Saturday, September 30, 2006
News
Kuan Yew Replies To Abdullah's Letter Over "Marginalised Chinese"
Singapore's founding father and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew has written to malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi over his recent remarks about the Chinese being marginalised in Malaysia. His press secretary, YY Yeong said the letter was now with the Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, according to a report by The Straits Times.
'We Compiled With The Law'
An executive at Singapore's state-owned investment firm discusses the deal that triggered Thailand's political crisis. The company line: don't blame us.
Singapore Locks Up Rights Lawyer In Mental Hospital
Singapore authorities have forced the city-state's leading human rights attorney, Madasamy Ravi, into a psychiatric institution, The Epoch Times has learned. Ravi's hospitation, which sources say is against his will, follows his legal defense of eleven Falun Gong practitioners in a series of cases which Ravi believes are politically motivated.
Temasek 'Unaware' Of Tax-Free Shin Deal
Singapore's Temasek Holdings was not informed the Shin Corp sale was structured so that the Shinawatra family would avoid paying taxes, nor was payment made into offshore bank accounts as has been reported.
LKY Has Hidden Motives In Accusing Malaysia Of Marginalising Chinese
Information Minister Datuk Zainuddin Maidin said today Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew had ulterior motives in accusing Malaysia of marginalising the Chinese community when he himself had killed the Chinese culture in his own country. "I think he wanted to scare the Chinese, to make them feel that the wealth that they have amassed can never be safe in the region," he said to Beijing newsmen after visiting Xinhua news agency.
Opinion
My Singaporean Dream Is To...
What makes me, a Singaporean, feel Singaporean? I can live without hawker centre food. I can live without that shopping paradise. I can live without the PAP telling us what to do.
Entertainment
Singapore: A Repressed City-State? Not In Its Kitchens
In the last decade and especially the last four or five years, elegant restaurants serving inventive cuisine have sprung up all over town.
Friday, September 29, 2006
News
Magazine Says Singapore Ban Curbs Free Expression
Singapore's ban on the Far Eastern Economic Review further restricts 'the already narrow scope' of free expression in the city-state, the magazine said on Friday.
Temasek Expects To Be Cleared In Probe
Singapore state investment firm Temasek Holdings, said Friday it expects to be cleared by a Thai investigation into its acquisition of Thailand's Shin Corp. from the family of its prime minister,w ho was ousted last week by a military coup.
Singapore Should Apologise Over LKY's Remarks, Says Syed Hamid
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said Thursday Malaysia deserved an apology from Singapore for the remarks, which caused concern among Malaysian leaders.
Singapore Malaysia Opporessed By Kuan Yew's PAP, Says Former Singapore Politician
The Malays in Singapore have been systematically marginalised since Lee Kuan Yew became Prime Minister, and the government under the city state's founding father also committed "ethnic Malay cleansing", said Singapore's veteran politician who migrated to Malaysia. Prof Mohammed Yacob, who was political secretary to Singapore's second Chief Minister Lim Yew Hock, said the PAP reduced the Malay political power through the implementation of the government's housing policy.
Eye-In-The-Sky ERP System 'Pie In The Sky' For Now
Tracking system 'quite unreliable' in heavily built-up areas in test runs.
Opinion
We're On A Roll!
We will never be able to quantify how badly the self-esteem of older generations of Singaporeans had been damaged by streaming in our education system. Still, at least it looks that the system will be going less wrong in the future.
More On The Singapore Spaceport
Lee Kuan Yew And Malaysia-Singapore Testy Relationship
Malaysia-Singapore relations will never improve so long as LKY continues to harbour ill will towards Malaysia with his warped thinking, that compliance with Malaysia's demand would be deemed as a wewakness on their part.
Singapore Sling
All I can say is, watch out, Singapore Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. You're messing with a Dartmouth Review editor. Fear the FEER!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
News
Malaysia Summons Singapore's Ambassador
MICA Revokes Approval For Circulation Of FEER
Malaysia Air Opposes Liberalization Plan
A restructuring plan to turn around flag carrier Malaysia Airlines will fail if the government liberalizes the country's aviation industry before 2008, the airline's chief executive has warned.
No More EM3 Streaming From 2008
The new system will allow students to do subjects based on their abilities.
PM Sends Singapore Letter On LKY Remarks
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has sent a letter to the Singapore government seeking an explanation over recent remarks by Lee Kuan Yew.
British Falungong Journalist Deported From Singapore: Falungong
A British journalist and practitioner of the Falungong spiritual group has been deported by Singapore authorities, a newspaper has said.
Courts To Review Sentencing Guidelines
CJ wants to strike new balance between punishing and rehabilitating offenders.
Ex-NKF Director, 2 Others Charged Under Securities Industry Act
Opinion
Great Move, But One Hand Cannot Clap Alone
A Major Change In Philosophy
Human beings are pretty complex. There must be more alternatives.
Singapore Is Liberal
I believe that Singapore is a liberal state, or is becoming a liberal state. I say this because most of the civilised world is liberal, and we will follow suit.
From Selective Wisdom To Selective Folly: Why The Future Does Not Belong To Bloggers
The future, now as always, belongs to those who can impact others emotionally and experientially and who can organise and mobilise, that is, to those who will seize the moment and act.
Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right
How many generations must my children, and their children after them, go through before they will be viewed as Malaysians?
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Ramblings
The Singapore Tourism Board should be happy that it doesn't have the worldwide exclusive right to mis-translation in their marketing material. From Jerusalem, a slogan that should have read "Jerusalem — there's no city like it!" has been mistranslated into "Jerusalem — there's no such city!"
News
Jakarta Wants Singapore To Clairfy Lee Race Comments
Indonesia's foreign ministry has summoned Singapore's ambassador over statements from the city state's founding father Lee Kuan Yew that Indonesia had "systematically marginalised" its ethnic Chinese minority.
Singapore Likes Courteous Tourists
Singapore has voted. Its tourist idols are the Japanese, while the least-favoured vistors hail from mainland China.
Opinion
Johor UMNO Fails Economics
Johor UMNO are willing to sacrifice the mutually beneficial interests of Singapore and Malaysia out of spite and jealousy. They are willing to sacrifice the interests of the people of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore because they wish to protect the business interests of their lobbies.
