Over the last two centuries, Singapore has lost around 37% of its native biodiversity species due to the rise of urban living. What is encouraging is that there is still much we can do to protect what remains—and it starts with inspiring the next generation to cherish and care for our natural environment. 

This month, we have curated exciting trails and parks packed with interactive activities to get the little ones engaged and spark their curiosity about our rich biodiversity. Not only do these experiences provide precious bonding time for the family, but they also help nurture your child’s understanding of the important role they can play in creating a more sustainable environment.

1. Explore the newly-opened Chinese and Japanese Gardens at Jurong Lake Gardens

Built in the 1970s, Jurong Lake Gardens has long been a go-to weekend spot for families, offering a peaceful retreat amidst its serene environment. Now, newly revamped, there are even more fun areas to explore, including the beautifully restored Chinese and Japanese Gardens. 

Much like before, these green spaces offer up-close encounters with nature, featuring lush tropical plants and tranquil waterscapes that showcase local biodiversity.

The Japanese Gardens now boasts Singapore’s largest collection of water lilies, plus, a sunken, valley-like garden that offers sights of unique flora like staghorn ferns and philodendrons. Over at the Chinese Garden, you will find new highlights like the Cascading Creek—where children can walk along the river and look at native fish—and 3-metre high waterfalls, among others.  

The little ones will delight in these discoveries, and it is a great chance to teach them about how these gardens help to safeguard our local wildlife and plants. It is a simple yet meaningful reminder that nature is closer than they think, even in a busy city like Singapore.

To make your visit extra fun, try organising a nature scavenger hunt with your kids. Challenge them to spot different plants, birds, or insects as you wander around, and create new lasting memories together. 

Learn more about the new gardens here.

2. Delight in high tea while the kids wander through Bishan Park

Nestled in the heartlands, Bishan Park is not just notable for its expansive greenery, it also boasts a vibrant ecosystem. For parents who wish to explore at a leisurely pace, the High Tea & Nature Walk event provides a unique combination of relaxation and eco-friendly fun. 

Organised by GRUB Pasta Kitchen, this afternoon experience allows you to unwind over a delightful high tea while your children embark on an adventurous nature quest.

Led by experienced guides, your little explorers will set off on a scavenger hunt through Bishan Park’s rich ecosystem, which is currently home to over 90 bird species, a butterfly habitat, and a myriad of native plants. 

As they catch sightings of wildlife along the way, they will be learning about biodiversity and conservation, all while having a blast outdoors and befriending like-minded kids who are just as enthusiastic about wildlife. 

While the kids are off on their adventure, you can unwind with other parents, enjoying the peaceful ambience while savouring delicious treats. The day wraps up with enchanting nature-themed story sessions in the evening, adding a magical touch to your family’s adventure.

Make it a weekend to remember for your family. Register for your slot here.

3. Discover Singapore’s wild side at Sungei Buloh

For families with teenagers seeking a more immersive adventure, the Private Guided Tour at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve offers a deeper dive into Singapore’s wild side. Situated along the northwestern coastline, this 3-hour tour provides an opportunity to explore one of the nation’s most diverse ecosystems.

Every year, Sungei Buloh serves as a key stopover for migratory birds flying thousands of kilometres. Even outside the migratory season, the wetlands are teeming with life—from herons and kingfishers, to estuarine crocodiles.

As your family navigates the boardwalks, your guide will explain the essential role mangroves play in maintaining ecological balance. Not only do these hardy trees protect coastlines from erosion, but they also absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change. 

Through this hands-on exploration, your children will gain a clear understanding of how interconnected ecosystems are, and how preserving one area can have wide-reaching effects across our island as well. 

Beyond the fascinating wildlife and educational insights, you can also pause and appreciate the tranquillity of Sungei Buloh. The rustling mangrove leaves, earthy scents, and distant bird calls offer a peaceful escape from the city, providing a welcome mental recharge for the whole family. 

Book yourselves an unforgettable experience here.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Eco Stewards

More than just fun family outings, these activities are valuable opportunities to cultivate a deep appreciation for biodiversity in children. By introducing them to parks and wildlife walks early on, you can instil a sense of environmental stewardship, encouraging the next generation to take meaningful steps in protecting our environment.

