The composition of the EAP comprises independent subject matter experts from the scientific community, academia, nature groups and private sector. All representatives share a profound interest in conserving biodiversity and nature, as well as promoting sustainability in Singapore.
All mitigation measures for the project identified through the EIA process are documented in an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) and will be reviewed in consultation with the relevant government agencies on an on-going basis. The EAP will monitor and review the application of the measures set out in the design, construction and operation of the project.
Other responsibilities of the EAP include:
- Providing a forum to discuss with the MPH Board on matters relating to the overall environmental management so that the environmental objectives of the Mandai project are met.
- Periodically reviewing the mitigation, management and monitoring measures in the project’s detailed design, construction and operation plans as these evolve to ensure that they remain aligned with the EMMP.
- Regularly monitoring the efficacy of the mitigation measures, and if and when required, the EAP will provide oversight and guidance on corrective actions, which may include modifications to the EMMP.
“Our overall task as EAP members is to guide development plans to achieve good environmental stewardship. It is critically important that the conservation needs for the project site as well as adjacent areas are addressed. I look forward to working alongside fellow nature lovers, biologists, and sustainability experts, as well as MPH to achieve the best possible result for the rejuvenated Mandai precinct,” said Prof. Peter Ng.
“MPH is committed to developing a destination that celebrates Singapore’s natural heritage and seeks to preserve it for generations to come. The EAP will assure adherence to the environmental protection measures envisaged in the EMMP,” said Mr. S Dhanabalan, Chairman of Mandai Park Holdings. “With their deep passion for nature and technical expertise, I believe that the EAP will provide valuable insights for the betterment of Mandai.”
MPH continues to take in suggestions from the public on the rejuvenation of Mandai. Those who are interested to comment on or provide suggestions about the Mandai development can visit www.mandai.com for more details.
Appendix: Biographies of EAP Representatives
Prof. Peter NG
Prof. Peter Ng heads the NUS Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, and is an eminent freshwater field biologist as well as an internationally recognised scientific authority on crab systematics and conservation.
After completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (Zoology) from NUS in 1990, Prof. Ng stayed on to teach, first as a lecturer (1990–1994), then as a senior lecturer (1994–1998), and presently a Professor. Over the years, Prof. Ng has bagged numerous awards, including the Singapore National Youth Award (Excellence in Science and Technology), National Youth Movement, People's Association (1993); the National Science Award 1995, National Science & Technology Board, Ministry of Trade and Development; and the ASEAN Young Science and Technologist Award, ASEAN Science and Technology Ministers, 4th ASEAN Science Ministers Meeting, Bangkok (1995).
Prof. Ng’s research interests include the systematics and ecology of crabs (Indo-West Pacific), larval development and ecology of decapod crustaceans, and freshwater fish taxonomy and ecology (Southeast Asia).
Prof. NG Soon Chye
Prof. Ng Soon Chye is an Advisory Council Member and former President of Nature Society (Singapore). An obstetrics and gynaecology specialist, and one of the men behind Asia’s first test-tube baby in 1983, Prof. Ng is also a renowned bird enthusiast. He has pursued his passion for birds for over many decades, including initiating a project to study and enhance the population of the Oriental Pied Hornbill in 2004, publishing scientific papers on birds, and using his expertise in assisted reproduction to help animal facilities in the reproduction of species.
Prof. Ng is currently practicing at Novena Specialist Centre and Gleneagles Hospital, and is an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at NUS. His research covers topics such as somatic cell nuclear transfer, stem cell biology, and applications of mammalian gamete development.
Dr. Shawn LUM
Dr. Shawn Lum is senior lecturer at the NTU Asian School of the Environment, and had previously spent over twenty years as a lecturer at the National Institute of Education where he taught plant diversity and ecology to future science teachers. He was born in Hawaii, educated at Harvard University and obtained his Ph.D from the University of California (Berkeley) in 1993. He is also a member of the Botanical Society of America, the American Society of Plant Systematists and the Singapore Institute of Biology.
Dr. Lum’s main interests include rainforest ecology and the diversification of tree species. He also does work in conservation biology and environmental education, and interacts with a wide range of people, from fellow researchers to naturalists, primary school pupils, and educators. He is the Principal Investigator of a long-term forest dynamics study at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a project carried out in collaboration with the Centre for Forest Science.
In addition to teaching and academic work, Dr. Lum is also active in nature conservation NGOs and civil society. He is currently the President of Nature Society (Singapore).
Mr. TAI Lee Siang
Mr. Tai Lee Siang is a multi-award winning architect and urban planner. He is the first Asian Chair of the World Green Building Council and also an Honorary Advisor for the Singapore Green Building Council. A Past President of Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), Mr. Tai formed the SIA Green Committee leading to the first collaboration on Green product exhibition with BEX Asia 2009 and International Green Building Conference with Singapore Building and Construction Authority (BCA). He continues to pursue his passion on the Green and Sustainability frontiers after being appointed Chairman of REACH's Environmental Sustainability Committee in 2008 to provide feedback to the Inter-Ministry Committee on Sustainability Development.
During his tenure as SIA President from 2007 to 2009, he inaugurated ARCHIFEST – a festival that promotes architecture excellence among the professionals and general public. He then pioneered the first Practice Convention 2009 – a strategic forum to address practice concerns of Singapore architects.
About Mandai Park Holdings (MPH)
MPH is driving the rejuvenation of Mandai into an integrated nature and wildlife destination. MPH also oversees the business and strategic development of Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), the operator of Singapore’s award-winning Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, River Safari and Singapore Zoo. For more details about the proposed concept for the rejuvenation of Mandai, please visit www.mandai.com.