Lee Kuan Yew: Why Did He Say It?
I am one of those who believe that some of Mr Lee's ideas have become outdated for today's Singapore, but on the current controversy, I am fully behind him. In fact, the reaction of Dr Mahathir Mohamad explains the validity fo Mr. Lee's concern about the vulnerability of Singapore's small size.
Chinese Malaysian Must Accept Their Lot
Whether the Chinese are being marginalised or not is not important. The Chinese just have to accept the fact that living in Malayisa means they have to be subordinate to the 'sons of the soil'.
LKY's Right And Anwar Confirms It
It took non-Chinese like Anwar and a foreigner like Lee to do their job. The Chinese leaders in the Barisan Nasional coalition have no shame for their own failures even when the facts are bared for them to see.
Apologise? But LKY Was Defending His Race...
In essense, PAP's structure forces it to address issues from a broader perspective and not just from a single ethnic viewpoint.
Entertainment
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Ramblings
When new companies invest in Singapore by moving in headquarters, or creating new industries, we always hear boosts from politicians and newspaper mouthpiece on how many jobs will be created, and how many related jobs will also be created in related industries.
But when companies retrench and get out of Singapore, we only hear about the retrenchment numbers, and not the ripple effect on other related industires.
Why?
(Don't need to answer. Rhetorical.)
News
Najib: We Can't Cancel Singapore Investment
Malaysia cannot cancel all Singapore investments as it could send wrong signals to investors, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk seri Najib Razak.
Lawmakers Angered By Kuan Yew's Indon Chinese Comments
Angry Indonesian lawmakers are demanding a public apology and explanation from Singapore's founding father Lee Kuan Yew after he reportedly said the minority Chinese-Indonesian community was being systematically marginalised.
Opinion
Fair Business?
More transparency needed in Gebiz procurement process.
MCA, Gerakan Have Some Explaining To Do
Is Lee not telling the truth of what is happening in Malayisa? Have the Chinese and other non-Malays in Malaysia not long been victimised by the so-called the special rights, educational and economic quotas for the Malays and other biases in favour of the Malays? Why are the MCA and Gerakan insisting that there is no marginalisation of the Chiense in Malayisa?
Malaysian Leaders In Self-Denial Mode
What should really be done is to examine if the claims of the Singapore founding father was factually correct and if so, to rectify the situation and if not, factually discredit it by well researched and comprehensive discourse.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Ramblings
Lift Upgrading: Where We Steal Money From Everybody To Build Something I Like
There is one aspect of the Lift Upgrading (and the estate upgrading) plan that really bothers me, and that is you don't need 100% agreement in order to go ahead with the upgrading plans.
And even though these upgrading are subsidized (with people's money, of couse), the upgrading is still not cheap.
In order to counter pro-upgrading proposals like Fok Kah Hon writing in Straits Times, urging a change of policy by not counting votes by people who don't vote, I propose thus:
That the cost of upgrading, after deducing the subsidies, should be borne entirely by people who voted yes. Those who voted no should not need to pay, althought they will still be in terrible living quarters for quite a few months or even years.
We should not simply have the rich folks imposing additional burdens to the poorer folks, in the name of a better living environment. Just because one has some additional monies sitting around in the CPF accounts doing nothing shouldn't entitle anyone to force other people to pay money for "common good" that the poor can do without.
Sometimes, when you are poor, all these "essentials" are simply just luxuries.
News
Thai Adventure Backfires On Singapore Inc
It was, at best, a spectacular misjudgement. Far from being the great buy Temasek claimed, the deal ignited six months of politicl turmoil, culminating in the coup. Thais stopped using the businesses Temasek had bought, including an airline, a finance company and telco AIS Thailand, also part-owned by Singapore Telecommunications. Now the Shin buyers wear a US$2 billion paper loss on the deal after less than six months.
SIA And Pilots Quarrel Over Pay Once More
Sunday Times Retracts Comments On IJ Girls
The Sunday Times has apologised for the distress caused by an article it published that sparked off angry reactions from local convent schools, their students and parents.
Opinion
What We've Yet To See, Hear Or Speak Of
Nowhere does our government give space for the consideration of human rights, be they freedom of expression, the right to privacy, or equality and non-discrimination.
The Power And Politics Behind Kularb Kaew
Money and politics rarely come together in transparent fashion. It is always in the interest of transparency's enemies to decry as conspiracy-theorising any attempts to get to the bottom of events. The Shin-Temasek deal appears to involve a group of serious pros in the regional money-and-power game: Daim Zainuddin, Singapore Inc's dominant Lee family and Thaksin and Pojaman Shinawatra.
Optimum Degree Of Unhappiness
In the latest twist to Singapore's politics, it has become perfectly normal to be unhappy. Just don't be too unhappy.
Thinking Journalists And Editors? ... Not
As proven yet again, the Straits Times journalists and editors really need to get their act together. Your press is slowly but surely sinking to zero credibility with each faux pas you make.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
News
Opinion
From Singapore With Mixed Bag
The Big Man cuddles you with a hand, but a cane in the other.
PM To Young: Help Make Singapore Better
Staying is one thing, but making a difference, daring to speak up and persist in your pursuit of what you think is right should be the main point.
Listening But Not Hearing
How could Singaporeans compete with foreigners when the playing field in his own country, homeground, is levelled against him?
Better To Call A Spade A Spade
In the chorus of angry protests against Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's recent remark that Chinese Malaysians have been marginalised, can these angry protesters answer one simple question? If there has been no racial marginalisation, why has the word meritocracy been a taboo in malaysian politics ever since the racial riot of May 13, 1969 — the only country in the world doing that?
Worrying Comments From A Wise 83 Years Old
In his twilight years, he has become the things that he used to fight against... oppression, freedom and the right to self-determination.
Singapore Has Every Right To Comment
It would be foolish for our leaders to deny that what M.M Lee Kuan Yew said is not true. By the act of denial our leaders are merely prolonging and accentuating the disunity that is currently prevailing in our country.
Lee Kuan Yew Statement And A Young Man's Dream
I do believe Mr Lee's statement to be slightly inappropriate and undiplomatic. even that sentiment is arguable. What is not arguable however, is the validity of his claims.
