ISCM’s Visit to Singapore — Strengthening Partnerships in Smart and Sustainable Urban Development
From October 16 to 19, 2025, the Institute of Smart City and Management (ISCM), University of Economics HCMC (UEH) conducted a study and collaboration visit to several leading institutions and agencies in Singapore, including the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), and the Sustainable Singapore Gallery. The trip aimed to enhance partnerships in education, research, and practical initiatives for smart, sustainable, and human-centric urban development.
On the afternoon of October 16, ISCM visited the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and met with representatives from the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities (LKYCIC), the Sustainability Office, and the Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD) Pillar. Discussions centered on developing a dual master’s degree program between ISCM and LKYCIC, as well as exploring scholarship opportunities and joint research on digital twin and net-zero initiatives. ISCM also invited SUTD to participate in the upcoming Urban Beyond Urban program and the Resilience by Technology and Design (RTD) 2026. The delegation concluded the visit with a tour of the SUTD Library, Fabrication Lab, and Satellite Fab Labs, gaining valuable insights into SUTD’s interdisciplinary and innovation-driven learning environment.
ISCM working with representatives from LKYCID, ASD Pillar, and the Sustainability Office
On the morning of October 17, ISCM met with representatives of the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The session provided an in-depth overview of Singapore’s public transport system, widely recognized as one of the most advanced in the world. Discussions covered key areas such as land and infrastructure planning, coordination among transport operators, private vehicle management policies, public transport promotion strategies, and railway workforce training. The exchange also highlighted potential cooperation in training and capacity building for rail operation and management professionals, providing ISCM with practical insights into Singapore’s integrated and technology-driven transport management model.
In the afternoon, ISCM visited the Department of Architecture at the National University of Singapore (NUS), where both sides exchanged ideas on education and research directions in architecture and urban studies. NUS presented its key initiatives in urban climate design, urban analytics, urban ecology, and the Microclimate Digital Platform (MDP) — an open-access tool that supports climate-responsive urban planning. The discussion also explored collaboration opportunities using Ho Chi Minh City as a case study, data-sharing initiatives, and PhD scholarships. ISCM invited NUS to participate in the RTD 2026 and upcoming public lectures or special sessions, reinforcing shared goals in smart, sustainable, and resilient urban development.
On October 18 and 19, the delegation continued its field visits to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park, and the Sustainable Singapore Gallery. At URA, ISCM gained a deeper understanding of Singapore’s integrated urban planning approach, balancing economic growth, housing, and environmental sustainability through long-term strategic vision and data-driven governance. The visit to Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park showcased Singapore’s innovative approach to water-sensitive urban design, where the formerly concrete Kallang River was transformed into a naturalized, meandering waterway integrated within the park’s landscape. This project exemplifies how flood management can be harmonized with ecological restoration and public recreation, creating a multifunctional urban green space that enhances both resilience and livability. Finally, the visit to the Sustainable Singapore Gallery further illustrated the nation’s comprehensive framework for sustainability and climate resilience, showcasing innovations in energy management, waste reduction, water conservation, and community engagement.
Through this visit, ISCM not only strengthened institutional partnerships but also gained valuable lessons on Singapore’s integrated models for urban governance, sustainable design, and smart technology adoption. The trip provided inspiration and strategic direction for ISCM’s ongoing efforts in advancing smart, inclusive, and sustainable cities in Vietnam and the region.