Sentosa's Siloso Beach has been officially reopened for water activities following a comprehensive cleanup operation following a major oil spill from a marine vessel on 14 June 2024.
Image: iStock
The reopening, announced on August 3, came one-and-a-half months ahead of the initially projected three-month timeline for the cleanup. The effort was in response to an oil spill in June that had temporarily halted water activities on Sentosa and Southern Islands beaches.
The Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) coordinated the cleanup, involving over 300 trained workers and oil spill response specialists. Beachfront businesses at Siloso Beach are now fully operational, reflecting the success of the concerted cleanup efforts.
Image: Shutterstock
In preparation for the reopening, the National Environment Agency (NEA) regularly monitored the water quality, which has returned to normal levels. Volunteer clean-up sessions, involving close to 450 participants, helped remove tar balls and marine debris, further aiding the restoration.
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu praised the efforts of government agencies, specialists, contractors, and volunteers, emphasizing the importance of their collective work in restoring the beach’s natural beauty and allowing the resumption of water activities and business operations.
Image: 123RF
Meanwhile, Sentosa's Palawan and Tanjong beaches are expected to reopen by mid-August, once the cleanup operations are completed and water quality is confirmed to be safe.
Nevertheless, the public is advised to check the NEA's Beach Short-Term Water Quality Information before engaging in water activities at the beach for their health and well-being.
