Sunday, April 30, 2006
GE06
SDA Candidate Steve Chia Says Govt Not Transparent On NKF, Reserves
"If TT Durai did not sue SPH, let me ask you, will our PAP ministers still be praising the NKF, Mr TT Durai and urging people to continue donating to the old NKF? If TT Durai did not sue SPH, would they, our world class ministers, know all the wrongdoings in NKF?"
SDA's Chiam See Tong Rebuts NCMP Suggestion
Four More SDP Members May Apologise To Singapore Leaders Over Defamation Suits
Lawyer M. Ravi told Channel NewsAsia he is no longer acting for four members of the SDP's Central Executive Committee.
Apology By WP's James Gomez Does Not Properly Address Issue: George Yeo
"James Gomez was accusing not only a department, he was accusing an innocent public official of a very serous misdeed. If there were o closed circuit television cameras, that civil servant would have been in trouble and his whole family would have suffered for it, so that he could paly a political game? Please give us a proper reply."
Govt Must Account To Voters, Says Low
Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang last night questioned why so much money was now being spent to upgrade lifts in HDB flats and make public transport more disabled-friendly. If these facilities had been better designed at the start, thefunds now being spent could have been saved, he said, asking who should be held accountable for the waste.
Election Talk
Don't Be A Lemming
How do you live a real life instead of being a machine bred to grow a nation's economy?
Is The Government Easing Up On Old Media?
My own impressionistic assessment is that there has been a subtle but significant easing up on the media, allowing journalists more room than in previous elections to do their job with some professionalism.
First General Election Rally
Passion, it's not something I see very often in Singapore. But witnessed lots of passion in a political rally and I want to go for another one before voting starts this Saturday.
A Brief COmment On This Blogger's Post That Turned Into A Ramble, As Usual
Many worry about being blacklisted, about not being given upgrades or benefits among others.
Toughening Politicians For The Future
For the long-term survival of the PAP, it should perhaps consider the very solution it prescribed for Singapore's unemployment problem — increased competitivity.
News
Saturday, April 29, 2006
GE06
SM Goh Doubts Steve Chia Will Be Chosen As NCMP In This Election
Minister Mah Criticises SDA Chief's 2-In-1 Formula
Scoring On The Gomez Slip
This is what WP is going to pay for dearly.
PM Lee Tells WP's Gomez To Come Clean About Filing Papers
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has asked Worker's Party member James Gomez to come clean about what happened when he filed his papers at the Elections Department. He also said Workers' Party Low Thia Khiang should take this issue with utmost seriousness.
Lee Defends Policy, Calling Singapore Politics 'A Rough Game'
'I want a world-class opposition, not this riff-raff. You've got to be rough. This is a rough game."
PAP Promises Tampines Voters Townhall Forum
While the idea of holding dialogue sessions is not a new one for the party, this is a concerted effort to involve residents in implementation of decisions that will help improve their lives, said Tampines candidate Irene Ng.
Manifesto Packed With Ideas, Says Workers' Party
Stop Evading The Serious Issues Facing Singapore, PM Tells Opposition
He said a serious opposition must know the challenges facing Singapore and how to tackle them. But so far, the opposition has had nothing to say on terrorism, the rise of China and India or how to keep Singapore competitive.
The Curious Case Of Gomez And The Missing Certificate
The Elections Department said that Mr Gomez had not contacted it since — either to confirm that he had found the certificate in his bag or to confirm whether his colleaue still maintained that he had submitted the form.
WP Candidate Says Government Adopted His Idea Of Smaller Classes In Schools
Elections Dept Says Singapore Not Ready for Electronic Voting
WP Says PAP's Upgrading Programme Is National And Not Licalised Issue
"Vote for the PAP for your self interest, that's the message. And is this the message and the value we want for Singapore?"
WP Candidate Says Singaporeans Are First World, Not The Government
Election Talk
Contradiction Of The Day - Singapore Democracy
The similarities with "1984" are so stark one wonders if it was used as a model on which to build the country.
The Mandate In Ang Mo Kio
The contest of Ang Mo Kio GRC and the non-return of PAP to power are two politically significant events for the GE.
Hallucinating Potong Pasirs
It is a reminder of an unfulfilled dream of a post-65er teenager in the 1980s that all of the stars of our national flag will shine equally bright, democracy as bright as Progress. It rejects the White-and-black nostalgia of the 1970s. It ridicules the hallucinations of the 1990s and early 200s that inculcated irrational fears of specters of all shapes and sizes, which we can only laugh off with heartlandish satires and opportunistic taunts.
CCK PAP Rally Report
Generally people hawked Gan's favourables — youth, family man, biculturalism, diligence, sincerity, concern for the retrenched, concern for the elderly etc. And then his credentials — scholar, private sector experience, Minister of State for Manpower and Education in the last Cabinet, and rumoured to make the next one as a minister. In any country running a Westminster system, having your MP in high office would be good for your ward, or at least it couldn't hurt.
News
Malaysia Needs To Do More To Retain Edge In Islamic Banking
Malaysia is the world's largest Islamic banking hub after Bahrain but it may lose this status to Singapore if it does not start making overtures or giving perks to attract more players.
Stop Talk On Bridge, Says Hamid
"It is not necessary for everyone to agree with it."
Singapore Will Progress And Function At Own Pace: MM Lee
Lee Kuan yew says Singapore will progress and function at its own pace without western influences, such as those from the foreign media. And he says that is why the foreign media based here are not allowed to interfere in Singpaore politics.
Opinion
Amir Muhammad On Thursday: We're Closer To Fencing The Moon
"This is an example of just how paranoid Singapore is. After all, it's our moon and we can decide what we want to do with it. It's not as if we want to stop Singaporeans from having access to the moon."
Friday, April 28, 2006
Election Talk
Elections: Of Course The PAP!
"I am worried that if I vote for anybody else, the government will check my serial number and blacklist me."
Question Time!
Where are all the opposition parties' photos on Channel News Asia?
Local Media Waging A Campaign Against SDP
The reports about Mr Ling How Doong saying that Dr Chee Soon Juan should be sacked as Secretary-General of the SDP is completely untrue.
First World?
A sense of superiority is something that I'm sure the PAP identifies with quite easily, but I'm kinda disappointed that some opposition candidates have also fallen into using the same language in response, instead of critiquing it.
Opinion
And Progress For Our Nation...
Singaporeans united in spending their Progress Package aka Free Gahmen Marnie.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Nomination Day
Singapore's Opposition Fields Enough Candidates For May 6 Polls
PAP Denied Walkover Victory In General Election
The island's long-governing People's Action Party has been returned unopposed in 37 out of 84 seats in Parliament. This is 6 seats shy of a majority. However political analysts say there is no doubt that the PAP will form the government — what is in question is their share of vots.
Walkovers Declared For PAP In 7 GRCs
The PAP has been returned unopposed in 7 Group Representation Constituencies on Nomination Day on Thursday. Walkovers for PAP were declared for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Jurong GRC, Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, Marine Parade GRC, Tanjong Pagar GRC, West Coast GRC and Hong Kah GRC.
GE06
Elections Dept Confirms WP's James Gomez Did Not Submit Minority Form
Security camera footage shows Mr Gomez putting the form into his bag, and not submitting it.
Chee May Be Sacked From SDP's Executive Committee: Party Chairman
The Singapore Democratic Party Chairman Ling How Doong says the party's Secretary-General Chee Soon Juan may be sacked from its Central Executive Committee.
