When we take from the Sea: Impacts of Coastal Development

More than a sixth of Singapore’s territory is man-made, with Singapore having expanded by more than 20% since independence in 1965. As we build outward and continue to modify our coast, what are the implications on our marine ecosystems? In neighbouring Pengerang, a massive billion-dollar petroleum project has led to village relocations and land reclamation resulting in the loss of fishermen's livelihoods. Marine biologist Dr Siti M. Yaakub will share with us how coastal development affects vital marine habitats and what can be done to mitigate such impacts, while art photographer Mr Wilfred Lim will discuss his works which draws inspiration from the fishes and sea creatures of his childhood in Pengerang and seeks to draw attention to the environmental modification going on in his native hometown. As a panel, they will discuss the importance of protecting our marine heritage.