Singapore



Woman, 36, is 13th Malaysian to be charged for alleged role in scams since March

A 36-year-old Malaysian woman will be charged in court on Thursday (April 16) for her alleged involvement in a case of government official impersonation scam.The woman is the 13th Malaysian since March this year to be arrested for facilitating scam syndicate
Singapore

Woman, 36, is 13th Malaysian to be charged for alleged role in scams since March

A 36-year-old Malaysian woman will be charged in court on Thursday (April 16) for her alleged involvement in a case of government official impersonation scam.The woman is the 13th Malaysian since March this year to be arrested for facilitating scam syndicates to collect cash and valuables obtained from scams.In a news release on Wednesday, the police said they received a report from a 75-year-old female victim who received a WhatsApp call from an unknown person claiming to be from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).Modus operandi unchanged: Hand over money, valuables for investigationsThe unknown person claimed that the elderly woman was purportedly implicated in a money laundering case.She was then instructed to withdraw cash and hand it over to an «agent» to facilitate investigations. The elderly woman was also assured that the money would be returned after the investigations.The victim proceeded to hand over cash amounting to $10,000 to the Malaysian woman in the vicinity of Jurong West Central.

SIA, Scoot fly record 3.8 million passengers in March, up 14.9% year-on-year

Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot flew over 3.8 million passengers in March this year, up 14.9 per cent year-on-year.SIA carried around 2.4 million passengers, up from the 2.2 million in March 2025.This equates to 90.3 per cent of available seats filled by p
Singapore

SIA, Scoot fly record 3.8 million passengers in March, up 14.9% year-on-year

Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot flew over 3.8 million passengers in March this year, up 14.9 per cent year-on-year.SIA carried around 2.4 million passengers, up from the 2.2 million in March 2025.This equates to 90.3 per cent of available seats filled by paying passengers, compared to 84.1 per cent last year.Meanwhile, Scoot carried around 1.3 million passengers in the same period, up from 1.1 million in the previous year.In total, around 42.4 million passengers flew in the financial year of 2025/26, a 7.7 per cent increase from the 39.4 million in 2024/25.Explaining the spike, SIA said that there was an increase in demand for travel ahead of the Easter weekend in early April.The ongoing Middle East conflict also resulted in the increase in Europe-bound traffic as the availability of flights through the Middle East air hubs was negatively affected.Dubai and Doha, which would have usually absorbed some of the traffic between Asia and Europe, had their flights curtailed amid airspace closures and drone strikes.

Shell drops petrol price by 3 cents, 3 days after becoming only fuel company to raise it

Most fuel companies in Singapore have held fuel prices unchanged for the past week — through a two-week ceasefire and later a US military blockade on Iran which started on Monday (April 13) — except for Shell which raised petrol prices by 7 cents on Apri
Singapore

Shell drops petrol price by 3 cents, 3 days after becoming only fuel company to raise it

Most fuel companies in Singapore have held fuel prices unchanged for the past week — through a two-week ceasefire and later a US military blockade on Iran which started on Monday (April 13) — except for Shell which raised petrol prices by 7 cents on April 13.Shell's upward price calibration that day also meant it reversed its earlier drop — by 4 cents — on April 9.In a price board update published on Wednesday at 5pm, Shell announced that it has dropped prices across its petrol offerings by 3 cents each, but kept diesel price unchanged.

PropertyLimBrothers axes 'majority' of media roles amid restructuring

PropertyLimBrothers (PLB) has said a «majority» of the roles were axed from its media arm, PLB Media, during a recent restructuring exercise, refuting media claims that 90 per cent the roles were cut.PLB said that previous reports from Tuesday (Ap
Singapore

PropertyLimBrothers axes 'majority' of media roles amid restructuring

PropertyLimBrothers (PLB) has said a «majority» of the roles were axed from its media arm, PLB Media, during a recent restructuring exercise, refuting media claims that 90 per cent the roles were cut.PLB said that previous reports from Tuesday (April 14) do not «reflect the scope of the restructuring exercise», but declined to reveal more regarding the scale of the layoffs, reported business publication The Edge.PLB Media reportedly employed close to 100 staff who worked on social media, videography and marketing as at February.«The restructuring affected a majority of the local media team as part of a deliberate transition towards a leaner, technology-enabled operating model,» a PLB spokesperson told The Edge on Wednesday (April 14).The spokesperson also said that a «core team remains in place» to support ongoing content strategy, creative direction and production oversight, and that the current roles are «designed to support a more streamlined workflow, with increased use of AI tools and externalised production resources where appropriate».