Why The 100 Flowers Never Bloomed
Political change is one thing that will not occur in Singapore while the conservatives stay in power.
PAP's Increased Engagement Of Young Singaporeans: Sincere Desire Or Enlightened Self-Interest?
Saturday, September 23, 2006
News
PM: Nobody Is Marginalised In Malaysia
No community is being marginalised in Malaysia, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Stressing that this was a fact, he said the progress achieved by the country's multi-racial communities showed that no one had been sidelined.
Malaysian Backbenchers Want Kuan Yew To APologise
Abdullah Wants Kuan Yew To Clarify On Malaysian Chinese Issue
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Saturday he will write to Singapore's Minister Mentor, Lee Kuan Yew, to ask for clarification on his statement concerning the Chinese community in Malaysia.
Opinion
Is Chinese Being Marginalized In Malaysia?
I'm afraid what Lee has said was not very far from the truth in Malaysia.
Any Truth To Kuan Yew's "Malaysian Chinese Marginalised" Statement?
Friday, September 22, 2006
News
Mahathir Slams Kuan Yew As Arrogant
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad Friday slammed Singapore's minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew for his insulting remarks about Malaysia and Indonesia's treatment of their Chiense minorities, describing him as arrogant and disrespectful of neighbouring countries.
Temasek's Hunger For Acquisitions Might Bite Back
Temasek's sudden emergence as a financial player in Asia has raised the eyebrows of regulators across the region, prompting questions about the Singapore state company's strategy and goals.
SbS Transit Issues New Season Bus Pass For Unlimited Travel On Buses
The new SeasonPass gives users unlimited trips on buses for $98 a month.
Singapore Housing Boom Brings Out Ghosts, Feuds
As developers such as Bukit Sembawang Estates and Wing Tai Holdings tear down blocks that are just a few decades old, some critics argue that a relatively young nation such as Singapore, which became independent in 1965, should start to cherish its modern landmarks and recent heritage.
Lee's Comment 'Naughty'
Malaysia can do without scathing comments from its neighbours, especially if the statements made are inaccurate and have political implications, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said. He said that a recent statement made by former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew on the status of the Chinese commnity in Malaysia and Indonesia was seen as 'naughty.'
Opinion
Najib's Hollow Reactionary Statement To LKY
What Lee Kuan Yew said is true and non-Malays in this country know that it is true. The current leadership's trend is to deny the very obvious and spew contrarian views.
Najib Ticks Off Harry Lee's Insults
The Singaporean leaders do not opress the natives of their island state, but they blatantly uproot the natives from their history and culture.
Liar Liar?
Just ask anybody with some integrity, it's obvious who is lying.
Bad, Bad Boy...
Najib's retort is half-assed because he knows Lee is correct.
Apa Lah! Lee Kuan Yew...
Why did you abaondon the non-Bumis? You fought so hard for a Malaysian Malaysia then you abandon us like that. And while Singapore surged far ahead, you left us behind.
Kuan Yew's Comments Misleading
I guess Mr Lee wants Malaysians and Indonesians to be more like how Singaporeans are treated.
Kuan Yew And His Naughty Comments
Kuan Yew's remarks clearly fell within the long standing siege mentality which the island has adopted.
Harry Lee & Malaysian Malaysia
Who Owns The Street?
The government saw that as threat, even as they keep calling on Singaporeans to be "active citizens".
Entertainment
Around The Bush
Whether it's an innocent after noon of cycling or raunchier evening activities, Singapore's parks have something for everyone.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
News
Singapore May See Worst Fallout From Thai Coup
Singapore could suffer the most among countries in the region from the military coup against Thaksin Shinawatra, the Thai prime minister, who forged close ties with the city-state and sold his telecommunications group to Singapore's state investment company.
Countries Need To Find More Effective Ways To Deliver Healthcare: Khaw
Opinion
Activists Do Not Have A Voice
With censorship and climate of fear hanging in the air, the average Singaporean is hence hardly educated on the issues or are too afraid to be involved.
Rivals, Not Partners
How can Singapore and Johor emulate Shenzhen and Hong Kong, when Singapore and Johor are two different countries with an acrimonious past?
Security At The Expense Of Sales?
Rethink all-or-nothing approach to road closures as businesses pay a price.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
News
Temasek Holdings: Singapore Connection At Center Of Thai Crisis
The military coup in Thailand marked the culmination fo a political crisis partly triggered by the Singaporean takeover of a Thai conglomerate from ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's family.
PM Silent On Controversy
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hisen Loong stayed silent on a controversy over foreign activists when he took the spotlight yesterday at the opening of the IMF-World Bank annual meetings.
Singapore Urges Citizens In Thailand To Stay In Safe Areas, Register With Foreign Ministry
Singapore Activists End Protest As PM Delivers Speech At IMF-World Bank Meeting
"The world now knows the extend of the repression in Singapore, and hopefully this wil translate into pressure on the Singapore government to reform the system," said protest leader Chee Soon Juan.
Chee Ends Protest After Three Days
Dr Chee said there would be "an escalation of campaigns" in the coming months and that he would recruit more activists and "train" them in "strategies" of peaceful protests.
Don't Label Our Girls 'Easy', Say Angry Convent Schools
Eleven convent schools in Singapore have threatened legal action against Singapore Press Holdings for an article that allegedly defamed convent schoolgirls.
Opinion
Someone Escaped The System
A person whom I know spent the last half a year in limbo hiding out in a foreign country. He was waiting for his asylum application to be processed as he was on the run from the Singapore army.
Singapore, Johor And The Shenzhen-HK Model
The umbilical cord tying Johor and Singapore is a reality of history and will always be a factor in bilateral relations. Hopefully, the SJER will strengthen, not undermine, those relations.
StarHub Isn't Obliged To Carry RTM1. It Does This As A Public Service
Entertainment
JB The Mee Rebus Capital Of The Nation?
Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Singapore's Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew are ardent lovers of this savoury dish, especially the one prepared by the doyen of mee rebus Johor, Haji Wahid Ali of Kampung Melayu here.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
News
Good Governance Needed To Face Globalisation Head-On: PM Lee
Malaysia-Singapore Talks On Outstanding Issues Stil On Hold
Negotiations on various outstanding bilateral issues between Malaysia and Singapore are still on hold, with both sides focusing on confidence building efforts.
