Forum: Orchid garden along Orchard Road a welcome, long-overdue initiative
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I refer to the article “New park in Orchard Road to combine Istana Park, Dhoby Ghaut Green and Penang Road Open Space” (Aug 12). The standout feature is the integration of a native orchid garden along Orchard Road.
Transitioning these native species from botanical enclosures into a high-traffic civic and commercial thoroughfare is a welcome, long-overdue initiative.
At present, public engagement with our national flower remains limited. Access to Singapore’s primary orchid collections are largely centralised within the National Orchid Garden, where admission requires a paid ticket.
For many citizens, exposure to these blooms occurs vicariously through media announcements of new hybrids named after visiting foreign dignitaries.
More than just a botanical display, the orchid is also a living symbol of Singapore’s resilience, diversity and thriving spirit.
By rooting these vibrant blooms along our busiest thoroughfare, we do more than beautify a street – we also weave our national identity back into the everyday lives of the people.
Osman V.P. Mohamed