Singapore's Ruling Opposition Parties Debate Political Freedom
Singapore's ruling People's Action Party yesterday clashed with opposition leaders in a public debate over political freedom in the run up to May 6 elections.
Full-Time MP, Yet Cheo Was Rejected By Voters: Dr Lee
To which the SDA's Jalan Besar GRC team leader Sebastian Teo countered: "Let me reverse the question to him: I can be a good MP and if I can also serve full-time, won't this make me a better MP than him?"
Sembawang Key To Today's Equation
A huge question mark remains — will Dr Chee Soon Juan's Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) turn up to contest the Sembawang GRC?
An Age-Old Debate
Just how young do Singaporeans like their representative to be — and does age really matter anyway?
Return Of The Queue — This Time For Rally Spots
Since Wednesday morning, more than 20 people have queued up outside the Police Elections Liaison Office to be among the first to book a rally site.
Election Talk
GE Nomination Day
Why is that our monthly income is so low and yet we have to bear so much expenses.
PAP's Rigorous Selection Process
If I were selecting people as MPs the first fundamental question I would ask is "Are you committed enough to Singaporeans to serve the people full time?" The PAP candidates fail on this fundamental question.
How The Ruling Party Twists The Courts To Their Favour
Workers' Party, People's Action Party And Ministers' Salaries
The PAP ministers might have forgotten that their high salaries is a privilege when Singapore is performing well and not an entitlement regardless of economic ups and downs.
Lee Hsien Loong's Lack of Integrity
He is not a man of Confucian Integrity. He is a graspingLegalist, debasing himself with mean-spirited and crudely repressive political tactics.
Modest But Real Steps Mean More To Voters
Next Stop, Potong Pasir
Chiam might have humiliated the MIW's blue-eyed boy Mah Bow Tan in 1984, but Mah as Minister of National Development since 1999, is in a way using HDB upgrading to get back at Chiam.
News
Dr Mahathir Comes Out With 16-Point Rebuttal On Bridge Decision
The spat between Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and the government over its decision to scrap the building of a bridge to replace the Causeway linking Malaysia and Singapore continued THursday with the former prime minister saying he was not convinced at all with the reasoning why the bridge could not be built.
'Talks Not Only Way To Resolve Issues'
Things remain unclear as to how Malaysia would resolve outstanding bilateral issues with Singapore now that all negotiations have been called off.
Opinion
Flight Of 'Mr. Chicken Rice' Stirs Singapore Over National Dish
One of the most anticipated new eateries in Singapore this year was a food stall in a shopping mall. It serves a single dish, based on an old Chinese recipe, available in at least 290 other places on the island.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
GE06
Singapore's Authoritarian Rulers Tangled In Web
Democratic elections in Singapore have always brought out the worst in the People's Action Party (PAP).
Two Ministers Expected To Face GE Competition For First Time
The coming General Election is expected to see at least two ministers face competition and contest for the first time. They are Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan in Sembawang GRC, and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, Raymond Lim, in East Coast GRC.
Election Dept Says WP Candidate Did Not Apply For Minority Certificate
WP's James Gomez says he has not received his minority candidate certificate. He claims he submitted his application on Monday, but the Election Department says it has no record of his application.
Singapore Tries To Squelch Political Blogs, Podcasts
Jus thow serious is this new regulation, and will political speech by bloggers and podcasters be chilled now that elections have been set for May 6?
No Podcasts For Singapore Election
Singapore Democratic Party To Contest Lees' Legal Action
Hoping For A Chance To Take Part In Elections
No 3-Way Contests In Potong Pasir And Joo Chiat?
Expected third candidates in both wards out of race.
Promises Made On Borrowed Ideas: Dr Lee
PAP's anchor minister shrugs off SDA's programmes for Jalan Besar GRC.
Workers' Party To Field 20
Long-term ambition is to contest more than half the seats, says chairman.
Election Talk
The Economics Of Defamation And Self Censorship
Perhaps in Singapore, the majority concluded that almost everything is worth sacrificing for the sake of stability, even the truth.
The 20
The WP's preference to discuss accountability and the government's credentials in an unagressive even witty way strikes a populist chord among potential voters.
A Place For Special Interest Parties
Is forming the alternative government necssarily the one and only politcal aim of an opposition party, as the PAP always seems to suggest and mock those that do not? I think not.
3rd World Vs 1st World Politics
Is This 'Political'?
I attended a community event at Hong Kah North Community Club [where incumbent MPs of the GRC] took turns giving speeches to the residents and said they hoped the residents would give them their support in the coming General Election. So does this cross the line?
Leave The Printer Alone, Fight The SDP
Has the PAP no shame in targeting Mr David Sum? Is there no level to which the party will not sink?
Meet The People Session - Seeing 2 PAP MPs In Marine Parade Futile
PAP MPs are supposed to help citizens in need but it appears that nothing has been done by them but merely providing lip service. Are PAP MPs worth their cents?
Where We Are, Came From And Would Like To Be
I think it is important to question the PAP's ideology of economic growth and to challenge that hegemony. Because in the long run, I don't reckon it is sustainable.
Chee Soon Juan - Maligned, Mad Or Malicious?
Things must be done in the proper way...
Special Focus On GLC = TLC = GIC
Huh?
Why was that guy thrown into jail and declared bankrupt when he was just saying his views/speaking his mind?
Imagining Potong Pasir
And so we are left to imagine Potong Pasir. That place in Singapore which we always hear about, almost like a mythical land within Singapore.
News
Pushing For Babies: Singapore Fights Fertility Decline
It's the ruling PAP's policies on marriage and babies, with their whiff of eugenics, that have proved most controversial.
NKF Claims $12m From Durai & Co
$2.09m sought from ex-CEO, and over $9m for drop in donations, legal costs and botched contract payouts.
CIQ Link Can Be Ready In Six Months
The RM250mil eight-lane elevated link between the Bukit Chagar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex and the Causeway can be up in six months.
Opinion
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
GE06
SDP Lawyer No Longer Representing Abdul Rasheed And Lawrence Lai
Two more members of the Singapore Democratic Party's Central Executive Committee have dropped out of joint front put up by the party on Monday in response to the letters of demand issued by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.
SDP Told To Remove Podcasts From Website
The Returning Officer for the General Election has ordered the Singapore Democratic Party to take down audio files and podcasts from its website.
MM Lee To Low: With JBJ Out, Take WP To First World Standard
Lee Kuan yew said that if the PAP did not have the capabilities of a First World government, Singapore would not have risen up to the First World standards as measured by the World Bank, the World Economic Forum and the Transparency International.
Jalan Besar Contest Sees Hatchets Buried
Former rivals in SDP, Chiam, Cheo now sport SDA colours.
A Contest Almost Over Before It Began
Years of preparation for the coming General Election might have been ruined for some members of the opposition because of a near-miss with form submissions.
Chee Puts Out Podcast Despite Ban
What Do Chiam And Low Stand For, Asks PM Lee
"You are asking people to vote for your candidates so that they will go into Parliament and speak up for people. But in Parliament you are not speaking up for people. So, what's the point?"
WP's Ang Mo Kio Flutter
On Monday, WP chairman Sylvia Lim confirmed what some had begun to suspect: The party will contest the Ang Mo Kio Group Representation Constituency, where it will face a formidable ruling party slate led by the Prime Minister himself.
