Thursday, August 31, 2006
News
Govt Determined To Develop Every Student's Potential To The Fullest: PM Lee
China Confirms Singapore Journalist Gets Five Years' Jail For Espionage
Singapore journalist Ching Cheong has been jailed for five years by a Chinese court for spying, Hong Kong television said on Thursday.
Next: How To Rely Less On Unskilled Foreigners
NTUC seeks revamp of industries so jobs will pay well enough to attract Singaporeans.
Opinion
What Andy Ho Must Know (But Isn't Saying)
Those who have a vested interest in bringing their message to the masses would do best to try and fit themselves into the new phenomenon now, rather than to fruitlessly try and moud it to their own ends.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
News
Tight Security For Singpaore IMF-World Bank Meeting
When the annual International Monetary Fund-World Bank conference starts next month in Singapore, the city-state will look like it's preparing for a seige.
IMF-World Bank Protest Permit Denied
Singapore police have rejected Chee Soon Juan's application to stage a protest march during next month's IMF-World Bank meetings because of security reasons.
Lion City In Lead For Currency Hub Title
Singapore, a city-state with gross domestic product one-40th that of Japan, is poised to overtake Tokyo as Asia's biggest currency trading center, fueled by investor demand for emerging-market assets.
No Foreign Car Levy, But Johor Plans In Full Swing
A recent proposal to levy a RM20 tax on foreign cars entering Johor from Sept 1 has been scrapped, according to Malaysia's Minister for International Trade and Industry Rafidah Aziz, who is in Singapore on a business visit.
Opinion
Do I Look Like A Spy? Paranoia In Singapore
"I was just taking photos of the sky." "The sky is a private area too." "I was taking photos of the surroundings; the road, the trees, the sky etc." "It doesn't matter, you can't take photos anywhere near a private building."
Big Breakfast
Graze, at Rochester Park, might actually be best at breakfast time.
Singapore's Number One Hobby
I had read that shopping was big in Singapore. And I had even heard that it was their biggest hobby. I thought those people were being sacrastic... but it is true.
Our Parks: Bukit Batok Nature Park
Father Of Four Finds Woes In Big Family
To encourage families to have more children, there must be some fundamental mindset changes.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
News
AirAsia Hopes To Fly To Singapore
Singapore Smiles For IMF WIth Lee Hsien Loong Leading; Foreign Tourists Reactions Flat
Singapore Courts Win Trust, RI Courts 'Win The Bribes'
Singapore: One Nation Under Wi-Fi
By the end of the year, it will be possible to roam almost everywhere in Singapore and get a wireless signal.
Opinion
Foreign Talents Are In Singapore To Depress Costs Of Doing Business
The government is a one-trick pony. It is always about the economy. Never about the people.
If Zoe Tay Can Swallow, So Can You
There's a thin line between being funny and being vulgar.
Selling Immigration
Political skills matter and this is one example of how the People's Action Party's obsession with maintaining its overwhelming dominance, thus atrophying its own political skills, is not in Singapore's best interests.
When Deregulation Isn't Good Enough
Eight years on, woes of cabbies, passengers point to a need to review system.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Opinion
Rejected (?) Article
Socially, it is a big step forward from the era of banned Cosmo magazines and novels written by George Orwell.
A Reprise Of "Singapore's Resilient Strategy"
Resilient strategy is a double edged sword to the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Changing Singapore
I can't help but wonder how the older generation in Singapore keeps from falling over from the dizzying rate of change here.
Entry Ban Contradicts Yellow Ribbon Aims
CPF Funds Should Serve Only Their Basic Purpose
CPF investment options need to be carefully balanced and reviewed.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Ramblings
Zoe Tay: I'm not sure why it is so unusual. It's about tablets, and I swallow them.
Somebody should either get Zoe a clue, or Zoe should fire her agent.
News
ASEAN Hopes Singapore-China Rail Link Will Be Ready By 2015, Says Official
Southeast Asian nations hope a proposed US$15 billion major railway project linking Singapore to southern China will be ready by 2015 to facilitate the flow of goods and people across the region, officials said Saturday.
PM: Push For Immigrations For Singapore's Good
The aim of attracting foreigners is to benefit them and Singapore. It is to create a big enough population that can stimulate a better, more vibrant economy brimming with more jobs, Lee Hsien Loong siad.
Opinion
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Ramblings
LTA - We Waste Money And Destroy History
LTA is probably the agency that wasted the most taxpayers' money. From failed projects such as the GPS system on buses, to aborted projects such as the headquarter-over-canal, to stupid projects such as the we-estimate-time-and-you-guess-whether-got-congestion-on-expression display panels, LTA has probably wasted millions and millions of money paid by taxpayers.
