Howden Whitepaper 2026
Singapore to redevelop Soon Lee and Kaki Bukit RCs to boost migrant worker facilities

Singapore to redevelop Soon Lee and Kaki Bukit RCs to boost migrant worker facilities

Soon Lee RC will be transformed into a larger, integrated recreation hub with services and community spaces, while Kaki Bukit RC will see expanded capacity and upgraded amenities to better support migrant workers’ daily and social needs.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has issued calls for Expression of Interest (EOI) for multi-disciplinary consultancy services to redevelop Soon Lee Recreation Centre (RC) into Singapore’s first Recreation Hub (RH), as well as to upgrade Kaki Bukit RC.

Both redevelopment projects are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the diversity and quality of offerings for migrant workers in Singapore. The aim is to better support their social and recreational needs by transforming the centres into community spaces where workers can rest, learn, and connect with friends and family.

The RH model was previously announced by Minister Dinesh Vasu Dash during the Committee of Supply Debate in March 2026. Under this model, the new hubs will be larger than existing RCs, with upgraded facilities and an expanded range of amenities and services.

The appointed consultants will undertake a comprehensive consultancy study, develop design concepts for Soon Lee RH and Kaki Bukit RC, and supervise construction for both projects.

Transforming Soon Lee RC into Singapore’s first RH

Soon Lee RC is currently the largest RC in Singapore, serving more than 40,000 migrant workers in the vicinity. With its redevelopment, it will be transformed into an integrated hub offering about twice the current usable space, achieved through more intensive land use within the existing site.

The RH is expected to be completed by end-2030 and will be able to serve over 100,000 workers.

It will bring together recreational facilities, essential services such as a medical centre, and opportunities for learning and development within a multi-purpose-built space. The hub will feature weather-proof sports facilities that can support large-scale events and contingency use, along with a sheltered stand for spectators.

These will be complemented by recreational amenities, including retail outlets and food and beverage options to cater to workers’ needs and preferences.

The hub will also house government services, allowing migrant workers to access support more conveniently. In addition, dedicated spaces will be set aside for non-governmental organisations and community partners to organise activities, provide training, and offer assistance.

Kaki Bukit RC to be upgraded with expanded amenities

Kaki Bukit RC, which serves migrant workers in the eastern part of Singapore, will also undergo upgrading works, with completion similarly targeted by 2030.

The redevelopment will intensify land use to increase its capacity to serve over 20,000 workers. It will include upgraded amenities to better support workers’ daily social and recreational needs, including a broader mix of food and beverage options, retail outlets, and improved sports and recreational facilities.

Both Soon Lee RH and Kaki Bukit RC will incorporate flexible spaces that can be rapidly converted for crisis or contingency use, including for medical services or as vaccination centres.

In a statement, Minister Dinesh said the redevelopment reflects efforts to turn recreation centres into better-equipped spaces for migrant workers, with expanded services and facilities that support their well-being.

“We hope that every worker will find in these centres a home away from home, where they can spend their rest days meaningfully, build friendships and connect with the wider community.”

Two-stage design consultancy tender process

Both projects will follow a two-stage design consultancy tender process.

In stage one, the EOI, tenderers will submit their track records, team compositions, and a statement of design intent outlining their design philosophy, approach, and strategy. In stage two, shortlisted tenderers will be required to translate their ideas into detailed concept design proposals, including site layouts and overall architectural plans.

At the end of each tender, a consultant will be appointed to develop and implement the design for the redevelopment of Soon Lee RC and Kaki Bukit RC respectively.


ALSO READ: When salary disputes turn into illegal employment risks: What HR and employers can take away from the Ali Md Kawsar case


Lead image / Migrant Workers' Centre Facebook

Follow us on Telegram and on Instagram @humanresourcesonline for all the latest HR and manpower news from around the region!

Free newsletter

Get the daily lowdown on Asia's top Human Resources stories.

We break down the big and messy topics of the day so you're updated on the most important developments in Asia's Human Resources development – for free.

subscribe now open in new window