KUALA LUMPUR - The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has invited consultancy firms on April 17 to submit expressions of interest to redevelop Soon Lee Recreation Centre into Singapore’s first Recreation Hub and to upgrade Kaki Bukit Recreation Centre, both serving migrant workers.

The plan is part of wider efforts to improve rest, leisure and support facilities for migrant workers in Singapore.

Authorities aim to turn both sites into larger, mixed-use hubs that combine recreation, services and learning spaces.

Soon Lee RC, currently the largest migrant worker recreation centre in Singapore, serves more than 40,000 workers in the area.

After redevelopment, its usable space is expected to double through better use of the existing site.

Once completed, it is expected to serve more than 100,000 workers by around 2030.

The upgraded Soon Lee site will include weather-resistant sports facilities that can host large events and be adapted for other uses when needed, along with seating for spectators.

It will also have food and retail outlets as well as government service counters so workers can complete administrative tasks on site.

Space will also be provided for NGOs and community groups to run programmes, training and support services.

Kaki Bukit RC in eastern Singapore is also planned for expansion by 2030.

It will be redesigned to serve more than 20,000 users and upgraded with better sports facilities and more food and retail options.

Both centres will also have flexible layouts so parts of the facilities can be converted for emergency use such as medical services or vaccination drives.

The consultancy process will be carried out in two stages.

In the first stage, firms will submit their experience, team structure and general design approach.

Shortlisted firms will then proceed to the second stage to submit detailed architectural and site design plans.

One consultant will be appointed for each project to oversee design and implementation work.

The appointed consultants will conduct full studies, develop design concepts for both centres and supervise construction.