Straits Times Forum 18 May 13;
PULAU Ubin should receive more recognition as a tourist attraction. The island is rich in greenery and history, but it is not as well promoted as other attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and the Botanic Gardens.
Pulau Ubin's areas of interest could be better marketed to tourists. For example, the Chek Jawa wetlands are a completely natural habitat that boasts coral reefs and rich sea life such as sea hares and sand dollars.
Pulau Ubin is also a "living museum" that can showcase a rustic way of life, as its residents can share stories about island life with visitors.
Although its population has been significantly reduced, the residents have shown their passion for the island by continuing to live there.
To preserve its natural beauty, tourists should not be allowed to visit Pulau Ubin in overwhelming numbers, but the island should still be included in tourism advertising campaigns.
Irma Syafiqah Mahat (Miss)
Pulau Ubin featured on tourism board's website
Straits Times Forum 30 May 13;
WE THANK Miss Irma Syafiqah Mahat for her feedback ("Promote Ubin as a tourist destination"; May 18).
We assure her that in addition to attractions such as the Botanic Gardens, Southern Ridges and Gardens by the Bay, we include Pulau Ubin as one of the nature offerings in Singapore on our website and YourSingapore.com.
Besides its natural and rustic charm, the intertidal flat at Chek Jawa provides an enriching and nature-based experience for visitors and residents. The charms of Pulau Ubin lend breadth to the range of attractions that allow us to market a personalised Singapore experience for different segments of visitors.
Oliver Chong
Director, Communications
Singapore Tourism Board
