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Nearly $4 billion of CDC and SG60 vouchers spent over past 4 years

A total of $3.995 billion worth of Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers, including SG60 vouchers, were spent over the last four years.The update was given on Tuesday (Feb 3) by Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo in a written re
Singapore

Nearly $4 billion of CDC and SG60 vouchers spent over past 4 years

A total of $3.995 billion worth of Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers, including SG60 vouchers, were spent over the last four years.The update was given on Tuesday (Feb 3) by Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo in a written response to a parliamentary question by MP Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC).Saktiandi had asked how many households have claimed the 2026 CDC vouchers, and how much of the spending were at heartland businesses.He also asked about the impact of CDC vouchers on household consumption and small business resilience.In his response, Neo — who said that he was answering in his capacity as the minister charged with the responsibility for the People's Association — explained that it is «still early» to share the claim and spend rate of the latest tranche of $300 CDC vouchers.Eligible Singaporean households were able to claim and use $300 in CDC vouchers only just slightly a month ago, from Jan 2.

No plans to roll out central kitchen model to all schools: Jasmin Lau

The Ministry of Education (MOE) has no plans to introduce the central kitchen model to all school canteens, Minister of State for Education Jasmin Lau said on Tuesday (Feb 3).Responding to questions from several MPs, she said there is also no target in mind t
Singapore

No plans to roll out central kitchen model to all schools: Jasmin Lau

The Ministry of Education (MOE) has no plans to introduce the central kitchen model to all school canteens, Minister of State for Education Jasmin Lau said on Tuesday (Feb 3).Responding to questions from several MPs, she said there is also no target in mind to replace traditional canteens where students buy food from individual stallholders.From last month, 13 schools had switched to the model where a single operator manages their canteens.Lau said that the central kitchen model was not introduced to replace traditional canteens, but rather as an alternative to help schools that were struggling to attract stallholders and had severe shortages of functioning stalls.«We want to avoid putting students in these schools at risk of not having good access to affordable, nutritious and balanced meals,» she said.Yusof Ishak Secondary School was the first to pilot the central kitchen model in 2022.Lau said that after seeing «positive results», MOE decided to roll out the model to 13 additional schools that face challenges in securing sufficient stallholders.Some of these schools are using hybrid models, she said.

Smoke plumes from 'persistent hotspots' in Johor moving towards Singapore: NEA

Persistent hotspots in eastern Johor have resulted in smoke plumes which are moving towards Singapore due to the prevailing north-easterly and north-westerly winds, said the National Environment Agency (NEA).In a Facebook update after 7.30pm on Tuesday (Feb 3
Singapore

Smoke plumes from 'persistent hotspots' in Johor moving towards Singapore: NEA

Persistent hotspots in eastern Johor have resulted in smoke plumes which are moving towards Singapore due to the prevailing north-easterly and north-westerly winds, said the National Environment Agency (NEA).In a Facebook update after 7.30pm on Tuesday (Feb 3), the agency said that the detection was made during a satellite pass just after 2pm, adding that showers over Singapore and the surrounding areas expected from Wednesday (Feb 4) should help to improve air quality. On Tuesday afternoon, AsiaOne was on the ground in Tampines, Paya Lebar and Whampoa, where passers-by said they noticed a burning smell in the air. 

'I was in despair': Mother of lost 7-year-old recounts how stranger helped reunite her with daughter

A routine school day turned into a mother's worst fear when she was informed that her seven-year-old daughter Alex had gone missing.Speaking to AsiaOne on Tuesday (Feb 3), Angel Liu, 43, recounted the trauma she went through on Jan 28 afternoon after her elde
Singapore

'I was in despair': Mother of lost 7-year-old recounts how stranger helped reunite her with daughter

A routine school day turned into a mother's worst fear when she was informed that her seven-year-old daughter Alex had gone missing.Speaking to AsiaOne on Tuesday (Feb 3), Angel Liu, 43, recounted the trauma she went through on Jan 28 afternoon after her elder daughter Andrea, 10, called her with the news.But an act of kindness by a stranger ensured that Alex reached home safely, but not before Liu, a mother of two, endured more than three hours of agony and despair.«I was at work when I received a call from Andrea. She was crying when she told me that that my younger daughter, Alex, had gone missing,» said the financial adviser.«It happened so fast that I didn't really have time to process it. I just knew that I had to find my daughter as soon as possible because something might have happened to her.»Liu added that both her daughters attend Ngee Ann Primary School and it is their usual practice to meet after class before heading home in the Joo Chiat area, typically arriving by around 2.30pm.

