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SINGAPORE
Taking care of the big picture
Innovative approaches to future urban solutions
T
Since gaining independence in 1965, oday Singapore is a thriv- demand judicious, comprehensive
Singapore’s urban landscape has gone through ing business and financial and long-term planning.
hub with a vibrant mix Singapore’s public authorities
major changes in the past four decades.
of retail and entertainment face unique challenges in making
In the 1960s, the city-state was beset by activities. Residents are housed the city-state more sustainable.
high unemployment, an overcrowded city in high quality homes located In the early days, Singapore’s
centre, and a shortage of proper housing in the heart of the city as well problems were complex and
as self-sufficient new towns sup- hard to tackle, ranging from
and adequate infrastructure. Singapore has
ported by a wide range of public inadequate urban infrastructure
since rapidly developed into a dynamic and services and ample greenery. systems to the proliferation of
globally important economy with a prominent Building on a record of triumph slums and poor living condi-
international profile in banking, electronics, over adversity, Singapore’s tions. While Singapore’s
government is committed resource and size constraints may
biomedical engineering and advanced science
to investing in research and be perceived as limiting at first,
and technological innovation. development (R&D) to secure they have served as the impetus
a prosperous and sustainable for planners to pioneer resource-
future for the country. efficient technologies.
THAILAND
BURMA
None of Singapore’s successes Public agencies in Singapore
CAMBODIA
VIETNAM
PHILIPPINES have occurred by chance. With must ensure that there is suf-
a land area of around 715 square ficient land to support an entire
kilometres and a population of spectrum of activities with
over five million, Singapore is multiple and competing land
MALAYSIA
one of the world’s smallest and needs. Beyond providing homes
MALAYSIA most densely populated nations. for residents, sufficient land and
SINGAPORE However, its capacity for innova- infrastructure has to be provided
INDONESIA
INDONESIA
tion and growth is equal to that of to support the country’s
countries several times its size. Its financial sector, shipping and air
unique circumstances and limita- hubs, industries, transport facili-
tions in land and natural resources ties, utilities and offices. Space is
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also set aside for parks and green In recent years, investment industry players the opportunity research continued to rise; with
spaces, reservoirs, cultural and and development have further to work with a range of research S$6 billion budgeted for 2001
heritage conservation, and com- enhanced Singapore’s attractive- performers, each with a spec- to 2005, and a further S$13.9
munity and recreational spaces, ness as a city in which to live, trum of research capabilities. billion in the 2006 to 2010
as well as for security needs. work and play. Recreation and Singapore’s R&D efforts science and technology plan.
With the use of innovative leisure options have increased, began in 1991, when the govern- The steadily increasing
urban planning strategies, with the world-class performance ment formed the National national research budget
technologies, and governance venue “Esplanade – Theatres on Science and Technology acknowledges the importance
models to ensure the timely the Bay” showcasing a wide range Board to frame the first of science, technology and
implementation of forward- of international and local arts five-year national technology research for the growth and
thinking development plans, and cultural performances, as plan for 1991 to 1995 and development of Singapore. From
Singapore has proven that with well as the ambitious “Gardens prepare Singapore to advance 2011 to 2015, the Singaporean
the right vision and resources, by the Bay” creating a green its economy and thrive in the government is committed to
cities can become ‘smart’ and leisure and entertainment knowledge era. With an allo- spending another S$16 billion
sustainable. Singapore is well space in the heart of the city. cated budget of S$2 billion, the in research, innovation and
positioned to develop solutions Additionally, Singapore boasts board was tasked with develop- enterprise to establish Singapore
to both solve its own problems some 5,700 hectares of parks and ing Singapore into a R&D hub as a world-class R&D hub
as well as those of other cities nature reserves, which, together in selected fields of science and through the development
facing similar urban challenges, with almost 200 kilometres of technology in order to boost of human, intellectual and
setting the stage for the country ‘park connectors’ that link up competitiveness in industry and industrial capital. Established
to become a global hub for various parts of the island, give its the service sector. in 2006, the National Research
sustainable development solu- residents the feeling of dwelling By the second five-year tech- Foundation (NRF) coordinates
tions into the next four decades within a lush, green environment. nology plan, from 1996 to 2000, the research of different entities
and beyond. investment in R&D doubled to within the national framework
An impeccable plan S$4 billion. Recognizing the tre- to transform Singapore into a
Liveability and quality of life Backed by a progressive leader- mendous growth in the area of knowledge-intensive, innovative
As a testament to Singapore’s ship, Singapore is committed to biomedical sciences, Singapore and entrepreneurial economy.
success in creating a thriving continuing its efforts to create launched the Biomedical
and liveable urban metropolis, resource-efficient policies and Sciences Initiative in 2000 to Preparing for tomorrow’s
the city-state is ranked first for technologies through well- establish biomedical sciences demands
city infrastructure in Mercer’s placed investments and forward- as one of the key pillars of the Singapore has set itself the
worldwide 2012 Quality of thinking collaborations. These Singaporean economy, alongside goal of remaining as one of
Living survey. According will help to achieve both the Electronics, Engineering and the world’s most liveable
to Siemens’ Asian Green economic development and Chemicals Initiative. cities — clean, green, safe and
City Index released in 2011, environmental sustainability In 2002, the National efficient for both residents and
Singapore was ranked top in the while improving the country’s Science and Technology Board visitors — while sustaining
region when measured against overall quality of life. Singapore was renamed the Agency economic and population
a range of sustainability criteria strives to be a ‘living laboratory’, for Science, Technology and growth. Over the next 15 to 20
such as carbon and energy emis- a place to test new concepts Research (A*STAR). Leading years, Singapore has to tackle
sions, land use and buildings, and develop and commercialize and driving scientific research key economic, manpower and
water, sanitation, air quality and cutting-edge urban approaches in the biomedical sciences, demographic issues such as a
environmental governance. To and solutions to increasing and the physical sciences and declining birth rate, an increas-
further affirm the Republic’s urban challenges. One unique engineering, A*STAR seeks to ing elderly population and the
impressive progress, the quality of Singapore is the foster talent to create economic maintenance of a sufficient
Economist Intelligence Unit ability of public and private impact that will bring about labour force, as well as the
placed Singapore sixth out of 80 sector agencies working together social benefits for the whole need for high-value-added and
countries in their 2013 Quality- in close partnership to catalyse country. With the biomedical productivity-driven growth.
