Dr Liu Thai Ker, Singapore’s former chief planner and one of the key figures behind the city-state’s urban landscape, has died at the age of 87. He passed away on Sunday morning at Tan Tock Seng Hospital after being hospitalised following a fall, surrounded by family. 

Dr Liu, often recognised as a pivotal architect of modern Singapore, served in public service for more than two decades. He was instrumental in shaping public housing and urban planning frameworks, including leading roles at the Housing and Development Board (HDB) and later as chief planner and chief executive of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). 

During his tenure at the HDB from 1969 to 1989, Dr Liu oversaw the development of multiple new towns and contributed to policies that enabled widespread home ownership, laying the groundwork for Singapore’s distinctive model of integrated and liveable residential communities. 

He subsequently steered the URA in its early years, helping to advance Singapore’s long-term planning framework and national land-use strategies. His influence extended beyond Singapore, with advisory and planning work in dozens of cities around the world and continued involvement in urban affairs following his retirement from public service. 

National leaders and figures from the architecture and planning community paid tribute to Dr Liu’s lifelong dedication to building quality living environments and fostering community spirit across Singapore’s neighbourhoods. His contributions have left a lasting imprint on the city-state’s built environment and planning ethos. 

Dr Liu is survived by his wife, Gretchen Gustafson, and their five children.