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More than 1,000 people gathered in Hong Lim Park on August 16, 2026, to protest against plans to develop parts of Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks for housing. Organized by the SG Climate Rally, the event brought together nature lovers, activists, and members of various opposition parties. Participants demanded greater transparency from the government regarding land-use decisions and expressed concerns about the potential loss of green spaces. The rally featured speeches, poetry readings, and interactive activities such as postcard writing and sign painting, culminating in a mass sing-along session. The demonstration followed recent announcements by the government indicating that more green spaces would be preserved in both locations due to public feedback. On August 14, Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan stated that the revised plans would result in retaining more greenery than initially intended, although this would lead to fewer homes being constructed. Earlier plans had aimed to preserve 40 percent of green spaces in Gillman Barracks and 35 percent in Maju Forest, with input from nature groups. The proposed development of Gillman Barracks and Sunset Way, announced by the Housing and Development Board on July 10, sparked widespread concern among residents and conservationists. These plans involve clearing approximately 15 hectares of Maju Forest and at least 10 hectares of forest in Gillman Barracks. Environmental groups and local communities have raised alarms about the possible negative impacts on biodiversity and ecological connectivity. In response to public pressure, the government has engaged in ongoing discussions with stakeholders to refine the development plans. Alvin Tan emphasized that while the current plans are not finalized, adjustments are being made based on the feedback received. Nature groups have advocated for a wider central green corridor in Gillman Barracks to enhance connectivity with other green spaces, including Telok Blangah Hill Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, and HortPark. For Maju Forest, similar requests have been made to widen the green corridor for improved ecological continuity. Participants at the rally highlighted the urgency of protecting these natural areas, emphasizing that once the forests are lost, they cannot be restored. Activists stressed the importance of early-stage public consultations and the need for a balanced approach that considers both housing demands and environmental preservation. Full-time national serviceman Luo Kai Yi noted the potential for nuanced solutions in the debate over land use, suggesting that there is room for compromise and alternative strategies. The government has committed to publishing a report summarizing the feedback received and the agencies' responses before finalizing the detailed development plans. This process is expected to conclude within the coming months. As the discussion continues, the balance between urban development and environmental protection remains a critical issue for Singapore’s future.