Singapore is a highly urbanized country with minimal land. Despite this, about 1% of Singapore’s land area is dedicated to farming. These farms and agricultural plantations produce a variety of crops for local consumption.
Singapore also started urban farming recently to increase food security and reduce dependence on imported food. Here is a video from Tomorrow’s Build to explain the future of Singapore farming.
If you are interested in farming and want to explore Singapore’s agricultural landscape, you have come to the right article.
This article will provide some in-depth information and include the places you can visit to explore some countryside experiences.
Importance of Food Security to Singapore
As a city-sized country with a rapidly growing population, food security is a significant concern for the city-state. Singapore does not have enough land to produce all the food it needs, so it relies heavily on imports. The country imports about 90% of its food, some directly from neighboring countries.
This dependency leaves Singapore vulnerable to disruptions in the global food supply chain. For example, a ban on poultry imports from Malaysia caused a notable chicken shortage in Singapore.
This highlights the importance of food security for Singapore. The country is working to increase food production to ensure self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported food.
One way to achieve this is by increasing local food production and exploring urban farming. Urban farming refers to the practice of growing crops within an urban environment. This can be done on rooftops, balconies, vacant lots, or any other available space in the city.
Urban farming is a viable option for Singapore as it does not require a lot of land. It also can improve food security and reduce dependence on imported food.
Traditional Farms in Singapore
Most of these farms are located northwest of Singapore on the city’s outskirts. Some of these farms also offer tours and activities for visitors. This is a great way to learn about traditional farming methods and how crops are produced locally.
These conventional farms have been around in Singapore for many years. They provide a vital food source for the country and play an essential role in food security.
Suppose you are interested in farming and want to explore Singapore’s agricultural landscape. In that case, you can visit one of these farms.
Here, you will be able to learn about the different conventional farming techniques and see how crops are grown. They play an essential role in the country’s food security and provide a source of fresh, locally-grown produce.
Here are a few of Singapore’s most famous traditional farms open to the public for a visit.
1. BEE AMAZED Garden
The BEE AMAZED Garden is a unique visitors’ center located at Kampung Kamping. They offer educational programs, family activities, and corporate workshops that can be customized accordingly to suit your needs or interests.
Visitors will learn a brief history of beekeeping, local honey bees, and their sting, in addition to tasting some delicious honey.
You can observe these fascinating insects up close at the observatory after learning all there is to know on this topic from an expert educator.
Address: 463 Clementi Road, Singapore 599494
John’s passion is evident in his work! A great, big thank you to John and your wonderful team. Our staff had an extremely enjoyable time and left with much new knowledge!
2. Bollywood Farms
Known for more than its organic produce, Bollywood Farms includes a culinary school alongside an interactive museum where you can learn about how your favorite food is made.
They also have a cafe using only fresh ingredients harvested from their backyard.
Bollywood Veggies is open to the public and offers a range of activities such as tours, workshops, and classes. You can also buy fresh produce from the farm’s shop.
Address: 100 Neo Tiew Road, Singapore 719026
Must go place
The beverages were served after the meal. We were unsure of the reason for this. The lemongrass drink was too diluted. Could have done better.
The fish n' chips were served with no lemon. We were informed that there was no lemon available. Nasi lemak set was good. The fried chicken can be elevated with more rempah.
Overall, its a good lunch. 👍
Very unique atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else in Singapore. Food was great too. Service was friendly
3. Hay Dairies Goat Farm
The only goat farm in Singapore producing milk locally, Hay Dairies has over 800 goats of various breeds.
You can walk around the farm premises and see all sorts of exciting things at your own pace. Maybe you’ll find some goats lazing in their barns or looking out, wondering what’s happening outside.
You can visit the farm to learn how the goats are raised and milked. The milking process takes place from 9 am and ends around 10:30 am. You can also buy fresh produce from the farm’s shop.
Address: 3 Lim Chu Kang Lane 4, Singapore 718859
Ample of parking opposite
Located just across Neo Tiew Crescent Car Park.
4. Khaiseng Fish Farm
This is one of the many fish farms in the North-West of Singapore. They have been sustainably farming fresh fish in Singapore across more than 30 fish ponds since 1997. The fish farm is one of its kind to receive the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore’s approval to sell fish on its premises.
Khaiseng Fish Farm imports live goods such as Toman (Snakehead), Bullfrog, and Freshwater Eel from Malaysia and Taiwan. In addition to freshwater fish, saltwater species, including Grouper, Tiger Prawns, and Sea Bass, are available seasonally.
It’s open for walk-ins so that you can visit the place.
Address: 291 Neo Tiew Cresent, Singapore 718903
Friendly staff helped select fish and clean/pack is as per my request.
Dated : 27/05/2018 ( Sunday ).
Update : /04/2019 ( Thursday ).
Added 28 new photos.
5. Kok Fah Technology Farm
The Kok Fah Technology Farm is a local family-owned business that has produced fresh vegetables for the past 40 years. Daily operations are managed by 3rd & 4th-generation members, including Mr. Wong Kok Fai and his three brothers. They took over from their father in 1979.