of-Life Index, describing it as the growth of the entire sciences identified as a new These issues are complex and
one of the best nations in which R&D industry. This ‘whole- growth area in Singapore, affect both the present popula-
to be born. of-Singapore’ approach offers government investments in tion and the next generation.
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To enable Singapore to meet approach to meet future Comprehensive land-use this may seem like a formidable
its long-term economic and developmental changes and planning and the coordination challenge, Singapore is certainly
demographic needs and create challenges that may arise. Such of the supply of state land for well prepared, riding on the
a distinctive, attractive and planning is carried out in close sale allow public agencies to steer strengths of its world-class
vibrant city, the government has partnership with other stake- development to meet Singapore’s research institutes, universities
to act with foresight in develop- holder agencies and includes the business, housing and leisure and government agencies.
ing competent strategies and provision of different housing needs. At the same time, several
deploying innovative solutions. types and locations, space to major organizations, through Ensuring a sustainable
The Urban Redevelopment grow businesses, and attractive coordination by the NRF, are water supply
Authority (URA), Singapore’s and accessible recreational actively pursuing inventive Singapore’s unique water-
national land use planning and amenities, in addition to a urban solutions to secure steady resource environment requires
conservation authority, adopts comprehensive and efficient economic growth and a good innovative water management
a forward-looking, long-term road and rail system to meet living environment for the solutions. NEWater — an
and flexible strategic planning transport needs. people of Singapore. While innovation developed in
PROFILE
Urban Redevelopment Authority
Innovative urban solutions for sustainable development
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Going forward, the URA, JTC Corporation
©Liew Tong Leng
is Singapore’s national land use planning and and the Housing & Development Board,
conservation authority whose mission is to together with other participating agencies,
make Singapore a great city in which to live, are supporting the Ministry of National
work and play. The URA strives to create a Development and the National Research
vibrant and sustainable city of distinction Foundation on the National Innovation
by planning and facilitating Singapore’s Challenge (NIC) on Land and Liveability. This
physical development in partnership with integrated R&D effort aims to develop new
stakeholder agencies and the community. solutions to support an economically vibrant,
The URA is committed to making Singapore a
As a facilitator and regulator of highly liveable and resilient city of the future
beautiful, sustainable and liveable urban space.
development, the URA works with partners with land capacity for sustained growth.
to shape the physical environment of The funding allocation for the NIC is
Singapore through planning new growth S$135 million for the first tranche (2013– To ensure the effective translation of
areas and residential areas to be more 2018) to support high-impact research and research into practical solutions, the NIC
sustainable and liveable, as well as exploring demonstration projects under two interrelated will involve close collaboration across
how to adapt innovative strategies and thrusts: to create new space cost-effectively, Singapore’s infrastructure and development
solutions for existing developments. and to optimize the use of space while keeping agencies, researchers and industry. As
Hence, R&D efforts are targeted towards Singapore liveable. Potential projects include Singapore continues to develop new towns
innovative urban solutions that will enhance R&D that enables building underground or and growth areas, its agencies plan to
the quality of the living environment, developing floating structures for utilities, and test-bed and deploy promising solutions
the efficiency in infrastructure, and the programmes to increase environmental quality developed through the Land and Liveability
optimization of space. and comfort, connectivity and accessibility NIC to leverage on R&D to provide sustained
Together with other Singaporean to services, employment and amenities, as capacity and options for future generations.
government agencies, the URA partners well as to optimize the provision of urban
with local and foreign academic institutions services. The NIC will also support R&D on
on research that would aid in its land use enabling information and communications
planning efforts. The current URA R&D technologies (ICT) and platforms embedded
programme, funded by the Ministry of with capabilities of intelligence gathering,
National Development, looks at various analytics, modelling and simulation that could
www.ura.gov.sg
aspects of sustainable high-density living. support the two thrusts.
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Singapore for the production of Singapore and the enterprise an integrative approach to maxi-
ultra-clean, high-grade reclaimed development agency SPRING mize the efficiency of the Four
water — is one such example. Singapore, as well as academic National Taps, strategic initia-
PUB, Singapore’s national water partners including the National tives and partnership projects are
agency, takes a leading role in University of Singapore (NUS), underway to harness Singapore’s
facilitating the country’s water Nanyang Technological research strengths, elevating the
R&D efforts and coordinates University (NTU) and A*STAR. city-state as a world leader in
the projects through the Singapore has instituted a the application of recycled water
Environment & Water Industry robust, diversified and sustain- and sustainable water manage-
Programme Office (EWI). The able water supply known as the ment solutions. Since 2011,
EWI, established in 2006, is an Four National Taps, comprising Singapore’s water catchment
inter-agency body that includes water from local catchments, area has increased from half to Singapore is a leader in water R&D
and has developed NEWater, an ultra-
the Economic Development imported water, desalinated two-thirds of its land surface clean, high-grade reclaimed water to
Board, International Enterprise water and NEWater. By taking area through the completion help meet its needs.
