Pulau Ubin Residents Speak Out: Singapore Election 2025 & Island Life

Life on Pulau Ubin: Elections, Costs, and Changes

Pulau Ubin, a small island off the coast of Singapore, is home to a unique community with its own set of concerns and experiences. This article explores various aspects of life on the island, including perspectives on elections, the cost of living, and recent changes in infrastructure.

Elections and Representation

Residents of Pulau Ubin are preparing for upcoming elections. Previously part of the East Coast Group Representation Constituency, the island will now be included in a new constituency, Pasir Ris-Changi GRC, encompassing approximately 100,000 voters.

• Some residents are familiar with their Members of Parliament (MPs), such as Maliki, and understand their role in addressing community concerns.

• However, others are unsure of their representatives and how to seek assistance.

• The National Parks Board (NParks) has also become a key point of contact, acting as a "village chief" for many islanders. NParks officially took over Pulau Ubin in 2016, responsible for protecting the cultural heritage here also maintaining various facilities.

Cost of Living and Land Ownership

The cost of living on Pulau Ubin is a recurring concern for its residents.

• Many residents live on state-owned land and are required to pay rent through a Temporary Occupation License issued by the Land Administration Bureau. Rent depends on the land and building area, also depending on the purpose.

• Residents expressed concern over rising "property taxes," which is actually the rent of state-owned land.

• Gasoline costs for transportation are also a significant expense for some, reaching thousands of dollars per month.

Infrastructure and Utilities

Significant changes have occurred in Pulau Ubin's infrastructure, particularly regarding electricity.

• The island previously relied on manual diesel generators for power.

• Since 2013, the Energy Market Authority of Singapore implemented a microgrid pilot scheme.

• By 2023, solar power accounts for more than 90% of the island's microgrids, providing cleaner and more reliable electricity to over 30 households and businesses.

• While solar power is more convenient, electricity rates remain higher than on mainland Singapore, with residents paying approximately 80 cents per kilowatt.

Desires for the Future

Residents express hopes for Pulau Ubin's future, especially as the election approaches.

• Many desire improvements in tourism to bring more people to the island.

• The island's natural beauty is a key asset, with residents emphasizing the value of preserving its natural environment.

• While improvements are welcomed, they must align with the island's unique character.

• Some residents received Community Development Council Shopping Vouchers, but are unable to use them on the island.

• Residents are pleased that Pulau Ubin still has no electronic road pricing (ERP) and parking is free.