Now, we discover things get worse. LTA also destroys our history. Without permission from anyone, LTA destroyed part of a 100-year-old structure that is supposed to be protected under the Preservation of Monuments Act.
Of course, destroying history is not something new. Remember the National Library that was destroyed because LTA want to build a tunnel? Remember the National Theatre that was destroyed because... er... for no good reason at all? And, of course, all the homes and families that had been forced to move and abandon memories, in the name of progress (read: roads and rails)?
Along the line of the "new NKF", I guess it's time we tear down the current LTA, rethink what we really want in terms of land transport management, and redo a new LTA.
News
Let Tiger Airways Fly Into Malaysia: Tourism Minister
Singapore's lost-cost carrier, Tiger Airways, should be allowed to fly into Malaysia, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor. The move would further improve connectivity and would generate more tourism activities between the two nations.
Opinion
No More Self-Indulgent
What a difference a few sentences from the right person makes.
Singapore's Resilient Strategy
Two Minds, Two Hearts, Two Passports?
The Myth Of Political Apathy
The micro-managing of macro social issues coupled with the political macro-lization of micro issues lies at the heart of many of our current social problems.
Friday, August 25, 2006
News
Film Bytes
From major co-productions by Mediacorp Raintree Pictures to noteworthy indie films and shorts, the local film industry is chugging along.
Opinion
Pulling A Fast One
The government is to blame. That's what PM Lee doesn't want to tell you. He'd rather just blame you and make you feel bad instead.
Changing The Noodle
It is time for local blogs to lead the intellectual agenda rather than expect the mainstream media to do it when the latter is inextricably constrained to the very exacting demands of the government.
Blogging Past The Grey Areas
OB markers, not so much laws, are the concern online.
LTA Says 'No' To Waiving ERP Fee For CBD Taxis
We have no basis to waive ERP for taxis, as taxis ocpy the same road space as cars and contribute to traffic congestion equally.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Ramblings
Profit/Loss Versus Bus/MRT Fares
Let's play a little game. Let's say SBS Transit invested money in publishing commuter newspaper, and lost a lot of money. Or maybe SMRT Corp invested money in setting up an advertising agency, and lost a lot of money. Let's say the loss is so significant that the entire company combined is now not making any profits. Can SBS Transit or SMRT Corp justify raising bus and MRT fares because they've lost money on publishing and advertising?
I hope it's obvious that the answer is a resounding No.
Now let's reverse the game. Does the fact that SBS Transit and SMRT Corp are making profit justifies not raising bus and MRT fares?
News
Anti-IMF Protestors To Shun Singapore For Indonesia
Over 2,000 activists who plan protests at the IMF and World Bank conference in Singapore next month said they will hold their rallies on a nearby Indonesian island because of Singapore's ban on demonstrations.
Singapore Casino Plans Could Spark Casino Boom Across Asia
"Other countries will say: 'If it's good enough for wholesome Singapore, it's good enough for us.'"
Time Not Ripe For Dual Citizenship
Rules Eased As Part Of Efforts To Woo Immigrants
Rules will be streamlined to make it easier for suitable foreigners to stay and work here. There will be a new category of 'personalised employment passes' tied to person rather than the employer.
We Are Public Servants — And We Blog Too
Government workers band together to form Gahmen Bloggers, but Official Secrets Act prevents them from disclosing office happenings.
Opinion
V For Vendetta DVD Banned In Singapore?
A check with Media Development Authority's Film Classification Database only lists the film ratings for the theatre version.
The Lavish Biopolis Of Singapore
It is clear that Singapore is becoming the choice retirement venu for pedigreed and perhaps now less productive bioscientists.
The Strategic Uses Of "The Population Problem"
The rhetoric of blamelessness is once again at work.
Immigration, Public Opinion And Seizable Offences
We will be prepared to teach Hindi, Russian and Turkish, but we will not teach our young people to see fellow Singaporeans who happent o be lesbian or gay in a better light.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
News
Inflation Eases In Singapore
The inflation rate in Singapore slowed in July for the first time in three months as the strengthening Singapore dollar helped make imported goods cheaper, the city-state's Department of Statistics said Wednesday.
ASEAN Agrees To Accelerate Single Market Plans In 5 Years
Southeast Asian trade ministers seeking to blunt growing competition from China and India agreed Tuesday to an accelerated timetable to turn their region into an EU-style economic community by 2015, the bloc's secretary-general said.