PROFILE
Environment & Water Industry Programme Office
Creating a global hydrohub for water solutions
Singapore has long been home to a increasingly turning towards Singapore for
thriving cluster of local environmental expert guidance on this issue.
and water companies. Recognizing that Today, companies base their operations
local expertise and technology would in Singapore and collaborate with a
be valuable to communities around the community of over 100 companies and 25
world in need of environmental and water research institutions within a vibrant water
management systems, the Singaporean ecosystem. The EWI also accelerates the
government has incorporated the formation and growth of start-ups through
industry into its national growth plan. The financial incentives and mentoring.
Environment & Water Industry Programme Funding opportunities for both basic
Office (EWI) was thus established in 2006 and applied R&D projects are abundant,
to promote research and development in as are programmes for expediting The EWI is making water solutions possible.
the field, grow the industry and position commercialization of their results. In
Singapore as a global R&D base for efforts to recruit young researchers, the
environment and water solutions. EWI offers PhD scholarships for research of SIWW, brings together companies, angel
Led by PUB, Singapore’s national water on environmental and water technologies. investors, venture capitalists, start-ups and
agency, with funding of S$470 million from Test-bedding opportunities in PUB technology providers to discuss potential
the National Research Foundation (NRF), the facilities, such water treatment plants, are collaboration opportunities. More than
EWI is well poised to meet its objectives: a major drawcard for local and international 19,000 policymakers, corporate CEOs, water
growing Singapore into a global hydrohub for companies looking to test new technologies professionals and researchers from 104
leading-edge technologies and furthering under actual operating conditions, with countries and regions attended SIWW 2012.
Singapore’s vibrant research community. over 100 new test-bedding projects seeded The next SIWW will be held in Singapore
Over the years, Singapore has utilized since 2007. from 1–5 June 2014.
innovative technologies and water As the EWI’s key initiative to showcase
management solutions to overcome its the capabilities of the Singapore water
natural water resource challenges and industry, Singapore International Water
develop a robust water supply for all of Week (SIWW) is a global platform that Environment
its consumption needs. As other countries attracts the international water industry
& Water Industry
Programme Office
around the world feel pressured to ensure to share and co-create innovative water
www.ewi.sg
sustainable freshwater supplies, they are solutions. TechXchange, a key programme
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of the Marina, Punggol and collaboration between PUB by applying an electric field to technology will potentially save
Serangoon reservoirs. With all and Siemens has produced a draw ions present in the sea water the country more than half of the
major estuaries already dammed demonstration desalination unit across ion exchange membranes total energy required by 2060.
to create reservoirs, PUB aims that is significantly more energy and out of the water. As the Besides the energy savings, other
to further harness water from efficient compared to the best demand for desalinated water advantages of the new desalina-
the remaining streams and available technology. Instead will increase from the current tion system include low vibration
rivulets near the shoreline using of using reverse osmosis, which 10% to up to 25% of Singapore’s and noise levels, improved safety
technology that can treat water requires high-pressure pumps water demand by 2060, the total and minimal pre- and post-
of varying salinity, which could to force water through semi- energy demand will increase by treatment requirements.
boost Singapore’s water catch- permeable membranes, Siemens’ five times if Singapore continues Building on Singapore’s
ment area to up to 90% of the engineers turned to electrochem- to use reverse osmosis as a key strength as a global model for
land area in the long-term. ical desalination — a process desalination technology. Thus, sustainable water manage-
PUB is also deeply committed that combines electrodialysis and the development of the new ment, the NTU launched
to research. One successful R&D continuous electrodeionization electrochemical desalination the Nanyang Environment
PROFILE
National University of Singapore
A leading research-intensive university in the heart of Asia
Consistently ranked as one of the top as: integrated sustainability solutions
universities in Asia and the world, the for energy, water and the environment;
National University of Singapore (NUS) ageing populations; biomedical sciences
is internationally respected for its high- and translational medicine; global-Asian
quality research in science, technology studies; finance and risk management; and
and the humanities — and, increasingly, at materials science.
the interfaces between these areas. Its In 2012, the NUS had more than 2,080
16 Schools and Faculties, as well as its 23 research-active faculty who produced
university-level research institutes and over 8,800 publications and filed more
centres, focus on critical issues confronting than 360 patents and over 270 invention
Asia and the world. The university is also disclosures. Over 220 national and
home to three of Singapore’s five Research international research awards and prizes The NUS campus is located in the centre of
Centres of Excellence (RCEs) — specializing were given to NUS faculty. The overall Singapore’s dynamic research community.
in quantum technologies, cancer and level of primary research published by the
mechanobiology — and is a partner in a NUS has led to its output being recognized
fourth RCE on environmental life sciences by Thomson Reuters as being in the top 1% together top researchers from around the
and engineering. in 18 out of 22 categories surveyed. NUS world, A*STAR, and a variety of public and
According to the Nature Publishing Index faculty serve as consultants and advisors private labs at the Science Parks. This
2012 Asia-Pacific, the NUS is Singapore’s to more than 50 industry and government proximity promotes collaboration and
leading research institution. It is ranked bodies. Several leading companies have synergy between the NUS and the wider
ninth in the Asia-Pacific region and is the also chosen to establish research labs R&D community, and creates a fertile
first Singaporean institution to be in the and partnerships at the NUS, including environment for education, innovation
Global Top 100. In the 2012 QS World Siemens, GE, Zeiss and Agilent. and enterprise.