Warong Nasi Pariaman's closure not due to high rent: Syed Harun

The closure of popular nasi padang eatery Warong Nasi Pariaman last month was not due to high rent, said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for National Development Syed Harun Alhabsyi in Parliament on Tuesday (Feb 3). Dr Syed Harun was responding to questio
Singapore

Warong Nasi Pariaman's closure not due to high rent: Syed Harun

The closure of popular nasi padang eatery Warong Nasi Pariaman last month was not due to high rent, said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for National Development Syed Harun Alhabsyi in Parliament on Tuesday (Feb 3). Dr Syed Harun was responding to questions from MPs Denise Phua (Jalan Besar GRC) and Fadli Fawzi (Aljunied GRC) on concerns about protecting long-standing businesses in heritage districts such as Chinatown and Kampong Glam from rising rents. «It was reported in the media that the representative from the family clarified that the closure was not related to rental issues, and we should not wrongly conclude that this was due to a high level,» he said. Warong Nasi Pariaman, which closed on Jan 31 after 78 years and was reportedly the oldest surviving nasi padang stall in Singapore, was located in a shophouse near Sultan Mosque. 

This made my day: Woman distributes food and drinks to rough sleepers at Our Tampines Hub

As night fell and most of Singapore went to bed, a woman was up distributing food and drinks to rough sleepers at Our Tampines Hub.TikToker naivanderwaal had visited the centre at about 2am on Friday (Jan 30) to give away meals from a home-based business as w
Singapore

This made my day: Woman distributes food and drinks to rough sleepers at Our Tampines Hub

As night fell and most of Singapore went to bed, a woman was up distributing food and drinks to rough sleepers at Our Tampines Hub.TikToker naivanderwaal had visited the centre at about 2am on Friday (Jan 30) to give away meals from a home-based business as well as packaged drinks she had bought.In a video uploaded on Saturday (Jan 31), Nai remarks that there are «quite a number» of people at the hub, and that she and her group would leave the food next to those who were asleep at that time.She then weaves through the chairs at the Festive Plaza, handing out food to individuals resting there. Some rough sleepers are also seen on benches at another area.The video has more than 29,000 views.Nai, 24, told Stomp that there were about 15 to 18 beneficiaries that night.The meals are contributed by customers of home-based businesses who support the initiative by covering the cost of an extra meal.«The people who usually join me when I help distribute food are my viewers and supporters who voluntarily participate,» she was quoted as saying.

Always 'ASAP': Australian expat calls out Singapore’s corporate culture

An Australian expat who works here has said the corporate culture in Singapore is always about «being urgent» even when «not everything is actually urgent».In a TikTok video uploaded last month, Nim, 26, shared three things she doesn'
Singapore

Always 'ASAP': Australian expat calls out Singapore’s corporate culture

An Australian expat who works here has said the corporate culture in Singapore is always about «being urgent» even when «not everything is actually urgent».In a TikTok video uploaded last month, Nim, 26, shared three things she doesn't like about the corporate work culture here.She moved to Singapore three years ago from Perth and is a lawyer in the trading and shipping industry, MS News reported.Nim said in the video: «Clients would also want everything done ASAP which is just unrealistic and often there is no pushback.»She said that at times she only gets one day to complete work that the management may not even review until weeks later, adding that the general urgency isn't actually driven by deadline — an aspect of Singapore's work culture that she finds unique. «Hierarchy is everything» in most environments, she said, and junior employees are often expected to simply adhere to established norms and not share their opinions unless asked, which doesn't happen often. 

WP chief Pritam Singh moves to new seat in Parliament after removal as Leader of the Opposition

The Parliament of Singapore has released a new seating plan, effective Tuesday (Feb 3), ahead of its sitting the same day.In a revised seating plan dated Feb 3 and uploaded to the Parliament's website, Workers' Party chief Pritam Singh's seat was moved from t
Singapore

WP chief Pritam Singh moves to new seat in Parliament after removal as Leader of the Opposition

The Parliament of Singapore has released a new seating plan, effective Tuesday (Feb 3), ahead of its sitting the same day.In a revised seating plan dated Feb 3 and uploaded to the Parliament's website, Workers' Party chief Pritam Singh's seat was moved from the middle — where he used to sit across from Prime Minister Lawrence Wong — to a seat two seats to the left.His seat will now be occupied by Member of Parliament for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC Christopher de Souza, who also serves as Deputy Speaker. In turn, MP for Jurong Central SMC Xie Yao Quan will take up de Souza's previous seat. 

7% of vehicles haven't installed ERP 2.0 on-board units; missed ERP payments to be decriminalised

Some 70,000 vehicles in Singapore — or seven per cent of the total vehicle population — have yet to install the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system's new on-board unit (OBU) as of Jan 31 this year. Singapore will transition to the use of the satelli
Singapore

7% of vehicles haven't installed ERP 2.0 on-board units; missed ERP payments to be decriminalised

Some 70,000 vehicles in Singapore — or seven per cent of the total vehicle population — have yet to install the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system's new on-board unit (OBU) as of Jan 31 this year. Singapore will transition to the use of the satellite-based ERP 2.0 system in 2027, and all owners of Singapore-registered vehicles are advised to have the OBU installed — a final reminder to do so will take place on Feb 15. Speaking in Parliament during the Second Reading of the Land Transport and Related Matters Bill on Tuesday (Feb 3), Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow said that distance-based ERP charging will not be introduced anytime soon. «My intent is to ensure a smooth transition so that ERP 2 experience will be similar, as similar as possible to the ERP 1 experience as we switch over.»This means that we will not be introducing distance based charging in the immediate term. Distance-based charging is something that we will continue to study and explore after motorists have gotten more used to the new system and the situation is more stable," he said.