They recognized the need to invest in technology and, as a result, introduced several high-tech machinery with government grants to assist with farming operations to enhance efficiency and productivity.
A small local market takes place over the weekend, which is very popular and has a wide selection of fresh vegetables. They also have farm tours, a store, and a food area for visitors to get some food.
Address: 18 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 698974
Kids friendly and yes fresh greeneries to buy
Important note:
please avoid buying from the crackers stall that sells Nasi lemak
Crackers and otah not fresh at all
Kids friendly and yes fresh greeneries to buy
Important note:
please avoid buying from the crackers stall that sells Nasi lemak
Crackers and otah not fresh at all
Hope there will be another workshop again from Kok Fah Farm.
6. Smith Marine Floating Restaurant & Fish Farm
They are one of the fish farms located off Changi Beach. It comprises a few different floating structures that cover almost 5,000 sqm.
The fish are raised in carefully controlled conditions and are free from diseases and parasites. They rear around 30 tonnes of fish annually, including the popular seabass, red snapper, and grouper.
Tourists can dine at the on-site restaurant, which offers a stunning view of the fish farm. The restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes that are caught and prepared daily.
Located off Changi and Pulau Ubin, you must pre-book your dining beforehand. The Smith Marine Floating Restaurant is accessible by a 15-minute bumboat ride from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
GPS Coordinates: 01’23’52″N – 103’57’42″E
Smith Marine is a working fish farm. On arrival we got to walk around the Kelong platform and fed the fishes. There are some areas and corners for guests to relax before dinner.
We ordered a few dishes which include chili crab, steamed fishes, vegetables, fried rice, fried prawns etc. We enjoyed all the dishes. They were delicious and well presented.
Staff were friendly and service was efficient.
Dinner ended around 6.30pm. We took a leisurely sunset cruise around Pulau Ubin before returning to Changi Jetty.
We had a fun day out with a group of friends. I would recommend Smith Marine Floating Restaurant if you are looking for a different dining experience in Singapore.
Not for everyday but once in a lifetime!
Upon arrival at Changi ferry terminal, bum boat will take you to restaurant. Workers at the restaurant are absolutely amazing- we added an extra fish for $48 (reasonable price). Apparently they also do take aways where they freshly catch their farmed fish, descaled & vacuum at $20.
The drinks & add ons are inevitably slightly pricy than mainland but you’re truly paying for a different dine in experience.
Overall, it was just a nice experience to be able to take a boat out and do something different like this in Singapore. The ferry ride each way was only about 15mins and very calm. Even those who were at first concerned about motion sickness, were perfectly fine. Smith marine closes at 7pm and we had to leave by then, mainly because of safety reasons as the ferries do not run after sunset in the dark.
The catch-your-own-fish experience was lovely, and is a good way to educate diners about appreciating the hard work that goes into rearing and catching fish.
We also spoke to the owner to find out abit more about the history of the place, and it's highly commendable to hear the amount of effort he's invested in trying to bring the knowledge of fish farming to the public. It's such a shame it's not more popular, we as a society need to be more inquisitive of where our food comes from. To be able to see and experience first hand of catching our own fish, and to know this fish on our plate was just alive a few minutes ago made us respect our food even more.
Please give this place a visit and support our local fishermen for all the hard work they do! They do not get enough credit and deserve it 🙂
Join a guided boat tour to explore Singapore's waters and get up close to Pulau Ubin. Discover mangrove swamps, Kelongs (floating fish farms), and an abundance of nature.
Urban Farming in Singapore
The Singapore government started exploring urban agriculture by launching a pilot project to increase production. This project encouraged Singaporeans to grow their food in urban spaces.
The project’s success led to more urban farming initiatives in subsequent years. For example, in 2012, the SFA launched the “Farm in a Box” project, providing people with all the necessary equipment and materials to start urban farms.
Since then, Singaporeans have shown a growing interest in urban farming. As a result, more people are starting their farms and agricultural plantations. This contributes to the country’s food security and reduces its dependence on imported food.
There are now numerous urban farms across the city-state, ranging from rooftop gardens to large commercial farms.
Here are some urban farms in Singapore open to the public for a visit.
7. Urban Farm @ Funan
Singapore must produce food in the well-built and densely populated city urban scape, especially given its difficulties with food scarcity. Hence, Singapore started exploring rooftop vegetable gardens. The 5k square feet urban farm on the roof of Funan shopping mall produces a wide selection of plants such as leafy greens, mushrooms, herbs, fruits, and edible flowers.
Restaurants in the malls use the harvest products. You’ll also get breathtaking views, including Singapore River scenes alongside Supreme Court buildings.
Here, you will learn more about the various farming methods, such as soil-based systems and growing plants without soil. In addition, you can experience the entire process of planting and harvesting.
Address: Funan Mall, 107 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179105
- A place to enjoy a garden in the midst city bristling with high towers
- There are outdoor benches, swings, plantation houses and surprisingly, a futsal field.