Chee Adamant, But SDP Member Apologises
Today understands that there is discontent within SDP over the stand taken by Dr. Chee. Some members had wanted to apologise on receiving the letters of demand last week, but were apparently told not to.
Election Talk
Videocasts On GE To Be Available On Channel NewsAsia Website
Bloggers should just defy the ban on electoral reporting/podcasting/videocasting...
Eh? No Ban On Podcasts?
Apparently Channel NewsAsia can podcast and videocast bloggers' coverage of the elections during this, the election period.
Where's The Defamation?
Below is the article from The New Democrat which Father Lee Kuan Yew and Son Lee Hsien Loong are saying is defamatory. Read and see how ridiculous they are.
Politics: Greg Fires A Salvo...
Kudos to the Workers' Party for just laying down criticism at the PAP in a subtle, but poignant manner.
Orchestrated Confusion Or Genuine Confusion
Why is the MDA taking a position that makes postings in forums a touchy issue?
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The GRC
If the GRC system was to ensure minorities have a voice in Parliament, the move to expand the size of GRCs is inconsistent with the stated aim, to say the least. Are the Whiteshirts committed to racial harmony or not?
Young Singaporeans Aren't Aware Of What Bad Leaders, Politicians Can Do To Country
Can Present System Take Us Safely Into The Future?
Let's Hear From Political Parties On Serious Issues
Lessons From An Old Media Encounter
Not only has the PAP as a whole lost points, but, in addition, the stature of its most iconic leader has been compromised — all in all, an unnecessarily expenditure of political capital in an altogether ill-conceived mission.
News
Singapore's '06 Economy Unlikely To Expand
Singapore's economy is unlikely to exceed last year's growth rate of 6.4 percent as expansion in the key electronics sector will slow in the near-term, the central bank said Tuesday.
Slowdown In Singapore Growth Momentum Temporary: MAS
The Scenic Bridge: Peek Behind The Scenes
'Best Option Was To Scrap Bridge'
Singapore, Ambassador-at-large Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak said, could even halt the use of the remaining Singapore part of the Causeway by Keretapi Tanah Melayu on account of structural integrity upon the unilateral demolishment of the Malaysian part of the Causeway. And if the train service was stopped for six months, Singapore could exercise Section 4 of the Singapore Railway Transfer Ordinance and the KTM land in the republic would revert to them.
Day Off For Some Students
As politicians troop down to nine schools designated as nomination centres on Thursday, students from the schools will get the day off.
Opinion
Forget The Bridge, Go For A Canal
Forget about the bridge in the south. Make a canal in the north, instead. Just remember, don't build anything before the talks with Thailand are duly concluded.
Crooked Bridge: This Is What Would've Happened...
The bridge can only do one of two things — a 180-degree turn and a loop-de-loop back to Johor or leave a half-completed bridge danging halfway up the causeway for the whole construction world to have a good laugh.
Pursue Expanded Rail Link
We don't need a new bridge... Our trains should be the main link of transportation into Singapore.
PM Right Over Bridge That Went Too Far
Scenic Bridge - Gainer And Loser
Malaysia government fail to use a win-win approach in negotiation with Singapore, therefore negotiation fail. Singapore lose nothing if negotiation fail.
Dr Mahathir's WMDs On The Bridge
Learning To Own Your Space
Formal classroom teaching does great things, but it does not nourish every part of us. You look for the parts that are not being reached and you address it. It is not enrichment; it is essential.
Monday, April 24, 2006
GE06
Workers' Party Low Says PAP 'Not First World Government'
Workers' Party Secretary-General Low Thia Khiang has accused the People's Action Party of not being a First World government, and challenged the ruling party to benchmark itself politically against other mature democracies.
Printer Of SDP Newsletter Apologises To PM And MM
Lifts Issue In The Limelight
"How can they put the blame on me? It seems like now we have to carry the burden for what was a lack of foresight by the government when they first built the flats some 30 or 40 years ago."
Business To Vote For Singapore, Election No Issue
A Southeast Asian coutnry, an election, a period of transition — normaly that's a recipe for risk. Not in Singapore, where companies and investors can look forward to a ballot on May 6 with supreme confidence that the country's pro-business policies will remain intact.
Hardly 'Run-Of-The-Mill'
"I've never claimed to be extraordinary and if his comment is that I'm just a run-of-the-mill, average person, then I will gladly claim that. We want to represent the people. So, it's okay — I am one of thousands!"
PAP Questions Quality Of Opposition
People's Action Party leaders yesterday questioned the quality of new candidates being fielded by the opposition, saying some may look good on paper, but they were largely untested.
Let The People Gauge Our Worth: Opposition
SDA's Tampines Team Unaffected By Legal Action
Workers' Party Says More Time Needed To Build Up First-Class Opposition
"We have no quarrel with what Minister Mentor says — we are aware we are still in a building up process. This election, we have made some progress and we hope the people agree with us on this, but there is still a long road ahead and we will work towards that."
Election Talk
Email Interview With Edmund Ng, SDA Candidate
All I Want For This Singapore General Elections...
... is to see an opposition party win a GRC.
GRC Walkovers - Too Many Voters Sidelined
Dominance Of PAP Means It Can Do Its Job
SDP
Yeah that's right, you wanna topple the most squeaky clean gahmen anywhere in the world and you helm yourselves with a charged criminal.
NKF Revisited: Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil
Once again, Singaporeans are reminded of the unequal playing field of legal practice: Big companies, institutions and money-making tyrants taking advantage of the small-timers' lack of financial resources to subjugate and gag the masses, with a smirk certainty that none of their dirty linen will ever be exposed.
News
New NKF Files Civil Suit Against Durai, Former Board
In a statement, NKF's Chairman Gerard Ee said the aim of the suit was to recover the damages, including the salaries and bonuses paid to former directors.
Singapore Girls Pay Price For Plastic Perfection
Plastic surgeons say they have noted a sharp increase in operations for young Singaporeans — including some boys — and even government-run hospitals now offer some basic forms of cosmetic surgery like breast augmentation.
Singapore Inflation Rises In March
Singapore's consumer prices rose at a slower-than-expected pace in March because of a decline in transportation and communication costs. The data show inflationary pressures are still modest in Singapore, even though the central bank recently raised the inflation target for 2006.
Cyber Gaming Approved As National Sport In Singapore
Killing orcs and other online monsters has received the offiical nod of approval as a national sport in Singapore.
Singapore Dollar Riss To 8-Year High Against Greenback
Conversions Of CBD Office Blocks To Homes May Slow
No applications so far this year as office market recovery takes root.
Opinion
The Divorced Spouse, Singapore
When Singapore's top leaders believe they are in the right and they don't trust the other side, they can be very ungenerous and even ruthless — take no prisoner, don't give up anything without a fight approach. It is highly unenlightened leadership and undeserving of a nation that is now considered developed but that is what they are.
Impressive Singapore
From my point of view, two factors made Singapore what it is today and those two factors are the leadership and the people.
Let Troubled Waters Pass
The government had mentioned the legal impediments to joining the Scenic Bridge to the Causeway. I have no reason to doubt that. We should let the matter pass.
Is It Ever Too Late?
Did I want to spend my life pleasing everybody but myself?
CPF Board Shouldn't Forget Those Whom Progress Package Is Supposed To Help
May I urge the CPF Board not to be so preoccupied with efficiency in administrering the Progress Package payment and suffer a blind spot to the real hardship caused by rigid bureaucracy?