Rankings, the NUS emerges at the top The NUS Kent Ridge campus, which
among Asian universities across all subject includes the National University Hospital,
areas, and is also placed among the world’s is located within Singapore’s main
top 30 universities in 22 disciplines. research district. Its neighbours include
Much of the research at the NUS is the Campus for Research Excellence and
integrated and multidisciplinary in nature, Technological Enterprise (CREATE) at
www.nus.edu.sg
with particular emphasis on themes such the NUS’ University Town, which brings
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and Water Research Institute has brought water security to Asia to educate people and share The Energy NIC will develop
(NEWRI) in 2008 and, in communities throughout Asia. knowledge on water resource cost-competitive energy solu-
2011 in partnership with the At present, NEWRI comprises conservation, pollution, mitiga- tions for deployment within 20
NUS, the Singapore Centre on four Centres of Excellence — tion and sustainable use. years to help Singapore improve
Environmental Life Sciences mathematical modelling and energy efficiency, reduce carbon
Engineering — a leading visualization, membranes, Fostering energy efficiency emissions and increase energy
research centre in microbial urban residues management and The National Innovation options. At the Energy Research
biofilms for water and environ- bioprocesses. The fifth centre, Challenge (NIC) of Energy Institute @ NTU (ERI@N),
mental sustainability. Through with a focus on environmental Resilience for Sustainable research is focussed on improv-
transdisciplinary research on chemistry and materials, is Growth (Energy NIC) was ing the efficiency of energy
the environment and water, currently in development. formulated as a whole-of- systems and maximizing the
NEWRI develops innovative NEWRI also carries its own government effort to catalyse synergies of alternative energy
and practical solutions to philanthropic arm that reaches significant changes in sources through research on fuel
environmental problems and out to various communities in Singapore’s energy landscape. cells, energy storage, sustainable
PROFILE
Nanyang Technological University
A global leader in sustainability research
A research-intensive university in Singapore, NTU focusses on clean and renewable
the Nanyang Technological University energy; the Nanyang Environment and
(NTU) is the fastest-rising university in the Water Research Institute leads the way in
world’s top 50. In the QS Top 50 Under 50 water treatment technologies; the Earth
— a ranking of universities that have been Observatory of Singapore studies tectonics,
established in the last 50 years — the NTU is volcanology and climate change in Asia; and
placed fourth globally. the Singapore Centre on Environmental Life
The NTU, home to the world’s largest Sciences Engineering applies its expertise
engineering college, has grown in in genomics to biofilms, biofouling and
response to changing global dynamics corrosion problems.
from a purely engineering and technology Complementing these advances on land, The school of Art, Design and Media at the
NTU — winner of the BCA Green Mark Platinum
university to one that also has strengths in in air and in sea are the NTU’s strides in
Award for adopting best practices in environ-
business, science, humanities, arts, social space exploration. X-SAT, Singapore’s first mental sustainability.
sciences and recently medicine, with the indigenous satellite, which is now orbiting
establishment of the Lee Kong Chian School in space, is helping scientists observe
of Medicine set up jointly with Imperial environmental changes. Also in the pipeline 2050, there will be huge demands on future
College London. are three new satellite projects including metropolises to provide housing, water
A hub of innovation and technology, Singapore’s first tropical weather satellite and food, infrastructure and transportation
the NTU focusses its research in five that will conduct spaceborne monitoring of and to ensure public health. By addressing
interdisciplinary areas – sustainability, the world’s tropical environment. these key global issues with an emphasis on
healthcare, new media, the best of East- At the NTU, environmental stewardship sustainable metropolises, the NTU is taking
West research, and innovation. The most and the culture of sustainability go beyond the lead in many exciting research areas that
significant thrust, and one that has clinched research in laboratories and in fact are will have the greatest impact on our planet.
over US $800 million in competitive the guiding principles of the campus
research funding is sustainability. and its development. New buildings and
Through two national research centres landscaping projects utilize, showcase and
of excellence and several world-renowned test-bed green technologies and enable
institutes, the NTU takes an interdisciplinary ongoing research.
approach to tackling environmental With more than two-thirds of the world’s
www.ntu.edu.sg
issues. The Energy Research Institute @ population projected to live in cities by
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building technologies, elec- & Marine, Lloyds Register and was made possible — the first energy-efficient structures that
tromobility, solar energy and four other companies to research of such buildings in southeast could be applied throughout
maritime energy, contributing offshore renewables with emphasis Asia. The project involved the country in order to help
to the goal of creating a greener on the southeast Asia region. retrofitting an existing building meet Singapore’s mandate that
and more sustainable future for To maximize sustainability on to serve as the authority’s at least 80% of its buildings
Singapore’s energy consumption. campus, the NTU is set to install academy, which houses offices, become ‘green certified’ by
ERI@N is mapping wind a 5-megawatt solar photovoltaic classrooms, a library and a 2030. In another effort, the
speeds, waves, currents and tides in system and cut energy intensity on visitor centre. The ZEB was NUS Department of Chemical
the Southern Islands and coastal campus by 50% by the year 2020. designed to be fully powered and Biomolecular Engineering
areas such as Tuas to test-bed wind Through a collaborative by solar energy, drawing on the is exploring energy-efficient
and marine turbines. Recently, effort between the NUS and strength of Singapore’s tropical treatment of municipal solid
ERI@N has also engaged in a Singapore’s Building and climate where sunshine is in waste to increase energy produc-
joint effort with Rolls Royce, Construction Authority, a abundance. Currently, the ZEB tion and reduce the amount of
Vestas, DNV, Keppel Offshore ‘zero-energy building’ (ZEB) is being tested as a model for waste disposed.
