President Nathan launches book on trees at the Istana

Lim Jing Jing Channel NewsAsia 3 Jul 11;

SINGAPORE: The book - "Trees of the Istana" - took three years to write and its publication this year coincides with the United Nations designating 2011 as the International Year of Forests.

The Istana, the official residence of the Singapore President, was once a nutmeg plantation. At 43 hectares - about the size of 53 football fields - it is also home to some 10,000 trees.

The trees are cared for by the National Parks Board and their efforts have been bearing fruit. NParks said some fruits are harvested and served to guests dining at the Istana.

The trees also bear silent witness to the history of Singapore - since some have been around since colonial times.

Wong Tuan Wah, co-author of the book "Trees of the Istana" and Director of Conservation with NParks, said: "This is a huge Tembusu tree, and also one of the tallest trees in the Istana itself.

"This tree has been here for more than 150 years old. And it's been here because people have taken care of it in the past, and now it's up to us to take care of it and pass it on to the new generation."

Besides functioning as the city's green lungs, the Istana grounds have also become a science lab of wildlife in Singapore. For example, NParks recently introduced new plants and birds, including the Oriental Pied Hornbills, to observe their growth in a natural habitat.

Chief Executive Officer of NParks, Poon Hong Yuen, said: "One good reason why we do it in Istana because it's serene and well-protected, so that we can do our work quietly. The other reason actually is because key figures like Mr Lee Kuan Yew have been very encouraging of us, NParks, doing new things in Istana because these are the things that he also enjoys very much."

The Istana grounds are home to about 150 varieties of trees, and over 70 of them are featured in the book.

President S R Nathan also presented autographed copies to sponsors and donors who contributed to the President's Challenge.

Related post: The Istana is not just a green park

-CNA/ac