Schools to strengthen anti-bullying efforts with stricter disciplinary measures and reporting platform: MOE

Measures to address bullying and hurtful behaviour in schools will be strengthened, including improvements to reporting channels and disciplinary processes, said the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Wednesday (April 15). Speaking to the media at Teck Ghee
Singapore

Schools to strengthen anti-bullying efforts with stricter disciplinary measures and reporting platform: MOE

Measures to address bullying and hurtful behaviour in schools will be strengthened, including improvements to reporting channels and disciplinary processes, said the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Wednesday (April 15). Speaking to the media at Teck Ghee Primary School on Wednesday, Education Minister Desmond Lee said that an updated and comprehensive review on anti-bullying measures has been conducted following engagements with parents and students.The measures are being implemented progressively.The review was done with the support of Community and Parents in support of Schools. MOE engaged more than 2,000 educators, parents, students, professional and members of the public since August 2025 for the review.«We have completed the review and have been in the process of implementing some of the nine measures that were recommended by the review — covering four broad areas,» said Lee.These areas include enhancing values education, strengthening school culture and processes, increasing school and staff capacity, and strengthening school-home-community partnerships.

This made my day: 5 kind strangers step in to help motorcyclist after Woodlands accident

A little kindness goes a long way.A video showing road users and passers-by coming together to help a fallen motorcyclist in Woodlands has warmed the hearts of netizens.A video of the incident, which took place on April 13 at about 4pm, was shared on the Face
Singapore

This made my day: 5 kind strangers step in to help motorcyclist after Woodlands accident

A little kindness goes a long way.A video showing road users and passers-by coming together to help a fallen motorcyclist in Woodlands has warmed the hearts of netizens.A video of the incident, which took place on April 13 at about 4pm, was shared on the Facebook page of SG Road Vigilante subsequently.In the video, a motorist can be seen falling from his motorcycle after hitting a car ahead of him while going over a road hump.Soon after the incident, two male passers-by from the left side of the road went to the motorist's aid, and three others joined them shortly after.Together, they helped to push the motorcycle back to its upright position.

2 arrested at MBS for allegedly cheating man into making multiple bank transfers

Two persons, aged 34 and 37, were arrested at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) on April 10 for their alleged involvement in a case of cheating. A video posted by TikTok user Daniel shows a long-haired woman dressed in a white shirt, her hands cuffed behind her bac
Singapore

2 arrested at MBS for allegedly cheating man into making multiple bank transfers

Two persons, aged 34 and 37, were arrested at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) on April 10 for their alleged involvement in a case of cheating. A video posted by TikTok user Daniel shows a long-haired woman dressed in a white shirt, her hands cuffed behind her back, being led to a waiting police car. Daniel said in his post that the incident happened at around 3.45am. He did not capture the moment when the second person, a 37-year-old man, was arrested.In response to AsiaOne's queries, police said they arrested the duo for their alleged cheating while following up on an earlier report. Chinese daily Lianhe Zaobao reported that the woman seen in the video and the 37-year-old man are believed to lovers. They had allegedly cheated a male victim into making multiple bank transfers into a designated account. The duo were arrested following the man's report.Police investigations are ongoing.[[nid:733679]]editor@asiaone.com No part of this story can be reproduced without the permission of AsiaOne. 

S-E Asia cruise industry raked in $12.7b in 2024, Singapore drove nearly half of passenger traffic

The cruise industry in South-east Asia yielded US$10 billion (S$12.7 billion) in 2024, making up 5 per cent of the global cruise industry’s output.Spend per passenger in the region was 2.4 times the global average, at US$2,564 per visit, said the Singapore
Singapore

S-E Asia cruise industry raked in $12.7b in 2024, Singapore drove nearly half of passenger traffic

The cruise industry in South-east Asia yielded US$10 billion (S$12.7 billion) in 2024, making up 5 per cent of the global cruise industry’s output.Spend per passenger in the region was 2.4 times the global average, at US$2,564 per visit, said the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on April 15, citing figures from the inaugural Economic Impact Assessment of Cruise Tourism for Southeast Asian countries.Singapore captured 48 per cent of the region’s 3.9 million passenger visitors.The study, produced by travel and tourism industry consulting firm Tourism Economics for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), in partnership with STB, showed that overall, South-east Asia’s cruise tourism contributed US$4.5 billion to the region’s gross domestic product (GDP).The region accounted for 2 per cent of 186 million global cruise passengers in 2024, capturing 5 per cent of global cruise-related GDP.STB said the data showed that cruise tourism introduces visitors to the region’s diverse attractions and helps generate sustained tourism demand beyond the initial cruise visit.

'Could fit a 9-storey building': Singapore can explore more underground spaces for fuel reserves, says Tan See Leng

Singapore has the experience to explore more underground spaces and grow its fuel reserves, said Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng.In a Facebook post on Tuesday (April 14), Dr Tan spoke about his visit to JTC's Jurong Rock C
Singapore

'Could fit a 9-storey building': Singapore can explore more underground spaces for fuel reserves, says Tan See Leng

Singapore has the experience to explore more underground spaces and grow its fuel reserves, said Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng.In a Facebook post on Tuesday (April 14), Dr Tan spoke about his visit to JTC's Jurong Rock Caverns on Monday, and how Singapore is working to safeguard Singapore's energy resilience.The caverns are Southeast Asia's first commercial underground oil storage facility, and can store crude oil or compatible products to increase storage capacity for local refineries.Located 150 metres below Jurong Island, the facility comprises five caverns and a storage capacity equivalent to around nine million barrels.«You could fit a nine-storey building here,» Dr Tan said, labelling the facility as an «engineering feat». 

