Following the decision to develop Integrated Resorts in Singapore, the Government launched two Requests for Proposal (RFP) for the Marina Bay Integrated Resort (now known as Marina Bay Sands) as well as the Sentosa Integrated Resort (now known as Resorts World Sentosa).
The bids from the two exercises were evaluated based on the following criteria:
- tourism appeal and contribution
- architectural concept and design
- quantum of development investment
- strength of the consortium and partners
The Ministerial Committee that was looking into the submitted bids was chaired by former Deputy Prime Minister Professor S Jayakumar. Members comprise Ministers from various Ministries such as MTI, MOF, MCYS and MOT. Assisting the Ministers in the evaluation process were Permanent Secretaries from their respective ministries.
The Committee also considered the views of a Design Evaluation Panel comprising established local and international architects, as well as inputs from other international and local experts in areas such as attractions, entertainment, and financial and business models.
Marina Bay Integrated Resort
On 15 Nov 2005, the RFP for the Marina Bay Integrated Resort was launched.
Four parties responded to the RFP:
- Las Vegas Sands Corporation
- Harrah’s Entertainment and Keppel Land
- Genting International and Star Cruises
- MGM Mirage and CapitaLand
The project was eventually awarded to Las Vegas Sands on 26 May 2006, and this gave birth to the Marina Bay Sands.
Sentosa Integrated Resort
On 28 Apr 2006, the RFP for the IR at Sentosa was launched with proposals from:
- Genting International
- Eighth Wonder
- Kerzner International with CapitaLand
The project was eventually awarded to Genting International on 8 December, who subsequently named its Integrated Resort as Resorts World Sentosa.