PROFILE
A*STAR
Where great minds meet and lead in advancing R&D
Nestled in the twin R&D hubs of Biopolis and and development. They work alongside
Fusionopolis is a thriving community of over promising young scientists and contribute
5,000 A*STAR researchers and post docs towards building a rich and diverse research
from more than 60 countries. It is here at landscape in Singapore.
A*STAR, the Agency for Science, Technology It is at A*STAR that world-renowned
and Research, that the biomedical, physical scientists such as Professor Sir David
sciences and engineering researchers mingle Lane, chief scientist of A*STAR and the
with one another as well as with other co-discoverer of the tumour-suppressor
scientists from the corporate laboratories gene p53, and Dr Alex Matter, who
co-located within the hubs. discovered Glivec for the treatment of
The proximity of the two hubs creates chronic myeloid leukemia, continue carrying Fusionopolis is Singapore’s R&D hub for
information, media and communication tech-
plenty of opportunities for the researchers out research that makes a difference. It is
nology, physical sciences and engineering.
to rub shoulders, pick each other’s brains and also at A*STAR that promising scientists
benefit from the professional dialogue and can focus on breakthrough research, such
the exchange of ideas. as Dr Joel Yang on his studies into the use A*STAR to experience working in a world-
A*STAR attracts top-notch scientists, of nano-printing methods to create colourful class research environment in Asia.
both local and international, who share the high-resolution images at 100,000 dots per In a community as international and
agency’s vision of building a prosperous inch and Dr Vrizlynn Thing on her innovative diverse as A*STAR, researchers are
and vibrant Singapore through research technologies for enterprise forensics constantly forging linkages with one another
investigative work. as well as with the scientific communities
A*STAR’s research institutes are around the world. These connections go
also centres of choice for students and a long way in expanding Singapore’s R&D
researchers beyond Asia who want to take landscape beyond its shores.
part in undergraduate research attachments,
or pursue their PhD studies and post doctoral
stints. Over the past five years, more than
600 students and young researchers from
more than 50 countries, including the United
States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Russia,
Biopolis has earned international repute as www.a-star.edu.sg
major centre of biomedical research. Egypt, Sudan and Australia, have come to
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At the A*STAR Institute Instituting spaces with Council has created the Urban is developing technology
of Bioengineering and limited land Systems Initiative to address that will enable developers to
Nanotechnology, there is a Creating new space cost- the technological needs of the excavate underground tunnels
vision to develop alternative effectively and optimizing the rapidly urbanizing world and to of between 35–50 metres in
and renewable energy resources use of space while maintaining develop solutions for complex diameter in soft soil conditions
and technologies through liveability are the two thrusts urban challenges through a without risk of disruption to
the use of novel catalyst of Singapore’s second NIC. Led data-centric approach. Through the ground surface above and its
systems, which include the by the Ministry of National collaboration with local existing structures.
transformation of carbon Development and the NRF, agencies such as the URA,
dioxide into useful chemicals the Land and Liveability NIC the National Environment Devising more efficient
or fuels such as methanol. In will leverage R&D to provide Authority and the Land commuting solutions
November 2011, A*STAR sustained capacity and options Transport Authority, an Over the years, Singapore has
launched the Experimental for future generations. Initial integrated platform that gathers built an extensive public trans-
Power Grid Centre, one of the funding is set at S$135 million, information through intelligent port system and implemented
largest experimental power grid and the Ministry of National environmental sensing — to policies to discourage car usage
facilities in the world. Built Development launched a grant map traffic and noise in real due to the limited space avail-
on Jurong Island, a man-made call in August 2012 to provide time and optimize yield in able for roads. While travelling
island off the southwestern coast nearer-term seed funding for urban vertical farming — could from place to place is relatively
of Singapore, the centre facili- R&D to promote sustainable be established for use in holistic easy, roads already take up some
tates cutting-edge research and urban living and to kick-start city planning. 12% of the country’s total land
collaborations to develop future research efforts in the areas of The NUS is tackling the area. As Singapore continues
energy technologies in areas the Land and Liveability thrusts. challenge of creating more to grow and travel demands
of electrical power networks, In line with the overall useable space on a very small increase, the ability to achieve
energy distribution and renew- goal, A*STAR’s Science island. Its Department of Civil more efficient commuting will
able energy resources. and Engineering Research and Environmental Engineering require significant research into
PROFILE
Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise
An international collaboratory
The Campus for Research Excellence CREATE is an international collaboratory University; the Swiss Federal Institute of
and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) that brings together leading global research Technology, Zurich; the Technical University
is an international research campus and institutions with Singapore’s institutions of Munich; Technion — Israel Institute of
innovation hub. Located in the tropical to do research in areas that are of interest Technology; and the University of California,
garden setting of the National University and importance to Singapore and the region. Berkeley. CREATE also houses the SAP
of Singapore’s University Town (U-Town), Home to 15 interdisciplinary research Singapore Research Centre and the National
© Tim Griffith, photography; Perkins+Will, architectural design/planning
CREATE will house about 1,200 researchers centres from 10 renowned universities, Research Foundation (NRF), Prime Minister’s
when it is fully occupied. CREATE encourages cross-fertilization Office Singapore.
of ideas through partnerships between CREATE recently won R&D Magazine’s
researchers from diverse backgrounds and 2013 Laboratory of the Year Award, for
cultures. Research programmes are in the excellence in research laboratory design,
areas of Human Systems, Energy Systems, planning and construction.
