Singapore’s Parliament has debated the Coastal Protection and Other Amendments Bill aimed at defending the nation against rising sea levels. Minister Grace Fu said the law will help create a continuous coastal defence for future generations.

Singapore is taking a major step to strengthen its long-term climate resilience through the proposed Coastal Protection and Other Amendments Bill.

Speaking in Parliament on 6 March 2026, Grace Fu delivered the closing speech for the Bill’s second reading, addressing questions raised by Members of Parliament and outlining how the legislation will help protect Singapore from rising sea levels.

Fu thanked MPs for their support and feedback, noting that coastal protection is a long-term effort that is critical to safeguarding Singapore’s people, assets and livelihoods.

Landowners to Play Key Role in Coastal Protection

Under the proposed law, landowners in designated coastal areas will be responsible for implementing and maintaining coastal protection measures on their own land. According to Fu, this approach allows landowners to design solutions that suit their specific sites and development plans.

At the same time, the Government will continue to implement large-scale national protection projects where necessary. For example, major coastal barriers planned at the Greater Southern Waterfront will be funded and managed by the Government.

The authorities will also publish official protection boundaries and guidelines so that landowners and developers clearly understand their responsibilities.

Government Coordination Through PUB

Singapore’s national water agency, PUB, will play a central role in coordinating coastal protection efforts among neighbouring landowners.

The Bill empowers PUB to ensure that all individual protection measures connect properly to form a continuous line of defence along the coastline. The agency will also maintain records of designs and maintenance reports to ensure continuity when land ownership changes.

In urgent situations, PUB may step in to carry out repairs or temporary measures to protect the coastline, especially if a landowner fails to maintain their protection infrastructure.

Grants and Industry Support

The Government is also studying grant support to help landowners install coastal protection measures. While maintenance costs are expected to remain relatively low, financial assistance will help fund the initial installation works.

To support the industry, Singapore will also train professionals such as flood protection managers who can help landowners monitor and maintain coastal defences.

Environmental Protection Remains Important

Environmental considerations are also a key part of the coastal protection strategy. Fu said projects located near sensitive ecosystems may require environmental studies under the Environmental Impact Assessment framework.

Authorities will work with nature groups and communities to minimise ecological damage and explore nature-based solutions such as protecting mangroves and using hybrid coastal defence designs.

Research under Singapore’s coastal protection programme is also studying how nature-based solutions can complement traditional infrastructure.

Long-Term Defence Against Rising Seas

Fu emphasised that coastal protection should be seen as an investment rather than a burden for businesses. Strengthening defences will help ensure long-term economic stability and safety as climate risks increase.

The Bill aims to establish a continuous line of defence that can protect Singapore from sea level rise for the next 50 to 100 years and beyond.

She concluded that the legislation will help Singapore build a safer and more resilient future while protecting its coastline for generations to come.

Source: MSE