Singapore protesters rally against Maju Forest, Gillman Barracks development plans

More than 1,000 demonstrators gathered at Hong Lim Park on Sunday, August 16, 2026, to protest government plans for developing Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks. The "Maju for the People" rally, organized by the SG Climate Rally advocacy group, saw participants dressed in green and red, holding placards with messages like "Forests are our family." They demanded more transparency in land-use decisions and voiced strong concerns about the potential loss of green spaces.

Despite recent government assurances to retain more greenery at both sites, protesters expressed skepticism. "It's not too late because they haven't started clearing the forest yet," said Aznikah Nizar, a 28-year-old private tutor. "My worry is that they do take feedback into account but still push through anyway. Because I think this is unlike other things, this is something that's really irreversible. Once the forests are gone, they are just gone."

The rally highlighted broader public anxieties regarding the loss of forests, diminishing access to nature, and the extent of public participation in land-use decisions. The Housing and Development Board (HDB) had initially announced plans on July 10 to develop Sunset Way and Gillman Barracks for housing, which would involve clearing approximately 15 hectares of Maju Forest and at least 10 hectares at Gillman Barracks. This sparked significant concern among residents and nature groups over biodiversity loss and ecological connectivity.

While Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan stated on Friday that plans would be adjusted to incorporate more greenery, the exact extent of these changes and the resulting reduction in housing units remain unannounced. The debate has also extended to parliament, with engagement sessions held to gather feedback from various stakeholders.

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It's not too late because they haven't started clearing the forest yet. My worry is that they do take feedback into account but still push through anyway. Because I think this is unlike other things, this is something that's really irreversible. Once the forests are gone, they are just gone.