Opinion
Out To Dinner
I think last Friday was the first time I have ever exited one country, entered another country, went to dinner, and came back.
Return Public Transort As A Public Service
The myth that it has to be privatised to be efficient and effective should be grounded.
Singapore MRT
KL transport planners need not travel across the world and universe to do their expensive lawatan sambil belajar with their wives/mistresses. How about just paying Singapore a visit?
Monday, September 18, 2006
Ramblings
Sharunnizam Sapi'ee, writing in Straits Times: "We have paid for our adio and TV licenses so why is this problem [with reception of RTM1 via Starhub] not looked into?
Yet another proof that Singaporeans have no idea why we pay TV license.
:-)
News
Singapore Dissident Steals Show From World Financial Summit
Chee hasn't showered since Saturday but his story has made international headlines thanks to the large media contingent covering the biggest international conference ever hosted by Singapore.
Singapore Deports Two Indonesians
The Singapore government on Monday deported two members of the Indonesian Farmers Association Achmad Yakub and Irma Yani after the country's immigration office detained and interrogated them for more than 14 hours at Changi airport.
Gov Plans To Give Phuket To Singaore (Or So Says Sondhi)
Political firebrand and failing media mogul, Sondhi Limtongkul, has announced that he has discovered a plot to give Phuket to Singapore.
MAS: Tiger Airways' Entry To E. Malaysia May Affect Profitability
Singaproe Deters IMF Protesters
If Singapore's aim was to ensure that no noisy controversy over economic policies would divert attention from its peerless performance as host, it appears to have succeeded.
Cameras To Catch Crooks In HDB Estates
Town councils are working with police to fix CCTV cameras in crime-prone areas.
Opinion
Singapore's Security Measures
I consider the Singaporean government's ban a grave violation of the principles of democracy and good governance. The IMF and the World Bank should likewise be strongly condemned for these institutions' blatantly false claims to be championing democracy and good governance and their choice of Singapore as the site for their 2006 meetings, knowing full well that the Singapore government has a long track record of suppressing the exercise of basic civil and political rights.
Sunflowers - For Whose Sake?
Form over substance.
An Impending Crisis To Our Singapore Reputation From Offending The International CSOs?
Maybe we have grown so used to docile local non-governmental players that we forget there are individuals and organizations who will go out of their way to prove their point, even though it does not affect them.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
News
Rights Group Says 48 Deported, Banned In Singapore
Around 48 activists from 16 countries who wnted to attend the IMF-World Bank meetings or related events in Singapore have been deported, banned or interrogated by police, a rights group said on Sunday.
Singapore Politician Plans Prolonged Standoff
A Singapore opposition leader, who was surrounded by police in a prolonged downtown stand-off over the right to protest, said on Sunday that he would refuse to move until Tuesday's formal start of the IMF-World Bank meetings.
Singapore Politician-Police Standoff Continues
A downtown stand-off between Singapore police and an opposition politician over the right to hold a protest march entered its second day on Sunday, after the overnight encirclement of Chee Soon Juan and several supporters.
Singapore Police, Opposition In Park Standoff
The standoff comes at an awkward time for the Singapore government, with dozens of central bankers and finance ministers in town for the International Monetary Fund and World Bank event.
Singapore: Inside The Lion City, Part 4
Welcome to Singapore, the state ranked 140th out of 167 in the press freedom standings league of Reporters Without Borders. It is a well-earned honor.
Opinion
New Paper: More People At Singapore Idol Than Hong Lim On Saturday!!!
False Information Of Rally And March
The PAP controlled media is engaged in a campaign of false information on the ongoing Empower Singaporeans March & Rally.
Smiles And Paved Roads Aren't Enough
Singapore is discovering just how different even strait-laced banking representatives in today's world think and act compared to them. How fast it is ready to change will decide its pace of progress towards becoming a global city of distinction.
Without The PAP, Singapore Will Collapse!!!
Reading the Straits Times everyday, I feel that Singpaoreans are so lucky to be living in such a system created by MM Lee, where the leaders do everything in our interest and we can concentrate on our weekend shopping without thinking too much about anything else.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Ramblings
What I Hope singapore Would Be 40 Years From Now
For a government that constantly remind the citizens that one must change — upgrade skills, accept newcomers — in order to stay relevant in this global world, it is a little disturbing to find the same government wanting to cling on to its old ways of government.
Lee Kuan Yew: "We have structured the system such that a competent group which gets in will find a machine that works. Don't tinker with it."
Unfortunately, in my opinion, this is a system that will fail the country if we continue to use the same system for the next 40 years. This is a system where there are no safeguards; no separation of power; no checks and balances.
Lee Kuan Yew is not an idiot. The answer on how to change the system is right there under his nose — or as the Straits Times reports: "Mr Lee mused that the problem with Singapore was that it had 'now reached a very odd stage' - an electorate which wants the PAP in power, but also an opposition to 'squeeze' the government."
Well, one man's "squeeze" is another man's "checks and balances."
If there are no checks and balances, one freak election result will probably spell serious trouble for the nation. Two freak election results will probably mean "the country comes to a grinding halt." That I agrees with Lee Kuan Yew. What I don't agree is the PAP's method: prevent freak results by oppression, by being authoritarian, by using repressive powers.
The correct method, I feel, is to start building extensive checks and balances. Lift the party whip permanently: pass laws because everyone is convinced that the law is good, not because no one can oppose. Don't "fix" the oppositions by "buy[ing] ... supporters over." Fix the opposition by convincing the opposition that the government is doing good. Allow a thousand voices to bloom; don't repress different opinions; no more 'Mr Brown' incidents. Let Chee Soon Juan march. Build a judicial system where libel lawsuits do not require expensive lawyers to defend, and where public figures have to prove harder than non public figures. Build a judicial system where it is not only fair, but preceived to be fair.
