Singapore's top university imposes week-long restrictions to prevent tourist influx

By Hoang Vu September 26, 2024 | 09:55 pm PT

A sign of the National University of Singapore is displayed at the campus entrance in Singapore. Photo by AFP

The National University of Singapore (NUS), one of the world's most prestigious institutions, would implement temporary restrictions on access to its two food courts and internal shuttle bus service to prevent a potential influx of tourists.

Only its students, staff, and authorized personnel will be permitted to use the shuttle bus service between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. from Sept. 30 to Oct. 7, excluding Oct. 6, according to an official notice posted on the university's website on Thursday.

Similar restrictions will apply to the Fine Food and Flavors food courts located on the campus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with exceptions on Oct. 5 and 6.

Additionally, the university's Central Library will be closed to visitors during this period.

Security checks will be in place, and students, staff, and authorized visitors will be required to present NUS-approved passes or relevant documentation to gain entry.

These measures are in response to expectations of a significant number of foreign visitors during the first week of October, which could disrupt student life.

The university has become a popular destination for tourists, drawn to its modern architecture, libraries, museums, and vibrant campus life.

Earlier this year, Nanyang Technological University, another prominent Singaporean institution, announced plans to introduce entry fees for tour groups due to similar disruptions caused by large numbers of tourists.