The Void Deck Interview: WP Chairman Sylvia Lim
Police To Examine Practicality Of Alternative Sites Given By World Bank For Protests
In a statement, Singapore police said that they will examine the practicality of allowing protests at sites suggested by the World Bank.
Mrbrown Stands Firm But Says Government Has Right To Respond
The blogger also believes that media purposely did not publish any public responses to his suspended column.
Singapore Asked To Waive Protest Ban
The World Bank wants Singapore to waive its ban on outdoor protests so as to allow civil society organisations to hold demonstrations. A spokesman from the Singapore Police Force, however, said Singapore will not waive the current rules on outdoor demonstrations and processions.
Opinion
Welcoming Foreign Talents Policy Seems So Right Now
Will this be another big regret 30 years down the road?
I Want A Foreign Talent Minister In Our Singapore Government
We need foreign talents. But the place that needs them the most, looks like the least likely to welcome them with open arms.
When Will We Stop Messing With The Quotas?
The Speech Is Filled With Everything But People Are Obsessed With mee Siam Mai Hum
How can a mee siam be called a mee siam if there is no chilli. Might as well call it fried bee hoon.
Rebuilding The Youth Movement In Singapore
You Say Protest, We Say No
In Singapore, there is no future in staging protest.
Mr Wang Is Right
When PM Lee in his Rally Speech delivers the ultimate punchline to lay the bak chor mee to rest, to signal government's engagement with the digital age Singaporean, those dreaming of somewhere else, he utters the phrase "Mee Siam Mai Hum". This becomes an instant classic of dis-connect.
The Costs Of Retiring Too Early
The time has come to let the labour and capital markets, rather than rigid instituional practices, decide at what age individuals should retire.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
News
How To Clone Switzerland
Tiny Singapore is becoming a wealth-management haven by cleverly mimicking what made Zurich and Geneva rich.
Singaporeans Divided Over Foreign Talents
PM: My Differences With Dr Mahathir Will Not Affec Asean
Want Stem Cells? Head To Singapore
If you're a researcher in need of human embryonic stem cells, book a flight to the island state of Singapore.
Thailand To Probe Thaksin Firm Sale To Singapore
The Commerce Ministry-led investigation will decide whether Temasek's US$3.8 billion purchase of Shin Corp in January from the family of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra broke laws barring foreign control of strategic businesses.
Opinion
On Immigrants, Emigrants And Dual Citizenship
As increasing numbers of Singaporeans work overseas and fulfil the citizenship requirements of their resident countries, our Singapore government will have to work doubly hard to convince them not to surrender their Singapore citizenship.
Reflections On Heartware
Positive responses about your own home country will only come about from a forged deep relationship betwen the individual and the state.
This Was Just Weird
I mean, it's one thing to say "look, there're going to be hackers that are going to be busy trying to hack the Singapore interweb" and it's another to say "comrades, there are malevolent elements who will try to instigate chaos by spreading non-party approved propoganda. Down with the corrupt west with their capitalistic imperial dogma!".
Identifying The Ideological Construct Used By The Ruling Party The First Step Towards Defeating It?
To B oost Births, Reform The CPF
I propose that when our children start working, they pay into their mother's CPF which she can withdraw when she reaches the age of, say, 55.
Babies And Foreigners
Whether or not you choose to have a child, you will still have to compete with foreigners in Singapore.
Monday, August 21, 2006
News
More Students Being Offered Unconditional Admissions, Overseas University Scholarships
Top Singapore students from polytechnics and junior colleges are being offered unconditional admission and bond-free scholarships from renowned overseas universities.
Singapore Must Promote Immigration As birth Rate Drops, PM Says
"We have to bring in new immigrants. If our population shrinks, Singapore will face a very serious problem."
Singapore's Anti-Corruption System Is Healthy; NKF Is An Isolated Case
ASEAN Rushes To Create EU-Style Market
Najib: No Trade-Off Between Bridge And SOvereignty
Malaysia will not trade its sovereignty for a bridge across the Johor Strait to replace the Causeway, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said yesterday.
Singapore Sees Dr M-Abdullah Differences Affecting 'Asean Climate'
The overall outlook of Asean remains favourable although some member countries are facing difficulties, a situation which could affect "the climate of Asean", Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said.
Opinion
Flogging A Dead Brown Horse
The real problem is that the perception that there was no right of hearing.
To Improve Singapore's Birth Rate
Free air-conditioning is a prerequisite to more babies.
