Future of work in the West

Work in the West: URA’s Vision for Singapore’s Western Region

Singapore’s western region is undergoing a major transformation under the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Master Plan, with a strong focus on economic growth, job creation, and improved connectivity. The government is positioning the West as a major employment hub with thriving business districts, industrial zones, and innovation clusters. These efforts are aimed at reducing commuting times, boosting economic activity, and enhancing work-life balance for residents.

The western region comprises key areas such as Jurong Lake District (JLD), Jurong Innovation District (JID), Tuas Mega Port, and One-North, all of which play a crucial role in Singapore’s economic development.

1. Key Employment Hubs in the West

(i) Jurong Lake District (JLD) – Singapore’s Second CBD

• JLD is the largest commercial and mixed-use district outside the city center, positioned to be Singapore’s second Central Business District (CBD).
• It will offer over 100,000 new jobs across various industries, including finance, technology, and business services.
• Enhanced connectivity via the Jurong Region Line (JRL) and Cross Island Line (CRL) will make it more accessible for workers.
• New office spaces, retail hubs, and green spaces will create a dynamic environment for businesses and employees.

(ii) Jurong Innovation District (JID) – A Global Hub for Advanced Manufacturing

• JID is a high-tech industrial hub for advanced manufacturing, robotics, artificial intelligence, and research and development (R&D).
• Companies in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical industries will find JID an ideal base due to its proximity to NTU and A*STAR research institutes.
• JID is expected to generate over 95,000 jobs, offering opportunities for engineers, researchers, and technology professionals.
• The Jurong Region Line (JRL) will improve transport access to the district.

(iii) Tuas Mega Port – The Future of Global Trade

• Tuas Mega Port will consolidate Singapore’s port operations into one of the world’s largest container terminals.
• Expected to be fully operational by 2040, the port will handle 65 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually, boosting Singapore’s role in global trade.
• Automation, AI-driven logistics, and smart port technologies will create thousands of jobs in maritime, logistics, and engineering.
• Improved infrastructure such as the Tuas Viaduct and JRL connectivity will support worker accessibility.

(iv) One-North – Singapore’s Innovation and Research Hub

• One-North is a vibrant R&D and business hub focused on biomedical sciences, information technology, and media industries.
• Home to Fusionopolis, Biopolis, and Mediapolis, it attracts global technology firms and startups.
• The area offers high-value jobs in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, digital media, and fintech.
• Close collaboration with universities such as NUS, SIT, and INSEAD fosters innovation and talent development.

2. Connectivity and Infrastructure Enhancements

To support economic growth in the West, URA is enhancing transport connectivity:

• Jurong Region Line (JRL) (opening in phases from 2027 to 2029) will link key employment hubs like JLD, JID, and NTU.
• Cross Island Line (CRL) will improve connections between the West, East, and North-East regions.
• Tuas Viaduct and expanded road networks will facilitate smoother logistics and freight movement.
• New cycling and pedestrian pathways will encourage sustainable commuting for workers.

These improvements will reduce commuting times, making jobs in the West more accessible to residents across Singapore.

3. Benefits of Working in the West

(i) More Jobs Closer to Home

• By developing the West into a major economic hub, residents can find employment opportunities closer to home, reducing the need for long daily commutes.

(ii) Diverse Job Opportunities

• The combination of high-tech industries, commercial businesses, R&D centers, and logistics hubs ensures a wide range of job opportunities across different skill levels.

(iii) Integration of Work, Live, and Play

• The URA Master Plan integrates workplaces with recreational spaces, parks, and lifestyle hubs, promoting a better work-life balance.
• Employees can enjoy Jurong Lake Gardens, shopping malls, and dining options within walking distance of offices.

4. Future Outlook: The West as a Global Economic Powerhouse

The western region is poised to become Singapore’s economic powerhouse, with:

• Increased investments from multinational corporations and startups.
• More high-value, knowledge-intensive jobs in tech, science, and innovation.
• A smart and sustainable transport network supporting business growth.

With these developments, the West will evolve into a dynamic, well-connected, and future-ready employment hub, reinforcing Singapore’s status as a global business center.

Conclusion

URA’s vision for Work in the West is to create a thriving economic and innovation hub, reducing reliance on the city center and fostering sustainable growth. With major developments like JLD, JID, Tuas Mega Port, and One-North, the western region will provide a diverse range of job opportunities, better connectivity, and an improved work-life balance. As Singapore continues its transformation, the West will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of work in the country.

Otto Place is close to both Jurong Lake District (JLD) and Jurong Innovation District (JID), offering future residents a workplace that is nearer to home.

Source: URA