Raising Civil Service Standards
Perhaps the police should package their experiences and train others so that there is some consistency in responses to media queries across the entire public sector.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
GE06
SDA's Yip Yew Weng Asked To Leave Yio Chu Kang CC For Trying To Campaign
Fair That HDB Residents Who Vote For PAP Should Get Upgrading First: Mah
A Woman Minister? Only When There Are Enough Women MPs
Singapore will have its first woman minister when there are enough women in Parliament. And 17 — the number of women canddiates the Peopel's Action Party is fielding at the polls — is a good start for Mrs Lim Hwee Hua, PAP Women's Wing chief and Minister of State for Finance and Transport.
Chee: No Apology, We'll Keep Selling Newsletter
"We're not afraid of them. Why sue us? Because the information in our newsletter is very important and they don't want you all to see it."
SDP Not Apologising Over Alleged Defamatory Remarks On NKF Issue
Lawyer M Ravi confirmed this when he told Channel NewsAsia he is acting for the SDP's Central Executive Committee (CEC) on this matter.
Election Talk
Does The Defence Of Qualified Privilege Work In Singapore?
Lee Kuan Yew said that "First World country must have First World government and opposition." Perhaps a First World country should also have First World laws.
The Dearth Of Internet Discussion On The Election
Singapore politics will never grow up and the people will forever be accused of being apathetic and apolitical. Which they are not. But what they are thinking and saying will now be confined to behind closed doors.
Elections Loom In Singapore
As a country approaches a general election one might expect an increase in political commentaries, right? Well, that's not quite what's happening in Singapore...
Singapore Politics: It's Not About "Asian" Or "Confucian" Values, It's About The Repression And Corruption
It's election time in Singapore again and, just as the night follows the day, the ruling party, the aptly acronymed PAP, is unjustly and corruptly undermining the opposition and, mor egenerally, democracy.
Opinion
'Stupid' Remarks Stir Up Hornet's Nest
Singaporeans are affluent, educated, but are they really survival smart?
Saturday, April 22, 2006
GE06
First World Country Must Have First World Government And Opposition: MM Lee
Mr Lee says it is up to the opposition parties to field credible candidates to contest an election and win.
Health Minister Says He Takes SDP's Allegations About NKF Saga Seriously
Timing Of Lawsuit Against SDP Not Decided By PM Lee Or MM Lee: Mah
Instead the timing depends on when the alleged defamatory remarks were made.
Candidates Must Bring Along Proposer, seconder And Assentors On Nomination Day
Those who put their names down in support of the candidate must be there to confirm their personal particulars, according to Parliamentary Election rules.
PAP Candidate Gan Kim Yong Ready For Contest In Chua Chu Kang
Political Parties Should refrain From Making Defamatory Remarks: Lim Swee Say
"I think we should stay away from defamations because a defamation is a no-win for any party involved."
A Rational Choice
Will the affluent young deny the bossy ruling party a clean sweep?
PM, MM Demand Apology From SDP Over NKF Remarks
Lee Hsien Loong and Lee Kuan Yew are demanding an apology and damages from 14 parties, mostly from the Singapore Democratic Party, for remarks made in the latest issue of SDP's party newspaper, The New Democrat.
WP's Simple Message To Singaporeans
Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang has a simple message for all Singaporeans: You have a choice. Now, give us a chance.
Election Talks
Please Read... You Meddling Kids...
So far the government has been recruiting Malay MPs into their league. These MPs are in the game now... they're playing with the big boys now. Yet these Malay MPs are given non important appointments rather than an important appointment like finance or foreign. Why? Becuase we can't be trusted.
Can Singapore Continue To Survive?
High Cost Of Homes/Cars/Education
MM's TV Dialogue With Young Singaporeans
We ought to be proud of government that thinks long term.
Bad Political Move
The MIW's insistence to further showe the SDP is only going to make the latter gain sympathy votes.
Age Of Internet And General Election
We now have blogs and forums and we can either make ourselves useful to everyone or just waste our time talking aimlessly.
Election Disjuncture
I hope that my fellow citizens will vote not for want of the old concert like amiddle-aged remorse harking to his or her lost youth. The good years belong to the past and we must confront the challenges that we have today.
Successful Politicians Always Fight The Last Election
SDP: No Need For Wayang, Just Answer Questions On NKF Scandal
No one can say that the SDP had not brought this matter up before.
LHL Hypocrisy
"There is no policy too sensitive to question, and no subject so taboo that you cannot even mention it." — DPM Lee Hsien Loong, Straits Times, 17 Jan 2000.
Go Opposition!
Is this what you call a fair race? So what if your party win? It isn't very honourable, using state funds to carry out your propagandic campaigns. It's state funds, not party funds.
News
Letter Reveals Kuan Yew Agreed To Bridge
"If Singapore has earlier agreed to the bridge be built as disclosed in my pervious press conference, and assuming Singapore changed their mind where there were some letters and minutes of meeting post 2003 that Singapore has changed its mind and do not agree the bridge to be built, what should be Malaysia's response? Very simple, we stop the negotiation, isn't it?"
Friday, April 21, 2006
GE06
Hot Spots To Watch
Parties gearing up for Nomination Day on April 27.
Seven GRCs And 37 PAP Candidates Lilkely To Get Walkovers
As many as 37 People's Action Party MPs could walk into Parliament unopposed next Thursday, as opposition parties have yet to express any interest in seven of the 14 GRCs. If this happens, it will mean 14 of the 24 new PAP candidates will make it into Parliament without a fight.
Worker's Party, SDA To Roll Out Candidates Over Next Few Days
Net Postings Fall Under Elections Act
From now on, the gloves have to stay on. For the bloggers, that is.
Should MPs Give Up Their Day Jobs?
The spotlight turns on MPs' allowances and whether they should serve full-time.
Postpone NKF Court Case: WP's Low
This will allow for a good debate on the issue, without stepping afoul of the law, the Worker's Party chief told reporters.
Opportunities Lost And Won In The Long Run-Up
Parties have had longest preparation time in decades for GE.
Government Fairer To Opposition This Election: Steve Chia
Parties Given Ample Time To Plan Campaign For Upcoming GE: Dr Balakrishnan
"I think everyone is prepared both the PAP as well as the opposition parties. This is one election that nobody can say they haven't had enough time."
News
Singapore To Bid For 2011 Southeast Asia Games
Singapore wants to step in for impoverished Cambodia as host for the 2011 Southeast Asian Games.
Card That Does All
The new cards — offered by Visa — can double up as ez-link cards.
Opinion
Elections
Religious harmony? What do you mean by that? If you mean freedom of religion, then its right and proper. However, we do know that it's not the case in Singapore; otherwise the Fa Lun Gong and JWs will not be persecuted the way we are.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
GE06
Fare Revision Delay Not An Election Move: Transport Minister
Transport Minister Yeo Cheow Tong says the Public Transport Council's decision to defer its fare revision deadline is not an election move, as suggested by some.
Singapore General Election: Nomination Day On April 27, Polling Day On May 6
The Singapore government has announced that Nomination Day for the 2006 General Election will be on April 27 and Polling Day will be on May 6.
Singapore Parliament Dissolved, Paving Way For General Election
Singapore President S R Nathan, on the advice of the Prime Minister, has dissolved Parliament. This means the Writ of Election will be issued soon after, paving the way for a Nomination date to be set, and a general election to be called.
Overseas Voting Rules Gazetted
With Durai Charged, How Far Does The Legal Gag Order Extend?
