More than 1,000 rally at Hong Lim Park over Maju Forest, Gillman Barracks plans

Based on aerial shots of the crowd, CNA estimated the turnout at more than 1,000.

The three-hour programme, which started at 3.30pm, included activities such as postcard writing, as well as speeches and sing-alongs by environmental advocates with backgrounds in ecology, economics and education, among others. 

Ms Aznikah Nizar, 28, hoped the rally would spur the authorities to consider how the development plans could be reorganised without clearing the forest.

“It’s not too late because they haven’t started clearing the forest yet,” said the private tutor. “My worry is that they do take feedback into account but still push through anyway. Because I think this is unlike other things, this is something that’s really irreversible.

“Once the forests are gone, they are just gone.”

Participants also raised broader questions about the loss of forests and natural spaces, access to nature and public participation in decisions over land use and access to information.