Geography and the Urban Environment

In July 2025, a team of ACSian Geography students received the Merit Award for the 2024 Challenge for the Urban and Built Environment (CUBE) workshop, a prestigious competition organised annually by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) for pre-tertiary students.

The team, comprising Wong Zi Xuan, Jaden Yip, Jovin Kristanto, Sarah Chan, Ooi Xi Ning, Caroline Tay, and Samuel Loh, was tasked with designing and planning a land-use map for ‘Long Island’, demonstrating strong interdisciplinary thinking, innovation, and creative problem-solving in addressing real-world urban development issues.

Through this eye-opening experience, the team gained valuable exposure to the complexities of urban planning and sustainable design, including how industry-leading architects have integrated sustainable design principles with existing architecture. Furthermore, the team also had the opportunity to formulate and craft their own unique vision for a future Singapore. From drafting comprehensive land-use plans that layered transport, green spaces, housing, and commercial zones, to developing detailed concept art with a focus on sustainable architecture, they had the privilege of acquiring a diverse range of skills essential for shaping resilient and future-ready cities.

Receiving the Merit Award stands as a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity. Their achievement not highlights the potential of youth in shaping more sustainable and inclusive cities, but also serves as a reminder of the importance in appreciating the Government's efforts in nurturing a harmonious and sustainable community for our entire society.