Celebrating 70 Years of Conservation
In 2024, Nature Society Singapore celebrates 70 years of conserving Singapore’s habitats and biodiversity. Established in 1954 as the Singapore Branch of the Malayan Nature Society, we came into existence even before Singapore’s independence, and have had an equally colourful and rewarding journey!
Our 70th Gala has been approved for Tote Board’s Enhanced Fund-raising (EFR) Programme so for every dollar you donate, we receive dollar-for-dollar matching funds! Please donate generously to enable us to continue doing great work for another 70 years!
SAVE THE DATE
12 October 2024
Conference 9.30am – 11.30am
Luncheon 12.30pm – 2.30pm
Singapore Island Country Club,
Grand Ballroom
180 Island Club Road,
Singapore 578774
Our Vision
To be Singapore’s leading advocate of biodiversity and habitats.
Our Mission
With our evidence-based approach and partnerships with agencies, peers, and corporates, we lead habitat and biodiversity conservation in Singapore and with partners in the region. Through engagement, education, research, and advocacy, we inspire and enable people to take action towards a sustainable and biodiverse planet.
Nature Society Singapore (NSS) is a non-profit, volunteer-based organisation that helps preserve Singapore’s natural heritage. Founded in 1954 as the Singapore branch of the Malayan Nature Society, we became an independent organisation known as Nature Society Singapore in 1991.
With over 1,000 members today, we remain steadfast in our goal to conserve biodiversity and habitats. Our work has made a significant impact in various areas, and NSS has been consulted by public agencies for numerous developments including Chek Jawa, Cross Island Line, Tengah Forest Town, and numerous other conservation initiatives.
We are proud to have been an Institution of Public Character (IPC) since 2008. In addition, we have been honoured with the Charity Transparency Award every year since its introduction in 2016. This award recognises our efforts to uphold best practices in governance, accountability, and financial management.
Our 2023 annual report can be viewed here.
Nature Society Singapore 70th Gala
Singapore Island Country Club,
Grand Ballroom
180 Island Club Road,
Singapore 578774
Conference 9.30am – 11.30am
Luncheon 12.30pm – 2.30pm
As our very first gala celebration, we have the pleasure of two Guests-of-Honour – Prof Tommy Koh and Minister Desmond Lee. We are thrilled to extend to you the opportunity to become a sponsor and partner with us for this event to ensure the success of this momentous occasion.
This NSS Gala Lunch promises to be an afternoon of nostalgia, entertainment, and philanthropy as we come together for a trip down memory lane with Nature Society Singapore and its 70 years of operations and advocacy in Singapore. The event will have lunch, live music, an auction, as well as inspiring speeches from a range of different personalities who come together to highlight the impact of collective contributions on the conservation scene in Singapore and the region.
70th Anniversary Gala Conference
Location:
Singapore Island Country Club,
Grand Ballroom
180 Island Club Road,
Singapore 578774
Time:
9.30am – 11.30am
Ticket Price:
$10.00
Dress code:
Smart Casual
Shuttle services will be provided. More information will be given closer to the date.
70th Anniversary Gala Lunch
Location:
Singapore Island Country Club,
Grand Ballroom
180 Island Club Road,
Singapore 578774
Time:
12.30pm – 2.30pm
Dress code:
Smart Casual
SOLD OUT
How to get there
By MRT:
Take the MRT:
Board the North-South Line (NSL) and alight at Marymount MRT Station (NS16).
Bus Transfer:
From Marymount MRT Station, you can take a bus to get closer to the Singapore Island Country Club. Bus numbers such as 52 and 54 have stops near Island Club Road.
Walk or Transfer to Another Bus:
Alternatively, you can take a short taxi ride from Marymount MRT Station if you prefer not to take the bus.