Environmental Systems, and Urban Systems.
The universities with research centres
in CREATE are: Ben-Gurion University of
the Negev; the University of Cambridge;
the Hebrew University of Jerusalem; the
CREATE is a unique, international collabora- Massachusetts Institute of Technology;
tory in the heart of the National University of www.nrf.gov.sg
Singapore’s University Town. Peking University; Shanghai Jiao Tong
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new mobility options that are and the need for powerful air water. According to the multicultural population —
both efficient and acceptable to conditioning. Funded by the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint including coffee shops, wet
residents, as well as research to NRF and wholly developed and 2030, Singapore’s national markets, family-run businesses,
improve the planning, design produced in Singapore, EVA framework for sustainable communal event venues and
and operation of public trans- will be showcased at the Tokyo development, 900 hectares of playgrounds — while taking
port facilities. Even with an Motor Show in November 2013. reservoirs and 100 kilometres into consideration the evolving
increased public transportation of waterways will be open for needs of Singapore’s residents
mode share, a large expansion Building a green urban city recreational activities by 2030, across all demographics.
of transport infrastructure Singapore has long been with at least 85% of the popula- Under the Ministry of
and enhanced capabilities in acclaimed as a garden city. Its tion residing within 400 metres National Development’s Land
managing increasingly complex rigorous environmental regula- of a park. Use Plan, one of the aims is for
transport infrastructure systems tions and city planning guide- The development of Punggol every resident to be no further
will be required. lines manage pollution from Eco-Town in northeastern than 10 minutes’ walk from
Taking on the challenges industry and minimize its nega- Singapore is an example of a station of the Mass Rapid
ahead, the NTU and Germany’s tive impact on the quality of life high-quality living integrated Transit, Singapore’s major
Technische Universität in Singapore. Today, close to with water bodies through metropolitan railway system. In
München (TUM) — two uni- half of the land area is covered innovative planning, design and addressing housing issues for the
versities with globally acknowl- by greenery, with thousands of technology, and in partnership growing population, a supply
edged strengths in engineering species of flora and fauna thriv- with the community. Dubbed of affordable homes will be
— have come together with the ing on the island. Continual the “Sustainable Waterfront ensured with all residents hav-
NRF’s Campus for Research R&D efforts are necessary to Town in the Tropics”, Punggol ing easy access to a wide range of
Excellence And Technological safeguard Singapore’s greenery provides a wide range of quality amenities such as schools, shops
Enterprise (CREATE) to and biodiversity. Innovative new housing and facilities and a and healthcare as well as sports
embark on an ambitious electro- solutions such as sky-rise green- well-integrated public transport and recreational facilities.
mobility research programme at ery, water-sensitive landscaping network to serve the needs of
a joint centre known as TUM and ecological restorations will its residents. A fully landscaped Improving daily life for
CREATE. The taxi has been enable Singapore to continue to waterway of more than four everyone
chosen as the platform on which develop as a compact, liveable kilometres was constructed to Through the careful manage-
to demonstrate the development and resource-efficient city with offer a unique “Green Living by ment of urban development
of and innovations for the rich biodiversity. the Waters” experience. At the needs and the use of innovative
electric vehicle initiative. Beyond providing a same time, Treelodge@Punggol, design, a good quality living
The impact of taxis on sustainable supply of clean the first ever eco-friendly environment can be created
urban cities is far greater drinking water for a growing precinct, was established setting in a high-density setting. To
than that of private passenger population, PUB is encouraging a new benchmark for future optimize land use, it is neces-
cars. Codenamed ‘EVA’, the a bond to be formed between public housing. sary to develop new typologies,
electric-powered taxi created by the Singaporean people and designs, technologies and other
TUM CREATE has been built water by raising awareness Preserving a sense of solutions to maintain good
specifically for tropical megaci- of the scarcity and value of belonging environmental quality and liv-
ties, factoring in issues such as water in the city. Under the Singapore is renowned for being ability. Higher density neigh-
start–stop traffic conditions Active, Beautiful, Clean one of the most harmonious and bourhoods also create new
Waters Programme, PUB has thriving multi-cultural cities opportunities to explore how
transformed drains, canals and in the world. To secure a future information and communica-
reservoirs into beautiful, clean with social and cultural sustain- tions technologies can improve
streams, rivers and lakes that are ability, the NUS, the URA and quality of life by enhancing
integrated with the surround- the Housing & Development access to a wider range of
ing parks and green spaces. Board are investigating how the urban services including retail,
These bodies of water have the design of housing estates and healthcare, social and commu-
capacity to support water-based their surroundings could be nity services. Virtual platforms
recreational activities such modified to encourage commu- with built-in analytics can
as kayaking, canoeing and nity bonding and improve the provide realistic, simulated
sailing in addition to serving liveability of existing and new environments for cost-effective
as community focal points for towns. Among the group’s aims testing of integrated solutions,
social events. The programme is the creation of communal and for prediction and detec-
TUM CREATE is developing aims to bring people closer to spaces that strike a chord with tion of emerging risks and
innovative technologies, future
Singapore’s waterways and to the different traditional and cul- systemic failures.