Nanyang Optical closure: Other eyewear retailers offering help to affected customers, staff

SINGAPORE — Indian eyewear chain Lenskart is offering support to affected staff of Nanyang Optical amid news that the home-grown eye-care business plans to shutter most of its outlets in Singapore.In response to queries from The Straits Times on Feb 2, Lens
Singapore

Nanyang Optical closure: Other eyewear retailers offering help to affected customers, staff

SINGAPORE — Indian eyewear chain Lenskart is offering support to affected staff of Nanyang Optical amid news that the home-grown eye-care business plans to shutter most of its outlets in Singapore.In response to queries from The Straits Times on Feb 2, Lenskart Singapore’s head of business Jarrod Chua said: “We are offering interview opportunities across all roles and designations.“We have reached out to ask to be connected with affected retail staff, opticians and optometrists. As Lenskart opens two new stores this week, with more planned throughout the year, we could use extra employment.”Those interested in applying for a role at Lenskart can e-mail help@lenskart.sg, he added.The brand is also providing full cash credits to cover the losses of Nanyang Optical customers on a case-by-case basis.Affected customers will need to provide valid proof of purchase, said Chua. They will also need to provide a “description of what had transpired leading to the loss, and what actions they have taken to retrieve their order”.

Jail for man who threatened family members with gun-shaped lighter and kept toy rifles, pistols

A man had already been arrested for threatening his family members with a gun-shaped lighter, and police had seized various toy guns he kept at home.But Poh Jing Yang was undeterred and continued buying such toy weapons online, before being caught again.On Fe
Singapore

Jail for man who threatened family members with gun-shaped lighter and kept toy rifles, pistols

A man had already been arrested for threatening his family members with a gun-shaped lighter, and police had seized various toy guns he kept at home.But Poh Jing Yang was undeterred and continued buying such toy weapons online, before being caught again.On Feb 2, the 38-year-old was sentenced to 14 months’ jail and fined $6,500 after he admitted to four charges, including one count of criminal intimidation and two offences of possessing guns without a licence.Under the Arms and Explosives Act, the definition of arms includes any kind of gun from which a shot, bullet or missile can be discharged.Poh also admitted to a separate Customs Act offence involving duty-unpaid cigarettes. Eight other charges were taken into consideration for his sentencing.The court heard that at around 9pm on Feb 10, 2024, Poh went to his uncle’s home and began shouting vulgarities. It was not stated what caused him to do so.When Poh and his uncle got into a verbal dispute, Poh pulled out a black pistol-shaped lighter and pointed it towards his uncle and cousin, shouting in Hokkien and Mandarin: “I will shoot you.”

ICA officers smash 'furniture' in Malaysia-registered van, uncover over 150 cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers have literally thrown their hammers at «furniture pieces» transported by a Malaysia-registered van during an enhanced check at Woodlands Checkpoint on Jan 22.In a video posted on its social medi
Singapore

ICA officers smash 'furniture' in Malaysia-registered van, uncover over 150 cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers have literally thrown their hammers at «furniture pieces» transported by a Malaysia-registered van during an enhanced check at Woodlands Checkpoint on Jan 22.In a video posted on its social media, ICA officers are seen breaking up «furniture pieces» transported in the back of a Malaysia-registered van.  As the «furniture pieces» were broken up, cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes could be seen concealed within them.ICA said that the vehicle was profiled and directed for enhanced checks where its search and examination officers found more than 150 cartons and 60 loose packets of duty-unpaid cigarettes.AsiaOne understands that such profiling are typically conducted by ICA's Integrated Targeting Centre (ITC). 

3 public transport operators offering up to $20k sign-on bonus to attract local bus captains

Three public transport operators are offering up to $20,000 in sign-on bonus in a bid to woo more local bus captains.AsiaOne has found on Monday (Feb 2) that the three are SBS Transit, SMRT and Go-Ahead Singapore. Tower Transit, meanwhile, offers a $7,20
Singapore

3 public transport operators offering up to $20k sign-on bonus to attract local bus captains

Three public transport operators are offering up to $20,000 in sign-on bonus in a bid to woo more local bus captains.AsiaOne has found on Monday (Feb 2) that the three are SBS Transit, SMRT and Go-Ahead Singapore. Tower Transit, meanwhile, offers a $7,200 bonus to applicants who are new to the industry, or have been away for at least a year.SBS Transit, which employs the largest pool of bus captains with about 5,400 full-timers, offers a sign-on bonus of $20,000 from October 2024— up from $10,000 — with another $5,000 in training incentive, along with a starting pay of $4,500 a month.There is also $1,000 for successful job referrals.Applicants must be Singaporeans or permanent residents and hold a Class 3 driving licence with at least a year of driving experience. Go-Ahead Singapore is also dangling a $20,000 carrot on top of up to $4,200 monthly salary.Go-Ahead, which will take over from SBS Transit and run 27 bus routes in Tampines from July 5, has expanded its workforce to around 2,000 employees, and is recruiting about 300 bus captains.