Daughter hands over savings in ang baos for dad's pro bono funeral, touching provider: 'Every note carried the weight of gratitude'

A family with financial difficulties was able to send off their loved one after local funeral provider Funeral Guru handled the service for free.Following the funeral, the bereaved daughter gave the team red packets containing «carefully saved old notes
Singapore

Daughter hands over savings in ang baos for dad's pro bono funeral, touching provider: 'Every note carried the weight of gratitude'

A family with financial difficulties was able to send off their loved one after local funeral provider Funeral Guru handled the service for free.Following the funeral, the bereaved daughter gave the team red packets containing «carefully saved old notes» to express her thanks.Funeral Guru shared in a Facebook post last Saturday (April 11) that the daughter had presented them with the red packets despite «difficult circumstances» — her mother is currently undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.The funeral service provider explained that they usually donate such contributions to charity on behalf of the deceased and keep a record of the amount in the process.«Our hearts sank when we opened the red packets,» they wrote, noting that the cash was savings, which had been «set aside over time».Photographs shared alongside their post showed an old dollar note and Brunei currency in one of the red packets.«Every note carried the weight of love, gratitude, and a family's quiet resilience in the face of hardship. What may seem modest to some holds immense meaning when it comes from those who have so little to give,» they said.

Police issue alert on harassment emails showing deepfakes of victims engaging in sexual acts

The police have alerted the public on recent reports of harassment emails involving digitally modified images of victims.There have been about three such cases reported since March this year.In an advisory issued on Tuesday (April 14) night, the police said t
Singapore

Police issue alert on harassment emails showing deepfakes of victims engaging in sexual acts

The police have alerted the public on recent reports of harassment emails involving digitally modified images of victims.There have been about three such cases reported since March this year.In an advisory issued on Tuesday (April 14) night, the police said that victims would receive emails at their work email addresses containing images of them that were digitally modified to show them appearing to engage in sexual acts.Police said the senders would threaten to upload the deepfakes online and send them to the victim's workplace, if they did not respond to the emails.Those who receive such manipulated photograph, video or screenshot, should remain calm, the police said, as the photographs and email addresses were likely obtained from publicly available online sources.They are advised not to initiate contact, make monetary or cryptocurrency transfers, but to report the matter to the police immediately. This includes providing a copy of the email to the police.

13-year-old among 6 teens arrested for allegedly stealing motorcycles in Punggol

The police have arrested six male teenagers, aged between 13 and 16, for their alleged involvement in two cases of motorcycle theft in Punggol.The incidents happened between April 12 and 13 at the vicinity of Punggol Drive and Punggol Central.They were identi
Singapore

13-year-old among 6 teens arrested for allegedly stealing motorcycles in Punggol

The police have arrested six male teenagers, aged between 13 and 16, for their alleged involvement in two cases of motorcycle theft in Punggol.The incidents happened between April 12 and 13 at the vicinity of Punggol Drive and Punggol Central.They were identified and arrested by officers from Ang Mo Kio Police Division on Tuesday (April 14) through follow-up investigations.Preliminary investigations revealed that they were able to steal both motorcycles, which have since been recovered, as the transponders were left inside the their storage compartments.The six teenagers also did not possess a valid driving or riding licence as they are underaged. They will be charged in youth court on Wednesday for the offence of theft of motor vehicle — an offence which carries a penalty of up to seven years' jail and fine.If found guilty, the court will determine the appropriate orders, called disposition orders, as the six will then be considered youth offenders. The judge may also call for a probation suitability report. [[nid:733654]]editor@asiaone.com

Malaysia Airlines jet entered Changi Airport runway in 2025 after approval to do so was cancelled

In May 2025, a Malaysia Airlines (MAS) jet entered a runway at Changi Airport after an air traffic controller cancelled its earlier clearance to line up for take-off.At about 4.52pm on May 19, 2025, the controller told the pilots to stop taxiing the Boeing 73
Singapore

Malaysia Airlines jet entered Changi Airport runway in 2025 after approval to do so was cancelled

In May 2025, a Malaysia Airlines (MAS) jet entered a runway at Changi Airport after an air traffic controller cancelled its earlier clearance to line up for take-off.At about 4.52pm on May 19, 2025, the controller told the pilots to stop taxiing the Boeing 737-800 onto the runway for departure after the MAS crew said they needed more time to prepare for take-off.The incident came to light on April 1, 2026, when the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) published its investigation report.At 4.53pm on the day of the incident, the MAS crew proceeded to line the aircraft up on the runway despite permission to do so being cancelled. TSIB found that the controller’s instructions were cut short due to simultaneous transmissions, and phrased in a way that the crew were less accustomed to.No one was injured as a result of the incident. The MAS aircraft was cleared for take-off soon after, at 4.54pm, after another aircraft that landed on the same runway earlier had vacated the area.

