Prime Minister Lawrence Wong Outlines Long Term Land Reclamation and Island Integration Plans

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced during the 2026 National Day Rally on August 23 that Singapore is studying plans to merge several southern islands into a new Western island. This proposed landmass, which could include Pulau Semakau, Pulau Bukom, and Pulau Sudong, is intended to support advanced manufacturing, power generation infrastructure, and defense needs. The project is modeled after the development of Jurong Island, which the Prime Minister described as a global energy and chemicals hub that provided lasting economic benefits and energy security. A new link will also be constructed to connect Jurong Island to this new Western island.

In addition to the Western island, the government is studying the feasibility of building undersea tunnels to link the mainland to Pulau Tekong. Prime Minister Wong noted that tunnels are being considered because bridges would obstruct busy shipping channels. Further reclamation at the southern end of Pulau Tekong is planned to increase training space for the Singapore Armed Forces and provide 500 hectares of land for future civilian use. The Prime Minister also mentioned the Long Island project, which involves reclaiming approximately 800 hectares of land off the East Coast.

Other developments include the transformation of the southern waterfront. After port operations move to Tuas Port by 2027, Pulau Brani will be linked to Sentosa through land reclamation to create an integrated destination. This will include a new NTUC resort called Downtown South on Pulau Brani and improved public access to the western coastline of Sentosa. To support these changes, a new people mover system connecting the mainland to the islands will be built, and a water taxi service is being explored.

Regarding energy security, the government is exploring clean energy options, including nuclear power. Singapore will undergo an assessment by the International Atomic Energy Agency from 2027 to determine its readiness for nuclear energy deployment.