The Other Ang Moh In Ang Mo Kio
The HDB experience, Singlish, etc., is only an entry point into the Singapore experience. It's only a step removed from what any tourist will experience. If you truly want to be part of this nation in a real way, you need to dig deeper.
Do Singaporeans Believe In Free Markets (For Lawyers)?
The problem is not poor forecasting skill, it is the interference in the market in the first place.
National Day Rally Speech
Maybe Shell's choice of investment location doesn't have that much to do with the strength or quality of political leadership in the country?
Food For Thought...
One way to encourage young adults to venture is to encourage companies to provide opportunities for individuals to take a sabatical.
Let's Welcome Foreign Talent, But...
New PRs and Singaporeans should be actively integrated into Singapore society.
National Day Rally 2006
The path which David Gan took was a risky one.
Mr Brown
If comic strips in the papers are allowed to make fun of the irony of our bus company announcing increasing profits one week and applying for an increase in bus fares the next, Idon't see why Mr Brown's column was suspended.
National Day Rally Speech
It appears that the PAP is going to take to the internet and appropriate it as a useful tool. Good!
National Day Rally 2006
I support the government's decision to defend itself, but I feel that it's got to be a fair debate.
PM Lee Is Cool
Once Singaporeans learn to conclude every argument with an acknowledgement that hte government is awesome, as evidenced by its stellar record in 'fixing its opponents', we will be able to get past this whole business of reaching wrong conclusions and be able to really tackle some of the pressing issues facing our society, like how many thousands to give our ministers as year-end bonuses.
National Day Rally
While we're talking about creating an inclusive society for all strata of society, shouldn't we, at the same time, foster an environment that is forgiving and accepting of some of the faults and failures of fellow Singaporeans.
Taxi Problem Is Not A Taxi Problem
Until we do all these non-taxi things, there will never be a solution to the taxi problem.
Regarding PM's National Day Rally Speech
Some people who wrote to Today about the column's suspension received a templated response to write to MICA instead, even though Today were the ones who suspended the column. Strange.
Entertainment
Lessons Inside The Zoo
Though Singapore Zoo has been at the forefront of education in this region, it is rebranding itself as a learning zoo.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
News
Orchard Road? $50, Get In
Cut-throat cabbies prey on Boat Quay tourists, ignore Singaporeans at taxi stand.
Opinion
Of Prime Ministers And Non Sequiturs
I mean none of this seriously, of course.
The Most Useless Currency In Circulation: The 1 Cent Coin - Or Is It?
Entertainment
Explore Singapore
One of only two cities in the world with a rainforest within its boundaries, Singapore is bursting with life, history and culture.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
News
Buddhists Appeal To Save 'Sacred' Tree
Buddhists are appealing to the Singaporean government to preserve a 100-year-old bodhi tree, considered sacred, when it acquires the temple grounds for an upcoming train station, devotees said Saturday.
Kuan Yew Not Giving Up Politics Yet
Age may be catching up on modern Singapore founding father Lee Kuan Yew, but he is not about to give up politics yet.
Singapore's Immigration Uses Special Power Against China's Senior Citizens
Wisma's Stream Dammed
Passage linking mall to Orchard MRT station will be closed for 2 years due to Orchard Turn construction.
Singapore's Clean, Wholesome Image Not Enough Anymore: MM Lee
Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew has said that Singaporeans will be given equal opportunities in housing and education although their rewards cannot be the same.
Opinion
Erect Monument To Memory Of Crooked Bridge
As a reminder for how governments should not make hasty decisions and commit billions of ringgit to dubious projects, we should erect a small monument to the memory of the crooked bridge on the Causeway.
Friday, August 18, 2006
News
Singapore To Allow Local Firms To Hire Foreign Lawyers
Singapore has agreed in principle to allow local law firms, especially those doing regional work involving foreign law and cross border transactions, to hire foreign lawyers.
Take It Up In Parliament, Chiam Told
"I think he got his facts wrong, but I don't intend to debate him through the media on this issue. So, I hope he raises this issue in Parliament, so that I can give him a proper response."
Opinion
Retreat From Power: Why Should Singapore's PAP Oblige?
So long as the PAP deploys its immense power to maintain the status quo, it will never know how much of that precious X-factor its recruits really have.
Who Will Rid Me Of This Troublesome Priest?
Dissent is finally becoming public, although slowly, in the courts and the government. These institutions are gradually asserting their neutrality in the PAP vs opposition saga.
Govt Gives More Help To Low Income Families!!!
The message to Singapoeans is simple — if you need help, go to the bankis. They are very nice to you. There is little need for the PAP govt to have something as comprehensive as what the Hong Kong govt provide for its people.