Nearly 1 in 5 workers in Singapore overqualified for their jobs: MOM

A Ministry of Manpower (MOM) study has revealed that almost one in five Singapore workers are over-qualified for their jobs.But this is voluntary because most of the workers choose roles «that better align with their aspirations, work preferences or lif
Singapore

Nearly 1 in 5 workers in Singapore overqualified for their jobs: MOM

A Ministry of Manpower (MOM) study has revealed that almost one in five Singapore workers are over-qualified for their jobs.But this is voluntary because most of the workers choose roles «that better align with their aspirations, work preferences or life circumstances», the study released on Tuesday (April 14) said.Still, Singapore's over-qualification rate of 19.4 per cent is lower than other high-income economies such as the United States, Finland, the United Kingdom and Switzerland — 21.6 per cent.According to MOM, 1.7 per cent of the resident workforce wanted a better job, meaning they were unable to find jobs that matched their higher qualifications.Singapore has a highly educated workforce, with 64 per cent holding tertiary qualification last year, well above the average of 41.2 per cent across high-income countries.The MOM study also said that workers aged 34 and below made up one-third of those in overqualified jobs.In the last 10 years, the median gross monthly income for full-time employed tertiary graduates rose from $5,800 to $7,605.Starting salaries have also increased over the same period.

President Tharman shares well-wishes for Tamil New Year, reveals his choice of briyani

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam has shared his well-wishes for the Tamil New Year, Puthandu, falling on Tuesday (April 14), and to Sikhs, Malayalees, Bengalis and other Indian communities in Singapore who are also celebrating festivities in the next couple o
Singapore

President Tharman shares well-wishes for Tamil New Year, reveals his choice of briyani

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam has shared his well-wishes for the Tamil New Year, Puthandu, falling on Tuesday (April 14), and to Sikhs, Malayalees, Bengalis and other Indian communities in Singapore who are also celebrating festivities in the next couple of days.He also took the opportunity to share his personal preference when it comes to briyani, according to a Facebook post on the same day.He then went on to share his love for the traditional and «quintessential» Indian dish, emphasising how it has transcended race, religion and culture.President Tharman has gone off beef, but there is a choice of chicken, mutton, lamb or seafood briyani to enjoy — which he says must be slow-cooked to infuse the rice with the flavour of meats and spices.But his current preference is vegetable briyani, with jackfruit replacing meat.«It's in fact a fast growing, healthy and environmentally friendly choice in India, where briyani is the most popular food order,» he said.Describing the dish as one that «crossed geographies and cultures», the president briefly addressed briyani's history.

Inauspicious or harmless? Bishan residents divided over funeral flyers left outside homes

Bishan residents are split after funeral planning flyers were left outside their homes, with views ranging from «inauspicious» to a «harmless» marketing move.The incident occurred at Block 173 Bishan Street 13, reported Shin Min Daily
Singapore

Inauspicious or harmless? Bishan residents divided over funeral flyers left outside homes

Bishan residents are split after funeral planning flyers were left outside their homes, with views ranging from «inauspicious» to a «harmless» marketing move.The incident occurred at Block 173 Bishan Street 13, reported Shin Min Daily News. A resident told the Chinese daily that they received flyers from funeral provider Nirvana Memorial Garden a few days prior. One flyer advertised a «relaxing and free day trip» which included an itinerary for participants to visit a Buddhist temple and a vegetable wholesale market before heading to the memorial garden. The funeral home, located at 950 Old Choa Chu Kang Road, has a columbarium and offers funeral and exhumation services. 'Cursing me to die earlier' One resident, who only gave her name as Xiu (transliteration), 21, said she felt as thought the flyers were «cursing me to die earlier», making her feel uncomfortable.Another resident, Fu (transliteration), 55, saw the flyer being dropped at his doorstep and assumed it was a regular advertisement, but was shocked when he realised its contents. 

Chee Hong Tat on 5-day working visit to China

National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat is on a five-day working visit to China from April 13 (Monday) to April 17.In a statement on Tuesday, a Ministry of National Development (MND) spokesperson said Chee will attend meetings in Beijing and Tianjin.Takin
Singapore

Chee Hong Tat on 5-day working visit to China

National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat is on a five-day working visit to China from April 13 (Monday) to April 17.In a statement on Tuesday, a Ministry of National Development (MND) spokesperson said Chee will attend meetings in Beijing and Tianjin.Taking to his Facebook page on Tuesday evening, the minister said he met with his counterpart, China's Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development Ni Hong.The two leaders last met in September 2025 during a leadership dialogue between their ministries.«We had a productive discussion on deepening the collaboration between Singapore and China in the built environment sector, including the use of innovative technologies and advanced materials for construction, facility management, and improving the comfort and quality of our living environment,» Chee wrote.While in Beijing, Chee, who is also deputy chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), met with Bank of China chairman Ge Haijiao, who is a member of the MAS international advisory panel.

