OFFSHORE ISLANDS (Development for industry and public recreation)

Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether and what plans there are to develop the remaining undeveloped offshore islands for industry and public recreation.

Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, the group of islands situated to the south of Sentosa is planned for public recreational development. The islands situated immediately to the south of Jurong Industrial Estate are earmarked for industrial development particularly for petro- chemical and related industries. The islands to the south of Pulau Bukom will also be developed for industrial projects except for Pulau Hantu Besar and Pulau Jong which are planned for public recreational development. With the exception of Pulau Ubin and Pulau Tekong, the islands situated to the north will be used mainly for recreation. Coney Island is in an advanced stage of development for recreational use.

With regard to Pulau Ubin and Pulau Tekong, their long term use is under study. In the interim, the rural/agricultural activities on these islands will continue.