Embrace the art of doing nothing and find your inner peace at Funan Urban Farm, a serene oasis tucked amidst the bustling city. With free public access from the lift, this hidden gem offers a unique escape where you can unwind and recharge surrounded by the beauty of nature.
The peaceful farm ambience soothes your soul, creating the perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. And for those seeking a little more activity, the futsal court adds a dash of fun to your visit. Whether you're a nature lover or a sports enthusiast, Funan Urban Farm is a delightful retreat that offers the best of both worlds.
Photos was
Taken with Google Pixel 6
Edited in Lightroom mobile
8. Open Farm Community
A leafy glasshouse adjacent to the Botanic Garden combines an urban farm with a dining experience in tropical climates. The food at this restaurant is prepared with a farm-to-table concept in mind, which means that they only utilize the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients in all meals.
The 10,000 sqft lush edible garden was inspired by permaculture. It featured 50 varieties of culinary herbs and local vegetables, which the chefs will harvest from this lush property twice daily.
This is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family or friends, as the restaurant offers beautiful views of the surrounding garden. After dinner, stroll around the grounds and explore the kid-friendly play areas.
Address: 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
Joseph is very friendly and helpful.
We had so far tried the following three dishes and satisfied with their overall flavours as well as texture.
-Seasonal Fish & Chips, had flaky, moist fish fillet encased in a light, crispy beer batter, alongside with golden, crispy potato fries. Paired with Ambarella Tartare or/and Chilli sauce. I preferred to pair with Malt Vinegar though.
-Egg Benedict, Smoked Salmon, hollandaise espuma, capers noisette and local slaw… Egg Benedict tastes rich, lemon buttery and creamy, paired well with tender, flaky salmon with rich smoky flavour and subtle saltiness.
-Udon Pasta, Cacio E Pepe, Onsen Egg, Applewood Smoked Bacon… Udon was well cooked and had firm yet supple elasticity with a chewy yet soft bite texture.. coated well with rich creamy, cheesy & peppery flavoured sauce alongside savory smoky bacon.
Service wise, their Service Staffs have been efficient but not attentive especially on weekends, so patron has to be patient with them. However we will still return to try their other dishes.
9. Sky Greens
There are many vertical farms worldwide, but Sky Greens is the world’s first hydraulic-driven low-carbon emissions farm developed to address Singapore’s land and water scarcity problems. The 38 tiers of growing troughs rotate around an A-shaped aluminum tower approximately 9 meters (about 30 feet) tall, powered by a water-pulley system.
It is located in Singapore’s Kranji Countryside; the farm grows a variety of leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables using a hydroponic growing system. The vertical farming uses 90% less land and 80% less water than traditional farms.
The farm is open to the public and offers tours that provide an exciting introduction to vertical farming. The tour includes visiting the control room to learn about the technology.
Address: 200 Lim Chu Kang Lane 3, 718804
I came here for a tour of the facilities; what these guys are doing is really terrific and it's a shame there is such little government support for this kind of innovative farming, especially in Singapore which imports 90% of ALL its food.
Support local!
10. City Sprouts
City Sprouts transformed the former Henderson Secondary School in Redhill into a 9,000-square-meter food and social center. Founded in 2019, City Sprouts is a social enterprise aiming to foster urban farming in our concrete jungle while establishing meaningful connections between people.
One of the largest urban farms in Singapore, City Sprouts aims to act as a platform for hobbyists, agri-preneurs, agrifood, agritech partners, and neighboring communities to engage with agriculture and food. This is also Singapore’s first plot-share urban farm and F&B concept in a repurposed school canteen.
The other half of the school blocks were converted into a Kindergarten daycare center. It also has a student hostel, a nursing home, and an outdoor fitness center.
Address: 102 Henderson Road, Singapore 159562
- Saw chickens and frogs
- supposed to see bugs too but the last event was changed to a edible pot creation so a little bit different fm the poster.
Fun and nice to see all the various booths
One of the highlights of the visit was the hands-on activity where students made their own self-watering planters. They were very enthusiastic and took great care in creating their planters. Each student brought theirs back to school, where they are now observing the growth of the plants with excitement and curiosity.
Overall, it was a meaningful and enjoyable trip that sparked interest in nature and sustainability. Highly recommended!
The venue was amazing and condusive as participants were given a tour of the farm after having sessions of briefings. We also had a session where citysprouts facilitators (Ayu and team) went through how to grow our own microgreens.
Overall, I would recommend this venue if you would like to merge a corporate event with nature and sustainability. I've received many good feedback from my participants.
11. VertiVegies Vertical Farm
VertiVegies is a commercial-scale vertical farm that was set up in 2017. The company grows leafy greens and herbs using an indoor vertical farm with the latest hydroponics technology in a controlled environment.
Controlled environment agriculture enables the farm to operate independently of external conditions, such as sunlight, water, and soil. In addition, they have unlocked the potential of indoor food production using LED and hydroponic techniques to grow a wide range of vegetables.
The crops produced this way are safer, fresher, and free of pesticides, but they are also available all year round.
Address: 85 Science Park Drive, Singapore 118259