The problem nowarises as it is unlawful to publicly comment on a case while it is still under judgment — otherwise known as sub judice, in legalese.
SDA Sugests Constitutional Change To Allow Nominated Ministers
This is so that residents, especially those in Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, do not have to be afraid that a minister and PAP MPs are not returned to power.
News
NKF Won't Be Prosecuted Under Foreign Workers Act
In a statement, MOM says its investigations show there is sufficient evidence to charge the NKF for making false declarations when applying for work permits, but not enough to press criminal charges against specific persons or key officers within the organisation.However, since the NKF has been reconstituted and the cost of answering the charges and paying the fines will have to be borne out of donor funds, the decision was made not to prosecute it.
Scrapping Of Bridge Right Move To Avoid Legal Risks
The government made the right decision in scrapping plans to build a bridge to replace the Johor Causeway, at least from the legal aspect, two experts on international law said Thursday.
RP Teaches Singapoe How To Handle Protests
Singapore is seeking the expert advice of the Philippine National Police in crowd control and management. The tiny city-state wanted to learn how to deal with protesters when the International Monetary Fund-World Bank conferences are held in the island in September.
Singapore Air Unions Agree To Peg Some Staff Bonuses To Co Performance - Report
Staff unions at Singapore Airlines and units Singapore Airport Terminals Service (SATS) and SIA Engineering have agreed to peg the bulk of their bonuses to the performance of the group and a smaller amount to individual company performances, the Straits Times newspaper quoted union officials as saying.
Kit Siang And Anwar Praise PM
It took courage for Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to call off the bridge project, said opposition leader Lim Kit Siang. The DAP MP for Ipoh Timur, however, said that the nation had the right to know when and why the government changed its mind about the bridge.
Opinion
A Bridge Too Far - Not Bridge That's Crooked
There is more to the intrigue and nonsense that have been unfolding.
Yet Another Red Herring
I am not opposed to Malaysia having secret military alliances with the US... But why is it we grant the US so much concessions but when it comes to Singapore we are so uncompromising? Or is this thingy with Singapore just a sandiwara (staged) meant to fan the sentiments of the Malay nationalists and unite the Malays under Umno?
Will The Japanese Empress Meet The Homeless Woman At The National Library?
This was the first time I met a SIngaporean homeless lady.
Much A-Bridge About Nothing
The Malaysia-SIngapore "bridge to replace causeway" issue explained in 30 seconds...
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
GE06
News
Suffering Singapore's Slings, Arrows
Does Singapore have a sound legal system or is Singapore just another autocracy with a leadership that subverts the law to preserve its own power? Should its court orders relating to commercial and other matters be enforced in countries that do have excellent legal systems? These are maters over which a Canadian court has been asked to rule in a case that is hugely embarrassing to Singapore's government, particularly in an election year.
The Scenic Bridge Saga: On Unfamiliar And Shifting Ground, Leaders Disagree With DR M's Views
Several MPs found themselves in unfamiliar territory yesterday: Having to disagree with a man they had either served or had grown up admiring.
Ex-S'pore Premier Goh Expressed Support For New Bridge
Water And CPF Talks With Singapore Dropped
Talks with Singapore on issues such as water tariffs and the return of Central Provident Funds money to Malaysian workers are now off.
The Hidden Player In NKF
NKF manager who 'ran the purchasing show' runs from the media.
Opinion
Rules Are, Apparently, Meant To Be Broken
Obviously, the world is coming to an end.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
GE06
SDP To Pursue NKF Issue During Election
The SDP says the Ministers for Health and Finance have a lot to answer for, as they had still endorsed the NKF despite whatever was going on.
Casinos? NKF? Do Voters Care At All?
As Singapore prepares to go to the polls, it appears that the two issues that provoked the loudest outcry last year will have very little impact on the way votes are cast.
News
PM: Decision To Scrap Bridge Project Was Unanimous
Mobil Stations Making Way For Esso Under Rebranding
No Discussion With Singapore For Now, Says Syed Hamid
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said given that all negotiations on the bridge had been terminated, "I don't think we should start talking about any (other) issues as yet."
Public Transport Fare Revision Exercise Deferred By Three Months
The Public Transport Council has deferred the annual fare revision exercise by three months. It says this is to give it time to implement changes to the PTC(Amendment) Act 2006 which came into effect on April 3.
Singapore Bosses Resort To Rude And Inconsiderate E-Mails: Survey
Bosses in Singapore resort to rude and inconsiderate e-mail messages instead of face-to-face confrontations, a survey on workplace ethics said on Tuesday.
Former NKF CEO TT Durai Charged With Corruption
Former National Kidney Foundation (NKF) CEO TT Durai has been slapped with two charges of corruption. One charge reads that Durai had deceived the NKF into making a $20,000 payment to an interior design consultancy service.
'No Need For Referendum On Project Cancellation'
Troubled
Dr Mahathir claimed that in a letter written to him by former Singapore prime minister Goh Chok Tong, "he said if we wanted to build bridge on our side, he would respect it even if it was not ideal to him. No conditions imposed."
Opinion
Censors Say Zahari's 17 Years Rated PG, But Film Fest Cancelled Screening
When I spoke to a festival staff yesterday, he said the screening was cancelled as the censors has yet to authorise the screening.
Monday, April 17, 2006
GE06
Singapore Cites Opposition For Speaking Without A Licence
An opposition party leader was being investigated by police for speaking without a licence ahead of Singapore's upcoming general election, officials said Monday. Chee Soon Juan, secretary-general of the Singapore Democratic Party, and his aide, Yap Keng Ho, set up tables, displayed party banners and took turns addressing residents through a microphone during the weekend.
News
Malaysia Confident MyKad Will Eventually Be Accepted In Singapore
Former NKF CEO TT Durai Arrested, But Presently Out On Bail
Former National Kidney Foundation CEO TT Durai has been arrested and according to informed sources familiar with the case, he is expected to be charged on Tuesday.
Malaysia, Singapore Torn By Love-Hate Relationship
Often seen as squabbling siblings, relations between Malaysia and Singapore continue to see-saw between co-operation and mistrust, confounding ordinary citizens and officials alike.
Polling Choices Are Indeed Secret: Steve Chia
With recent concern over the secrecy of votes, National Solidarity Party secretary-general Steve Chia assured voters that — as Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng had explained — their polling choices were indeed secret.
Singapore Wary Of Flaws In MyKad
Teething problems in the MyKad is the reason for Singapore's reluctance in accepting the card in leiu of a passport. Concerned with the number of incidents of inaccuracies in the smart identity card, the republic wants Malaysia to sort out these problems first before it can be used as an entry pass into Singapore.
Opinion
No Smiles For Me?
In Singapore, I watched people on the MRTs. One thing I noticed, these people do not smile!
No Plane Sailing For Changi: Has 'Wow' Factor Fizzled As Other Airports Catch Up?
What will really make the difference is not more of the same, albeit improved, facilities, but surprises that wow.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
GE06
SDA Says It Aims To Win At Least 15 Seats
It says it is only in having such a number can it form a viable shadow Cabinet to propose viable policy alternatives for Singapore, and to act as a check and balance on the People's Action Party.
News
Singapore, Malaysia Unlikely To Return To Bridge Negotiations: FM Yeo
Foreign Minister George Yeo says it is unlikely that Singapore and Malaysia will return to negotiations on the bridge issue to replace the Causeway. Mr Yeo says from Singapore's perspective, the present Causeway is a perfectly good structure.
