How to accommodate Singapore’s growing population, and more stories

For PropertyGuru’s news roundup, as Singapore’s population hits more than 6 million, city planners and urban thinkers seek solutions to accommodate a growing population within limited spatial constraints. In other updates, Malaysia is strategically positioned to be a key solar panel producer for the region, according to its deputy minister. Lastly, learn more about the various ways to make money from vacant land in India.

Commentary: Even as Singapore’s population exceeds 6 million, it doesn’t have to feel crowded

According to the annual Population in Brief released on Tuesday (Sep 24), Singapore’s total population has grown to 6.04 million people. This was largely driven by the non-resident population, which grew by 5 percent from June 2023 to June 2024. At the same time, immigration numbers remained stable, albeit slightly elevated. How can Singapore accommodate its growing population? In most cities, the key solution has been to increase urban density, which essentially means finding ways to accommodate more people within the same amount of physical space. But higher density does not necessarily equal more crowded cities. CNA reports how Singapore city planners and urban thinkers have long been seeking solutions to accommodate growing populations within limited spatial constraints.

Malaysia is positioned as a key player in solar panel production, says Liew

Malaysia is strategically positioned as it hosts a significant presence of global solar panel producers and benefits from abundant sunshine, said Deputy Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong in The Edge Malaysia. According to him, Malaysia needs to enhance its capabilities in battery storage to complement its solar energy initiatives. He noted that few countries outside the US, China, and Europe possess a well-established solar panel supply chain. Solar panel manufacturers in Malaysia previously concentrated primarily on the US market. However, the deputy minister said, “It is now time to use their Malaysian capacity to deliver green transition in Malaysia and Southeast Asia at an affordable rate. Malaysia should use the sweet spot we are in, such as the manufacturing capacity and the sunshine, to speed up on popularising the adoption of household solar solutions, hastening the pace of the green transition,” Liew added.

How to make money from vacant land in India

Vacant land is often considered an underutilised resource in India, but it holds immense potential for generating income. Whether located in urban, suburban, or rural areas, vacant land can be transformed into a profitable asset with the right approach. With the rapid pace of urbanisation and the growing demand for innovative uses of land, opportunities for monetizing vacant plots are expanding. From agriculture and renewable energy projects to leasing for small businesses, the possibilities are vast. Housing.com explores the various ways to make money from vacant land in India, helping you unlock its true value.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].