In Full Bloom: Official Launch of Giving Garden Phase 2
We recently celebrated the full completion of this beloved garden with our residents, Mr Foo Cexiang and a very special VIP guest. Read on to find out more.
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Under a deep cerulean sky, residents gathered on the morning of 5 April 2026 to celebrate the official launch of The Giving Garden @ Kim Tian, Phase 2. The sunny weather perfectly complemented the flourishing greenery of the rooftop space—now transformed into a vibrant, welcoming sanctuary in the heart of the estate.
The event was graced by Tanjong Pagar–Tiong Bahru Adviser Mr Foo Cexiang, as well as Minister Indranee Rajah, who previously served as Adviser for the division and first initiated the Giving Garden project in 2021.
A vision takes root
The Giving Garden began as a simple yet powerful idea. In 2021, Minister Indranee saw the potential of the under-utilised rooftop of the multi-storey car park at Kim Tian. She envisioned a space that could bring nature closer to residents, while also serving a practical purpose—growing fresh produce for the community.
Under her direction, the Town Council embarked on the project, navigating new ground in planning, logistics, and implementation. Within just six months, Phase 1 was completed and officially launched in November 2021. Featuring neat rows of rectangular planters designed to maximise yield, the garden has since produced regular monthly harvests of vegetables, distributed free of charge to residents in the vicinity.
Growing bigger and better
Building on the success of Phase 1, work on Phase 2 began in 2025. More than double the size of the original garden, this expansion represents a bold step forward.
While Phase 1 prioritised efficiency, Phase 2 allows for an aesthetically pleasing and relaxing natural environment. Visitors can now enjoy flowing, organically shaped planters, a wide, open path for leisurely strolls, and a mix of decorative plants alongside expanded plots for vegetables and herbs.
Rosemary, mint and basil are among the new additions we saw in Phase 2. We also spotted several local varieties of butterflies, birds and other insects that showed the garden is buzzing with life.
The result is a space that not only feeds the community, but also serves as a vital biodiversity node in our garden city.
Built with care and purpose
Phase 2 was designed and constructed by Cosks Construction & Landscape over nine months. According to Project Manager Fred and Director Cirilla Kuek, careful consideration had to be given to stay within the structural limits of the rooftop.
To manage weight safely, lightweight aluminium was used for planter construction and soil depth was kept relatively shallow. Larger plants such as the distinctive Mickey Mouse trees were placed in deeper individual pots.
Cosks will continue to maintain the garden for one year alongside resident volunteers, before handing over full maintenance duties to the Town Council. An important focus throughout is the use of natural pesticides and fertilisers on all edible plants, ensuring the produce grown is safe, healthy, and fully organic for residents to enjoy.
A celebration of community
Upon arrival, Mr Foo and Minister Indranee were warmly greeted by residents and took time to interact with them before proceeding to the official ceremony. The launch was marked by the cutting of an eco-friendly “ribbon” made out of pandan leaves and vines harvested from the garden, followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
In his address, Mr Foo thanked residents for their strong support and acknowledged the many partners who contributed to creating and sustaining the garden.
Minister Indranee reflected on her original vision of carving out a “slice of nature” within the Kim Tian neighbourhood. She commended the Town Council team for overcoming the challenges of an unfamiliar project and bringing the idea to life—first with Phase 1, and now fully realised through the completion of Phase 2.
In a celebration of the garden’s bounty, both Mr Foo and Minister Indranee then proceeded to harvest fresh produce from the more mature plots.
The celebration ended on a lively note, with the duo performing a few well-loved classic tunes for attendees before taking their leave. The party continued for residents who stayed on, with performances and other activities that created a festive mood.
A Shared Space for All
The Giving Garden @ Kim Tian is open to all members of the public. Visitors are encouraged to be considerate – keeping noise levels low, respecting the shared space, and taking care not to damage the plants or disturb nearby residents.
To protect the garden and ensure its continued productivity, members of the public are reminded that any harvesting of produce can only be performed by authorised personnel.
From a visionary idea in 2021 to a flourishing community landmark today, the Giving Garden @ Kim Tian stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together—with care, creativity, and a shared commitment to a greener future.