The U.S. system has two freak presidential elections already, where a president has been elected that not only lie to the public, but also bend laws to suit his own's agenda, and probably break laws too. But if you ask typical Americans, they will tell you that they are still very optimistic about the future of their country. Why? Because U.S. has good fundamentals. Two freak election results did not kill the country.
What I hope Singapore would be 40 years from now? A system of checks and balances to be in place; a system where I and my daughter don't have to worry about freak results.
News
Activists Say Might Take Legal Action Against Singapore
Activists are considering legal action against Singapore, accusing the government of violating human rights after police held members incommunicado before deporting them, an activist said on Saturday.
Police, Protesters Face Off In Singapore
Singapore's police are in a stand-off with a handful of local pro-democracy advocates who have broken a law that prevents gatherings of more than four people without a permit.
Singapore Stops Opposition Protest
Singapore police stopped an opposition politician from leading a protest march past the venue for the annual IMF-World Bank meetings on Saturday, again highlighting the city-state's restrictions on freedom of speech.
More Than 160 NGOs Boycott IMF-World Bank Meetings
More than 160 non-governmental groups declared a boycott of IMF and World Bank meetings in Singapore to protest against a clampdown on free speech and the banning of activists.
Singapore Activists To Stage 'Illegal' March For Democracy
Pro-democracy activists in Singapore are pushing ahead with plans to stage a protest march today, despite the threat of arrest.
Singapore Must preserve Its System Of Govt: MM
Singapore's Climbdown On Activists Too Late: NGOs
"This gesture is, quite simply, too little too late. Expensive travel plans have already been undone, and many civil society organizations are unable to fly to Singapore on a moment's notice."
Strong Singapore Needed To Say 'No' To Neighbours - Lee
Singapore's former leader Lee Kuan Yew defended his party's political dominance, saying it was vital for the predominantly ethnic Chinese state to stand up to its bigger, majority-Muslim neighbours, Indonesia and Malaysia. "Our neighbours both have problems with their Chinese. They are successful. They are hardworking and therefore they are systemically marginalised."
Opinion
Say Cheese!
I like looking like a foreigner.
This Singapore Librarian's Take On The International Monetary Fund And World Bank Meetings In Singapore
I don't think the meetings are organised just so that demonstrations and protests can be held.
Absolute Fare Comparison Is Misleading
Noisy When People Thrown Stones At Tinpots
It's time Singaporeans see how ill-served we are by our government's authoritarian instincts.
Friday, September 15, 2006
News
Singapore To Admit Activists For IMF-World Bank Meet
Singapore backed down on its reluctance to admit some activists accredited for World bank and International Monetary Fund meetings, saying 22 of the 27 will now be allowed entry.
Singapore Silences Voiceless Protesters
The No Voice protest in the special demonstration corner of the International Monetary Fund-World Bank forum was supposed to draw attention to the suffering of the world's poor but Singpaore's banning of accredited observers gave it doulbe significance.
Two JI Members Detained In 2002 Released On Restriction Orders
22 Out Of 27 CSO Representatives Are Now Able To Enter Singapore
The remaining five will still be subjected to interviews and may not be let in, if they attempt to enter the country.
'Silent' Protest Staged At IMF, World Bank Meetings
Civil society groups fighting against poverty staged a "silent" protest at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Singapore today, highlighting the lack of scope for dissent at the meeting.
"I Was Grilled For Five Or Six Hours By Singapore Police"
"The World Bank-IMF enjoys human rights violations and they care least for human rights," said Wilfred D'Costa, general secretary of the Indian Social Action Forum, who was deported on Wednesday by the Singapore government.
Seelan Palay Arrested For Giving Out IMF Fact Sheets
Taxi Drought Hits Marina Area Hotels
Some hotels are offering perks to woo cabbies back.
Opinion
Singaore's Clampdown At Democracy
I condemn the action of Singapore's authoritarian government for it undermines freedom and does not have a rightful place in world's democracy.
What The Fuck Lah, SPF
Is it just me or is this utter nonsense?
Is Singapore A Good Role Model?
Are Singapore Fares Really That Much Cheaper?
Comparing absolute fare amounts in Singapore with those of other countries is misleading as it may not take into accont differences in cost of living, income levels and inflation rates.
BloodFlowers
You gave me flowers of hope and I let fall flowers of blood.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
News
Singapore Police Probe Three For IMF Protest Plan
Three Singaporeans who were planning to distribute flyers critcizing the International Monetary Fund and World Bank were detained and their computers were seized, police said on Thursday.
S2006 Organising Committee Says It Has Not Breached Agreement With IMF/World Bank
Responding, the Singapore 2006 organising committee says it takes its duty as host country seriously. The memorandum of understanding with the IMF-World Bank obliges Singapore to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of delegates.
Blacklisted Activists Vow To Enter Singapore For IMF-WB
"They were given accreditation, which means that they are invited by the World Bank and IMF to participate in the meetings. It is outrageous that they are not allowed by Singapore to enter the country."
Inside The Lion City, Part 2
Huge economic challenges may face Singapore just when the LKY era, already almost 50 years old, comes to an end.
EU, W.Bank Urge Singapore To Lift IMF Activists Ban
The European Union urged Singapore on Wednesday not to bar activists from entering the country to attend the annual International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings this week.
Rectifying A 'Mistake'
Admitting its "mistake" in tearing down part of the brick fencing surrounding the gazetted Cathedral of the Good Shepherd in 2002, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has assured the public that more stringent care will be taken for future construction works.
Singapore Eyes Access To More Air Routes
Singapore is holding separate talks with its closest neighbours, Malaysia and Indonesia, to open up more routes to preserve its status as a regional air hub.
The Common Good
The IMF, World Bank and political activists become unlikely allies in the fight for freedom of speech in Singapore.
Opinion
I Miss Perth...
I hate Singaporeans and their bad manners and warped logic. I hate it even more when they think I'm one of them.
Maids Employment In Singapore, Then And Now
Today, Filipino maids are adequately protecte by the government of Singapore nder an integrated employment program.
Singapore Protests
The real lesson to be drawn here is the opposite of Mr Goh's. Rather than casting a shadow over these meetings by insisting on enforcing the same restrictions that apply to ordinary Singaporeans, the island missed an opportunity to review why it still applies such stringent curbs on peaceful protests.