Event Schedule
Conference
Registration
Welcome and Introduction
Speaker: Dr Yeo Seng Beng, NSS President
Keynote Speech
Speaker: Dr Geh Min, NSS Past President
70 Years of Nature Conservation in Singapore: Evolving Roles and Lasting Impacts
Speaker: Ms Huang Ningxin, NSS Assistant Director
An Eye on the Future
Talk 1
Title: The Plight of Singapore’s Intertidal Ecosystems – Past, Present and Future
Speaker: Mr Tony O’Dempsey, NSS Co-opted Council Member
Talk 2
Title: Rewilding the Rail Corridor: Looking forward
Speaker: Mr Kua Kay Yaw, NSS Assistant Secretary & Rewilding Committee Member
Panel Discussion
Moderator: Dr Shawn Lum, NSS Immediate Past President
Panelists: Mr Tony O’Dempsey and Mr Kua Kay Yaw
Intergenerational Engagement and Global Collaboration
Speakers:
Dr Vilma D’Rozario, NSS Life Member
Ms Tan Beng Chiak, NSS Education Committee Chair
Dr Yong Ding Li, Head of Flyways and Species Conservation, BirdLife International Asia Division & NSS Bird Group Member
Panel Discussion
Moderator: Ms Tan Beng Chiak
Panellists:
Dr Vilma D’Rozario
Mr Lester Tan, NSS Marine Conservation Group Chair
Closing Remarks and Thanks
Speaker: Dr Yeo Seng Beng, NSS President
Lunch
Registration
Performance by Raffles Girls’ School Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble “RGShAKE”
Welcome Speech
NSS President Dr. Yeo Seng Beng
Keynote Speech
Guest-of-Honour Minister for National Development, Mr. Desmond Lee
Presentation of Distinguished Conservation Service Honours
Musical performance
Inch Chua
Charity Auction
Closing Speech
Items for Auction and Sales
The following works have been graciously donated for auction and sales to fund raise for this event.
Collage of SIG Representative Animals
Threads of Singapore’s Wild
12R – 40cm x 30cm
Digital art | Framed
Autographed
1 of 1
Donated by Wild Batik
“Threads of Singapore’s Wild” by WildBatik showcases Singapore’s wildlife in batik style, featuring the Crimson Sunbird, Common Rose, Horseshoe Crab, Malayan Colugo, and native plants. This unique artwork celebrates Nature Society Singapore’s Special Interest Groups and their contributions to conservation.
Painting of Bukit Timah and Surroundings
To Bukit Timah With Love
122cm x 61cm
Acrylic on Canvas
Autographed
Donated by Yip Yew Chong
Own a unique painting by acclaimed artist Yip Yew Chong, depicting the picturesque landscapes of Bukit Timah and Central Nature Reserve. This vibrant artwork invites viewers on a magical journey through Singapore’s natural beauty while supporting ongoing conservation efforts to protect these cherished environments.
Autographed Photograph of Misty Clementi Forest
12R – 40cm x 30cm
Photograph | Framed
Autographed
Donated by Brice Li
This serene, autographed photograph by Brice Li captures the misty allure of Clementi Forest. Nestled along the Rail Corridor, the serene image brings the beauty of Singapore’s woodlands into your space while supporting conservation efforts to preserve these important ecosystems.
Kayaking Trip for 2 to Sungei Khatib Bongsu
Donated by Kayakasia
Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure through Sungei Khatib Bongsu’s scenic mangrove ecosystem. This 7.5 km journey takes you through lush mangrove forests, offering a unique opportunity to explore Singapore’s natural beauty while encountering rare flora and fauna in a relaxing, beginner-friendly experience.
Private Birdwatching Tour in Core Conservation Area at Kranji Marsh
Donated by Wing Chong
Join birdwatching expert Wing Chong for an exclusive tour of Kranji Marsh, one of Singapore’s largest freshwater marshes. Enjoy stunning views of diverse bird species such as the Red-wattled Lapwing and Changeable Hawk Eagle, in this unforgettable experience. Perfect for both avid birders and nature enthusiasts.
Photograph Set of Crimson Sunbird by Award-Winning Photographer Daryl Yeo & Common Rose
Crimson Sunbird
12R – 40cm x 30cm
Photograph | Framed
Autographed
Photographed by Daryl Yeo, Award-winning Photographer & President of Nature Photographic Society Singapore
Donated by Daryl Yeo & Lim Kim Chuah
Common Rose
12R – 40cm x 30cm
Photograph | Framed
Photographed and donated by Dr Tea Yi-Kai
This set features stunning photographs of Singapore’s national bird, the Crimson Sunbird (by award-winning photographer Daryl Yeo), and national butterfly, the Common Rose (by Dr. Tea Yi-Kai). Both pieces beautifully showcase Singapore’s rich biodiversity, celebrating the natural heritage of Southeast Asia.
