-tailed black cockatoo. The survival of many of these bird species are under threat in their native environments.
The Bali mynah, for instance, faces declining numbers in its original habitat in Indonesia due to illegal trapping for trade, as well as rapid destruction of its habitat. It is heartening to learn that more than 500 precious and beautiful birds are making their new homes in this new aviary.
Moving Jurong Bird Park
Jurong Bird Park holds a very special place in our hearts. Its history is synonymous with the history of Singapore. Looking ahead, there are exciting plans for the Bird Park in the pipeline, which will extend its legacy and contribution to Singapore.
By now, many of us here would have read the news that the Singapore Tourism Board is partnering Temasek Holdings to make Mandai area a world-class nature-themed attraction. Pending an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the area, here are plans for the Bird Park to join its sister attractions in Mandai. My ministry and the relevant government agencies will fully support the EIA process and refinement of these plans.
Given Temasek’s long experience with the Singapore Zoo and the other existing attractions at Mandai, I am confident that it will realise the new attractions in an environmentally-sustainable and sensitive manner. There is potential for the plans to even enhance and complement the nearby nature reserves. This is an exciting project that will provide new educational and new recreational experiences for Singaporeans, and contribute to the conservation of our natural heritage. Indeed, as I spoke earlier to our friends from Rulang Primary School’s Chinese Orchestra, it reminds me of how important it is for us, through these efforts to extend nature-based education to our younger generation of Singaporeans, so that they appreciate these values and principles, and protection for the environment. This project at Mandai will be another jewel in our range of outdoor nature attractions throughout Singapore, and will be our lasting heritage for our children and future generations of Singaporeans.
In the meantime, the good work at Jurong Bird Park continues. I hope to hear good news of having more endangered hatchlings from the birds in Wings of Asia soon. I look forward to Jurong Bird Park continuing to make an impact on conservation efforts in the region and here. Thank you.