Singapore
Singapore to Create New Western Island for Advanced Industries
The planned merging of several islands aims to support a new generation of industries, including advanced manufacturing and power generation.
Singapore is set to merge several islands south of Jurong Island to form a new Western island, as part of a strategic initiative to support advanced manufacturing and power generation industries. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced this development during the National Day Rally on August 23, highlighting its potential to shape the nation’s industrial landscape for the next fifty years.
The new island will include Semakau, which currently serves as the city-state’s offshore landfill, Bukom, home to Singapore's first refinery, and Pulau Sudong, which features an airstrip used by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) for emergencies. This merger mirrors past efforts that successfully created Jurong Island, now a global hub for energy and chemicals, which has significantly contributed to Singapore's economic resilience and energy security.
“This new Western island can help shape Singapore for the next 50 years and beyond.”Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister of Singapore
“Jurong Island shaped our economy for the last fifty years,” PM Wong stated. “This new Western island can help shape Singapore for the next 50 years and beyond.” The new infrastructure is expected to accommodate not only traditional industries but also emerging sectors, thus diversifying Singapore’s industrial base.
“Jurong Island shaped our economy for the last fifty years.”Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister of Singapore
In conjunction with this development, the government plans to enhance connectivity to Jurong Island by constructing a second road link, which will also connect to the new Western island. This infrastructure upgrade is vital, given the heavy usage of the existing causeway.
Analysts see this initiative as a proactive measure to maintain Singapore's competitive edge in the region. The Ministry of Trade and Industry has previously emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in key sectors to navigate global economic challenges. The establishment of the new Western island aligns with these goals, potentially attracting investments and creating jobs in advanced manufacturing and other high-tech industries.