Oral reply to PQ on Indicators leading to formalising of extension of liquor trading hours at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay

Question:

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre: To ask the Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) in formalising the one-year pilot to extend liquor trading hours and allow more flexible uses at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay (a) what changes from before the pilot were recorded in (i) pedestrian footfall (ii) outlets actually using the extended hours and (iii) police incidents and noise or public-nuisance complaints; and (b) what indicators will be monitored following the formalisation.

Oral Answer (to be attributed to Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Dr Tan See Leng

1.       The one-year pilot of the revitalisation measures at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay was introduced on 18 August 2025. 60 outlets were granted extended liquor trading hours. In the seven months following the launch of the pilot, 2.4 million tourists visited the Singapore River precinct. This is a 14% year-on-year increase. Businesses have also observed increased footfall since the launch of the pilot.

2.       The law-and-order situation in the precincts has also remained stable. During the one-year pilot, one noise complaint was received and subsequently amicably resolved.

3.       Following the formalisation of the revitalisation measures, agencies, including MHA, MND and METI, will continue to work with local stakeholders on security measures to ensure law and order, as well as responsible management of the nightlife spaces and public areas at these locations. We will also continue to gather feedback from the public, industry and local stakeholders on how to inject vibrancy into the area, while ensuring public safety and security.