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NParks names new chairman, refreshes board appointments
๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Singapore /Environment & Climate

NParks names new chairman, refreshes board appointments

From CNA · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Context piece
  • Loh Khum Yean will step down as chairman of Singapore's National Parks Board (NParks) on August 1, succeeded by Chew Hock Yong.
  • During Loh's tenure, NParks expanded nature parks, restored habitats, and enhanced green space connectivity.
  • Chew Hock Yong brings over three decades of public service experience to the role, with several board re-appointments and new additions also announced.

Singapore's National Parks Board (NParks) will see a change in leadership as Mr. Loh Khum Yean concludes his nearly three-year term as chairman on August 1. He will be succeeded by Mr. Chew Hock Yong, who recently stepped down as chairman of Workforce Singapore.

Green space connectivity was steadily enhanced through the expansion of park connectors, nature corridors and nature ways, enhancing both biodiversity outcomes and public access to green spaces.

โ€” NParks and MNDThe joint press release highlighted achievements in enhancing green infrastructure during Loh Khum Yean's tenure.

Under Loh's leadership, NParks achieved significant milestones. These include the establishment of a Veterinary Council to elevate standards for veterinary professionals and safeguard animal welfare, the expansion of nature parks and restoration of habitats to advance conservation efforts, and the enhancement of therapeutic and nature playgardens across the island. Green space connectivity was also improved through expanded park connectors, nature corridors, and nature ways, benefiting both biodiversity and public access.

This included strengthening capabilities in biosurveillance and socio-ecological studies, enhancing wildlife monitoring through data and sensor-based technologies, and progressing digitalisation efforts to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

โ€” NParks and MNDThe press release detailed NParks' advancements in research and technology under the outgoing chairman.

Furthermore, NParks advanced research, industry development, and technology adoption, strengthening capabilities in biosurveillance and socio-ecological studies. Wildlife monitoring was enhanced using data and sensor-based technologies, alongside digitalization efforts to improve operational efficiency. Chew Hock Yong brings extensive public service experience, having held leadership roles in various ministries and as chief executive of the Land Transport Authority.

The 11-member board will continue to guide NParks in fortifying Singaporeโ€™s transformation into a City in Nature amidst climate change, while working closely with the community to foster environmental stewardship.

โ€” MND and NParksThe Ministry of National Development and NParks outlined the board's future role and objectives.

In addition to the new chairman, NParks will see several re-appointments and new additions to its board. Seven existing members will continue their service, while three new members will join. Three members will step down after completing their terms. The 11-member board will guide NParks in its mission to transform Singapore into a 'City in Nature' amidst climate change and foster environmental stewardship with community collaboration.

MND and NParks extend our deepest gratitude to Mr Loh and the outgoing board members for their invaluable service, guidance and contributions during their tenure and welcome Mr Chew and the new board members.

โ€” MND and NParksThe ministry and NParks expressed thanks to departing members and welcomed new ones.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.