Chang Chee Pey, assistant chief executive, International Group, Singapore Tourism Board, spoke exclusively to Travel Bulletin about Singapore?s long-term tourism plans and the impact of the coronavirus.
Mr Chang said the Singapore government has introduced strict measures to limit the spread of the virus, such as banning people from coming into the city state from China, South Korea and northern Italy, including in transit, stepping up cleaning at the airport and other buildings, and enforcing home quarantine for people who have come into contact with virus carriers.
While he said that the ?best guess-estimate? is a drop in visitor numbers of 25-30% after a very successful 2019, the board is focusing on long-term strategies as well as highlighting attractions which have been upgraded and new activities, such as nighttime events on the beach in Sentosa, and the upgraded airport.
Long-term projects, looking ahead to the next five or six years, include a 7,000-seat arena for sport, entertainment and conferences; further expansion of Sentosa with Nintendo and Minions-themed attractions; nature-based attractions such as a new bird park to replace Jurong bird park; and NERF family experience.