Causeway Survives The Bridge Polemics
Although both books,Hikayat Johor Ke-2 and Sejarah Johor, cannot be regarded as valid documents on the agreement between Johor and Singapore, they still point to Johor's defining role in the causeway's construction.
Why I Was Such A Bitch On Tuesday
We had no faith that the Straits Times would do a fair write-up.
Is The Singapore Police Force Inadequately Prepared For Outdoor Protests?
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
News
Singapore Leaders Launch Libel Suit Against Magazine
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and former premier Lee Kuan yew filed the libel suit against Hong Kong-based Review Publishing Company Ltd and Far East Economic Review editor Hugo Restall on Aug. 22 for an article published in July on opposition politician Chee Soon Juan.
Filipino Activists Held, Turned Back By Singapore
Two Filipino activists on their way to attend the International People's Forum from September 14 to 18 in Batam, Indonesia were detained overnight by Singapore authorities before being turned back and told to return the Philippines.
Singapore Puts The Squeeze On Protesters At IMF Meet
The most jam-packed event at this year's International Monetary Fund-World Bank meeting in Singapore could end up being an indoor protest. If all 487 civil rights activists registered for the annual meeting want to use the space marked off for protest, they will have to stand very, very close together.
Need To Build Other Bridges Linking Singapore-Malaysia, Says Goh
The project to replace the Johor causeway linking Singapore and Malaysia, with a bridge may have been scrapped off but there could be other bridges that need to be built in the future, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said.
Singapore Court Finds Opposition Politicians Guilty Of Defamation
Singapore-KL Air Links: Wheels Are Trning
It's Never Been Our Role To Set Room Rates: Singapore Hotel Association
The Singapore Hotel Association has come out to rebut criticisms about its role in poor hotel occupancy and high room rates for the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings taking place this week.
Opinion
Singapore's Human Rights Record
The Protest Cogs Are Turning
When Chee Soon Juan challenged the police to a dialogue on setting a new protest site after the police rejected the Empower Singaporeans Raly and March, the man made a brilliant non-violence move.
Four Million Irritations
With the barricades and the road blocks and the blocking off of pedestrian walkways, the only regular people who will get to smile at the IMF delegates in person are the police.
Judge Gives Summary Judgement Without Chees' Lawyer Present
Security Shouldn't Keep Shoppers Away
Such excessively negative publicity does not do Singapore, as a host,any good.
Entertainment
Survivor Show On Hold
New season, which divides constants along racial lines, has drawn fire in the US. MediaCorp says it'll take a wait-and-see approach on whether to show it.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Ramblings
Leadership, And Then There's National Service
In a country where the political leaders voted to give themselves permanent huge salaries because, as the reasoning goes, otherwise there will not be 'good' and 'honest' people to lead the country...
In a country where the ruling political party uses a scheme that is supposed to ensure racial minorities in the parliament to ensure that new-comers in the political arena are 'guaranteed' a seat in the parliament because, as the reasoning goes, otherwise 'good' people will not step forward to lead...
Is it any wonder then, that discussions about National Services among netizens centered around career competitiveness, 'market-rate' renumeration, and benefits, rather than honour, sacrifices, and homeland?
The People's Action Party had always used economic benefits as a yardstick in making decisions against individual freedom and human rights. Can we expect a society, then, that will stand up and fight for freedom and rights? As many Chinese would say, don't bother me, I'm busy making money.
News
Motorists Face Extra ERP Charge If They Head To Suntec
Temasek Denies Breaching Thai Laws In Shin Corp Takeover
Temasek Holdings says it is cooperating fully with the investigation by Thailand's Commerce Ministry over its acquisition of Shin Corp earlier this year. In an email reply to Channel NewsAsia, the investment firm stressed that it had compiled with all laws of Thailand.
Public Transport Council Approves 1.7% Fare Increase For Bus And Trains
Singapore Escort Agencies Love IMF
Escort agencies were on a recruitment drive Tuesday to provide companionship for International Monetary Fund and World Bank delegates in Singapore for the week-long annual meeting.
Shin Controversy: Direct Link To Temasek Found
Singapore investor believed to have helped two Thais to buy shares in Kularb Kaew.
Where Are The Shoppers?
Less than 24 hours after the authorities secured access into Suntec on Sunday night, tenants at the adjacent shopping mall were already feeling the economic heat.
Opinion
Stealing Singapore's Show
Singapore may be economically stronger than Indonesia but in terms of freedom of speech, Indonesia is in a much more respectable position.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Ramblings
Can We Trust Our Own Police Force?
The strawman that the Singapore government and the Singapore police had put up is whether Singapore has a right to "determine whether a foreigner would be eligible for entry into the country". Of course Singapore must have the right to determine whether any particular individual has a right to enter Singapore.
The real issue, however, is whether the Singapore government and the Singapore police had made the correct assessment that the activists banned from entering Singapore should be banned. Where are the dangers? What is the risk assessment? Has the Singapore police erred on the side of caution too much?
We, the citizens of Singapore, will probably never get to know how the Singapore government and Singapore police made these assessments in the name of "national security." Trust us, the police seems to say. We know what we are doing.
A police force that asks for blind trust from its citizens is a dangerous police force. Where are the checks and balances to build the trust in Singapore government and police? I can't find any today.
News
Singapore Bars 28 Activists
The activists are members of eight civil society groups from the region and elsewhere, and have been previously involved in 'disruptive activities,' senior police officials said at a press conference.
Scrapping Of Bridge Doesn't Dent Malaysia-Singapore Ties - Abdullah
Relations between Malaysia and Singapore should not be affected by the recent decision to scrap a bridge project to replace the Johor Causeway that links the two neighbouring countries, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Indonesia Police To Allow Anti-IMF Gathering - Report
Indonesia will allow activists to hold a gathering on Batam island to protest againast a World Bank and IMF conference in Singapore, Antara state news agency quoted the national police spokesman as saying on Monday.
Singapore An 'Immature State,' Activists Say
Fair trade activists in the Philippines on Monday called economic tiger Singapore an "immature state" that can't stand public debate after its government banned 20 persons and five groups from entering the territory in connection with the International Monetary Fund-World Bank conference this week.