'Time To Move On To Domestic Matters'
Too much time has been spent on Malaysia-Singapore issues and it is time to move on, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar.
Myhyiddin: Better A Painful Decision Now
Since Singapore did not want to compromise, there was no point in discussing the bridge because it would lead nowhere, even four or five years from now.
Shelved Bridge Project Becomes Hottest Topic
Mahathir Calls For Referendum On Issue In Johor
In an open attack on his successor, former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad yesterday suggested holding a referendum in Johor to see if there was backing in the state for the government decision to cancel the bridge project.
Opinion
Of Bridge Of Euphemism: Another Take
Concerning the media, it's amazing how popular opinion in the mainstream media changes at a finger snap, blink of an eye... The MSM is a dog on leash with the kris looms above after all. Some of them are even suckers.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
GE06
News
Reports Did Not Deter Singaporeans
Their media said the high crime rate in Johor Baru would stop Singaporeans from coming. But the figures tell a different story.
Malaysia Has Right To Relocate Pipelines To Singapore - Dr M
Malaysia has the right under its agreement with Singapore to relocate the pipelines supplying water to the island for specified reasons but only after giving about six months notice, said former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Malaysia And Singapore Should Continue Negotiations On New Bridge
Malaysia and Singapore should continue negotiations to construct a new bridge to replace the Johor causeway, former Information Minister Datuk Sri Panglima Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir said Friday night.
Opinion
It Turned Out To Be A Bridge Too Far
When dealing with slippery opponents, hardheadedness is the worst strategy. Call their bluff, change your mind, walk away, even float like a butterfly. Now they know it's game on.
Scrapping The Bridge The Best Solution
It is unfortunate that Singapore has still not learned to be a good neighbour, continuing to be preoccupied with its uncompromising attitude on only gains.
Friday, April 14, 2006
GE06
Singapore's 'Fear Factor' Fails To Silence Dissident
Government critics cite budget giveaways, cowed media, PAP threats to withhold state funding from opposition constituencies, mandatory voting, and what some Singaporeans call the "fear factor" as evidence that the system is stacked against them.
Jeyaretnam Slams Colleagues
Veteran opposition politican J.B. Jeyaretnam yesterday slammed opposition figures in an outburst that some analysts say could hurt their cause.
News
Scenic Bridge Saga: 'Plan Wouldn't Have Worked Anyway'
If Malaysia was aware of all the legal implications, why did it even venture into talking about a scenic bridge? Syed Hamid said the government had hoped that Singapore would eventually give its nod for the bridge to be connected.
Johor's New CIQ Complex To Replace Current Congested Building
U-Turn Not Unexpected
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was not surprised when he heard of the government's decision to scrap the plans to replace Malaysia's side of the Causeway. The former prime minister said the government had reversed decisions that proved unpopular with the people many times before.
Questions Raised On Legal, Political Aspects Of Project
In the wake of the decision to cancel the bridge to replace the Causeway, academics and lawyers are asking whether the government had studied the legal and political implications of the project before proceeding with it.
Another 'Bridge' To Cross
The Johor bridge to Singapore project may be off but the Malaysian and Singaporean governments have "another bridge to cross." Both sides have to reach agreement before July 1 on how best to allow workers from Malaysia to cross daily into the republic following the abolition of the restricted passport.
'Travel Card Should Be Acceptable To Singapore'
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Radzi Sheikh Ahmad is confident Singapore will accept the special travel card to be issued to some 100,000 Malaysian workers to enter the republic from July 1.
Opinion
How Singapore Is Run
The language that Singapore appreciates and understands is 'What's in it for us?'
Half-Bridge: Taxpayers The Victims Again
Irrespective of the reasons, someone is going to be legally richer by more than RM100 million of the taxpayers' money at a time when the taxpayers are being asked to pay a lot more for petrol/diesel to meet government shortfalls.
Bridge Made No Sense From The Start
We do not need a new bridge to attract business to the Johor Port. Better infrastructure, and most important, better 'software' will enable us to compete with Singapore.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
GE06
News
Cancellation Of New Bridge Project: Best Decision For The Time Being
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said Thursday the government's decision to cancel the construction of the new bridge connecting Johor Baharu and Singapore is the best for the time being.
Malaysia-Singapore Ties Not Affected By The Bridge Episode
The trade and economic ties between Malaysia and Singapore will continue as usual though Malaysia has scrapped plans to continue with the scenic bridge to replace the causeway. International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz said she is confident of this going by the fact the relations between both sides remained intact despite a number of outstanding bilateral issues.
Singapore Accedes To The Kyoto Protocol
Bridge Issue Steals The Headlines In Singapore Newspapers
Bridge Project Dies Unborn
Singapore's Foreign Minister George Yeo told reporters that he was informed of the Malaysian decision at about 1pm yesterday. "This has nothing to do with victory or defeat. Whatever we work on should be to our mutual benefit. And we negotiated on the full bridge on the basis of mutual benefit for both sides. And I am quite sure we will be able to find other areas where we can cooperate to our mutual benefit."
The 'No Go' Bridge; PM: We Took Into Account The People's Sentiments
"The government's decision was made after taking into account the voices and sentiments of the Malaysian people, especially on the supply of sand and airspace." It is understood that the cabinet was briefted on legal opinions on the agreement to build the original Causeway. The view was that either way — straight or "scenic" bridge — the consent of both countries was needed before the Causeway could be demolished to make way for the new bridge.
Contractor Won't Build Bridge, But Will Finish CIQ Complex
Following the decision to cancel the bridge project, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi asked Gerbang Perdana Sdn Bhd, the conractor of the "scenic bridge", to stop all preparatory works on the project and to concentrate on completing the new Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex. This would include building roads connecting the complex to the Causeway.
Scenic Bridge Saga; Ghani: We Accept The Decision
Johor "accepts entirely" the government's decision to scrap the bridge project to replace the Causeway. Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the government had the prerogative to decide ont he fate of hte bridge as it was a federal project.
Hopes Of Many Dashed
The scrapping of the much-touted "scenic" bridge has shattered the hopes of many Malaysians. They said the effort, time and money spent on the proposed bridge had all been wasted.
Scenic Bridge Saga: Negotiations Will Stop
"Whatever negotiations we have on the bridge will stop. Whether negotiations on other matters will stop, that's a different matter... We will continue working on our relationship with [Singapore] in other areas."
IDA Fines mTouche, Issues Warnings To Telcos
The Infocom Development Authority (IDA) issued a stern warning to the three mobile operators to resolve billing disputes relating to third-party mobile-content providers, or they "will not hesitate to impose further regulatory measures."
New Cab Firms Fined Again For Call Service
Trans-Cab, Smart fined 4th fine for not meeting LTA service standards in audit.
Some Singaporean Parents Sending Special Needs Children To American School
It is estimated that half of the over 150 Singaporean children are in the Singapore American School to take advantage of its Special Services Programme which helps them with speech and language learning by using classroom guidance and individual counselling.
Singapore Woos Top Scientists With New Labs, Money
Singapore's siren song is growing increasingly more irresistible for scientists, especially stem cell researchers who feel stifled by the U.S. government's restrictions on their field.
Opinion
The Scenic Bridge No More
This episode hopefully has taught the leaders that we must react with our minds and not our hearts.
Will Singapore's Ban On Political Blogs Work?
Very Costly Mistakes
Both projects have cost the nation dearly and have made us look like international fools in the process.