'It's a scary thing': GrabFood rider's delivery leads to abandoned building in Bukit Merah with 04-04 unit

A GrabFood rider has likened his delivery experience to a «ghost story» after arriving at a customer’s address which turned out to be an vacated industrial building.In a TikTok video shared on Jan 24, Alfian, 34, panned across an empty corridor
Singapore

'It's a scary thing': GrabFood rider's delivery leads to abandoned building in Bukit Merah with 04-04 unit

A GrabFood rider has likened his delivery experience to a «ghost story» after arriving at a customer’s address which turned out to be an vacated industrial building.In a TikTok video shared on Jan 24, Alfian, 34, panned across an empty corridor of the building at Depot Lane in Bukit Merah. The unit which he was supposed to deliver to — #04-04 — appeared to be padlocked.«This block, whole stretch, is already abandoned,» said Alfian. «It is a scary thing.»The site had been vacated since last year to make way for new housing development, the Straits Times reported in June. @nuralfianahmad ♬ original sound - Nuralfian

Burning smell in the air again? Malaysian firefighters battle 121ha fire in Kota Tinggi

If you've been wondering about the smell of smoke in the air over the past two evenings, here's why.In a Facebook post at about 7pm on Monday (Feb 2), Singapore's National Environment Agency said that it has continued to detect «persistent hotspots&raqu
Singapore

Burning smell in the air again? Malaysian firefighters battle 121ha fire in Kota Tinggi

If you've been wondering about the smell of smoke in the air over the past two evenings, here's why.In a Facebook post at about 7pm on Monday (Feb 2), Singapore's National Environment Agency said that it has continued to detect «persistent hotspots» near the city state, during its satellite pass at 2.20pm the same day.The agency added that dry conditions are expected until Wednesday (Feb 4), when showers are forecast. In an earlier release on Monday, the Meteorological Service Singapore said that thundery showers are forecast over parts of the island in the afternoon, on most days of the second half of this week.

Private organisations must stop using NRIC numbers for authentication by Dec 31: IMDA

All private organisations will have to stop using NRIC numbers for authentication by the end of the year, said the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). In a press release on Monday (Feb 2), the authority said that organisations have up to Dec 31
Singapore

Private organisations must stop using NRIC numbers for authentication by Dec 31: IMDA

All private organisations will have to stop using NRIC numbers for authentication by the end of the year, said the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). In a press release on Monday (Feb 2), the authority said that organisations have up to Dec 31 to review their current authentication practices. From Jan 1, 2027, the use of NRIC numbers for authentication to access personal data may be considered a breach of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). The Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) will step up enforcement action against such misuse, said IMDA. Possible penalties include imposing directions or financial penalties for such breaches where appropriate. Government agencies have ceased NRIC authenticationIn June last year, the PDPC and Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) issued a joint advisory against the use of NRIC numbers for authentication purposes. 

61-year-old man found dead at foot of Serangoon HDB block

A 61-year-old man was found dead at the foot of a HDB block in Serangoon on Tuesday (Feb 2). The incident happened at about 7.55am at Block 231 Serangoon Avenue 3. When AsiaOne reached the scene at about 8.30am, a police cordon extended from an are
Singapore

61-year-old man found dead at foot of Serangoon HDB block

A 61-year-old man was found dead at the foot of a HDB block in Serangoon on Tuesday (Feb 2). The incident happened at about 7.55am at Block 231 Serangoon Avenue 3. When AsiaOne reached the scene at about 8.30am, a police cordon extended from an area beside one of the lift landings to the back of the HDB block. A lone slipper could be seen in a corner next to a blue police tent covering the body. Blood stains were also seen in the drain. 

Bus, train services to be extended on eve of Chinese New Year

If you are heading out for reunion gatherings, or visiting friends and family to unwind, there's now more reason to «gallop» into the Year of the Horse.Public transport operators SBS Transit and SMRT will extend the operating hours of train servic
Singapore

Bus, train services to be extended on eve of Chinese New Year

If you are heading out for reunion gatherings, or visiting friends and family to unwind, there's now more reason to «gallop» into the Year of the Horse.Public transport operators SBS Transit and SMRT will extend the operating hours of train services on the eve of Chinese New Year (Feb 16). In addition, the operating hours of 55 bus services will also be extended to complement the extension of train operating hours. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys early and to note the changes. NSL, EWL, CCL and TELThe last train will depart North-South Line's City Hall MRT station for Marina South Pier and Jurong East at 1.54am and 2.09am respectively.Meanwhile, the last train to depart from the East-West Line's City Hall MRT station for Tuas Link and Pasir Ris will be at 1.59am and 2.14am respectively.On the Circle Line, the last train leaving from Dhoby Ghaut and HarbourFront MRT stations will be at 1.15am and 1.28am respectively.The last train departing from Bayshore and Woodlands North MRT stations are at 1.30am and 1.42am respectively.

