Sisters’ Island Park Public Gallery opens

SINGAPORE — Nature lovers who want a glimpse of Singapore's over 250 species of hard corals and over 100 species of reef fish will now get a chance to do so, with the opening of the Sisters' Island Marine Park Public Gallery today (July 15).

The public will learn more of Singapore's marine biodiversity through informational panels and a 3D exhibition for non-divers of the two new dive trails at Sisters' Island slated to open later this year.

Viewing pools to observe marine organisms such as giant clams and fishes up close, a controlled mangrove ecosystem and guided public walks on St John's Island through inter-tidal and mangrove habitats will also be ready by the end of next year.

The gallery, opened by the National Parks Board (NParks) and the Tropical Marine Science Institute (TMSI), is located at the Marine Park Outreach and Education Centre on St John's Island, housed together with the TMSI marine laboratory.

"The new gallery and centre will offer more opportunities for the public to gain a deeper appreciation of Singapore's marine biodiversity," said President Tony Tan at the opening. "As Singapore continues to develop and urbanise, it is important to involve the various segments of our society in conserving Singapore's natural heritage for future generations of Singaporeans."

The gallery is open daily from 10am to 2.30pm on weekdays, 10am to 3.30pm on Saturdays and 10am to 5.30pm on Sundays and public holidays.

Admission is free but members of the public will have to pay for ferry services, which run regularly to St John's Island from Marina South Pier.