Resorts World Sentosa: "Marine park walks the talk" and STB says "RWS must comply"

Letter from Krist Boo Vice-President, Communications Resorts World Sentosa
Today Online 8 Jan 11;

When Resorts World Sentosa won the bid to build Singapore's first integrated resort in December 2006, it promised a Marine Life Park (MLP) that would put the Republic on the world map as the region's leader in marine research, conservation and education.

The MLP has on board today a team of professionals and animal experts who have been working to ensure that its development follows top-notch international practices and that it will eventually gain accreditation from a reputable international body. Even before it opens, the MLP has put its pledge on conservation into practice. In May 2008, MLP launched the $3.2 million Marine Life Fund for marine-life research, education and conservation projects.

In December 2008, the fund made its first disbursement to WildAid for anti-poaching patrol boats in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. In 2009, it aided a national shark conservation campaign in China. In the same year, it funded a marine-life education programme among kindergarten children, which raised funds for a local conservation group.

RWS has also undertaken coral conservation and remains one of the few destination resorts in the world that does not serve shark's fin in its restaurants. Just as what zoos have done to raise the profile of the panda and created awareness of its endangered status, the MLP has its role in wildlife conservation and education. The MLP team welcomes views and remains committed to dialogue with special interest groups, supporters and individuals keen to learn and act on marine conservation.

RWS must comply
Letter from Carrie Kwik Director, Integrated Resorts Industry Development Group II Singapore Tourism Board
Today Online 8 Jan 11;

I refer to the letter from Mr Roger Chow ("For PR's sake, free the dolphins", Dec 27) and thank him for his feedback.

The proposals for the Marine Life Park were submitted as part of the winning integrated resort tender bid by RWS. The range of attractions developed within the integrated resort and the specific components within each attraction, such as the plans for its Marine Life Park, are commercial decisions made by the developer.

In developing the Marine Life Park, RWS has committed to ensure that all aspects of development and implementation follow the relevant regulations and guidelines.

RWS must comply with international regulations, which include those of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites), as well as the requirements of the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) to safeguard animal health and ensure no animals are harmed or treated inappropriately at any time.

RWS will also be required to work with AVA to ensure that the marine animals in Singapore are provided with adequate space and care, among other considerations.

Attractions like the Marine Life Park have proven to be successful internationally not only for their appeal but also for educating the public on marine life and environmental issues.

We would like to see the Marine Life Park at RWS fulfil its potential to introduce young minds to the world of marine life and provide guests with educational and enriching experiences.

Resorts World Sentosa committed to wildlife conservation
Straits Times 10 Jan 11;

I THANK the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for its letter ('SPCA voices concern over animal welfare, experimentation'; Dec 30).

When Resorts World Sentosa won the bid to build Singapore's first integrated resort, it promised a Marine Life Park (MLP) that would put the Republic on the world map as the region's leader in marine research, conservation and education.

To deliver the promise, the MLP has on board today a world-class team of experienced professionals and animal experts. This team has been working towards ensuring that the park's development follows top-notch international practices, and that it will eventually gain accreditation from a reputable international body.

Even before opening, the MLP has put its pledge on conservation into practice.

In May 2008, it launched the $3.2 million Marine Life Fund for marine-life research, education and conservation projects. In December 2008, the fund made its first disbursement to WildAid for anti-poaching patrol boats in the Galapagos Marine Reserve.

In 2009, the fund aided a national shark conservation campaign in China. In the same year, it funded a marine life education programme among kindergarten children, which raised funds for a local conservation group.

Resorts World Sentosa has also undertaken coral conservation and today, remains one of the few destination resorts in the world with restaurants that do not serve shark's fin.

Just as what zoos have done to raise the profile of the panda and created awareness of its endangered status, the MLP has its role in wildlife conservation and education. The MLP team welcomes views and remains committed to dialogue with special interest groups, supporters and individuals keen to learn and act on marine conservation.

Krist Boo (Ms)
Vice President, Communications
Resorts World Sentosa