An Insider's View Of The Legal Profession In Singapore
The Singapore government does screw up big-time in its micro-management readings of the needs of the economy. If you are making your next career move based on the government's prediction of the next "hot" area or the next "dead" area, just be aware that the government has a record of getting things wrong.
Now We Can Practise Law. But Will We?
With the new policies, the net will be cast wider. But ultimately if the workplace environment for lawyers remains highly stressful, there will still be high dropout rates.
PAP v2.0 Special Edition
Singaporeans aren't so bleeding stupid — of all the things the PAP can do to improve its position, tacit acknowledgement of that bare fact by toning down will earn it much goodwill. They will do well to focus on a few wars and forget the rest.
Shocking Arguments Made By The Lees
It has taken years for the judiciary to develop a legal system that is in sync with the rest of the world. To now negate everything by decreeing that "This is Singapore" is to turn back the clock and destroy the last vestiges of human decency in this country.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
News
AIDS In Singapore
Today, the Straits Times is once again twisting and tweaking numbers in a story about AIDS.
Singapore Turns To Biodiesel To Fight Rising Fuel Costs
China Trial Of Hong Kong Journalist Ends
Ching Choeng's trial in the Beijing No. 2 Intermediate Court started and ended Tuesday, said Carole Chow, a spokeswoman for Singapore Press Holdings.
Science Haven In Singapore
You can't buy Wrigley's Spearmint gum in Singapore. But human embryonic stem cells? That's a different matter.
The Day The Music Died
Tower Records shuts down in Singapore.
Causeway Ban On Heavy Vehicles
Alternative route on Second Link for the next 15 months due to construction.
Court Case Involving SDP's Chee Soon Juan, Sister Dismissed With Costs
Opinion
Revealed: R18 (Cabaret) Rating
I'm calling their bluff. They are targetting the NS boys.
Dr M Should Seek Own Path In Retirement
Maybe the Malaysian government should investigate if Mahathir is linked to the companies involved in the bridge project.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
News
Opinion
U.S. Could Learn A Thing Or Two From Singapore
The only question is whether we'll choose to implement new transportation and energy policies, or whether we'll wait until we're forced to do it.
Chiam Replies To Mah's Comment
I have never changed my position on serving the residents, as Mah claimed.
Dangerous Minds
Who has the more dangerous minds? The journalists who have the power to reach the mass, the blogers whose entries are only read by niche groups or the people who are naive, ignorant, non-discerning and unable to form critical and independent thinking?
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Ramblings
Serve Your Customer? Nah. We Don't Care
Train service between Singapore and Malaysia has been suspended over a cargo train overturned along the single track between Singapore's Tanjong Pagar and Johor Bahru's train station. Officials from KTMB said "trains are not expected to be up and running so soon."
Except that there is a perfectly fine solution, I believe. Move the railway station temporary to Woodlands checkpoint. Have passenger trains stop there — which have excellent connection services via buses, taxis, and even MRT just a few bus stops away — and U-turn back into Malaysia.
Except that KTMB will have to swallow their pride a little bit. (You do know there is a long-running dispute on whether Malayisa should move their railway station — is it what Mahathir say that counts, or is it what they signed on the dotted line that counts...)
Any moment now, Mah Bow Tan is going to give a speech about serving the residents... :-)
Update: According to this news report, KTMB said that "most passengers were picked up and dropped off at Woodlands... during the course of the disruption."
News
Train Services Between Singapore And Malaysia Back On Track
KTM train services between Singapore and Malaysia are back on track. Normal services resumed just before 8 pm on Tuesday.
HK Reporter 'On Trial In Beijing'
The trial of a Hong Kong journalist accused of spying for Taiwan has begun in China, according to media reports. Ching Chong, 56, the chief China correspondent for Singapore's Straits Times, has been detained in China since April 2005.
Ex-Malaysian Leader Says To Build Bridge
Former Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad said he would end his stinging tirade against the current government if it agrees to restart plans to build a bridge to Singapore.
After 50 Memorable Years, It's Farewell Caldecott For MediaCorp
Cargo Train Overturns Near Lower Delta Rd, Train Services Disrupted
Train services between Singapore and Malaysia have been disrupted after a cargo train overturned near Lower Delta Road on Monday afternoon, blocking railway transportation lines between the two countries.
Opinion
How Utterly Unconvincing
It's like an insurance agent telling you to buy life insurance so that you rmonthyly premiums wil help others who do die young.