transportation concepts and electric
vehicles tailored to the unique needs inspire city dwellers to keep tural habits of the core peoples The Singapore Management
of fast-growing tropical megacities. waterways clean and conserve that make up Singapore’s University (SMU), a rapidly
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expanding tertiary education will be pioneered to develop its position as a multicultural (TCS), the SMU–TCS
institute situated in the heart applications and methods of urban centre with a high-quality Intelligent City Laboratory
of downtown Singapore, direct benefit to consumers, infrastructure. The SMU’s was launched to assist cities
considers the entire island- businesses and society. School of Information Systems in their quest to become
state to be its laboratory for Running in parallel to has become a leading centre more effective and efficient
its study of analytics for the LARC, the SMU’s LiveLabs ini- for research and education in in addressing and serving the
urban environment. Through tiative conducts large-scale trials intelligent systems and decision demands of their populations.
its Living Analytics Research and experiments in real time analytic applications for supply One of the core projects
Centre (LARC), a joint research that incorporate novel mobile chain sustainability. undertaken by the laboratory
initiative between the SMU and services and investigate the The university has also been is the design of a centralized
Carnegie Mellon University changing values and attitudes of careful to not neglect the platform for healthcare profes-
in the United States, new Asian consumers in actual envi- needs of ageing residents in sionals and aged patients that
techniques to acquire data on ronments. Singapore is an ideal Singapore. Teaming up with facilitates self-assessment,
consumer and social behaviour test bed for such studies due to Tata Consultancy Services appointment booking and
PROFILE
Singapore Management University
Computational social science in the heart of the city
Situated in the heart of Singapore’s test-bed sites in Singapore include Changi
arts and cultural district, the Singapore Airport, Sentosa, the SMU downtown
Management University (SMU) is focussed campus and shopping malls operated by
on social and behavioural science, CapitaMalls Asia. LiveLabs technologies
management and information technology. make it possible to move beyond geo-
The SMU’s tagline is “The University for spatial information collection to context
the World of Business and Management”, awareness as a basis for real-time
and an important part of its strategy is in consumer and social interaction. LiveLabs
the emerging area of computational social also provides LARC researchers with a
science and analytics. Examples of the unique platform for performing large- The SMU is set to lead in the emerging field
SMU’s work include the following projects. scale, controlled field experiments. of computational social science.
The Living Analytics Research Centre The university is increasingly applying
(LARC) is a five-year partnership between its capabilities in social science, business
the SMU and Carnegie Mellon University, and computation to the area of urban faculty have enabled it to build an
concentrating on obtaining and analyzing management. It is working with partners international reputation in research,
‘digital traces’ of consumer and social such as Tata Consultancy Services education and practice.
behaviour from private sector, social through the SMU–TCS iCity Lab, DHL SMU is a vibrant player in Singapore’s
media and public sector data sources. Supply Chain and parts of the Singaporean research and development landscape
The centre’s distinctive approach to government on research that includes focussed on social and behavioural
combining analytics with systematic and multi-party coordination of city logistics, science, management, and information
iterative field experiments has caught data analytics and optimization for urban technology, and is well positioned to lead
the attention of companies such as infrastructure security, sustainable supply in the twenty-first century.
Citibank Singapore, Starhub, Buzzcity, chains, and city process management for
Sentosa Development Corporation and improving service delivery to cater to the
Resorts World Sentosa who are working special needs of the population.
as collaborators with the centre. Since its founding in 2000, SMU’s
The LiveLabs Urban Lifestyle Innovation extensive collaborations with private
Platform is a city-scale research test bed and public sector organizations, its
for companies to run large-scale consumer strengths in computational social science
www.smu.edu.sg
behaviour and social interaction trials. Key and analytics, and highly accomplished
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the maintenance of social transmission. In 2012, more In collaboration with Experimental Therapeutics
connections while at the same than 51 million passengers the National Public Health Centre signed a licencing agree-
time utilizes users’ data for passed through Singapore Laboratory of Singapore, the ment with the Tan Tock Seng
improved policy making. Changi Airport; a huge volume World Health Organization Hospital and local biotechnol-
of people that emphasizes the (WHO) collaborating centres ogy company AITbiotech to
Facilitating the rapid utmost importance of infectious in Australia and the A*STAR market a made-in-Singapore
detection of infections disease monitoring and control. Genome Institute of Singapore, H5N1 bird flu diagnostic kit
Growth of Singapore’s popula- Drawing on experiences from the A*STAR Bioinformatics that allows the detection of all
tion may be accompanied by the severe acute respiratory Institute has created an online existing strains with almost
an increased likelihood of the syndrome (SARS) outbreak in tool called FluServer that allows 100% accuracy and in just a few
transmission of infections, with 2003, many current research quick and efficient analysis of hours from a single test.
rising migration and tourist efforts are set on understanding influenza genomic sequences Singapore is a prominent
numbers also intensifying the influenza viruses as well as and interpretation of muta- global health and biomedical
nation’s vulnerability to disease developing rapid diagnostic kits. tions. Recently, the A*STAR research hub set in a tropical
PROFILE
Singapore University of Technology and Design
A better world by design
The Singapore University of Technology study, called ‘Freshmore’, to provide strong
and Design (SUTD) is Singapore’s fourth technical grounding before students
publicly funded university and one of select one of the four majors known as
the first universities in the world to 'pillars': Architecture and Sustainable
incorporate the art and science of design Design; Engineering Product Development;
and technology into a multi-disciplinary Engineering Systems and Design; and
curriculum. Established in collaboration with Information Systems Technology and Design
The SUTD campus fosters collaboration,
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology — leading to the corresponding degrees. invention and creativity.