Scenic Bridge No More
Good bye and good riddance to the so-called "scenic bridge" to replace "our half" of the Causeway.
Scenic Bridge Saga: This Was The Only Option Open To The Government
No matter what spin is put on this episode, one fact is indisuptable: Both countries have left the table as losers.
Why All Singapoerans Know Is 'Can Or Not'
The can-or-not attitude — instead of the can-do attitude — is the rule for a majority of us, whether or not the restrictions are real or perceived.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Ramblings
GE06
WP Giving Up Sembawang GRC, Set To Contest Nee Soon Central
In a statement, the Workers' Party says it is giving up Sembawang GRC to the Singapore Democratic Party, and will now contest the single seat ward of Nee Soon Central instead.
News
Malaysia Scraps Half-Bridge To Singapore, Ends Talks
"We are surprised at this sudden decisiion when negotiations for a full bridge were still ongoing," Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement in response to Malaysia's announcement today.
Malaysia Drops Plan To Build Bridge To Singapore
One analyst said the decision appeared to dash hopes for a quick solution to end longstanding disputes between the two countries.
Malaysia Stops Construction Of Bridge To Replace Johor Causeway
The government has decided to stop the construction of the bridge to replace the Johor Causeway that links Malaysia and Singapore, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced Wednesday. He said the government had also decided to stop all negotiations pertaining to the bridge.
Singapore 3G Mobile Users Rise Threefold In 4 Months
Singapore To Build Caverns To Store Oil
Singapore this year will start building vast underground caverns for storing petroleum to boost the city-state's oil storage and trading industry while dealing with its shortage of space, a government minister said Wednesday.
Singapore Adopts Dovish Stance On Monetary Policy
Singapore Prepares Bid To Host F1
Singapore has started making plans to host a Grand Prix after new rules allowed the Formula One calendar to expand to a possible 20 races in 2008.
Number Of Licensed Moneylenders Hits A Five-Year High
DPM Wong Assures Singaporeans That All votes Are Secret
Deputy Prime Minnister Wong Kan Seng has assured Singaporeans that their votes are secret. But, he said, it is possible for candidates from all political parties to tell how a specific polling district has voted when they witness the counting of the votes.
Opinion
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
News
Taiwan Lawmaker Wants Singapore To Invite Him To Explain 'Dumb' Remark
A Taiwanese lawmaker Tuesday challenged Singaporeans to invite him to their city-state so he can explain why he called them "dumb," which infuriated many people in Southeast Asia's most carefully ordered society.
Singapore's Biotech Pipeline Show Promise
For analysts it is still too early to say whether Singapore will succeed. But after several years of scientific toil, the first signs of progress are emerging as a slew of firms take new drugs to clinical trials, and new medical gadgets to the market.
Singapore Dollar Falls As Central Bank Keeps Currency Policy
Singapore's dollar had the biggest drop in a month as the central ban maintained a policy of favoring a "gradual appreciation" to keep inflation at bay amid forecasts for faster economic growth this year.
Singapore MAS Maintains Monetary Policy
Sinapore's central bank on Tuesday it will maintain its policy of a "gradual and modest appreciation" of the Singapore dollar.
Talks Have Not Broken Down
Talks between Malaysia and Singapore, due to proceed to the next stage, are not expected to resume soon.
Progres Cash? Pay Taxes First
If you owe Iras money, you may find arrears taken from payouts.
Monday, April 10, 2006
GE06
News
Lee Ao Starts Uproar In Singapore On Television Show
Singaporeans are people of "poor seed," Lee pointed out. That meant an inferior race.
Singapore's GDP Expands At Annual 1.2% Pace In First Quarter
Singapore's expanding economy is fueling jobs growth and wage increases, boosting consumer spending, economists said.
Singapore New Nighlife Hub
Exchanging its nany gloves for dancing boots, the city's freer image is already paying off as leading overseas dance clubs move in to Singapore's expanding scene.
'Sugar Ban' Notice Not Up, Singaporeans Unaware Of Ruling
Asked about the matter, state Customs director Sarmin Md Hussin said the department would put up the signage before April 21, when those who bring sugar out of the country would be fined.
Singapore's Reluctance To Accept MyKad Puzzling
The National Registration Department is puzzled over Singapore's reluctance to accept the MyKad as a travel document when its use in Brunei had proven successful.
Opinion
Stupid Face
Becuase you think Singaporeans are idiots who fear the dark, who are totally led by their media, who cannot adapt and take precautions,a nd who cannot see Malaysia is beautiful despite its flaws. So Zam, look in the mirror and shut up already.
NS And Other Things
Shame on you our community leaders for not standing up for our rights. For not challenging the gahmen policy in racial allocation in NS... How dare [PAP] criticize the manifesto of a party for wanting to abolish racial quotas in HDB when the most important racial quota shoul dbe at work where we actually interact with our colleagues.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
News
Singapore Media Not Contributing To Good Relations, Says Zainuddin
The Singapore media are not contributing to improving relations between the republic and Malaysia by frequently publishing inaccurate reports on Malaysia, Information Minister Datuk Zainuddin Maidin said Sunday.
Opinion
Enter The Power Elites, For Better Or The Worse
Elitism in the West is frowned upon by liberals but defended by the conservatives and it may happen here. At the moment, middle-class Singaporeans are neither ideologically inclined nor very class conscious, and would probably prefer it stays this way.
Saturday, April 8, 2006
News
Singapore Says Not Reject Use Of MyKad
Press Officer in the High Commissioin Gerard Ho said Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) last held discussion with the Malaysian Immigration Department in 2004. "ICA is still waiting for (the) Malaysian Immigration's reply to conduct testing."
Reporters Group Concerned About Web Censorship Ahead Of Singapore Elections
Reporters Without Borders has expressed concern about Singapore's moves to control political debate on the internet ahead of parliamentary elections.
Opinion
JB Car Thefts Not As Serious As Made Out To Be
Taxi Bookings Most Efficient
Taxi companies could make call bookings even more worthwhile for commuters by dropping the surcharge altogether.
Friday, April 7, 2006
GE06
New Faces Comment On Podcasts And New Blood
PAP candidates avoid questions about podcast ban during elections.
News
Goldman, Citigroup Predict Shift In Singapore's Currency Policy
Goldman Sachs and Citigroup expect Singapore's central bank next week to say it will allow its currency to strengthen faster to fend off inflation as expansion of theeconomy accelerates.
Singapore's Central Bank To Keep Tight Monetary Policy
English Medium Main Attraction For Parents
The medium of instruction in Singapore schools is the main reason why many Malaysian parents willingly pay more to send their children across the Causeway to study.
Tight Security Plan For Flyer
Expect security at Singapore's giant observation wheel — The Singapore Flyer — to be as tight as passenger screening at Changi Airport.
Thursday, April 6, 2006
GE06
Opposition Parties Slam Podcast Ban Rule
Political parties and bloggers fear that government's regulations against podcasting and blogs during elections will have a chilling effect on free speech.
News
SingTel Chief Denies Bluffing
The head of Singapore Telecommunications and brother of the island state's prime minister has denied misleading Australian prime minister John Howard over the future of Optus' troubled pay-TV arm.
Singapore Attacked Over Blog Gag
The Singapore goverrnment has been condemned for gagging political discussion on the web in the run up to the country's parliamentary elections.