Audio Ads On Trains Were A Trial Run
We would like to assure that we take commuters' feedback seriously and would consider all viewpoints in our post-trial assessment.
Monday, August 14, 2006
News
Opinion
Leading A Different Nation From That Of Yore
After 41 years of independence, national cohesiveness, one of Singapore's early pillars of strength, is showing signs of erosion.
Book Sale Is With Packed Hall Of Singaporean
Long Queue Of Cabs In Busy Hong Kong
As providers of a service, taxis should be queueing up to take people to different places. It should not be the other way around.
Alert: Bitchy Singaporean Abroad
I hate running into Singaporeans when I'm overseas. Why? Because we are such a bitchy lot.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Opinion
Saturday, August 12, 2006
News
Sale Of Sand Was Not Malaysia's Proposal, Reiterates Najib
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak Saturday reiterated that it had never occurred to Malaysia to sell sand to Singapore in the issue on replacing the Johor Causeway.
Singapore PM Seeks Quicker Asean Economic Integration
Speaking to Asean editors in a meeting held at the istana in Singapore, he said it is sensible for Asean to promote economic integration and open up more to each other.
Opinion
Chiam And Sitoh
My hope is for both for them and other MPs to remember: they are to serve the residents. Please do not pass the residents' welfare to each other as a political smashball.
Friday, August 11, 2006
News
Interview With Singapore PM On Trade And Currency Peg
3,500 To Lose Jobs With Maxtor Shutdown
Nearly 3,500 workers at Maxtor Corporation's platns in Singapore will lose their jobs by the end of the year, prompting a government pledge on Friday to help the axed staff find other work.
Singapore Calls English Teachers Out Of Retirement
Singapoe wants retired teachers to return to school as part of a new campaign to raise English language skills.
Singapore Second Half Grwoth Rate Slows To 3%
Singapore's trade-driven economy expanded in the second quarter at an annualised rate of 3% - the weakest pace in more than a year, and analysts expect growth to cool in the rest of 2006.
Opinion
Fuzzy History In Singapore
All histories are important, but the desire to know a 'national history' must be built on acknowledging the individual little histories of our own lives.
A Reprise To "Bloggers And Politics"
Look Closer At Singapore: Experiencing Lee Family's Democracy And Justice System
Thursday, August 10, 2006
News
Singapore Enlists Teachers To HelpBoost Factory Jobs
Singapore is enlisting teachers to encourage the country's students to consider careers in industry, not just in services like banking.
Opinion
Why Tomorrow's Enlightened Singaporean Needs Today's Internet Ganster
Vandal In Bedok, Singapore
I suggest someone out there start a petition to cane the guy.
Twee Singapore Is Coming Of Age
There is an attitude which is beginning to surface amongst the locals here, no longer are they mindless sheep, they are beginning to open their eyes to the silliness of what their government is actually doing to them.
Wednesday, August 9, 2006
News
Singapore Celebrates 41st National Day Amid Strong Growth
Singapore celebrates its 41st Independence Day Wednesday amid strong econonmic growth and a promise of a more open and diverse society where "freer but informed debate" among Singaporeans are encouraged.
In Singapore, Competition For Private Bankers Grows Fierce
Making Singapore An Interfaith Hub
Jalur-Mudra Eyes KL-Singapore High-Speed Train Project
A new player is proposing to build an alternative high-speed trains ervice between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, with stops in Seremban, Malacca and Johor Baru.
Telco Loses Money On World Cup As Costs Pile Up
A near monopoly of the live broadcast rights for the recent Fifa World Cup Finals turned out to be no golden goal for StarHub.
Opinion
Tuesday, August 8, 2006
Ramblings
Problem Created By PAP, To Be Solved By SDA?
Look, when you rent an apartment from HDB, you are supposed to return the apartment to the original state when you stop renting. At least, that's how I understand the terms and conditions when I rented an apartment from HDB long time ago.
Now, PAP has leased a piece of land in Potong Pasir, which they installed some lights on the land. Now when the PAP returns the land back to SLA, shouldn't they at least dismantle the lights? The land is technically leased to PAP today Why doesn't the PAP has a single ounce of responsibility in maintaining the land?
And if the Member of Parliament is supposed to "solve residents' municpal problems as quickly as possible", as claimed by Mah Bow Tan, then the Member of Parliament should have the power to ensure problems are not created, as far as possible, in the first place. So, the question I would want to ask Mah Bow Tan, National Development Minister, did SLA seek Chiam See Tong's permission before the land is leased out to Sitoh Yih Pin for the PAP to create problems for the ward?