MOE considering changes to PSLE to slow down education 'arms race'

SINGAPORE – The Ministry of Education (MOE) is considering making changes to the way PSLE results are used in secondary school admissions, as well as to the difficulty of examinations, among other things.Education Minister Desmond Lee said the ministry is l
Singapore

MOE considering changes to PSLE to slow down education 'arms race'

SINGAPORE – The Ministry of Education (MOE) is considering making changes to the way PSLE results are used in secondary school admissions, as well as to the difficulty of examinations, among other things.Education Minister Desmond Lee said the ministry is looking at curbing the education “arms race”, along with examining issues such as direct school admissions (DSA) and co-curricular activities (CCAs), which have become increasingly competitive.The MOE will soon start a series of conversations with Singaporeans to hear their views before making any changes, said Mr Lee on Jan 26 in an interview with the media.Asked whether MOE would study alternative assessment models or if the PSLE would remain, he said: “We do not want to pre-judge, we do not want to circumscribe... it may or may not be a tweak. It could also be quite major.”His remarks come amid growing recognition that the “arms race” in education has not abated, despite significant changes made by the Government to dial back excessive academic pressure by ending streaming and revamping PSLE scoring.

46-year-old cyclist dies after accident with bus in Tuas

A 46-year-old male cyclist died after an accident with a private bus in Tuas on Friday (Jan 30) morning.The accident happened at about 7.55am at the junction of Tuas South Avenue 4 and Tech Park Crescent. In response to media queries, the police and Sing
Singapore

46-year-old cyclist dies after accident with bus in Tuas

A 46-year-old male cyclist died after an accident with a private bus in Tuas on Friday (Jan 30) morning.The accident happened at about 7.55am at the junction of Tuas South Avenue 4 and Tech Park Crescent. In response to media queries, the police and Singapore Civil Defence Force said that the cyclist was taken unconscious to Ng Teng Fong Hospital where he later died. Chinese-language daily Shin Min Daily News reported that the cyclist is believed to be a Bangladeshi worker.A 68-year-old male bus driver is assisting with investigations, the police added.Police investigations are ongoing.[[nid:729111]]editor@asiaone.com 

'Crises often emerge when we don't expect it': Josephine Teo urges public to be ready for digital disruptions

If you are still wondering why the public warning system (PWS) sounded earlier today (Feb 1) at 3pm, that's because Singapore has kicked off its annual Total Defence exercise, codenamed Exercise SG Ready (ESR).This year's ESR, now in its third run, will invol
Singapore

'Crises often emerge when we don't expect it': Josephine Teo urges public to be ready for digital disruptions

If you are still wondering why the public warning system (PWS) sounded earlier today (Feb 1) at 3pm, that's because Singapore has kicked off its annual Total Defence exercise, codenamed Exercise SG Ready (ESR).This year's ESR, now in its third run, will involve over 1,000 organisations participating in a series of simulated activities over a two-week period from Feb 1 to 15, to test their readiness for disruptions. It will focus on digital disruptions and the ensuing impact on businesses, communities and homes.Speaking at the launch of the Total Defence Commemoration Event at Our Tampines Hub on Sunday (Feb 1), Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo pointed to the one-off sounding of the PWS on Sunday, instead of the usual Feb 15, to illustrate the need for Singaporeans to be prepared.«This year, we sounded it (PWS) early to mark the start of the exercise. Why? Because crises often emerge when we don't expect it,» the minister explained.

Video of passenger vaping next to bus captain goes viral

A video of a passenger vaping next to a bus captain has gained attention on social media.Posted by the Instagram account Sgfollowsall on Friday (Jan 30), a young man films himself vaping in bus 974. He discreetly approaches the bus captain, who was unaware o
Singapore

Video of passenger vaping next to bus captain goes viral

A video of a passenger vaping next to a bus captain has gained attention on social media.Posted by the Instagram account Sgfollowsall on Friday (Jan 30), a young man films himself vaping in bus 974. He discreetly approaches the bus captain, who was unaware of the man blowing out smoke in his direction.The 10-second clip has reached 198,000 views and over 2,000 likes at the time of writing.Netizens in the comments section criticised the passenger, with some tagging the Singapore Police Force and Health Sciences Authority.Since Sept 1, 2025, vape users have faced increased fines of $500 for those under the age of 18, and $700 for adults, up from $300 and $500 previously.Repeat offenders will face a maximum fine of $2,000.Over the last four months of 2025, 51 individuals were caught at land, sea and air checkpoints for smuggling regular e-vaporisers. More than 41,000 e-vaporisers and related components were seized overall.[[nid:729155]]syarifahsn@asiaone.com

