More than 1,000 rally in Singapore over Maju Forest housing plan
Why it matters: The protest adds pressure after the government cut planned housing density to keep more greenery at Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks.
More than 1,000 people gathered at Hong Lim Park on Sunday to protest Singapore's plans to build housing on parts of Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks, turning weeks of debate over land use into a public rally. Organized by SG Climate Rally, the event called for greater transparency in how development decisions are made and for stronger protection of remaining green spaces. The dispute began after HDB said on July 10 that Sunset Way and Gillman Barracks would be developed for housing, with about 15 hectares of Maju Forest and at least 10 hectares at Gillman Barracks affected. On Aug. 14, Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan said more greenery would be retained, meaning fewer homes would be built.