- PM Lawrence Wong announced at NDR 2026 the plan to merge several western islands, including Semakau, Bukom, and Pulau Sudong, into a new larger island.
- The new island, located south of Jurong Island, could support new industries, power generation, and defence needs, according to Mr. Wong.
- This plan echoes the creation of Jurong Island, which was formed through land reclamation and became a global energy and chemicals hub.
- Singapore is exploring clean energy options, including nuclear power, to strengthen its energy security amid global challenges.
- Semakau is home to Singapore's only landfill, while Bukom houses the country's first refinery, and Pulau Sudong has an airstrip used by the Singapore Armed Forces during emergencies.
- The new island will not be limited to petrochemicals and could support advanced manufacturing and other industries.
- Jurong Island has shaped Singapore's economy for the last 50 years, and the new western island aims to do the same for the next 50 years and beyond.
Singapore is set to merge several southern islands, including Semakau, Bukom, and Pulau Sudong, into a new Western island to support advanced industries and power generation infrastructure. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced this plan on August 23, highlighting its potential to shape Singapore's future economy.5
The new island, located south of Jurong Island, will not only focus on petrochemicals but also accommodate advanced manufacturing and other industries. Wong emphasized the importance of land reclamation, stating, "Jurong Island shaped our economy for the last 50 years. This new western island can help shape Singapore for the next 50 years and beyond."267
The initiative aims to enhance Singapore's energy security amid global volatility and land constraints. Wong noted that every piece of land matters in Singapore, where space is needed for homes, jobs, and infrastructure. He stated, "Sometimes difficult choices and trade-offs have to be made."
The government is also exploring clean energy sources, including nuclear power, to strengthen energy security. Wong mentioned that Singapore is building capabilities across 19 areas identified by the IAEA for establishing a nuclear power program, although a decision on deployment has yet to be made.
The reclamation project could also include other islands like Pulau Hantu and Pulau Jong, further expanding Singapore's industrial landscape while preserving its green spaces and heritage.
Wong concluded, "We plan fifty, seventy, even one hundred years ahead."
“The new island could also house power generation infrastructure and support advanced manufacturing, echoing Jurong Island's role in shaping Singapore's economy for 50 years. PM Wong emphasized long-term planning, noting the island could help shape Singapore for the next 50 years and beyond.”
