Coral reefs of Singapore

Pulau Semakau

Despite the construction of the landfill, Semakau still supports a sizeable and healthy mangrove.

	Coral Reefs of Singapore	Photo & video gallery Local reef publications Reef survey data Marine Biology Lab Other links
(c) Reef Ecology Study Team, NUS		Island Description

Administration	Ministry of Environment (ENV)
Description	Landfill formed by joining Pulau Semakau to Pulau Sakeng with rock bunds. Transfer station now sits on the former Pulau Sakeng. Western side characterised by mangroves. Rhizophora nurseries on the northern and southern tips- rehabilitation work by ENV. Pulau Sakeng used to be the site of a sea village (kampong laut) inclusive of several shops catering to islanders and visitors. The village was built largely on stilts over a reef flat. Most of the villagers were subsistence fishers, making a living off the nearby reefs. Pulau Semakau was home to a slightly smaller community, and even boasted a football at one end of the village. One of the oldest residents continued to live on the island even after the settlers were relocated to the mainland. He eventually moved out as well, as the jetty fell into disrepair. Construction of the landfill facilities commenced and the transfer station (built on what used to be Sakeng) was completed. The rock bunds were constructed of 5-7 layers of material and a special "geo-fabric" that is totally impervious to refuse leachates. The rock bunds linked Semakau and Sakeng, along with other patch reefs.