News
Singapore Shows Off Its Arsenal, But "Secret" Weapons Under Wraps
Mah Says MPs Should Solve Residents' Municipal Problems Quickly
National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan says that Members of Parliament, having been elected, should try and solve residents' municipal problems as quickly as possible.
Meeting David Marshall In 1994
Singapore Criticised For Changing Regulations On Foreign News Media
Media rights advocates are criticizing the Singaore government's recent decision to close what it described as a loophole in its restrictive media laws.
Opinion
I've Been Banned!
Would you believe it? I've been banned by the Singapore National Library. They refused to stock my book in all their branches.
Great Timing For Our Gamblers
Watch closely, as the MAS looks into dismantling Singapore's current rules on unsecured personal credit.
The PAP Should Focus Less On Fostering A 'Cool' Image. Emphasise Substance Instead
Monday, August 07, 2006
Ramblings
More Ads On Public Transportation — Where Is The Reduction In Fares?
Remember, long long time ago, the only advertisements you see when travelling on public transportation, is the billboard on the back of the bus.
Today, you have ads on every surface area of the buses and trains and stations and bus stops. You have ads on seats. You have ads on the floor. You have little pieces of papers hanging on the handle bars, competiting with your hands for space. You have ads on plasma TVs on train platforms. You have ads on "TV Mobile", blasting at you. You even now have advertisements playing louding on trains, so you'll never know beforehand whether it is an announcement that there is a disruption in service, or an announcement that maybe you should switch your mobile operator.
Now, shouldn't all these infusion of advertisement — every time a new form of intrusion occurs — warrant one or two cents of fare adjustment downward?
Another Malaysian Proposing To Build A Transport Hub That Doesn't Connect To Other Transport Hub
What is a definition of a "transportation hub"? I'm no expert, but I would expect connectivity to other transportation hub to be an important property of being a transportation hub.
So, we have this MP from Johor Bahru who proposes that in order for KL to be a transportation hub, it should not connect to other transportation hub, such as the one hub that is south of Johor.
Very interesting plan... eh?
When will politicians get the message that you don't need others to lose for you to win?
News
'Singapore Rebel' Saga Ends After Police Issues 'Stern Warning'
After 16 months of investigation, three interrogation sessions, 120 questions, and not discounting a covert round of interviews with some friends and associates, the police has finally decided to close their case against me.
Air NZ's Singapore Sling Is A "$60m Gift" To Rival
Air New Zealand's decision to stop flying to Singapore is handling rival Singapore Airlines $60 million "on a silver platter", media reports there say.
Jobs Still Elusive For Elderly
Despite the government's efforts to help older workers stay employed, those who are already jobless still don't see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Shahrir Is Against Bullet Train Project
Johor Baru MP Datuk Shahrir Samad said what has to be considered is whether the government wants to make KLIA or Singapore the transportation hub.
Straits' Users Should Be Taxed
Value For Your Bus Money
Service standards, and probably fares too, for public buses will soon go up. What's the link?
Opinion
More Bureaucratic Nonsense
Mindef wouldn't allow Ike, a rare music prodigy, to defer NS to study for a 3-year Bachelor of Music degree at Curtis. But if Ike had applied to spend those exact, same 3 years studying Accountancy or Tourism Studies at Singapore Poly, Mindef would have allowed deferment. That's Singapore for you.
Listening To Us And Peaceful Street Protests
Emigration
I don't think the government wants its citizen who are only attracted to stay because of HDB upgrading and progress package. I don't think this is the Singapore the government wants.
Singapore Cracks Down On Foreign Media
Political Apoplexy And Police Priorities
The only way one can explain the bizarre behaviour of our police is through grasping that they do not anything about the gay community.
Sunday, August 6, 2006
News
Budget Flights To Singapore?
A committee has been set up to look into the pros and cons of allowing budget airlines to fly the Kuala-Lumpur-Singapore route.
Opinion
Truth Is The Greatest Enemy Of The State
It only confirms that liberalisation of the arts in Singapore is just lip-service of the 66.6% powers that be.
Singapore Loves You... Not
Ask not if your country loves you, or ask not if you love your country? Which should come first?
Air-Pact Changes Don't Need SIA, MAS Approval
We would like to clarify that the Singapore-Malaysia Air Services Agreement does not contain any clause which requires changes to the ASA to be approved by SIA and MAS.
Friday, August 4, 2006
News
Singapore To Welcome IMF With Smiles, Not Singlish
Singapore, ever mindful of its image abroad, is about to face its toughest public relations test.