To further encourage eco-conscious living, join our Facebook or Instagram giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40), that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag. 

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 hidden gem featured in our blog where you can unveil our local biodiversity.” The contest ends on 31st October 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

Let’s #PowerTheChange and safeguard our City in Nature to shape a sustainable haven for all.

Today, the average Singaporean is responsible for over 8,000kg of carbon emissions each year — more than four times the sustainable target. The good news is that you can easily reduce your carbon footprint and create meaningful family moments when you spend more time exploring nature and participating in eco-friendly activities together. 

This month, we have curated three unique, family-friendly adventures that not only promise excitement, but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Plus, they might even spark valuable lessons for your little ones along the way.

1. Discover the beauty of Rifle Range Nature Park on a leisurely stroll

Amidst our bustling cityscape, we are fortunate to have nature right at our doorstep. If you have yet to visit the picturesque Rifle Range Nature Park, you can take this opportunity to join the National Parks (NParks) Guided Walk on 19 October 2024, and enjoy the perfect morning stroll with your family. 

During the walk, you will get to explore lush greenery, all while learning about native biodiversity and eco-friendly infrastructure that make up the iconic Rail Corridor. The rope bridges and colugo poles along the way are not just for show—they are designed to allow animals to safely cross, enhancing the park’s ecological connectivity.

For the history buffs in your family, this is also a walk down memory lane to rediscover the former railway line, and uncover interesting facts about heritage landmarks such as the old Bukit Timah Railway Station as well as the Staff Quarters.

This park serves as a critical green buffer for Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, protecting our ecosystems while helping to absorb carbon dioxide. By exploring this natural haven, you can also teach your kids about the importance of reducing their carbon footprint and how their actions can contribute to a healthier environment. 

If you want to double up on green efforts, consider using public transport to get there. Registration opens on 28 September and you can secure your slot here.

2. Uncover a secret island just off Pulau Ubin with a kayaking adventure

If you are a family of outdoor enthusiasts who crave a bit more adventure, why not consider kayaking to Ketam Island.

Nestled just off Pulau Ubin, Ketam Island is a hidden gem teeming with wildlife, and this guided kayak adventure by Seek Sophie is the perfect way to discover it. Instead of travelling via motorised boats, kayaking will be the default mode of commute, producing zero emissions while allowing you to explore nature up close.

Paddle through serene waters and mangrove-lined shores, and you may spot herons, otters, or even monitor lizards. Mangroves are one of the world’s most valuable ecosystems for absorbing carbon dioxide, turning this expedition into an educational trip on how these critical habitats can help mitigate climate change. 

The adventure is designed to be fuss-free. After your kayak journey, you can rinse off and relax at the base camp—an added convenience for families with young explorers. 

If you would like to support eco-tourism in one of Singapore’s most beautiful and untouched natural areas, sign up for your slot here.

3. Embrace green living with cycling lessons from Happy Cycle

With Singapore on track to develop a 1,300km cycling network by 2030, cycling is fast becoming an essential mode of eco-friendly transportation. This expanding infrastructure makes it easier than ever for families to consider cycling for their daily commutes or leisurely outings. 

If space or safety concerns have kept your child from two-wheeled adventures, consider joining Happy Cycle. Here, your child can take part in fun, challenge-based classes that teach them to navigate safely around parks and cycle paths.

Through engaging lessons, the little ones will not only gain confidence but also develop a love for cycling as an enjoyable and sustainable hobby. After all, it is a simple, effective way to reduce your carbon footprint. 

By making it part of your family’s routine, you can replace short car trips with bike rides, significantly cutting down on pollution. Plus, with Singapore’s growing network of cycling paths, your family will be contributing to Singapore’s vision of a car-lite future too. 

With a range of classes to choose from, Happy Cycle is all about building confidence in young riders. Not only will your kids have fun learning new skills, but they will also be forming lifelong habits that contribute to a greener, cleaner future. 