AI-powered social robots significantly improve emotional well-being in elderly, children: Study

A pilot study in Singapore involving Lovot — the doll-like social companion robot developed by Japanese firm Groove X — has showed significant improvements in emotional well-being and engagement among both the elderly and children with high support needs.
Singapore

AI-powered social robots significantly improve emotional well-being in elderly, children: Study

A pilot study in Singapore involving Lovot — the doll-like social companion robot developed by Japanese firm Groove X — has showed significant improvements in emotional well-being and engagement among both the elderly and children with high support needs. Lovot uses AI to respond to people in real time through movement, sound and interactive behaviours. «It creates a warm and engaging presence that supports attention, participation and emotional connection during structured and organic activities,» said non-profit social service agency AWWA. Among seniors across diverse backgrounds, including those with dementia, interactions with Lovot showed an improved quality of life, greater happiness, and meaningful companionship, said AWWA in a press release on Monday (April 13). Meanwhile, children with high support needs were observed to have improved physical well-being, school environment readiness, and mobility. 

'Not everyone likes dog hair in their food': Diner raises hygiene concerns over dogs spotted at coffee shop

A diner raised public hygiene concerns after two dogs were seen inside a stroller at a coffee shop beside their owners. A photo posted to Facebook on Saturday (April 11) showed the owners and their pets seated at a corner table. In the photo caption
Singapore

'Not everyone likes dog hair in their food': Diner raises hygiene concerns over dogs spotted at coffee shop

A diner raised public hygiene concerns after two dogs were seen inside a stroller at a coffee shop beside their owners. A photo posted to Facebook on Saturday (April 11) showed the owners and their pets seated at a corner table. In the photo caption, the diner wrote: «Pets are still not allowed in hawker centres (sic) and not everyone likes dog hair in their food — all the more keeping the animals at table level.»What if the animal sneezes or starts shaking off with all the fur flying all over the place?«The diner noted that there are people with various health conditions and that pet ownership has been on the rise. The diner also noted that there are a rising number of pet friendly places and restaurants, and urged pet owners to be more mindful in public places.»Let common spaces remain inclusive, clean and safe for everyone," the diner wrote.In the comments section, several netizens rebuffed the concerns, while others said that local rules and laws should be respected. 

Smoke seen from train undercarriage at Sembawang MRT station, commuters evacuated

Commuters were evacuated from a train at Sembawang MRT station on Monday (April 13) evening, after smoke was seen coming out of its undercarriage.Videos of the incident shared on social media show several commuters at the platform. The train has its doors ope
Singapore

Smoke seen from train undercarriage at Sembawang MRT station, commuters evacuated

Commuters were evacuated from a train at Sembawang MRT station on Monday (April 13) evening, after smoke was seen coming out of its undercarriage.Videos of the incident shared on social media show several commuters at the platform. The train has its doors open as smoke from the undercarriage comes through the platform gap.Cathrine, who was purportedly onboard the affected train, told Stomp that passengers had to evacuate as smoke was coming out from under one of the train carriages.«Due to an oncoming train, the (affected) train at the station had to depart, but it moved very slowly. This caused the train following behind to move very slowly too,» the commuter said.

Singapore tightens monetary policy as Iran war fuels inflation risks

SINGAPORE — Singapore's central bank tightened its monetary policy settings on Tuesday (April 14), flagging the risk that an Iran war-fuelled energy shock could push up core inflation even as mounting pressure on growth was underscored by a first-quarter ec
Singapore

Singapore tightens monetary policy as Iran war fuels inflation risks

SINGAPORE — Singapore's central bank tightened its monetary policy settings on Tuesday (April 14), flagging the risk that an Iran war-fuelled energy shock could push up core inflation even as mounting pressure on growth was underscored by a first-quarter economic contraction.The Middle East conflict has upended global growth and inflation trajectories, throwing interest-rate expectations into disarray. As a small trade-dependent hub, Singapore is especially vulnerable to supply-chain disruptions and volatile energy prices.The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said it would increase slightly the rate of appreciation of the S$ Nominal Effective Exchange Rate Index (S$NEER) policy band, in line with what most analysts polled by Reuters had expected. MAS said there would be no change to its width and the level at which it is centred.«There are considerable risks around the outlook for inflation and growth,» MAS said, adding that the Middle East situation «is evolving and remains highly uncertain».

