Launch of Singapore Environment Council's Vision of a Sustainable Singapore 2035 - Dr Janil Puthucheary

         Good afternoon. It is my pleasure to join you today for the launch of the SG60 Vision Document, a collective initiative by civil society organisations in the environmental sustainability space and members of the public. This document represents a shared vision for the future of Singapore — a vision for how we can live sustainably, care for our environment, and build a resilient, green future for generations to come. As we come to the close of SG60, this initiative marks a timely opportunity for us to reflect on the progress we’ve made and look ahead to the next chapter in Singapore’s journey.

Climate action as a collective responsibility

2.      Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The impacts are being felt across the globe, and here in Singapore, we are not immune to its effects: warmer temperatures, heavier rainfall, and rising sea levels. Addressing this challenge will require a whole-of-nation response.

3.      This means that stakeholders from all 3P (People, Private and Public) sectors must do their part to drive sustainable development.

4.      In Singapore, we are already seeing this in action. From individuals making mindful consumption choices, to companies innovating in sustainability, and NGOs educating and advocating for change, we see a strong national spirit rising up to the climate challenge. But there is still more to do, and we must continue to strengthen our partnerships and deepen our collective resolve. As PM has said, when we come together as a "we-first" society, each of us playing our part, we become stronger and more resilient in the face of challenges.

A meaningful ground-up vision

5.      The Vision Document is a meaningful ground-up initiative that reflects the voices and contributions of Singaporeans across different sectors. 19 organisations and more than 500 members of the public came together to shape this vision.

6.      Among the diverse groups engaged were international conservation organisations World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Jane Goodall Institute, as well as local NGOs Zero Waste SG and Our Singapore Reefs. The private sector was represented by the Singapore Business Federation and the Waste Management & Recycling Association, while youth voices were heard through organisations like the Inter-University Environment Coalition and Singapore Youth for Climate Action. It was truly a collective input of Singaporeans who care deeply about the future of our environment.

Government’s continued collaboration with the 3P sectors

7.      The Government is committed to strengthening this collaborative approach moving forward. We will continue to engage the 3P sectors on key issues such as waste management, coastal protection and flood prevention, heat resilience, and work with stakeholders to co-create policies and solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Looking ahead: Singapore’s shared future

8.      Looking ahead, the Vision Document can guide us on how we can continue to build a sustainable, climate-resilient future for Singapore. The goals we set now will ensure that we build on the progress we've made over the past 60 years and create a future that reflects our collective hopes and aspirations.

9.      It’s also important that the vision we work towards is created by Singaporeans, for Singaporeans. I am heartened that diverse groups and stakeholders were well consulted and engaged in this visioning process, and hope that we will continue to do so as we move forward in our journey towards sustainability.

Closing

10.    I thank SEC, and all those who contributed to the development of this Vision Document. Let’s continue to build on this momentum, use the progress that we have made, the platforms that we have developed, the hopeful aspirations that we have built together - by deepening collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and turning our sustainability ideas into concrete action.

Thank you.