Sentosa Island, once known as Pulau Blakang Mati, has undergone a major transformation from a British military fortress to one of Singapore’s premier tourist destinations. The development for tourism purposes started in the 1970s, as the Singaporean government recognised the potential of the island in attracting tourists. In 1972, the island was renamed "Sentosa" which means 'peace and tranquility' in Malay, marking the beginning of its journey as a leisure destination.
Since then, Sentosa has evolved continuously to add attractions that appeal to a global audience. Key developments included the opening of Surrender Chamber at Fort Siloso in 1974, the iconic Merlion statue in 1995, and the integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa, which includes Universal Studios Singapore, opening in 2010.
The Sentosa Merlion was a majestic 37-meter-tall statue, one of the most iconic landmarks of Singapore, symbolizing the city-state's humble beginnings as a fishing village coupled with its traditional Malay name 'Singapura' or 'lion city'. The statue had a viewing gallery at its head which provided stunning panoramic views. However, in 2019, the Sentosa Development Corporation announced that the Sentosa Merlion would be demolished to make way for the Sentosa-Brani Master Plan that aims to rejuvenate the island over the next two to three decades.
In recent years, Sentosa Island has been focusing on experiences that go beyond traditional attractions. This has included the introduction of events like the Sentosa GrillFest and Sentosa Sandsation, which feature unique activities like beach BBQs and sand sculpting workshops. Additionally, an emphasis on eco-tourism is growing, with the island offering activities such as nature walks and conservation programs.
During the global COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shift toward domestic tourism, with Sentosa positioning itself as a 'staycation' hotspot for locals. Now, as international travel resumes, Sentora Island is once again pivoting to attract a global audience.
The Sentosa-Brani Master Plan envisions the integration of new themes and concepts into the island's development, with an ambitious plan to transform it into a top-tier leisure and tourism destination by the 2030s. The project includes developing themed zones, enhancing beach attractions, and creating a pedestrian link to the mainland, among other initiatives aimed at creating a more immersive and diverse experience for visitors from all over the world.
Beyond entertainment, Sentosa is spreading its wings into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions) sector, offering world-class facilities like the Resorts World Convention Centre and Sentosa Golf Club. With these ventures, Sentosa Island aims to be a leading destination for both leisure and business tourism for years to come.
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