SingHealth’s Healthier EAST @ SG initiative has been inducted into the World Health Organisation’s Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC), marking a significant milestone for Singapore’s Eastern region. Announced at the SingHealth Duke-NUS Scientific Congress 2025, the initiative aims to transform the area into an inclusive, age-friendly community, impacting over 610,000 residents.
Healthier EAST @ SG collaborates with healthcare providers, community partners, and social service agencies to serve residents in Bedok, Changi, Marine Parade, and Tampines, where nearly 28% of the population is aged 60 and above. By joining GNAFCC, Eastern Singapore aligns with over 1,700 cities worldwide, committed to creating age-inclusive environments across eight essential domains, including housing, transportation, and health services.
Lee Chien Earn, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer of SingHealth, highlighted the importance of this global connection, stating, “Inauguration into the WHO GNAFCC connects us with a global community of cities and regions dedicated to a singular mission of enabling healthy ageing.”
For nearly two decades, SingHealth has led efforts to develop integrated age-friendly initiatives. The HealthUP movement, launched in 2021, has shown significant health improvements among participants and now supports over 170,000 residents. It empowers individuals with preventive health goals through activities like physical exercise and healthy eating, supported by telehealth and digital tools.
The initiative also transforms urban spaces into therapeutic environments, promoting mental wellness and community connection.
