NDR 2026: Singapore studying feasibility of building undersea tunnels to Pulau Tekong

The Government is studying the feasibility of building undersea tunnels to Pulau Tekong, where new military recruits undergo their first months of training.

With no physical structures connecting Singapore's mainland and the island located off the north-eastern coast, soldiers currently use ferries.

"In the past, we relied on this to get there — Ramp Powered Launches (RPL), standing room only, and no air-con!" PM Wong said during the National Day Rally 2026 speech at the ITE College Central on Sunday (Aug 23).

Speaking about the connectivity of the nation's coastline, he said Pulau Tekong still has no land connection, unlike other islands such as Sentosa and Jurong Island.

"The obvious solution is to build bridges, but that would cut across busy shipping channels," he said of Tekong.

"So if we can't go over the sea, we will try to go under it."

The possible undersea tunnel will be a major engineering undertaking.

"But if we can do it, it will bring our outer islands much closer to the rest of Singapore. And one day, our recruits may have an even easier journey to Tekong!"

PM Wong emphasised the importance of planning ahead for future generations, including redeveloping and reclaiming land on the outer islands.

He said the Government will create a new island by merging Semakau, Bukom, Sudong and a few other smaller islands in the coming decades to support a "new generation of industries", including advanced manufacturing facilities.

"Jurong Island shaped our economy for the last 50 years. This new western island can help shape Singapore for the next 50 years and beyond," he added.

Sentosa and Pulau Brani will be connected and rejuvenated with new landmarks, while the Long Island project will become "another new waterfront".

PM Wong said the long-term planning of these projects will strengthen Singapore in the years ahead.

"And that is how our children and grandchildren will inherit a Singapore with more space, more opportunities, and even greater possibilities than what we have today," he concluded.

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