subject: Chek Jawa, A Delight For The Nature Enthusiast [print this page] Chek Jawa refers to the natural cape and the 100 hectare wetlands it contains, located on the tip of Pulau Ubin, an islet off the north-eastern shores of Singapores main island. Chek Jawa has one of the remaining few natural rocky shores in the area. The wetlands have the distinction of containing several different ecosystems rocky beach, sandy beach, coral rubble, seagrass lagoon, coastal forest and mangroves.
The natural treasures of Chek Jawa were only discovered as recently as the early 2000s, almost by accident during a low tide nature excursion. Impending plans by the government for a land reclamation project encompassing the area led to widespread protests by nature enthusiasts. A group of activists under the leadership of Joseph Lai, a botanist completed a biodiversity survey and petitioned the government to reverse the plans; this was duly done and the authorities agreed to preserve the area.
In recent years Chek Jawa has established itself as a major attraction for both adventurous locals and foreign visitors who brave the elements to explore the area with its teeming flora and fauna. Recognizing the attraction of the Chek Jawa wetlands, the government has created facilities for visitors, with a boardwalk over 1 km in length, a 20 meter viewing tower and a viewing jetty located at a visitor centre.
A bewildering array of creatures find their home in Chek Jawa, including fish, shellfish, crabs, sea pens, sea stars, sponges, various kinds of anemones, octopus, coral and sea cucumbers to name a few. If you are lucky you may even see seahorses, squid, sea hares and mantis shrimp. Discovering these exquisite creatures for yourself is an experience in itself. Rare birdlife found here include the Red junglefowl, Oriental pied-hornbill and Straw-headed bulbul as well as magnificent birds of prey overhead.
To experience attractions in and around Singapore, a Singapore serviced apartment such as the Riverdale Residence would be ideal. This comfortable accommodation offers well appointed rooms and attentive service making for a delightful stay.