Find classes suited for all skill levels here.

Enjoy Family Fun While Reducing Your Carbon Footprint

More than family-friendly adventures, these activities are also opportunities to instil sustainable values in your little ones, and we hope these activities have inspired your next family outing. After all, it is the small, everyday choices we make—like spending time in nature and making little eco-friendly lifestyle swaps—that can collectively make a big impact.

You can also join our Facebook or Instagram giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40), that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag. 

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 way featured in our blog that you can explore nature and enjoy a green adventure with your family.” The contest ends on 30th September 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange by reducing our carbon footprint and adopting a greener lifestyle towards a sustainable future.

There is a growing need for all to prioritise their mental wellness as it was revealed in the latest nationwide study by the Institute of Mental Health that 1 in 7 Singaporeans experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.

And that is why, in our recent ‘here. sunrise and sunset’ initiative, we collaborated with local singer-songwriter Sherman Zhuo to debut ‘endless shine’, a song that spotlights the importance of the mental wellness of our people. Through this initiative, we would like to encourage all to give themselves the pause they deserve and simply be in the present.

And together with Beyond the Label, a nationwide movement co-led by the National Council of Social Service and TOUCH Community Services, we hope to challenge the mental health stigma and foster a more inclusive society.

As part of our campaign, we have also joined hands with the National Parks Board, to feature the Therapeutic Gardens that were introduced to enhance the well-being of Singaporeans by allowing them to connect with nature in a purposeful way. One such green oasis is located in East Coast Park, where ‘endless shine’ music video was shot.

This track is also featured on NParks’ curated Spotify playlist, ‘A Love Letter from NParks’, serving as a gentle reminder to put your mental health first as you reconnect with these Therapeutic Gardens.

To further support the Therapeutic Horticulture programmes designed to enhance the well-being of our community, we also donated $10,000 to NParks’ registered charity and IPC, Garden City Fund.

Exploring Singapore’s New Therapeutic Gardens

Beyond being just scenic spots, the Therapeutic Gardens are also scientifically designed to offer restorative benefits of nature, improving mental health and overall well-being.

Within the heart of our nation, there are now 14 of these calming sanctuaries including the addition of 5 new gardens where more residents can now access these green spaces.

1. East Coast Park

The Therapeutic Garden at East Coast Park offers a unique coastal charm making it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation by the sea.

Designed for holistic wellness, this green sanctuary offers a myriad of activities to help unwind. The wellness garden features an elevated 360-degree platform that overlooks the pond, the sea, and the green canopy that surrounds the park.

From the lush foliage to the garden’s serene atmosphere, park visitors can immerse themselves in the gentle sound of waves as they catch the sunset for a therapeutic escape.

2. Yishun Pond Park

Nestled in the heart of Yishun, the Therapeutic Garden at Yishun Pond Park is designed to provide a peaceful oasis amidst urban life. The garden integrates water features with lush greenery to create a tranquil environment that promotes mental well-being.

Several quiet corners with seating areas are scattered throughout the garden, offering spaces for visitors to practise mindfulness or simply enjoy the sound of flowing water and the serene surroundings.

The garden is centred around Yishun Pond with a 14.5-metre cocoon-shaped tower offering panoramic views of the park, ideal for a therapeutic retreat for visitors to connect with nature amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

3. Sembawang Park

With its rich historical background, Sembawang Park offers a unique blend of heritage and nature. The therapeutic garden here provides a quiet seaside haven, connected to a 30-metre jetty that was once built and used during World War II, where visitors can spend an idyllic evening by the waters.

The garden also includes a selection of coastal and marine-themed plants that are specially chosen for their soothing colours and textures, reflecting Sembawang’s maritime heritage.

As you wander in this green space, you can find yourself in the calming corner with timber benches and a water feature that promotes relaxation while reducing anxiety.

4. Sun Plaza Park

From an aerial view, the paths in the park converge to form the shape of a sun in the centre of the park, earning the name, Sun Plaza Park.

