Singapore’s coral reefs are more than just marine ecosystems — they are part of our natural heritage. Over 60% of our reefs have disappeared due to coastal development, pollution, and climate change. Restoring them protects marine biodiversity, supports our food chains, buffers against coastal erosion, and preserves a unique part of Singapore’s ecological legacy.

Coral restoration is a proactive way to assist or enhance the recovery of degraded reefs. Among the more common techniques used are the careful cultivation of coral fragments in underwater nurseries. Once matured, these fragments are replanted onto specific reef areas to rebuild coral cover. This process helps rehabilitate the reef ecosystem, allowing marine life to return and thrive over time.

As we celebrate SG60, this campaign serves as a call to honour and protect our shared natural legacy. Coral reefs have long been part of Singapore’s maritime identity. By contributing to reef restoration research in Singapore, we’re preserving a piece of living history that future generations can continue to learn from and cherish.

Corals grow slowly — most hard coral species grow just 1 to 3 centimetres per year. That’s why long-term commitment is key. However, with increased research on restoration methods like microfragmentation, growth and reef recovery can be accelerated. It can take years or even decades for coral gardens to mature into functioning reefs that support fish and marine life.

We culture native coral species that are naturally adapted to grow in low-light conditions to transplant to local reefs. Each site is regularly monitored using underwater surveys and data loggers. Adaptive management allows our team to respond to changes like bleaching events or algae growth, ensuring the reef continues to recover and thrive over the years.

Despite being in an urbanised, high-shipping-traffic area, Singapore’s reefs are incredibly diverse. Over 250 species of hard corals have been recorded in our waters to date — more than the entire Caribbean. This highlights the rich biodiversity our reefs once supported and have the potential to support in the future, making them powerful symbols of hope and a rare piece of our natural heritage worth fighting for.