The Mandai precinct is poised to undergo a massive makeover to become an ecotourism hub with five wildlife parks and eco-lodges.
Ecotourism is set to be the newest feather on Singapore’s tourism cap when a 126ha wildlife and nature precinct dedicated to ecotourism comes online in 2023, giving optimism to the trade on new ways to package tours and attract tourists to the city-state.
Currently home to the Singapore Zoo, River Safari and Night Safari, Mandai will from 2020 onwards be joined by two new attractions – the Bird Park, which will be relocated from Jurong; and the all-new Rainforest Park.
Mike Barclay, group chief executive of Mandai Safari Park Holdings (MSPH), said: “We want to give visitors a nature and wildlife destination that they can call their own. Visitors have asked for more novel, engaging and immersive experiences. We hope the new Mandai nature precinct will provide all that and more.”
He added: “Our vision is to create an integrated nature and wildlife destination, nestled within our bustling city for all Singaporeans and tourists to enjoy. Generations of Singaporeans have grown up with the Jurong Bird Park and the (existing) wildlife parks in Mandai.
“This project provides an opportunity for renewal, and to deepen our collective affinity with the nature and wildlife of our region.”
When completed, visitors will be able to stroll on aerial walkways at the 12.5ha Rainforest Park, or relax in pods and watch birds take flight in nine aviaries that feature different landscapes – such as a wetland or bamboo forest – at the 17ha Bird Park. The Bird Park will also hold a breeding and research facility, which aims to increase the populations of critically endangered species such as the Bali mynah, black-winged starling and blue-crowned laughing thrush.
As well, the Mandai nature precinct will also boast nature trails, boardwalks, gardens, waterways and playgrounds in its surrounds.
According to MSPH, the hub is designed to be in harmony with nature. The two new parks will be developed on previously occupied land and measures will be taken to minimise impact on the flora and fauna in the area.
Meanwhile, the main hub area will feature an indoor nature-themed education centre, and hold exhibitions aimed at raising awareness and appreciation for the region’s biodiversity and natural heritage.
Moreover, an eco-link bridge spanning Mandai Lake Road will also be built. This bridge will allow animals to move between the central and northern reaches of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
Sleeping under the stars could become viable for visitors who intend to spend a night or two in Mandai, as eco-friendly accommodation options such as tents, camps and family rooms are now on the drawing board.
Applauding Singapore’s ecotourism ambitions, GTMC Travel’s CEO Samson Tan, said: “This new hub will help capture tourists because it become a one-stop wildlife attraction hub. It will help tourists stay for a full day or (even spend a) night there.”
Tour East’s senior vice president sales & marketing international market, Judy Lum, expects wildlife attractions to be popular with the family segment, as the existing Night Safari is already a big draw especially for visitors from India, China and Japan.
“I am excited about this impending project. It will be a wonderful place for visitors to explore and cultivate care for nature, and it is educational for both children and adults alike,” Lum enthused.
Currently, MSPH is also exploring a range of options with the Singapore government to improve accessibility to Mandai. These include introducing shuttle buses from the upcoming Springleaf MRT station and direct bus services from areas that are not well-connected to Mandai.
This article was first published in TTG Asia October 2016 issue. To read more, please view our digital edition or click here to subscribe.