Singapore Barricades Roads, Plants Flowers Before IMF Meeting
Singapore Supports Development Of Southern Johor
World Bank Considers Meeting Activists Barred By Host Singapore At Alternative Venue
The World Bank said Saturday it might meet activists barred by host Singapore from its meeting next week at an alternative venue, adding that the city-state's decision would be a factor in deciding who hosts future conferences.
Govt Harassment Begins: Police Steal Flyers From Activists
Healthy Lifestyle Drive To Focus On Exercise And Hawker Food
Opinion
At Today's Protests, The Streets Are Getting Ugly
Yes, the streets are getting ugly, as I've seen with my own two eyes, and protesters are speaking loudly and carrying big sticks that they're not afraid to use. What the best way to counter these rising extremist displays? Show up with a big smile, speak softly and carry a huge Israeli flag. And wear running shoes.
Via Singapore
Singapore — for me, at least — is not a home. Singapore is not a place I could call home. In Singapore, I am in transit.
Remembering This Day Five Years Ago
Dreaming Of A Good Life
Possession is an ideal born out of selfishness that binds us to jealousy, hatred, anger, depression, anxiety, fear and uncertainty.
Face Of The Future Citizen
The republic now aspires to be a global city that attracts the best talents from the world. This is a long way from the squalid past in 1965 when Lee's party began to debate what shape the country's culture should take.
Bicycle? No, It's A Shopping Trolley
If you love cycling in Singapore, you have to accept the status of a secondary citizen.
If MPs Can Seek Votes Door To Door, Why Can't Insurance Agents Sell Policies The Same Way?
The Protest Against No Protest
I wonder if it would have been better for Singapore not to host this event at all.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Ramblings
And Don't Bring In Liquids Too!
Lee Hsien Loong said we will welcome foreigners.
Lee Kuan Yew said it will be for a better Singapore.
And then the police said, only if these foreigners are obedient little children... er... only if they are not terrorists. And we get to define who is and who isn't terrorists. Even when these terrorists took off all their clothes to... er demonstrate that they are hiding no bombs.
News
CSOs Disappointed With Space Set Aside For Protests At IMF/World Bank Meetings
SDP's Chee Soon Juan Stopped From Handing Out Pamphlets Urging Outdoor Rally And March
Singapore Customs To Make More Items Controlled To Help Stop Proliferation Of WMDs
Items like high-end computers, telecommunications systems, propulsion systems, space vehicles and related equipment, navigation and avionics and related software and technology will be controlled.
Singapore Clampdown Casts Shadow Over IMF-WB Meet
Singapore's uncompromising clampdown on free speech has tarnished efforts to showcase itself as a modern Asian financial center during the International Monetary Fund and World Bank (IMF-WB) meetings, activists say.
Singapore Cited "Terrorist" Threat In Activist Ban: World Bank
Opinion
Clamped By The North East Line (NEL) Train Doors
Now I understand why people do such stunts.
The Cure
No country has gone from an autocratic/dictatorial state to a democratic one iwthout the mass participation of the people. What makes anyone think that Singapore is an exception?
Saturday, September 9, 2006
News
NGO Ban 'Will Embarass Singapore'
Singapore's banning of 19 accredited activists from a giant world financial conference ignited predictions Saturday that the move would backfire and embarrass the city-state, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.
Singapore's Barring Of Some Activists Prompts A Protest
IMF And World Bank Rebuke Singapore
The IMF/World Bank suggested that Singapore had violated the terms of its agreement to host the event by blocking the entry of 19 civil society representatives, who allegedly posed a security threat.
Opinion
Friday, September 8, 2006
News
World Bank, IMF Urge Singapore To Allow All Accredited Activists To Attend Annual Meetings
The Singapore government has informed the World Bank and IMF that it objects to the accreditation of several civil society representatives, and stated its intention to prevent them from attending the Sept. 11-20 meetings, the two institutions said in a joint statement.
Singapore Orders Out Peta Activists
Two members of an international animal rights group were ordered to leave Singapore on Friday after disclosing plans to protest outside a KFC restaurant in the nude, the organization said.
Smoky Haze Blankets Singapore
A smoky haze blanketed Singapore Friday as airborne pollutants reached 2006 highs, meteorologists said.
The Sound Of Silence
It's nearly impossible to get a protest off the ground these days.
Batam Offiically Bans Anti-IMF Protests
A move to protest International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank policies — right at Singapore's doorstep — has been officially banned by the Batam police.
Singapore's Temasek Too Wants A Pie Of Asia Growth
Temasek Holdings, Singapore's state investment company, said India, China and Japan are accelerating together for the first time and it wants to capture that growth.
Just How Good Are Temasek's Returns?
Lack of appropriate benchmarks makes it hard to assess its return of 24%.
Opinion
A Nation In Crisis?
What's going on with our local universities? Why are our students crying out for quotas against the foreign students who are already handicapped.
Library Etiquette: Hogging Of Table And Seat
Thursday, September 7, 2006
News
No More Polar Bears For Tropical Singapore Zoo
Inuka, the first polar bear born in the tropics, will only be moved after the death of his 29-year-old mother Sheba, who will not be moved because she is too old. Polar bears in captivity have an average life span of 25 years.
Singapore: A Disciplined Tiger
Whent he Singapore government orders it, it happens — sort of.
Technology
IDA And Britain's Futurelab To Bring Latest Technology Into Classrooms
Call iLAB 2015, they will work together as well as with industry partners to develop prototypes which could be available in Singapore by the end of this year.
Wednesday, September 6, 2006
News
Singapore Hunts For Serial Cat Killer
Singapore is on the hunt for a serial cat killer who has slaughtered at least 20 felines in the past two weeks. The cats were found dumped in bushes and drains, with their throats slit.
Zam: Dr M Should Have Emulated Kuan Yew
Information Minister Datuk Zainuddin Maidin said Dr Mahathir should have emulated Lee Kuan Yew, who chose to remain within the government's administration after serving as Singapore's first prime minister for 31 years.
Wired Singapore The Best Place To Do Business: World Bank
AirAsia May Ply Singapore Route By Year-End
AirAsia's dream of flying to Singapore may become a reality, and it hopes to start plying the lucrative Kuala Lumpur-Singapore route by end of the year.