Concentrated Mass Extinction of 12 Stunning Brittle Star Fossils
Location: Morocco
Species: Ophiuroid Starfish
Period: Ordovician – 450 million years ago
Size: Starfish range from 10-15 cm; overall dimensions 38 x 37 cm
Donated by Leong Kwok Peng
Own a remarkable fossil featuring twelve well-preserved brittle stars from the Ordovician period, 450 million years ago. This rare specimen from Morocco offers an extraordinary glimpse into ancient marine life, making it a valuable addition to any natural history or paleontology collection.
Donation Packages
We have curated a range of exclusive sponsorship packages designed to provide you and your company with prominent visibility and recognition throughout the gala. By becoming an NSS Gala Lunch sponsor, you demonstrate your commitment to corporate social responsibility and are able to showcase your brand to a diverse audience of philanthropists, community leaders, and influencers via logo placement in programme materials, recognition in social media promotions, VIP seating, and the opportunity to interact and mingle with our esteemed Guests of Honours and other guests during the Gala lunch.
Diamond
SGD 35,000
3 seats with Guest-of-honor
1 Table of 10
Support of 1 key Conservation Programme
4 Corporate Events Supported by NSS
Acknowledgement in Programme
Materials, Social Media and Various Publications
Platinum
SGD 25,000
1 Table of 10
Support of 1 key Conservation Programme
3 Corporate Events Supported by NSS
Acknowledgement in Programme
Materials, Social Media and Various Publications
Gold
SGD 10,000
1 Table of 10
2 Corporate Events Supported by NSS
Acknowledgement in Programme
Materials, Social Media and Various Publications
Silver
SGD 5,000
1 Table of 10
1 Corporate Events Supported by NSS
Acknowledgement in Programme
Materials, Social Media and Various Publications
Bronze
SGD 3,500
1 Table of 10
Acknowledgement in Programme
Materials, Social Media and Various Publications
Join Us in our 70th Anniversary Celebration and Double the Impact of your donation towards supporting Nature Conservation in Singapore !
Nature Society Singapore celebrates 70 years of conserving Singapore’s habitats and biodiversity this year! Established in 1954 as the Singapore Branch of Malayan Nature Society, we came into existence even before Singapore’s independence, and have had an equally colourful and rewarding journey! We remain committed to be Singapore’s leading advocate of biodiversity and habitats. With our evidence-based approach and partnerships with agencies, peers, and corporates, we lead habitat and biodiversity conservation in Singapore, and with partners in the region. Through engagement, education, advocacy, and research, we inspire and enable people to take action towards a sustainable and biodiverse planet. Our commitment is to preserve the natural world of Singapore, to honour its beauty and diversity, and to ensure that future generations may inherit a planet teeming with life, wonder, and possibility.
To celebrate its 70th Anniversary, NSS has successfully applied for a matching dollar-for-dollar grant from the Tote Board’s Enhanced Fund-raising Programme. This means that any donations to NSS will be matched dollar-for dollar by Tote Board and the Singapore Government. Please support and donate to our 70th Anniversary fund-raising event and double the impact of your donation towards supporting nature conservation in Singapore.
The Nature Society Singapore is a registered charity and is accorded the Institution of A Public Character (IPC) status. As such, your donations are tax exempt and the tax deduction benefit granted (up to 2.5% of your donation amount) will be automatically included into your Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) tax form. Please provide your name, NRIC/FIN/UEN and email address to enjoy this tax deduction benefit.
