Background of Chek Jawa
Chek Jawa or also known as Tanjong Chek Jawa is a 100-hectare wetlands located on the south-eastern tip of Pulau Ubin, which is an island off the north-eastern coast of mainland Singapore.
It is one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems with six major habitats located in the same area. Many of these plants and animals are uncommon in Singapore and fast disappearing in the world.
Chek Jawa was originally slated for land reclamation in 1992 however after its vast bio-diversity was discovered, reclamation was deferred.
Chek Jawa is made up of 6 interdependent ecosystems – namely , its Coastal Hill Forest, the Mangrove Forest, its Rocky Shore, the Sandy Shore and Sand Bar, the Seagrass in the Lagoon and the Coral Rubble.
There are also various amenities for visitors such as the Floating Pontoon, Coastal Boardwalk, Visitor centre and a seven-story viewing tower called the Jejawi tower.
There are also guided tours regularly conducted for visitors.
What you will experience
Chek Jawa is a natural haven comprising of six distinct habitats. Coastal forest, mangroves, sandy beaches, sandflats, lagoons, coral rubble and a tiny island called Pulau Sekudu or Frog Island, quietly tucked away at the easternmost corner of Pulau Ubin. Chek Jawa has charmed and captivated all who dared to ventured out along a two-hour (by foot) dirt track. During your walks, you may even be greeted by a friendly wild boar.
The list of wondrous creatures in Chek Jawa is incredible. Stick insects, Flying Dragons, Oriental Pied Hornbills, jungle fowls, wild boars, otters, Seashore Nutmeg Trees, Sea Anemones, Seahorses, sea cucumbers, cow fishes, octopuses, stingrays, starfishes, decorator crabs, shellfishes, sea grasses, seaweed, and sponges, etc. and the list is ever growing!
The lagoon is protected by 2 sandbars that trap and regulate water during low tides. Without them, the ecosystem within will not be able to survive. There are millions of organisms in the sand and mud of the lagoon. These microscopic creatures are incredibly important to the chemistry and well-being of the lagoon.
Chek Jawa is a unique nature heritage richly populated with all things natural and is rich in biodiversity.
How to get there?
At Changi Point Ferry Terminal, a bumboat is available at 2.50 per person and the maximum capacity for each boat is 12 people. The boats operate from 6am to 8pm. Upon reaching Ubin Jetty, you can either hire a van or ride a bicycle to Punai Hut and from there you will need to walk to the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk.
Visitors’ Useful Information
The opening hours for Chek Jawa is from 8.30am to 6pm. Cycling is not allowed within Chek Jawa so as to prevent damages done to the natural habitat. Vehicles and bikes should be parked at allocated lots near the Punai Hut.
Guided tours are available for those who are interested in learning more about the marine life and species of plants in the mangrove forest.
For more information, please visit National Parks Board at http://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/index.php?option=com_visitorsguide&task=attractions&id=78&Itemid=73