Singapore Q1 GDP up 4.6% year-on-year, preliminary data shows, below expectations

SINGAPORE — Singapore's economy grew by 4.6 per cent in the first quarter from a year earlier, preliminary government data showed on Tuesday (April 14).Economists polled by Reuters had expected annual growth of 5.9 per cent in the January-March period.On a
Singapore

Singapore Q1 GDP up 4.6% year-on-year, preliminary data shows, below expectations

SINGAPORE — Singapore's economy grew by 4.6 per cent in the first quarter from a year earlier, preliminary government data showed on Tuesday (April 14).Economists polled by Reuters had expected annual growth of 5.9 per cent in the January-March period.On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally adjusted basis, GDP contracted 0.3 per cent from the fourth quarter of 2025, according to advance estimates from the trade ministry. [[nid:733597]]

Bloomberg reporter in defamation trial grilled over claim that property deals are 'secret'

SINGAPORE — The Bloomberg reporter who has been sued by two ministers for defamation over an article he wrote about good class bungalow (GCB) transactions took the stand on Monday (April 13), the fifth day of an ongoing trial.Low De Wei, who is also known a
Singapore

Bloomberg reporter in defamation trial grilled over claim that property deals are 'secret'

SINGAPORE — The Bloomberg reporter who has been sued by two ministers for defamation over an article he wrote about good class bungalow (GCB) transactions took the stand on Monday (April 13), the fifth day of an ongoing trial.Low De Wei, who is also known as Dexter, maintained that he had acted in good faith and was «motivated by the public interest in transparency and reporting on a trend in the Singapore GCB market».But the ministers' lawyer, Senior Counsel Davinder Singh, grilled Low on claiming that certain deals are kept «secret» from the public and accused him of conveying falsehoods.Coordinating Minister for National Security K. Shanmugam and Manpower Minister Tan See Leng have sued Bloomberg and Low over the Dec 12, 2024, article, headlined «Singapore mansion deals are increasingly shrouded in secrecy».The article mentioned the ministers' property deals in 2023 - the sale of Shanmugam's former home in the Queen Astrid Park area to UBS Trustees for $88 million and Dr Tan's non-caveated purchase of a bungalow in Brizay Park for nearly $27.3 million.

Second-hand embarrassment: Taiwan police departments' recreation of viral Hougang NPC video draws controversy

They say imitation is the best form of flattery, and this seems to be the case for Hougang Neighbourhood Police Centre's (NPC) now-viral and much-talked about anti-scam video, with at least two of Taiwan's police districts recreating Mandarin versions of it.T
Singapore

Second-hand embarrassment: Taiwan police departments' recreation of viral Hougang NPC video draws controversy

They say imitation is the best form of flattery, and this seems to be the case for Hougang Neighbourhood Police Centre's (NPC) now-viral and much-talked about anti-scam video, with at least two of Taiwan's police districts recreating Mandarin versions of it.The original video, published on April 1, featured 35-year-old Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Benjamin Cheah, and it got over 850,000 views on Facebook at the time of this story's publication. On April 8, Taiwan's Banqiao Police posted a strikingly similar version featuring a male officer, while Kaohsiung Police's criminal investigation department featured a female officer. Both videos have received over 200,000 views on Facebook as at Monday (April 13).Since then, several Taiwanese netizens have raised concerns about plagiarism and copyright, including not crediting the source. 

'We will need to brace ourselves for a bumpy ride': Shanmugam explains consequences of the Middle East conflict

Singaporeans must brace ourselves as we face multiple knock-on effects following the Middle East conflict, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam said in a speech at the Home Team Promotion Ceremony 2026 on Monda
Singapore

'We will need to brace ourselves for a bumpy ride': Shanmugam explains consequences of the Middle East conflict

Singaporeans must brace ourselves as we face multiple knock-on effects following the Middle East conflict, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam said in a speech at the Home Team Promotion Ceremony 2026 on Monday (April 13).He said the Middle East conflict has shown that Iran has the «leverage it can wield» by closing the Strait of Hormuz.«There are reports of ships paying the Iranian authorities tolls for safe passage, up to US$2 million(S$2.5 million),» Shanmugam said.«Before the conflict, 80 ships passed through the Strait daily. If all of them paid that toll, that would be US$160 million per day.»In response, the US announced that it will blockade the Strait, which will also have consequences for Singapore, the minister said.Explaining the impact of the conflict, Shanmugam explained that terrorism threats have increased, oil and energy flows have been disrupted and prices have risen.«Next consequence, a continuation of a new phenomena in world order,» he stated.

Singapore influencer Mermaid Girl charged with alleged vape offences

Local influencer Eunice Ng, who goes by the online moniker Mermaid Girl, has been charged in court for an offence under the Tobacco Act.The 26-year-old had allegedly advertised e-vaporisers via Telegram, purportedly taking orders from «close clients&raq
Singapore

Singapore influencer Mermaid Girl charged with alleged vape offences

Local influencer Eunice Ng, who goes by the online moniker Mermaid Girl, has been charged in court for an offence under the Tobacco Act.The 26-year-old had allegedly advertised e-vaporisers via Telegram, purportedly taking orders from «close clients» whom she trusted, according to screenshots of her Telegram stories posted to TikTok.Citing court documents, The Straits Times reported that she allegedly wrote: «For those who want me to get vape for them, you can send me your pre-order list, and I will try to get them.»If there is high demand, I will set up a Google Form.«One screenshot had also allegedly showed her stating that the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) »didn't manage to catch« her because she had »outsmarted" them, AsiaOne reported in December last year.Ng's Telegram channel still has over 3,000 followers as at Monday evening.In a statement on Dec 30, HSA stated that it is aware of the matter and commenced investigations last month, which Ng assisted with.