Singapore Airshow 2026's crowd-favourite flying display to include RSAF and 7 foreign air forces, jetmakers

If you're into aircraft and aviation, this may just be the event for you - especially if you've yet to attend your first airshow.The Singapore Airshow 2026, taking place between Feb 3 and 8 at the Changi Exhibition Centre, has returned for its 10th edition an
Singapore

Singapore Airshow 2026's crowd-favourite flying display to include RSAF and 7 foreign air forces, jetmakers

If you're into aircraft and aviation, this may just be the event for you - especially if you've yet to attend your first airshow.The Singapore Airshow 2026, taking place between Feb 3 and 8 at the Changi Exhibition Centre, has returned for its 10th edition and will feature crowd-favourite aerial and static displays, Experia Events managing director Leck Chet Lam shared with media on Sunday (Feb 1).This year's airshow will involve over 1,000 participating companies with over 100,000 attendees representing 136 countries and regions, according to Leck, with 16 country pavilions.In 2024, the airshow had brought $391 million economic spending contributed to Singapore's economy, with this year's edition poised to deliver similar scale, and perhaps more.The aerial display will see military aircraft of six air forces taking to the skies during the airshow, including our own Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).

16-year-old among 24 arrested for alleged involvement in scams with losses totalling $3.1m

A total of 24 persons will be charged in court in the coming week for allegedly acting as money mules in various scams.The 16 men and eight women, aged between 16 and 51, are suspected of perpetuating scams such as government officials impersonation scams, jo
Singapore

16-year-old among 24 arrested for alleged involvement in scams with losses totalling $3.1m

A total of 24 persons will be charged in court in the coming week for allegedly acting as money mules in various scams.The 16 men and eight women, aged between 16 and 51, are suspected of perpetuating scams such as government officials impersonation scams, job scams, e-commerce scams, investment scams, internet love scams and sexual services scams.Police said in a media release on Sunday (Feb 1) that more than $3.1 million were lost in these scams.They are accused of facilitating scam activities by relinquishing or selling their bank accounts, assisting to receive or transfer funds or collecting cash from scam victims and enabled criminal syndicates to commit money laundering.Some allegedly tricked banks into opening personal accounts before handing over their internet banking credentials to unknown people.Examples of their alleged offences include: disclosing Singpass credentials unlawfully thereby enabling criminal syndicates to misuse his identity in the opening of bank account; and assisting criminal syndicates to register SIM cards in return for promised monetary rewards.

Police appeal for information on missing 31-year-old last seen near Joo Chiat

The police are appealing for information on the whereabouts of a missing 31-year-old man, Cavan Yeo Ying Yong.In a news release on Sunday (Feb 1), the police said Yeo was last seen on Saturday, at around 6.40pm along Koon Seng Road. He was wearing a green to
Singapore

Police appeal for information on missing 31-year-old last seen near Joo Chiat

The police are appealing for information on the whereabouts of a missing 31-year-old man, Cavan Yeo Ying Yong.In a news release on Sunday (Feb 1), the police said Yeo was last seen on Saturday, at around 6.40pm along Koon Seng Road. He was wearing a green top and dark blue shorts at that time.Checks by AsiaOne indicate that the area comprises landed residential units with peranakan shophouses nearby.Those with information are urged to contact the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness. All information will be kept strictly confidential, said the police. editor@asiaone.com 

Video of passenger vaping next to bus conductor goes viral

A video of a passenger vaping next to a bus conductor has gained attention on social media.Posted by the Instagram account Sgfollowsall on Friday (Jan 30), a young man films himself vaping in bus 974. He discreetly approaches the bus conductor, who was unawar
Singapore

Video of passenger vaping next to bus conductor goes viral

A video of a passenger vaping next to a bus conductor has gained attention on social media.Posted by the Instagram account Sgfollowsall on Friday (Jan 30), a young man films himself vaping in bus 974. He discreetly approaches the bus conductor, who was unaware of the man blowing out smoke in his direction.The 10-second clip has reached 198,000 views and over 2,000 likes at the time of writing.Netizens in the comments section criticised the passenger, with some tagging the Singapore Police Force and Health Sciences Authority.Since Sept 1, 2025, vape users have faced increased fines of $500 for those under the age of 18, and $700 for adults, up from $300 and $500 previously.Repeat offenders will face a maximum fine of $2,000.Over the last four months of 2025, 51 individuals were caught at land, sea and air checkpoints for smuggling regular e-vaporisers. More than 41,000 e-vaporisers and related components were seized overall.[[nid:729155]]syarifahsn@asiaone.com

