Come May 2025, Singapore Oceanarium at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) will debut its Research and Learning Centre, a cutting-edge hub dedicated to marine science, education, and sustainability. Designed as a catalyst for innovation and conservation, this landmark facility reinforces the Oceanarium’s ambition to become Asia’s leading force in marine biodiversity protection and ecosystem restoration.
Building on over a decade of conservation efforts by the former S.E.A. Aquarium, the Centre will be the heartbeat of Singapore Oceanarium’s educational and research mission, offering a purpose-built space to scale up its impactful work in species breeding, behavioural studies, and global collaborations.
Sustainability at Its Core
Earning the prestigious Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy certification from Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the Centre is built for a sustainable future. It features a lightweight concrete façade, solar-powered energy system, natural lighting, and aluminium shades to minimise heat gain—all part of RWS’ broader goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
Immersive Facilities for Learning and Discovery
Equipped with modern labs, collaborative spaces, and interactive classrooms, the Centre is designed to inspire learning and advance research. Key features include:
- The Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic Rooms: Flexible learning spaces that can be combined for large group engagements.
- The Wave: A welcoming bleacher-style staircase area for informal group discussions.
- The Edutorium: A multi-purpose venue outfitted with state-of-the-art digital tools for lectures and presentations.
- The Beacon: A rooftop event space offering panoramic views—ideal for community gatherings and receptions.
- Marine Lab: Divided into teaching, research, and wet labs, this space supports hands-on marine science education and research.
Driving Global Conservation
The Centre will serve as a launchpad for breakthrough conservation projects—from coral reproduction in controlled environments to studying genetic diversity among marine species. It will also host workshops, training programmes, and citizen science initiatives, engaging the public and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for ocean health.
In line with its global vision, the Centre is set to host two major international events:
- Bowmouth Guitarfish Population Viability Analysis Workshop (May 12–14, 2025)
Organised by Shark Ray 360, this workshop will unite over 15 global aquariums and marine experts—including leaders from the IUCN Shark Specialist Group and Shedd Aquarium—to strategize urgent conservation measures for the critically endangered Bowmouth Guitarfish. - CITES Global Youth Summit Workshop (May 28, 2025)
Part of the week-long summit hosted by the National Parks Board (NParks) and the CITES Global Youth Network, this workshop will address the complexities of regulating marine species trade. It aims to empower youth from over 50 countries to drive change in tackling illegal wildlife trafficking.
Images credit to Resorts World Sentosa.