Building more, building faster: Syed Harun on keeping housing affordable and accessible

The Ministry of National Development (MND) aims to keep housing affordable and accessible to the public by ensuring a robust supply of Build-to-Order (BTO) flats, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Syed Harun Alhabsyi told AsiaOne in an exclusive interview in Mar
Singapore

Building more, building faster: Syed Harun on keeping housing affordable and accessible

The Ministry of National Development (MND) aims to keep housing affordable and accessible to the public by ensuring a robust supply of Build-to-Order (BTO) flats, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Syed Harun Alhabsyi told AsiaOne in an exclusive interview in March.«If you notice, over the past few years, we've actually been building more and building faster,» he said.«This is our effort towards making sure that every Singaporean household can have a flat of their own.»Young families are a critical sector that MND supports, with nine in 10 first-time households able to service their housing loan through the Central Provident Fund (CPF) with little to no cash outlay, he stated.A robust BTO housing supply is also expected to move demand away from the resale market, which will, in turn, moderate market prices.«At the same time, it's also important to note that we do our level best to be able to ensure that grants are available for first-timer households seeking to purchase their first flat,» Dr Syed Harun said.

Shell raises petrol prices by 7 cents, reversing 4-cent drop; 98-octane crosses $4 mark

The petrol price reprieve in Singapore may be over.Just like peace talks between Iran and the US, Shell made the first move again — raising petrol prices by 7 cents on Monday (April 13), on the fifth day after it calibrated prices downwards by 4 cents.In a
Singapore

Shell raises petrol prices by 7 cents, reversing 4-cent drop; 98-octane crosses $4 mark

The petrol price reprieve in Singapore may be over.Just like peace talks between Iran and the US, Shell made the first move again — raising petrol prices by 7 cents on Monday (April 13), on the fifth day after it calibrated prices downwards by 4 cents.In a price board update published at 3.30pm, Shell announced that it has raised prices across its petrol offerings by 7 cents each, but kept diesel price unchanged.With its latest move, the  price of its more premium 98-octane petrol went past the four-dollar mark — to $4.01.

Recently MOP-ed Bedok flat sold for S$1.12m, the first 4-room million-dollar HDB in town

A newly MOP-ed flat in Bedok has just set a new benchmark for the town, with a four-room unit crossing the million-dollar mark for the first time. The record-breaking deal now ranks among the most expensive HDB transactions in Bedok, a segment typically
Singapore

Recently MOP-ed Bedok flat sold for S$1.12m, the first 4-room million-dollar HDB in town

A newly MOP-ed flat in Bedok has just set a new benchmark for the town, with a four-room unit crossing the million-dollar mark for the first time. The record-breaking deal now ranks among the most expensive HDB transactions in Bedok, a segment typically dominated by larger executive and five-room flats.First resale deal at Bedok South Horizon hits $1.12m Recently MOP-ed Bedok South Horizon breaks four-room price record in Bedok.PHOTO: 99.co Recently MOP-ed Bedok South Horizon breaks four-room price record in BedokIn early April 2026, a four-room flat at Bedok South Horizon changed hands for $1.12 million, translating to about $1,118 psf. The Model A unit spans 1,001 sqft and sits on a high floor, between the 16th and 18th storeys at Block 154B Bedok South Road. 

'Doing the Taipei 101 climb': Monitor lizard spotted scaling HDB flat in Bukit Merah

A Bukit Merah HDB block got an unexpected «visitor» after a monitor lizard was seen scaling its exterior wall in a viral video on Friday (April 10).The post was likened to the Taipei 101 climb by a commenter, who wrote: «Monitor lizard spott
Singapore

'Doing the Taipei 101 climb': Monitor lizard spotted scaling HDB flat in Bukit Merah

A Bukit Merah HDB block got an unexpected «visitor» after a monitor lizard was seen scaling its exterior wall in a viral video on Friday (April 10).The post was likened to the Taipei 101 climb by a commenter, who wrote: «Monitor lizard spotted! Probably doing the Taipei 101 climb.»Taipei 101 is a skyscraper located in the heart of Taiwan and was the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010. The animal is seen reaching the height of the HDB block number.In the comments section, several netizens raised concerns about the incident, while others were surprised by the sight.«I have seen monitor lizards climbing trees but not buildings,» said one user.Another commented: «Not safe to sleep with the windows open.»The video has since garnered over 159,000 views and 2,400 reactions as at Monday.