The Therapeutic Garden is tucked away in the eastern region of Singapore and is designed as a vibrant and engaging space for residents staying in Tampines. Not only is the garden filled with vibrant plants like sunflowers and marigolds, but these colourful floras also help to lift the spirits of visitors, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere

This green space is built to spur community interaction and promote mental wellness through sensory engagement, allowing visitors to connect with nature and one another.

5. Woodlands Healing Garden

Linked to Woodlands Health is Singapore’s largest therapeutic Garden to date which has an impressive size of 1.5 hectares. With a focus on rejuvenation through senses, the Woodlands Healing Garden is segmented into four zones, with the intention to offer visitors and patients closer interaction with nature for mental, emotional and physical well-being

The garden includes a variety of plants known for their healing properties, such as medicinal herbs and aromatic plants that can help promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Surrounded by fragrant and tactile plants, you will find vividly-coloured wildflower terraces and a seasonal forest at its peak, perfect for a change of scenery from our city landscape.

#HereSunriseXSunset Giveaway

With this in mind, we hope you’ll be inspired to visit any of the Therapeutic Gardens and immerse in the restorative benefits of these hidden green spaces.

You can also join our Facebook or Instagram giveaway and be one of 20 lucky winners to receive a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40), which includes a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name one of the new Therapeutic Gardens mentioned in this blog post.” The contest ends on 31 August 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

To find out more about the campaign, you can visit www.heresunrisesunset.sg.

Together, let us change the world around us by changing the world within us.

This National Day, we would like to put the mental wellness of our nation at the centre stage with our ‘here. sunrise x sunset’ initiative. Through this heartwarming campaign, we hope to remind all to breathe because sometimes you might forget to, give yourselves the pause you deserve, and simply be in the present.

As part of this initiative, we are joining hands with Beyond the Label, a national movement co-led by the National Council of Social Service and TOUCH Community Services, dedicated to promoting social inclusion for persons with mental health conditions. This movement aims to combat mental health stigma by raising awareness, educating the public, supporting workplace adjustments, and encouraging early help-seeking.

Together, we hope to invite everyone to join us in fostering a supportive environment, sparking more open conversations, and building resilience within communities.

Let Music Power The Change

Music can change the world because it can change people.

As one of the key discussions at the National University of Singapore’s engagement session, ‘A Conversation on Emotional Resilience – Finding Emotional Well-Being Through Music’, it has been shared that music can build emotional resilience, manage mental conditions, and improve mental health.

Beyond enhancing our mood, music can tap into many cognitive and emotional processing centres in our minds – providing a sense of belonging, an avenue of self-expression, and a means to cope with mental well-being.

In line with Singapore’s 59^th birthday, there is no better time to showcase the healing power of music through local talents within our own community.

As part of our campaign, we are elated to collaborate with Sherman Zhuo, a homegrown award-winning singer-songwriter and Cross Ratio x Warner Music Singapore Artist. Sherman has topped the charts of Spotify’s Viral 50 Singapore with over 8 million streams, we are heartened to debut ‘endless shine’ – a song to inspire all to let music be the heartbeat of our lives and Power The Change from Within.

Composed as a letter to himself, the song reflects his journey of overcoming mental health challenges and societal expectations by finding joy in the little things in life. We hope this song can uplift those who are still navigating their way through their mental health journey and encourage positive change through music.

With that, we would like to invite you to press play for good by helping us achieve our goal of 1 million streams for ‘endless shine’ on Spotify and YouTube. Each stream will count towards our pledge to champion mental wellness and challenge mental health stigma, and we will donate $10,000 to Beyond the Label.

Vote For Your Favourite Lyrics

As you immerse in the lyrics and melody of ‘endless shine’, you can also vote for your favourite lyrics that inspire you the most. Simply visit www.heresunrisesunset.sg to vote from now till 31 August and stand to be 1 in 5 lucky winners to receive $100 eCapitaVoucher.

It Begins With All Of Us

We are also heartened to have well-known personalities like Tosh Zhang, Karyn Wong, Chen Yixin, Sherman Zhuo and Darshen, share their personal stories and challenge the mental health stigma.

Check out their posts below — we hope you can find inspiration from them for your own journey.