PAP deploys GE2025 reserve candidates in Tampines and Punggol

SINGAPORE – Two of the PAP's reserve candidates from the May 2025 general election have hit the ground in Tampines and Punggol, less than a year on from the polls.In-house lawyer Ahmad Firdaus Daud, who previously volunteered in Nee Soon GRC, is now vice-ch
Singapore

PAP deploys GE2025 reserve candidates in Tampines and Punggol

SINGAPORE – Two of the PAP's reserve candidates from the May 2025 general election have hit the ground in Tampines and Punggol, less than a year on from the polls.In-house lawyer Ahmad Firdaus Daud, who previously volunteered in Nee Soon GRC, is now vice-chair of the Punggol North PAP branch, while entrepreneur Mustaffa Kamal has been seen with the party's Tampines Central branch. He had previously volunteered in Joo Chiat.The two have regularly attended the party's Meet-the-People sessions and have been pictured with the GRCs' MPs at community events since at least late 2025.

Water activities suspended at 3 Sentosa beaches after crocodile sighting; search under way

SINGAPORE – Water activities such as swimming and kayaking have been suspended at Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong Beach in Sentosa until further notice after a crocodile was spotted in the waters off Sentosa Cove.The Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) said i
Singapore

Water activities suspended at 3 Sentosa beaches after crocodile sighting; search under way

SINGAPORE – Water activities such as swimming and kayaking have been suspended at Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong Beach in Sentosa until further notice after a crocodile was spotted in the waters off Sentosa Cove.The Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) said it and the National Parks Board (NParks) were alerted to the presence of the reptile on the evening of Jan 31.«As the sighting was assessed to be valid, a joint team was immediately activated to search for it. The search by NParks and SDC is currently ongoing,» SDC said in a Jan 31 Facebook post.While the beaches remain open, SDC said water activities are not allowed on the three beaches.It also said it has stepped up patrols and monitoring across the island's beachfront areas.«Members of the public are advised to adhere strictly to safety signages and instructions on the ground,» it added.The public are advised to remain calm and back away slowly if they encounter a crocodile.Any sightings and encounter should be reported to NParks Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.

3 taken to hospital in five-vehicle crash involving Malaysia-registered truck on SLE

A car was sent spinning across four lanes of the Seletar Expressway (SLE) towards Central Expressway (CTE) on Friday (Jan 30) after it was allegedly sideswiped by a tipper truck.The accident, which involved four cars and a tipper truck, happened at about 5.10
Singapore

3 taken to hospital in five-vehicle crash involving Malaysia-registered truck on SLE

A car was sent spinning across four lanes of the Seletar Expressway (SLE) towards Central Expressway (CTE) on Friday (Jan 30) after it was allegedly sideswiped by a tipper truck.The accident, which involved four cars and a tipper truck, happened at about 5.10pm, near the Lentor Avenue exit.In a video posted on its Facebook page by SG Road Vigilante, a Malaysia-registered tipper truck was seen driving on lane four of the expressway, while a black Honda hatchback was seen overtaking it from the leftmost lane.Moments later, the car came into contact with the tipper truck and started to careen across five lanes of the expressway. It first crashed into a white Honda before crashing into the central divider where it was hit by an oncoming silver Mercedes car. The Mercedes' abrupt stop then caused another black multi-purpose vehicle to rear-end it.

'Flying is inherently risky,' says RSAF pilot at Airshow 2026, as family keeps him motivated

There's always an element of risk that comes with taking to the skies, whether it's to perform or to defend the nation.For Captain Yew Chee Hao of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), it is his family that keeps him motivated, he shared in an intervie
Singapore

'Flying is inherently risky,' says RSAF pilot at Airshow 2026, as family keeps him motivated

There's always an element of risk that comes with taking to the skies, whether it's to perform or to defend the nation.For Captain Yew Chee Hao of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), it is his family that keeps him motivated, he shared in an interview with the media at the Singapore Airshow 2026 on Saturday (Jan 31).CPT Yew is a first-time participant in the aerial display segment of Singapore Airshow 2026, which will be held at the Changi Exhibition Centre.The Singapore Airshow 2026, spanning Feb 3 to 8, is Asia's largest airshow, and is expected to attract over 1,000 companies including aircraft manufacturers, airlines and military delegations from around the world, Reuters reported.It will also have a segment for the RSAF - which Yew is a part of - to perform in the skies, dazzling the audience with displays of skill seen in complex stunts from the AH-64D Apache helicopter and F-16 fighter jet. Yew, 30, is the aerial display team's lead and also the pilot of the Apache helicopter that will be present in 11 of the 17 stunts performed in the show sequence.

