Our Local Farms: Then, Now And The Future

Farming might not be the first thing that comes to mind in our land-scarce city, but you might be surprised to discover the growing agriculture scene here. We visited three local farms that are promoting local produce, food security and sustainability in Singapore

- Jamie Lee

In the past few decades, Singapore’s title as an “import-only state” has rung true, and this was seen recently with the chicken crisis in May 2022. In an early 2020 foreword by Dr Amy Khor, previously the Senior Minister of State Ministry of Health and Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources for the Growing Roots initiative by Singapore Young Farmers, Dr Khor wrote, “Singapore imports more than 90 percent of our food today. This leaves us vulnerable to disruptions in the global food system, due to climate change, diseases and volatilities of the international markets.”

With land scarce and space utilised to develop properties and facilities in an increasingly urban city, the question remains: How can we as residents in Singapore educate ourselves about the future of food security for our tiny island? What is the future of food security?

As part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has laid out a goal to produce 30 percent of our nutritional needs locally and sustainably by 2030, called “30 by 30”. SFA aims to build up the agri-food industry’s capability and capacity by supporting the growth and expansion of local farms, to achieve a more resilient food future.

With that being said, here are three farms in Singapore where you can explore and gain insight into local farming, while enjoyinbg respite from the bustle of city life.

A RETURN TO HERITAGE Jurong Frog Farm