The tiny sliver of Singapore that time (and developers) forgot
Amid Singapore's rapid urban development, Pulau Ubin remains a preserved rural outlier, offering a glimpse into the nation's past through its rustic villages, natural landscapes, and slow-paced lifestyle. The island, accessible by small ferry, is home to Singapore's last kampongs and rich biodiversity, including the Chek Jawa Wetlands. Unlike the city's modern skyline, Pulau Ubin features minimal infrastructure, no skyscrapers, and a car-free environment largely navigated by bicycle. Once an industrial granite quarry hub, the island has been reclaimed by nature and is now managed for conservation and eco-tourism.
- ▪Pulau Ubin is a 10-square-kilometre island located about 20 minutes from Changi Airport, accessible via a bumboat ferry from Changi Point.
- ▪It is home to Singapore's last remaining kampongs, with fewer than 50 residents living in traditional wooden stilt houses.
- ▪The island features no skyscrapers, minimal traffic, and is primarily navigated by bicycles, with nature trails and boardwalks like those at Chek Jawa Wetlands.
- ▪Former granite quarries on the island have been transformed into freshwater lakes that support diverse wildlife, including 141 bird species.
- ▪Managed by the National Parks Board (NParks), Pulau Ubin serves as a conservation and eco-tourism site, contrasting sharply with Singapore’s urban development.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at SMH Traveller.
