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PM Lawrence Wong laid out the development's long-term vision, talking about jobs, connectivity, and growth for Singaporeans.
Singapore has marked a major milestone in its aviation journey with the groundbreaking of Changi Airport Terminal 5 (T5), a key part of the country’s long-term infrastructure planning. Speaking at the ceremony on 14 May 2025, Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance highlighted how the project reflects Singapore’s story of defying the odds, surpassing expectations, and striving for greater heights.
Below, we have summarised some of the key excerpts of PM Wong's speech.
A bold vision rooted in history
The first point the leader made was that, Singapore's pioneers had made the "bold decision" to build Changi back in the 1970s, when it was decided that operations would be moved away from Paya Lebar. While some had questions the cost-benefit ratios or the future demand for air travel, he noted that the decision to push ahead with Changi's development proved to be "transformative".
Changi has since expanded to four terminals and seen the introduction of Jewel. PM Wong stated that like Singapore, Changi too has defied the odds to thrive and succeed beyond all expectations, citing its reputation as a world-class airport, evidenced by its 13th Skytrax World's Best Airport award.
Navigating global uncertainties and sharpening competition
Despite Changi's achievements, PM Wong cautioned against complacency. He highlighted the uncertain and unpredictable global economic landscape, noting potential for a larger global slowdown. He also acknowledged the sharpening competition from other countries that are investing significantly in their airport infrastructure.
As such, he emphasised that Singapore must continue to work hard, remain connected to the world, and ensure its air hub stays competitive.
To address these challenges, Singapore is embarking on the Terminal 5 project.
PM Wong explained that T5 has been in the making for quite some time, with plans initiated in 2013 but paused due to COVID. The downtime was used to refresh and update these plans.
T5, he said, will be a mega terminal, equivalent in land area to the current four terminals combined, and will increase Changi's capacity by over 50%, serving an additional 50mn passengers annually. It will become the new home for the SIA Group, as well as there will be space for other carriers to grow their fleets at T5 and across Changi.
The aim is to expand Changi's network to over 200 city links by the mid-2030s.
Terminal 5: Planning for capacity, connectivity, and sustainability
T5 will be a “smart terminal”, incorporating state-of-the-art systems to automate passenger and back-end functions such as baggage-handling processes. It will also be a "sustainable terminal," utilising AI-optimised air-conditioning, intelligent lighting, and hybrid cooling systems, with the potential for a large rooftop solar system.
Connectivity, the national leader said, is a priority. An Automated People Mover system will link T5 to other terminals, and a dedicated ground transportation centre will integrate various transport options. The Thomson-East Coast Line extension will provide direct MRT access to the city centre, and plans are underway to connect T5 to new hubs via the Cross Island Line. Future connections to the JB-Singapore Rapid Transit System and potential air-sea transfers are also being considered.
New districts, new opportunities
T5 is part of the larger Changi East development, which includes:
- Changi East Industrial Zone, to enhance cargo capacity and logistics capabilities.
- Changi East Urban District, a future mixed-use area for connection, work, and play.
Investing in people, investing in the future
PM Wong emphasised the opportunities T5 will create for Singaporeans. The construction project will involve local businesses, and the operational terminal will generate demand for services and jobs in new areas such as data science, robotics, and sustainability. He affirmed that this bold move is to keep Changi ahead, just like the forefathers who chose to build Changi.
Addressing all in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony, PM Wong concluded: "You are the secret sauce behind Changi’s success; so I say to all of you, keep up the good work, and may your spirit continue burning brightly and take Changi Airport and Singapore aviation to even greater heights.”
Lead image / PM Lawrence Wong Facebook
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