HDB to launch 4,700 BTO flats for sale in February; 1 in 4 have shorter wait times of less than 3 years

A total of 1,316 Build-to-Order (BTO) flats to be launched by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in the February 2026 sales exercise will be Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) flats. In a media release on Saturday (Jan 30), HDB said the SWT flats will be of
Singapore

HDB to launch 4,700 BTO flats for sale in February; 1 in 4 have shorter wait times of less than 3 years

A total of 1,316 Build-to-Order (BTO) flats to be launched by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in the February 2026 sales exercise will be Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) flats. In a media release on Saturday (Jan 30), HDB said the SWT flats will be offered across three projects in Tampines and Sembawang, with the shortest wait time being just one year and 11 months. The other two SWT projects will have wait times of two years and eight months, and two years and nine months respectively. A total of 4,692 BTO flats will be offered during the exercise, with two projects each in Tampines and Sembawang, one in Bukit Merah and another in Toa Payoh. Tampines Bliss, Tampines Nova and Sembawang Deck are the three SWT projects that will be launched in this month's sales exercise. Tampines Bliss, bordered by Tampines Avenue 2 and Tampines Street 22, will take just one year and 11 months to complete. 

Hao Mart and Ang Mo Supermarket no longer required to charge for plastic bags

Supermarket chains Hao Mart and Ang Mo Supermarket are no longer required to charge patrons for plastic bags after being deregistered from the disposable carrier bag charge scheme.Responding to queries from AsiaOne, the the National Environment Agency (NEA) s
Singapore

Hao Mart and Ang Mo Supermarket no longer required to charge for plastic bags

Supermarket chains Hao Mart and Ang Mo Supermarket are no longer required to charge patrons for plastic bags after being deregistered from the disposable carrier bag charge scheme.Responding to queries from AsiaOne, the the National Environment Agency (NEA) said that the two supermarket operators successfully applied to withdraw from the scheme at the end of 2025.Both operators were able to withdraw from the scheme because their annual turnover for each of the last three years did not exceed the threshold of $100 million under the Resource Sustainability Act.They were initially enrolled in the scheme — first introduced in July 2023 — which required supermarket operators to charge a minimum of five cents for each disposable carrier bag provided.Being deregistered from the scheme also means that Hao Mart and Ang Mo Supermarket will no longer need to report to NEA on the number of carrier bags issued or the proceeds collected from their issuance.While they are no longer obliged to charge for issuing plastic bags, the choice to charge customers will be at their discretion, said NEA.

Govt in talks with Warong Nasi Pariaman on options after closure announcement: URA

The Government has engaged the family operating Warong Nasi Pariaman to discuss ways to offer more support following news of their upcoming closure.The popular nasi padang eatery had announced their closure in an Instagram post on Jan 20, saying that they wil
Singapore

Govt in talks with Warong Nasi Pariaman on options after closure announcement: URA

The Government has engaged the family operating Warong Nasi Pariaman to discuss ways to offer more support following news of their upcoming closure.The popular nasi padang eatery had announced their closure in an Instagram post on Jan 20, saying that they will cease business on Jan 31. The eatery, located in a shophouse at 738 North Bridge Road in Kampong Glam, has been operating since 1948 and is set to close after 78 years.The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), in a statement on Jan 31, said the relevant agencies have engaged members of the eatery's family to explore various support options to render greater assistance.These include an inter-agency task force which studies ways to support heritage businesses such as in the areas of skills transfer and business transformation. 

Two more Dumex Dulac baby formula products recalled over presence of toxin

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Friday (Jan 30) ordered the recall of two additional infant formula products by Dumex over the presence of cereulide toxin. Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of the Bacillus cereus bacterium, which can caus
Singapore

Two more Dumex Dulac baby formula products recalled over presence of toxin

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Friday (Jan 30) ordered the recall of two additional infant formula products by Dumex over the presence of cereulide toxin. Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of the Bacillus cereus bacterium, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. The affected products are Dumex's Dulac Stage 1 and Dulac Stage 2. Both SFA and the Communicable Diseases Agency said in a joint statement that the detection follows testing of all baby formula products sold at major retail outlets, and that these are the last two batches of formula products to be recalled. «SFA has detected cereulide toxin in two additional formula products. These products may have used the same raw ingredient supplied by the same source used in the earlier batches of implicated infant formula products,» the agencies said. 

Cyclists riding against traffic in Lavender crash into car and run away; police investigating

The police are looking for a pair of cyclists after an alleged hit-and-run accident along Townshend Road in Lavender at about 3.50pm on Thursday (Jan 29).In a video posted on the SG Road Vigilante Facebook page, two people riding separate bicycles were seen g
Singapore

Cyclists riding against traffic in Lavender crash into car and run away; police investigating

The police are looking for a pair of cyclists after an alleged hit-and-run accident along Townshend Road in Lavender at about 3.50pm on Thursday (Jan 29).In a video posted on the SG Road Vigilante Facebook page, two people riding separate bicycles were seen going against the flow of traffic along the two-lane road.  Map showing the location where the alleged hit-and-run accident involving two cyclists and a car took place on Jan 29. IMAGE: Google Maps A male cyclist dressed in a black top was seen riding close to a female cyclist. He was also seen on the dashcam footage grabbing her left arm. As they approached an oncoming car, the woman was seen losing control as she leaned into the man. They then crashed into the car.