Police May Reduce Their Role In Licensing
The police may no longer be the agency issuing licences or regulating businesses that do not cause law and order problems.
Opinion
Fancy Hawker Centres Come With Higher Prices
Sometimes, we just need a hawker centre that is well maintained, not food centres that are equipped with LCD TV sets or fanciful artifacts.
Thursday, August 3, 2006
News
Judge Disqualifies Himself From Court Case Involving Chee Siblings
FEER Required To Comply With Conditions For Offshore Newspaper: Govt
Chiam, Sitoh In Spat Over Facilities
"This is his baby. He did it to show voters that he is such a caring person. But now what has happened? It just shows he was doing it for the election, no more, no less."
Opinion
Why Singapore Should Be Gay Friendly
Andy Ho Is Merely A Self-Indulgent, Opinionated Fellow Expressing His SIlly Views
I hlpe Andy doesn't start ablog. He'd give us serious bloggers a bad name.
Absent Lives
Choice? What choice in Singapore?
Why Does NTUC Comfort Charge 10% Admin Fee Plus GST For Commuters Who Pay Fare With Credit Card?
Letter By Singapore Islamic Organisations Relegated By Straits Times
A Look At Singapoer's Democracy Through The Plight Of Falun Gong Members
Wednesday, August 2, 2006
Ramblings
Start Taking Blogging Seriously For A Start, Straits Times
Andy Ho, Senior Writer, Straits Times: Most bloggers... do not generally report onsoemthing new. Typically, they report on what reporters have reported.
And the Straits Times reports things that are new? Most of the time, it's either press releases or media briefing, and reactions against these press releases or media briefing. I don't call that new new...
But that's beside the point. Journalism is not about reporting new things. Journalism is about reporting the truth. (And we all know that truth has many sides, new and old.)
No More Messages, Let's Have Conversations
Edmund Lim Wee Kiat: An honestly 'hip, happening' image [for PAP] can come about with a genuinely 'open, listening' attitude.
In today's world, it's not about controlling messages. It's not about images. It's about conversations.
For a start — in addition to all the committees and feedback groups and focus groups and what-have-you — is for every MP and every minister to have a blog.
News
New Laws Fail To Guarantee Domestic Workers their Rights
The right to three meals per day has been stipulated for the first time. But no limits have been placed on working hours and there is no obligation to provide one day of rest per week, while recruitment fees remain steep.
More Singaporeans Choose Higher-Class Wards
Who Wins In Malaysia-Singapore Open Skies Pact?
Airline passengers and Singapore's aviation industry are likely to emerge as the biggest winners and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) the biggest loser if Malaysia and Singapore were to sign an "open skies" agreement.
Opinion
Which Transport Fare Hike Do You Prefer?
The Curious Incident Of The Singapore Flag
Blogging's More Than Idle Chatter
It is high time the government began to take [blogging] more seriously than just chatter.
Bus Operators Cannot Simply Pass On Fines
Any changes to bus fares have to be approved by the PTC and are capped by the fare-adjustment formula.
"Cheapness" And "Transparency" In Tourism Industry
Technology
Mobile Users Can Switch Telcos And Keep Number By End-2007
Phone numbers will be truly "portable" by the end of next year, says the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore.
Tuesday, August 1, 2006
News
Who Are We Kidding?
Many felt that stopping teens from having sex would be close to a 'Mission: Impossible'.
Death Penalty: African Executions Go Unnoticed
When Uzonna Tochi picked up the phone last week, he heard the most chilling words of his life. "Please do something fast to save my life; they might execute me anytime now," Uzonna's older brother, Iwuchukwu Amara Tochi, pleaded from Singapore.
AirAsia In Fresh Bid To Fly To Singapore
Budget airline AirAsia is making a fresh attempt to secure landing rights in Singapore, this time with the support of the Malaysian government.
Opinion
Come See Singapore's Justice System At Work On 3 Aug
On Being A Clueless Journalist
World Bank Cmapaigning For Self-Criticism
All eyes are on Singapore. This will determine whether or not Singapore is suited to host other important international events in the future, or if countries and organizations will start to shy away from using our country as a venue for discussion, meeting and debate.
Isn't Life Stressful In Singapore?
People say there isn't any free thing in SIngapore except dream.
Technology
MediaRing To Roll Out Prefix-3 VoIP Numbers In Q3
The service is fully interconnected to the local telecoms operators.
Entertainment
Cabbages And Condoms, In Singapore
Thailand's Condom King is interested in opening a "Cabbages and Condoms" restaurant in Singapore. Every year, his restaurants give away 6 million, 570 thousand condoms.