New Science Centre exhibit shows beauty of engineering

Engineering has played a major role in Singapore's growth and transformation and will remain important as the country enters the next phase of development, said Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean.

Speaking at the launch of an exhibition on engineering at the Science Centre yesterday, Mr Teo also encouraged more young people to pursue a career as an engineer or scientist.

Singapore offers some of the best facilities and support for big companies and start-ups and the possibilities are limitless, he added.

"We can see feats of engineering all around us: from NEWater to our transportation networks; from the Stamford Detention Tank and Stamford Diversion Canal that protect Orchard Road from floods to our new mega port at Tuas, scheduled to open in 2021," he said.

Mr Teo, who is also the Science Centre's patron, cited Jewel Changi Airport as an engineering marvel due to its glass roof that looks like it is suspended in mid-air.

Mr Teo mentioned young engineer Grace Chia, who co-founded local start-up BeeX that develops autonomous underwater vehicles.

"Singapore has some of the best facilities and the ecosystem to support not only major companies like Keppel to design offshore structures and ice-breakers for the Arctic, but also for marine robotics start-ups like BeeX to develop cutting-edge technology and make their mark in the world," said Mr Teo.

The Science Centre's Future Makers exhibition seeks to bring to life the beauty of engineering and innovation, while explaining how mega structures, rockets and even medicines are invented.

The main attraction of the permanent exhibition is a theatre run by four robotic arms holding television screens.

Through videos and synchronised movement, the robots explain the scope of modern engineering.

Visitors will also get to fly drones and operate rovers in an enclosed aviary.

This article was first published in The New Paper. Permission required for reproduction.