‘A living neighbour’: Singapore residents fight to save Maju forest as clearance looms

Residents of Singapore's western estate of Sunset Way are mounting a campaign to preserve the Maju forest, a vital green space that has long been a part of their daily lives. The Housing Development Board (HDB) recently announced its intention to clear approximately 15 of the 23-hectare (56.8-acre) forest area for future public housing developments. This decision has sparked concern among local residents who view the forest not merely as a backdrop to their homes but as a living entity intertwined with their community's identity. The announcement came on July 10, marking a pivotal moment for the residents who have grown accustomed to the sounds and sights of wildlife within the forest. For many, the forest represents more than just a natural habitat, it symbolizes a connection to nature that is increasingly rare in urban settings. Jo Teoh, a 68-year-old media producer, has spent over three decades experiencing the forest's presence from her home on Sunset Way. She described the forest as a neighbor that has influenced the character of her neighborhood and the lives of its inhabitants. Teoh expressed disappointment upon learning of the proposed clearing, emphasizing how the transformation of such a vibrant ecosystem into a development site felt deeply personal. "Seeing a place so rich in life reduced to a coloured polygon on a planning map was devastating," she said. Her sentiment resonates with other residents who fear losing not only the ecological value of the forest but also the cultural significance it holds for them. Anna Ng, an educator who moved to Sunset Way nearly two decades ago, chose this location specifically to provide her children with opportunities to experience nature firsthand. She recalled how her children could freely explore the forest while growing up, riding their bikes around the estate and venturing into the woods. The idea of developing the land threatens to sever this bond between the younger generation and the natural world they once knew intimately. The proposed development plan by HDB includes the clearance of parts of the Maju forest, which is one of the last remaining patches of primary rainforest in Singapore. Conservationists and environmental groups have raised alarms about the potential impact on biodiversity, highlighting the importance of preserving such habitats in an increasingly urbanized landscape. They argue that the forest serves as a critical refuge for numerous species, including hornbills and migratory birds that visit the area seasonally. As discussions continue, residents are calling for increased transparency regarding the planning process and a thorough evaluation of alternative solutions that might balance urban expansion with conservation efforts. They hope that the government will consider the emotional and ecological costs associated with the proposed changes before proceeding with any major alterations to the forest. With the future of Maju forest hanging in the balance, the voices of those who call Sunset Way home echo through the trees, seeking to ensure that their living neighbor continues to thrive amidst the encroaching skyline.