Managing Tourism in Small Islands: The Case of Pulau Ubin, Singapore

Abstract

Pulau Ubin is one of the few Singapore offshore islands relatively untouched by development and provides a striking contrast with the main island in terms of the natural and man-made environment. As such, it has a special appeal for residents and tourists who have been attracted there in increasing numbers. Current activity remains on a restricted scale, however, and impacts experienced to date have been limited although of growing concern to some environmentalists. Conditions are now changing as Pulau Ubin has been identified by the government, official bodies and the private sector as a suitable location for tourism and, in the longer term, urbanisation. This paper examines the management of the island and explores the proposals put forward by the various agencies involved and their implications, suggesting that it is in danger of losing those qualities which have made it a unique natural and cultural attraction. Whilst recognising the particular circumstances of the case, more general issues relating to the challenges of managing small island tourist destinations and achieving sustainability are also illustrated by the example.