WORLD CITIES SUMMIT 2026
THROUGH THE HDB LENS
From knowledge exchange to on-the-ground learning experiences, HDB's participation at World Cities Summit (WCS) 2026 highlighted Singapore's public housing journey through innovation and strides in urban solutions that drive liveability, sustainability and resilience.
Through a plenary session, site visits and a showcase at the Singapore Pavilion, HDB engaged international delegates, city leaders and urban practitioners in conversations on building inclusive, liveable and future-ready communities.
The ‘Singapore Pavilion’ showcased Singapore’s dynamic approach to building future-ready cities,
as well as re-imagining sustainable urban development for all. HDB's booth showcased our journey of housing a nation and building inclusive, liveable and sustainable communities. Through interactive exhibits and displays, visitors learned about HDB's efforts in town planning and design, estate rejuvenation, and the translation of research and innovation into practical solutions that enhance residents' lives.
At the WCS plenary session on ‘Revitalising Cities for Inclusive, Sustainable Communities’,
HDB brought together experts and practitioners to discuss how cities can rejuvenate urban spaces while fostering social inclusion and environmental sustainability. The session attracted about 380 participants and featured presentations, followed by a moderated panel discussion.
Beyond the conference halls, HDB hosted delegates on two site visits that showcased different facets of Singapore's public housing journey.
Participants of the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize (LKYWCP) Network Mayoral Fellowship Programme visited Punggol Point Cove to learn about the waterfront town’s transformation, while WCS delegates toured Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok, HDB's first Community Care Apartments, to gain insights into housing solutions that support ageing-in-place.
While delegates, mayors and city leaders took centre stage at WCS, a dedicated team of HDB colleagues worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every engagement ran smoothly. Serving as Liaison Officers (LOs), they played a crucial role in supporting international delegates, coordinating programmes and representing Singapore as hosts.
SCDCRM Charlene Ong (CDG), Doris Tan (MOM), SCM Adeela Ahmad Jailani (PCG) and CM Cheryline Jia (PCG)
The role of LO required a combination of planning, coordination and quick-thinking skills. The LOs were often the ‘go-to person’ for their assigned mayors and delegations, and the work began even before the event.
My day-to-day as an LO was to plan a three-day WCS programme for a foreign Minister and ensure that he could be punctual for his back-to-back appointments."
-- SCM Adeela Ahmad Jailani (PCG)
Coordinating between different parties even before the event, walking around to guide my two delegations where they needed to be, and firefighting to ensure their experiences went smoothly.”
-- SEM Jenny Teoh (EAPG)
Some of them even took on a broader coordinating role, overseeing both mayors and the LOs supporting them.
As a Desk OIC, I ensured that all mayors under my charge were cared for, their personal itineraries planned out, and the LOs followed through on them. At the same time, we also looked after our LOs and provided support whenever needed."
-- SENGR Joel Tan (BIG)
SEM Victor Wong, EM Paris Tan & SEM Jenny Teoh from EAPG
Beyond the logistics, many LOs found the opportunity to interact with international leaders especially rewarding.
A memorable moment would be receiving the Jakarta Governor in the VIP Complex, as this opportunity is likely not common for HDB staff!”
-- SEM Mark Chan (HMG)
As his Accompanying Officer was unable to travel to Singapore, I had to communicate directly with the Minister I was assigned to daily and got to hear firsthand what it is like being a Minister in his country. He was very down-to-earth and polite – this made my experience as an LO very pleasant and memorable."
-- SCM Adeela Ahmad Jailani (PCG)
At the end of the day, there will be great satisfaction in seeing months of preparation come together. A simple gesture can also leave a lasting impression.
My head of delegation from Yokohama was very appreciative that I sent her off speaking some Japanese."
-- SEM Jenny Teoh (EAPG)
One moment that stood out was seeing the bilateral meetings I helped arrange come together smoothly — watching both sides engage meaningfully and leave the room having achieved what they came for. It sounds simple, but knowing that the groundwork laid in advance made that possible is quietly satisfying."
-- SEM Victor Wong (EAPG)
SEM Victor Wong (EAPG), SENGR Kendra Loh (BQG), SENGR Joel Tan (BIG), SPLANNER Chin Ming Li (UPG)
Supporting city leaders from around the world also provided valuable insights into diplomacy, protocol and cultural differences. There was ultimately some balance required in being a good host.
I was often fielding numerous detailed questions ranging from event arrangements to protocol considerations. Although some matters were beyond the control of LOs, we tried our best to manage their concerns.”
-- SEM Mark Chan (HMG)
There were moments where we had to politely but firmly uphold our rules, and getting that balance right felt like a small but important part of representing Singapore well."
-- SEM Victor Wong (EAPG)
I had the privilege of meeting mayors from different countries and cities, fellow MND and HDB colleagues, LOs from different public service agencies and external partners. It helped shape my perspective on city-building and brought more purpose and meaning to my day-to-day work in HDB."
-- SENGR Joel Tan (BIG)
SLARCHT Benjamin Leow (DDG), EEM Ramizah Rahman (HMG), EDSCT Ananya Balehithlu (ISG)
Despite the long hours and fast-paced environment, the experience was one that left a lasting impression on our colleagues who echoed similar sentiments.
Chaotic but fun!"
-- SEM Jenny Teoh (EAPG)
It was tiring, but without a doubt, definitely worth it."
-- SENGR Joel Tan (BIG)
The exposure to protocol work and international relations was something quite outside the usual scope for HDB staff, and it offered valuable insights and learning opportunities."
-- SEM Mark Chan (HMG)
WCS 2026 showed me that behind every successful international meeting is a large crew of people making sure everything runs smoothly — and I'm glad I got to play my part with fellow LOs."
-- SEM Victor Wong (EAPG)
Through their dedication, adaptability and commitment to service, our colleagues played an important role in helping Singapore welcome city leaders from around the world, demonstrating the professionalism and hospitality that underpin the World Cities Summit experience.