Singaproe 'No' To MyKad
Singapore has shot down Malaysia's proposal to use MyKad as an entry document for frequent travellers, saying it may not have sufficient security features desired by the republic.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
News
Singapore Plans Two-Day Drill, Guidebooks To Prepare For Bird Flu Pandemic
The drill will involve a hospital, clinics and doctors where the aim is to test out infection control measures, temperature screening procedures and simulated treatment of probable cases of bird flu.
Singapore Dollar At Highest In More Than 7 Years
The Singapore dollar hit its highest level in more than seven years on Wednesday, boosted by a combination of factors including expectations for monetary tightening at next week's central bank policy review.
JB Malls: We Are Shocked
Four shopping malls here want Singapore's Sunday Times to explain the basis of its allegation that they are hotspots for theft of cars from the republic.
Opinion
Podcast Ban Shows PAP Scared Of Even Contest
Entry Fee Will Hurt Malaysians, Too
About 80% of the daily travllers are Malaysians working in Singapore.
Go Ahead With Foreign Vehicle Entry Fee
This move will not affect our tourism industry or any of our businesses. Since Singapore introduced the levy, Malaysians have not stoped visiting that country.
Bridge Will Benefit Both Nations
Is Singapore jerking our chain and using the bridge to delay resolution of all other issues?
Study The Repercussions
Their own government has imposed a three-quarter tank policy on all Singapore-registered cars. Based on this, how much do you think a Singapore-registered car can top up in Malaysia?
Tuesday, April 4, 2006
GE06
Mixed Reactions To Ban On Political Podcasts And Blogs
While the ban will make many of them extra careful about what they say on the internet, there are some who believe they can still push the boundaries.
Singapore Gags Web Debate
Singaproe's government has warned people who post political commentary on websites could face prosecution, saying online political debate could fuel "dangerous discourse".
News
Low Prices Invite Residents, Guests To Taste Singapore
What's it like to live in a far-off place most of us see only on a vacation?
RI, Singapore To Sign Agreement On Economic Zones Management
Indonesia and Singapore will sign an agreement on the management of exclusive economic zones in Batam and Bintan Islands later this month, Singaporean Foreign Minister George Yeo said.
Johor Takes Exception To Report
The rebuttals came from all sides — the shopping malls, the police, non-governmental organisations, and the State government. All are upset that a Singapore newspaper had identified Johor Baru, especially its shopping centres, as "hot spots" for car thefts involving Singapore-registered vehicles.
No Policy To Cut Supply
It has never been Malaysia's policy to cut its water supply to Singapore, said Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. He said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar would seek a clarification on the republic's concerns with regards to the water supply and the proposed new bridge linking the two countries.
HDB Scheme Grounded
Board shares concerns raised about private sector bids to market its 400 unsold flats.
'Imposing Entry Levy Will Hit Johor Tourism'
Johor's tourism earnings of nearly RM5 million a day from Singaporean visitors will be in jeopardy if the government goes ahead with plans to impose foreign vehicle entry permits to defray fuel subsidies.
Rules Eased For Early Withdrawal Of CPF Money
It will include those terminally ill or have a disabling illness.
Opinion
Taxing Foreign Vehicles
This is one decision that the Johor government should make and not KL.
Monday, April 3, 2006
Ramblings
No Saturday Night Live For 'Ya
Don't make fun of politicians, says Lee Hsien Loong. I guess that rules out The Daily Show too.
Meanwhile, feel free to make fun of actors and singers and celebrities, as witnessed on Channel 8 by the Neo gang. (No sir, I don't actually watch these idiotic programming. I just heard about them.)
:-)
News
Singapore Rates Thai Relations 'Excellent'
Singapore's relations with Thailand are excellent despite the efforts of groups that are seeking the ouster of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to drag the city-state into their "internal politics," a cabinet minister said Monday.
Singapore Disputes Malaysia's Claim Of Sovereign Right To Build Half-Bridge
Malaysia does not have a sovereign right to unilaterally replace its half of a causeway linking it to Singapore with a new half-bridge, because the structure will affect both countries, a Singapore government official said Monday.
Podcasting Is Not Allowed During Elections
Podcasting will not be allowed during elections as it does not fall under the "positive list" which states what is allowed under election advertising.
Parliament Passes Stiffer Penalties For NS Dodgers
RM20 levy To Hit People Working In Singapore But Living In Malaysia
Malaysia Cannot Unilaterally Demoish Its Side Of Causeway: Raymond Lim
Second Foreign Affairs Minister, Raymond Lim: "Singaore does not accept that Malaysia has the right to demolish its side of the Causeway unilaterally and replace it with a half bridge. This position has repeatedly been conveyed in the form of diplomatic channels on numerous occasions. We've taken this position not lightly but after seeking expert legal advice, any major work related to the Causeway on which also are sited the pipelines supplying water to Singapore, will affect both Singapore and Malaysia in a variety of areas of vital importance to both countries."
Singapore Top Place To Live For Asian Expacts: Survey
Asian expatriates ranked Singapore the best place to live out of 257 locations worldwide because of its clean air, infrastructure and low crime rate, a survey published on Monday showed.
Singapore Opposition Leader Barred From Leaving Country
Singaproe laws bar bankrupts from travelling overseas, but lawyers said Chee's case was unusual as applications to travel are frequently granted when proper documents are provided.
Loads-Of-Cash Singapore Seeks Ports
As part of its foreign investment strategy, cash-rich Singapore is seeking to step up its investments in Britain by taking over infrastructure, including ports and airports.
Don't Make Fun Of Politicians, Says Lee
Singaporeans are free to express their views about politics, but not to make light of it or poke fun at political figures, Prime Minister Lee Hisen Loong said during a television forum translated from Mandarin to English yesterday.
Motorists From Singapore, Thailand May Have To Pay RM20 When Entering Malaysia
The Malaysian government decided on the fee hike to sustain part of the cost of petrol and diesel which it subsidises.
Opinion
Furore Over Political Antics
There's a wind of change across Singapore that makes PAP's margin of win unpredictable. It is blowing from an emerging number of voters wo are not impressed — and may even be resentful — of the way Singapore is being run.
Sunday, April 2, 2006
GE06
News
At The Dewan Rakyat Yesterday: 'Interests Will Not Be Compromised'
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar assured that the interests of the people would be protected, as would the sovereignty and dignity of the country. "Both countries are not prepared to sacrifice their rights, but rest assured we are working together to find a solution through the ongoing negotiations," he told a Press conference in the Parliament lobby yesterday.
Hello, Singapore!
For many Malaysians today, Singapore is a choice study destination.
Saturday, April 1, 2006
Ramblings
Results are not everything. So what we are no. one, if we simply spent some money and buy ourselves a no. 1 spot. The journey is the reward.
News
Appeal To Rethink Plans On Airport
The State Government has sent an appeal letter to the Federal Government to reconsider the decision to drop Senai Airport as a main hub for Malaysia Airlines under its new route rationalisation plan.
Lift Upgrading: No More Ad Hoc Nod
So why was one lift upgrading proposal six years ago approved, while another application made one year later was rejected?
Opinion
The Need For Checks And Balances
Alternative Service To Singapore
This rescheduling is unavoidable as KTM Bhd is undertaking a track rehabilitation project between Seremban and Singapore.
The PAP Should Lift Whip For All Its MPs To Vote Freely In Parliament
It makes one question whether Parliament is really needed under such circumstances.
Nothing Stands In The Way Of SCDF
SCDF officers attending to emergencies will, if necessary, remove any obstruction that hinders their life-saving mission.