(MIT), in the US, the SUTD seeks to nurture At the SUTD, design as a discipline cuts
technically grounded leaders and innovators across the curriculum and provides a novel
to serve societal needs. framework for the research and educational
The SUTD, also in collaboration with programmes. Termed ‘Big-D’, the curriculum to five-year residency comprising research,
Zhejiang University, China, and the Singapore will encompass every technology design course work, potential industry internships
Management University, is distinguished by imaginable — from process design to and overseas research exchanges.
its unique Eastern and Western academic architectural design, product design, software The world is in need of technically
programmes that incorporate elements of design and systems design. Students will grounded leaders to address pressing issues
technology, entrepreneurship, management also learn to define problems holistically concerning sustainable energy, growing and
and design thinking. and develop creative solutions from a total- ageing populations, urbanization and scarce
The university offers a common curriculum design perspective. They will experience resources — making innovation and technical
for the first three terms of undergraduate the full value chain from conception through leadership national priorities. Graduates of
development, prototyping, manufacturing, the SUTD will be prepared to contribute to
operations and maintenance. such areas, which are critical to the world’s
The SUTD also offers graduate social and economic development.
programmes. In the two-year full-time MIT-
SUTD Dual Masters' Degree Programme, one
year is spent at MIT on coursework and the
other at the SUTD in research, leading to two
master’s degrees — one from MIT and another
from the SUTD. Graduate opportunities also
The SUTD’s permanent campus at Singapore’s www.sutd.edu.sg
East Coast. include the SUTD PhD Programme, a three-
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climate; as such, its researchers instrument sterilization to
are well placed to study and remote health posts in the
devise treatments for infectious developing world.
diseases such as dengue fever In line with Singapore’s mis-
that are endemic to the region. sion to lead as a world-class city
Although there are a number boasting a high quality of life
of dengue vaccine platforms and urban solutions, the SUTD
in clinical trials, the data has also established the Lee Kuan
so far proven disappointing, Yew Centre for Innovative
prompting an urgent need for Cities to educate leaders and
new therapies. In collaboration develop products, services and
with local scientists and clini- systems for improving the lives
cians from the NUS, the DSO of city dwellers. The new insti-
National Laboratories, the tute is named after Singapore’s
National University of Health founding father and former The NRF supports promising Singapore-based research by up-and-coming
Sciences and Israel’s Hebrew Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, scientists at the Global Young Scientists Summit.
University of Jerusalem, a honouring his vision of building
human antibody from a recov- Singapore into a prosperous
ered dengue patient was success- global city.
fully isolated and cloned. The activities across all disciplines which centred on the theme
antibody exhibits remarkable Looking ahead with into the larger R&D ecosystem ‘Innovations for Future Cities’.
efficacy in protecting against optimism to support scientific advance- The top award was presented
dengue infection and will be Singapore today, with its gleam- ment in world-class education, to A*STAR research scientist
taken into vaccine clinical trials ing skyscrapers and cosmopoli- optimal healthcare, sustainable Lynette Cheah for her proposal
in Singapore in 2013. tan people, may seem a world resources and creation of pleas- to build a transport network
apart from its humble origins. ant living environments for the that provides real-time feedback
Designing a better future The city-state has replaced the nation’s residents. so commuters can change their
Singapore’s newest university, early squatter colonies and As part of efforts to support plans accordingly. To encourage
the Singapore University slums with modern housing and new ideas and stimulate the new ideas for urban solutions,
of Technology and Design an enviable standard of living. local R&D landscape, a record Singapore is also host to the
(SUTD), aims to achieve a With an eye to the future, the number of NRF Fellowships Lee Kuan Yew World City
better world through innova- country must enable current were awarded in January 2013 Prize, a biennial international
tive design. Teaming up with generations of Singaporeans to to fund research undertaken by award that honours outstanding
the Massachusetts Institute find creative ways to keep the promising young scientists. The achievements and contributions
of Technology (MIT) in the economy growing and thriving awards provide each winner, to the creation of liveable,
United States, the SUTD–MIT while acting as stewards of the whose research interests range vibrant and sustainable urban
International Design Centre environment. Furthermore, from cancer to earthquake faults communities around the world.
was inaugurated in 2012. Singapore must remain the in southeast Asia, with up to S$3 Singapore is poised to become
The centre is envisioned as a country of choice for its people million over 5 years to perform one of the top cities in Asia in
global hub for technologically to build their families and research based in Singapore. terms of environmental quality,
intensive design that creates careers in. Complementing the NRF’s economic opportunity, social
solutions to the current and To this end, science and efforts, A*STAR offers a range attainment and connectedness
potential problems that global technology can catalyse the of scholarships to both local and to global flows. While carving
societies face. It has identified development of innovative and international students to pursue a out an even stronger interna-
three Design Grand Challenges: comprehensive urban solutions career in science and technology. tional profile by forming a
Sustainable Built Environment, to sustain Singapore’s growth In 2013, the NRF organized greater number of R&D collab-
Design with the Developing and resilience, as well as build the inaugural Global Young orations worldwide, the nation
World, and Information and talent and manpower capability Scientists Summit, an interna- has pledged not to lose sight of
Communications Technologies- that can be deployed to derive tional gathering in Singapore the needs of its citizens.
enabled Devices for Better practical benefits for Singapore for bright young researchers Singapore’s appreciation of the
Living. A prime example for the and other cities facing similar from all over the world to be evolving needs of its people and
Design with the Developing urban challenges. The NRF, inspired by internationally their surroundings will attune it
World Challenge is OttoClave, together with the entities high- eminent science and technology to adopting a sensitive and flexi-
an affordable autoclave made lighted in this feature, is commit- leaders. An integral part of ble stance, as it always has, in
from a household pressure ted to continuing the mission of the summit was the Singapore embracing innovations to sus-
cooker that can bring medical Singapore by integrating research Challenge, a competition tain growth and liveability.
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