Singapore Bid To Cash In On IMF Meeting
Singapore already has the world's busiest port and is home to the fourth-biggest currency market, but the city-state hopes hosting this year's IMF-World Bank meeting will propel it even further up the league of global financial centres.
Opinion
Other MPs Should Take Up Blogging Too
NSman Called Up For First ICT At Age 36
How could Mindef expect NSmen to complete the full cycle of their CIT if they start only at 36?
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
News
Singapore's Temasek To Buy More Assets In China
Temasek Holdings, the largest overseas shareholder in Chinese banks, plans to add to its more than S$8bil of investments in the country, reducing reliance on its home market of Singapore.
Singapore Blocks IMF Street Protests
Singapore will not lift a ban on street protests during International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings this month because it wants to avoid the riots seen at similar events elsewhere, the senior minister, Goh Chok Tong, said Monday.
Opinion
New Era In Singapore Malaysia Relationship
This is only possible when politics is remvoed from the equation of business and economic cooperation.
CNA: Fifty-Dollar Men
Given the censorious climate, people hold back whenever they think they're dealing with a "sensitive" subject. And so we product mediocre work, because we are entangled in rules and sensitivites.
Dim Sum In Singapore
Call it nostalgic or anything else, my craving for dim sum started since I relocated in Singapore a year ago.
The Battle Of Toy
For self-respecting young Singaporeans who are politically aware, who have fire and imagination, who are the creative forces which the government desires so much, will never see the YP as an organisation that will challenge them.
Entering Treacherous Waters
For its reputation as a group of technocrats, the People's Action Party has been rather slow to embrace the internet.
Monday, September 4, 2006
Ramblings
Suraj Chew Sein Yeang: The LTA fails to acknowledge that each peak hour CBD taxi replaces several private commuter cars, thus reducing traffic congestion and not adding to it.
Huh? I fail to see how one taxi can replace several private cars at any given time. LTA tried taxi-sharing schemes, and that failed miserably. Look, if five families take taxi instead of private cars, that is still five trips, and five contribution to the road congestion.
Of course, Sein Yeang failed to provide any backing to this statement in the published letter.
Yong Kwek Ping wanted LTA to do something about charges. Well, LTA cannot and should not. Taxi fares is no longer regulated, and the taxi companies can well charge whatever they want to charge.
The solution to Singapore's taxi problem is not more regulation, but less. Much less. Let free market take over, and the free market will solve the problem.
Allow anyone who passes a test to become taxi drivers. Drastically lower the minimum service standard requirements, so that more companies and private individuals can set up taxi companies. There is really no need for LTA to micro-manage the taxi industry. The existing policies towards private cars — road tax, ERP, etc — are already enough when applied to the taxi industry.
News
Singapore Turns Wastewater Into City's strength
It's hard to find an Asian nation as serious about urban services, or as inventive, as Singapore.
Education Ministry To Spend $250m To Improve Teaching Profession
Singapore And Malaysia Welcome Opening Up Of Two-Way Air Routes
Singapore Should Get Bigger Voice In IMF, Goh Says
Singapore and other Asian countries should push for a bigger voice in the International Monetary Fund as the region gains importance within the global economy, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said.
Frenzy Flower Planting In The CBD / Tourist Belt
Ministers May Discuss Singapore-KL Air Route
Transport Minister Raymond Lim is likely to discuss the Singapore-KL air route with his Malaysian counterpart Chan Kong Choy when they meet in Kuala Lumpur today, as pressure builds for the lucrative sector to be opened up.
Opinion
On Being Mean To Kids In Public
Where Are Your Procedures Singapore?
Reflections On Singapore
Singapore is unique in many ways I had not expected.
I Worried About Upgrading Lim Chu Kang...
When will Singaporeans stop lying to themselves?
Brakes, Packed MRT Trains And Terrorism
Do Lower Toilet Flush Volumes Cause Chokes?
Consumers who embrace water conservation measures may enjoy lower water bills, but the savings achieved may in the long term be channelled back in more frequent maintenance of clogged pipes.
Sunday, September 3, 2006
News
Asia's Rise Good For Singapore
The middleman of southern Asian is alive, and doing quite well.
External Forces Not Allowed To Affect ASEAN's Harmony: Singapore FM
Singapore's Foreign Minister George Yeo warned Saturday that Southeast Asia is affected by developments in other parts of the world, but external forces are not allowed to affect the general harmony that exists in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Chinese Syllabus Revamp Shows Positive Results, Says Tharman
Opinion
In The City
It is an exciting time for the arts in Singapore. So much is taking place.
Taxi Drivers And Teachers
I love teaching.
Violence Does Not Equal Power Nor Can It Be Transformed Into Power
Why Do We Have So Many Flag Days In Singapore?
Stand Up For Singapore... Who? Me?
How can the 'other half' embrace the same sense o fbelonging when Stand Up plays? How do we continue to 'pledge ourselves as one united people'?
Saturday, September 2, 2006
News
Singapore's Media Controls Clash With Regional Aims
Singapore Paper Criticizes China After Reporter Jailed For Alleged Espionage
A Singaporean newspaper whose reporter has been jailed by Chinese authorities on espionage charges expressed support for its employee and criticized Beijing on Friday, saying the country's judicial process should be more open.
Wanted: A Single Brand For Singapore
Government wants agencies to present a consistent marketing image.
Opinion
Bicycle Safety low hanging Fruit? Lower Traffic Speeds!
The MSM Smiles Bravely
Every industry in the world has its own challenges — why does the media industry keep yakking about its own?
Monumental Failure - Singapore Government "For" The Singaporeans
Friday, September 1, 2006
News
Singapore Companies Making More Acquisitions In China
Testing The Limits In Singapore
The conflicting positions of the World Bank and Singapore on freedom of assembly have led to some speculation about what implicit or explicit promises Singapore may have offered when pitching to serve as the event's host, which the government later possibly reneged upon after securing the contract.
Opinion
Police Looking Into Istana Incident
On the incident date provided by Ms Lee, we have no records of the group of three persons who had submitted their names to the Istana for clearance beforehand but were subsequently turned away.