Flexar launches public beta phase of its point-to-point car sharing service

Flexar, the car-sharing platform previously known as BlueSG, will begin its public beta testing phase on Wednesday (April 15).It operates on the same concept as its first car-sharing service, where users can pick up a car at any station and drop it off at ano
Singapore

Flexar launches public beta phase of its point-to-point car sharing service

Flexar, the car-sharing platform previously known as BlueSG, will begin its public beta testing phase on Wednesday (April 15).It operates on the same concept as its first car-sharing service, where users can pick up a car at any station and drop it off at another location in Singapore.The beta phase comes after BlueSG's «strategic pause» in August last year, catching users off guard.In a statement on Monday, Flexar said that the beta phase will focus on testing and refining its features in a live environment, including fleet and parking optimisation, vehicle access, as well as ensuring its platform is designed to support more flexible urban mobility.Singaporeans aged 18 and above with a valid driving licence can sign up for free using Singpass with no deposits or membership fees.Through a mobile app, they can have a choice of Flexar's fleet of electric and internal combustion engine vehicles in the central, north, north-east and east regions, including areas such as Punggol, Sengkang, Hougang, Tampines, Ang Mo Kio and Toa Payoh.

3 men allegedly brandished knife, assault 4 victims in armed robbery at Farrer Park home

Three men, aged between 22 and 23, were arrested on Saturday (April 11) for their alleged involvement in a case of armed robbery near Farrer Park.The incident happened at about 11.25pm on Friday at a residential unit along Rangoon Road.Police said the trio ha
Singapore

3 men allegedly brandished knife, assault 4 victims in armed robbery at Farrer Park home

Three men, aged between 22 and 23, were arrested on Saturday (April 11) for their alleged involvement in a case of armed robbery near Farrer Park.The incident happened at about 11.25pm on Friday at a residential unit along Rangoon Road.Police said the trio had allegedly made arrangements to go to the said unit. Upon entering the unit, one of the trio allegedly brandished a knife. They were then said to have assaulted four persons in the unit, resulting in three of them sustaining minor injuries.  Out of fear and with demands allegedly made at knifepoint, the victims handed over cash amounting to $16,300, one gold chain and one gold bracelet before fleeing the scene. The trio were identified and arrested at Marsiling Drive on Saturday within 24 hours of the report being made, following ground enquiries and with the aid of images from police cameras.They will be charged in court on Monday with the offence of armed robbery with hurt.If found guilty of the said offence, the three men may be jailed for up to 20 years, and receive at least 12 strokes of the cane.

Video of Singapore Zoo's baby orangutan wins hearts online

A new orangutan is in town.And it is stealing hearts and racking up views and likes on social media.The baby Bornean orangutan was born three weeks ago on March 23, according to social media posts by Mandai Wildlife Reserve on Friday (April 10). «W
Singapore

Video of Singapore Zoo's baby orangutan wins hearts online

A new orangutan is in town.And it is stealing hearts and racking up views and likes on social media.The baby Bornean orangutan was born three weeks ago on March 23, according to social media posts by Mandai Wildlife Reserve on Friday (April 10). «We have a feeling this is just the beginning», said the wildlife parks operator. In a video posted by Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the auburn-haired female baby orangutan can be seen clinging on to its mother, Miri. 

Live performances, activities and guided tour at Istana open house on April 19 to celebrate Hari Raya and Labour Day

The Istana will open to the public on April 19 (Sunday) to celebrate Hari Raya season and Labour Day, with cultural performances and hands-on activities among the programme line-up.«Visitors can look forward to a line-up of musical, choral, and cultura
Singapore

Live performances, activities and guided tour at Istana open house on April 19 to celebrate Hari Raya and Labour Day

The Istana will open to the public on April 19 (Sunday) to celebrate Hari Raya season and Labour Day, with cultural performances and hands-on activities among the programme line-up.«Visitors can look forward to a line-up of musical, choral, and cultural performances that reflect Singapore's multicultural heritage. The programme features familiar classics across generations, alongside performances rooted in Malay and Indian traditions, including dikir barat, Malay dance, Bharatanatyam, and Indian folk dance,» the President's Office said in a media release on Monday (April 13).The event, which will be held from 8.30am to 6pm, will also include performances presented by MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra, Punggol View Primary School, Singapore Polytechnic, and Voices of Singapore.Face painting, balloon sculpting and lawn bowling are among the hands-on activities.Visitors can also explore activity and merchandise booths presented by social service agencies to learn more about their efforts in supporting and uplifting the community.

Sengkang-Punggol LRT depot expansion works enter final phases; single loop operations on Sengkang West to begin April 19

Works on the Sengkang-Punggol LRT (SPLRT) depot expansion, which began in 2022, have entered the final phases and are on track for completion in 2027, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA) on Sunday (April 12).These include connecting two new reception trac
Singapore

Sengkang-Punggol LRT depot expansion works enter final phases; single loop operations on Sengkang West to begin April 19

Works on the Sengkang-Punggol LRT (SPLRT) depot expansion, which began in 2022, have entered the final phases and are on track for completion in 2027, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA) on Sunday (April 12).These include connecting two new reception tracks along Sengkang West Avenue to the mainline, which requires the Sengkang West inner loop to be closed from April 19 to Oct 18.

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