Donations can be made by:
Bank transfer to our bank account
DBS Bank Current Account No. 0721166151
Bank Account Name: NSS 70TH ANNIVERSARY
Bank Code: 7171 / Branch Code: 072 / Swift Code: DBSSSGSG
Bank Address: 12 Marina Boulevard, DBS Asia Central, Marina Bay Financial Centre T3, Singapore 018982
Payment by PayNow
Please scan the PayNow QR Code or PayNow to UEN: S61SS0142H70A
Corporate Account Name: NSS 70th ANNIVERSARY
UEN: S61SS0142H70A
Payment by Cheque
Cheques can be made payable to: NSS 70th Anniversary
Please ‘crossed’ your cheque and mail it to: NSS Office, 510 Geylang Road #02-05, Singapore 389466
For tax-exemption, please email Joseph Lim at joe@nss.org.sg the following details:
- Full name
- NRIC/FIN number
- Handphone number
What Your Donation Supports
Rewilding
The NSS Rewilding Project aims to provide a continuous canopy cover over the Rail Corridor to improve the habitat connectivity of green spaces in Singapore, specifically the mangroves in the northwest, the forests further inland, & the urban greenery in between. By engaging our members, agency & community partners, we aim to create & enhance habitats for wildlife, while bringing people closer to nature.
Every Singaporean
A Naturalist (ESN)
Flagship citizen science project and nature education programme aimed at nurturing hearts and minds for nature, and ultimately lead the participants to support advocacy and conservation of the natural environment. Programmes are designed to build capacity and competency; provide opportunities to put knowledge and skills into practice; provide platforms to celebrate achievements and recognise outstanding performances. This includes student & teacher training, urban biodiversity monitoring, skills achievement programme, guided walks, annual biodiversity race & annual symposium |
NSS Stewards Program
Nature education programme aimed to inspire every Singaporean to be a naturalist so together, we foster a mutualistic co-existence between people and nature Through nature guiding, we impart knowledge, skills and attitudes towards nature and ultimately lead the participants to become stewards of nature, and to guide others in taking care of nature
Singapore Bird Race
Singapore Bird Race sets to promote the appreciation, awareness and conservation of wild birds in Singapore, and local biodiversity more broadly to the Singaporean public. The Bird Race has also served as a source of scientific knowledge on the distribution and conservation status of endangered birds in the country. The data collected has also been used in guiding national conservation assessments.
History of Nature Society Singapore
The Nature Society Singapore (NSS) is one of Singapore’s oldest non-government organisations (NGOs). For over half a century, the NSS was the lone voice speaking for Singapore’s natural heritage treasures – a foundation pillar supporting civil society in Singapore.
The Society boasts a proud record of widely inclusive membership drawn from the ranks of ordinary people, as well as experts – laymen, amateur naturalists, professional biologists, administrators, businessmen, government servants and politicians, local-born and expatriate, they have all played their part in voluntary cooperative action within NSS, aimed at protecting Singapore’s unique natural environment.
The Society’s roots can be traced back at least to 1921, when its predecessor, the Singapore Natural History Society (SNHS), was formed to develop ‘friendly intercourse between local naturalists and the increase and diffusion of knowledge concerning natural history.‘
By 1922, the SNHS had 66 members. It produced the Singapore Naturalist publication up to 1928 but then faded away.
In 1940, the Malayan Nature Society (‘MNS’) was formed, in colonial ‘Malaya’, based in today’s Malaysia. After World War II, in 1948, this society’s first Annual General Meeting recorded 400 members. ( The MNS still flourishes today as the Malaysian Nature Society).
The Singapore section of MNS was established in 1954 as the Malayan Nature Society (Singapore Branch). Singapore-based naturalists felt strong common cause with their Malaysian counterparts and so were not as inclined as politicians to separate from Malaysia in 1965. Hence the Singapore Branch of MNS, its administration still centralised in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, persisted as late as 1991. In 1991, however, the Singapore Branch at last separated from MNS, amicably and by mutual consent, to form the independent Nature Society (Singapore) in 1992.
The NSS has evolved in tandem with Singapore society, responding to Singaporeans’ increasing levels of education, affluence and internationalisation, and to the increasing pressures exerted on Singapore’s natural environment by escalating physical development and economic prosperity from the 1970s onwards. But by the late 1970s the NSS had become a more vigorous and vocal campaigner for nature conservation. However, research and education have always remained important facets of NSS’ work.
Not all battles have been won, but each one has raised the collective consciousness of Singaporeans. Our causes adopted and fought to a successful conclusion by NSS, often in collaboration with other like-minded local groups, as well as our awards can be found here.