10:56:03 AM | 10/3/2025
With a presence in Vietnam spanning over three decades, Keppel has established itself as one of the most trusted international real estate developers, contributing to the country’s urban transformation through landmark developments. Among these, Saigon Centre stands out as a premier destination for retail, office, and serviced apartments, exemplifying Keppel’s commitment to professional management and sustainable operations aligned with international standards.
We spoke with Mr Lim Kay Siong, General Director of Keppel Land Watco Co., Ltd., a member of Keppel, which is responsible for the development, management and operations of Saigon Centre, to gain insight into the project’s sustainability strategy and its approach to fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
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Could you please share a brief overview of Keppel’s development journey in Vietnam and Saigon Centre?
Keppel is a global asset manager and operator with strong expertise in sustainability-related solutions spanning the areas of infrastructure, real estate, and connectivity. Headquartered in Singapore, Keppel operates in more than 20 countries worldwide, providing critical infrastructure and services for renewables, clean energy, decarbonization, sustainable urban renewal, and digital connectivity.
In Vietnam, Keppel is a pioneer and one of the largest foreign real estate investors with a quality portfolio in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Saigon Centre, located in the heart of Sai Gon Ward (formerly Ben Nghe Ward, District 1) has been one of the landmarks in the city’s skyline for nearly 30 years.
Phase 1 of Saigon Centre commenced in 1994 and was completed in 1996. Phase 1 introduced one of the city’s first mixed-use developments combining office, retail, and hospitality spaces. Phase 2, completed in 2016, expanded the complex with a modern shopping mall, Grade A office space, and Sedona Suites serviced apartments.
Today, Saigon Centre is not only a vibrant hub for shopping, working, and hospitality, but also a catalyst for urban development, contributing to Ho Chi Minh City’s ambition to become an international financial hub.
As a foreign real estate investor, what are Keppel’s key priorities in Vietnam moving forward, especially regarding Phase 3 of Saigon Centre?
Vietnam remains one of our key markets. Keppel is committed to developing green, sustainable, and people-centric urban spaces that enhance the quality of life and support sustainable economic growth.
Following the site handover by city authorities, we are actively progressing with Phase 3 of Saigon Centre, which will further elevate the complex’s status as an architectural and commercial icon.
Saigon Centre Phase 3 will be a 42-storey sustainable tower that will include a 5-star hotel and Grade A retail and office spaces, in HCMC. This iconic development will enhance the city’s skyline and contribute to its economy, offering world-class commercial spaces that meet the evolving needs of businesses and the community.
In today’s dynamic urban environment, safety, convenience, and sustainability are top priorities, how does Keppel demonstrate its leadership in sustainable development in Vietnam?
Sustainability is at the core of Keppel’s strategy. Guided by our vision to build sustainable urban environments, Keppel has consistently been recognized for its leadership in environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Saigon Centre, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and the Ho Chi Minh City Police, organized a fire prevention and fighting drill on July 23, 2023
In Vietnam, Keppel has received multiple accolades for sustainability. This year, we were honored in two categories: Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Activity and Minimizing Carbon Footprint, at the 2025 Top 50 Corporate Sustainability Awards (CSA).
One of the key efforts contributing to these achievements is our focus on sustainable development practices, such as energy-efficiency technologies.
At Saigon Centre, we have implemented energy-efficient technologies such as EC fans in air handling units, combining direct current motors with electronic control systems, to significantly reduce energy consumption. This initiative alone saves over 1 million kWh per year.
At The Infiniti, the third phase of Riviera Point, Keppel adopted CO2 Mineralized Concrete technology in construction, significantly reducing embodied carbon by over 1,135 tons compared to conventional materials.
Beyond that, Keppel also prioritizes meaningful community initiatives. Programs such as Bytes for Future, which equips young generations with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in the digital era, Living Well, bringing clean water to drought-stricken areas, and R.I.S.E. to the Challenge, which raises awareness about rising sea levels and climate change among the general public, have improved the lives of over 100,000 people across various regions. Since 2022, Keppel has contributed more than VND 7 billion and 8,200 volunteer hours to community programs.
These efforts reflect our dedication to creating long-term value for stakeholders while minimizing environmental impact.
Saigon Centre regularly accommodates around 10,000 people at a time, with peak periods reaching up to 20,000, along with high mixed-vehicle density in the basement levels. How does Keppel ensure fire safety and emergency rescue operations?
Safety is a cornerstone of Keppel’s operations. At Saigon Centre, we have invested in a comprehensive fire protection system that meets international standards, including automatic fire detection and suppression, smoke control, emergency exits, and an integrated surveillance camera system.
We also prioritize human readiness. Regular fire safety training and drills are conducted for staff, tenants, and visitors to ensure preparedness and swift response in emergency situations.
Community programs such as “Bytes for Future” contribute to affirming Keppel’s commitment to sustainable development. In the photo: Mr. Lim Kay Siong and students from Nguyen Hue A High School (Binh Long Ward, Dong Nai Province) try out computers provided by the Bytes for Future program
Our objective is to maintain a safe, secure, and trusted environment where people can live, work, and shop with confidence.
How would you assess the collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police in this effort?
We deeply value our partnership with the Ho Chi Minh City Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police. Each year, Saigon Centre coordinates with the department to conduct inspections, training sessions, and full-scale emergency drills.
This collaboration ensures that our operations are continuously monitored and optimized for safety. Their support is instrumental in helping Keppel uphold the highest standards of operational excellence and public safety.
Thank you very much!
Ngoc Tung (Vietnam Business Forum)
Vietnamese
