SINGAPORE - OCBC Bank is stepping up its commitment to environmental sustainability with a $1 million sponsorship to fund a fleet of 15 solar-powered electric cruisers at Gardens by the Bay.

       These sleek, eco-friendly vehicles, which can generate nearly 70 per cent of their operational power from solar energy, were unveiled at the eighth edition of Gardens by the Bay’s Race to Sustainability! event on Oct 23.

       With this move, the attraction further strengthens its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote green initiatives while providing a cleaner transport option for thousands of visitors.

       OCBC Group chief executive Helen Wong said the initiative aligns with OCBC’s climate action goals aimed at promoting a low-carbon world.

       “The 60 solar panels to be installed on the cruisers will generate close to 70 per cent of the power needed to ferry thousands of visitors. An impressive feat. We are happy to be able to contribute to the Gardens’ efforts in reducing carbon emissions,” Ms Wong said.

       Race to Sustainability! – Gardens by the Bay’s flagship post-examination programme – was designed to engage Singapore’s youth in environmental awareness and climate education.

       Nearly 5,000 students from 21 schools took part in 2024, navigating through Gardens by the Bay to complete a series of challenges focused on biodiversity, the impacts of climate change, conservation and sustainability.

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       The event was flagged off by Ms Grace Fu, the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations.

       The 2024 edition, part of the Clean and Green Singapore campaign and in support of the Year of Public Hygiene, has been expanded to include tailored programmes for lower primary and tertiary students, such as guided tours and educational talks. In addition, there are free activities to engage the public on the topic of sustainability.

       Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said the attraction was founded on sustainability principles and driven by a commitment to educate and inspire. He noted that the rise in participation in Race to Sustainability! has shown a growing interest in environmental issues among the younger generation.

       “Through this event and the complementary activities open to the public, we hope to foster a shared sense of environmental responsibility and ignite a call to action amongst our community,” Mr Loh said.