One island nation. Many possibilities. A shared future.
On 19 September 2026, the Singapore Institute of Planners (SIP) hosted the second edition of SIP PlanEx Asia 2026 at Village Hotel Sentosa, bringing together planning professionals, public agencies, industry leaders and academics for a day of insightful discussions and meaningful exchanges.
Under the theme “Islands of Tomorrow”, this year’s PlanEx explored how Singapore’s islands can evolve to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future. From reimagining tourism and coastal development to advancing the green energy transition and embracing artificial intelligence, the event offered fresh perspectives on the changing landscape of urban planning.
We were honoured to welcome Ms Adele Tan, Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), as our Guest of Honour.
Four Perspectives, One Shared Future
The programme featured four distinguished speakers from Singapore’s leading planning agencies and academic institutions, each offering a unique perspective on the future of our island nation.
Sentosa Island – Future of Tourism
Mr Chan Beng Kiat, Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), explored the future of Sentosa as a leading leisure and tourism destination, highlighting the opportunities to continuously reinvent visitor experiences while balancing development, sustainability and the island’s distinctive character.
Long Island – Future of Growth
Mr Wai Kin Lee, Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), presented the vision for Long Island, an ambitious initiative that brings together coastal protection, water resilience and future development opportunities. The presentation offered perspectives on how long-term integrated planning can help Singapore respond to climate challenges while creating new possibilities for future generations.
Jurong Island – Future of Energy and Green Transition
Ms Tang Hsiao Ling, JTC Corporation, discussed the evolving role of Jurong Island in Singapore’s industrial transformation and green energy transition. The session highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainable infrastructure and long-term planning in supporting the nation’s transition towards a lower-carbon economy.
AI and Planning – Future of Planning Education and Profession
Prof F. Peter Ortner, Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), explored the growing influence of artificial intelligence on planning education and professional practice. As digital technologies continue to reshape the built environment industry, the presentation encouraged reflection on how planners can embrace emerging tools while strengthening the human judgement, creativity and critical thinking essential to the profession.
Bringing Different Perspectives Together
Beyond the individual presentations, the moderated panel discussion provided an opportunity to connect these diverse perspectives and reflect on the broader implications for Singapore’s planning future.
While each presentation addressed a different dimension of Singapore’s development, a common message emerged: the future of our cities cannot be shaped through isolated decisions or disciplines.
Whether planning for tourism, coastal resilience, industrial transformation or technological advancement, integrated thinking and collaboration will be increasingly important in navigating complex urban challenges.
The conversations continued beyond the formal sessions, with opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, strengthen professional connections and reflect on the evolving responsibilities of planners.
Looking Beyond Today
PlanEx Asia 2026 reminded us that planning is ultimately about the future — anticipating change, balancing competing priorities and making thoughtful decisions that will shape how generations to come live, work and experience our cities.
For Singapore, an island nation where land, resources and opportunities are closely interconnected, these conversations are especially relevant.
As we look ahead, SIP remains committed to fostering dialogue, encouraging knowledge exchange and strengthening collaboration across the planning and built environment community.
Our sincere appreciation goes to our Guest of Honour, distinguished speakers, panellists, event partners, organising committee, volunteers and all participants who contributed to making PlanEx Asia 2026 a meaningful and engaging event.
Thank you to our partners for making PlanEx possible:
𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗱: SJ Group, DP Architects (DP Urban), ID Architects Pte Ltd and Jia FU (individual partner)
𝗦𝗶𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗿: Housing & Development Board, Urban Redevelopment Authority of Singapore (URA), MORROW Architects & Planners and JTC Corporation
𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘇𝗲: CBRE Singapore, CPG Corporation, ENCITY, Henning Larsen and Ramboll
You can find our publication here : PlanEx2026_Publication
