In a commentary, SMU Lee Kong Chian Professor of Urban Climate and Co-Chair of the IPCC Working Group II Winston Chow pointed out that rising sea levels, increased rainfall, and more intense storm surges are putting increasing pressure on Singapore’s carefully constructed coastline, which has been built over a long period of time to maintain its stability. Coastal landowners have long been making efforts to combat coastal erosion. However, the challenge lies not in a lack of protection, but in the fragmentation of protective measures.
Prof Chow noted that the Coastal Protection Bill was passed to provide a clear policy and regulatory framework for overall coastal protection, with its core focus on addressing three practical issues: accountability, standards, and consistency. He also said that the Public Utilities Board (PUB) will introduce the Coastal Protection Code of Practice, outlining standards for the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of protective facilities. Prof Chow opined that coastal protection is a long-term project requiring years of planning and construction. He added that Singapore faces a choice: prepare in advance in a coordinated and orderly manner or be forced to respond in a crisis state when climate disasters intensify, and Singapore has always chosen to prepare in advance.