Exact timing of GST increase yet to be decided
On 28 Feb, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said that the date for the 2% increase in Goods and Services Tax (GST) has yet to be decided and that the government will exercise care in doing so. In response to the reservations on the approach and timing of the GST hike, Mr. Heng highlighted that […]
Please siam Pakistan and India temporarily
Singaporeans are advised to refrain from traveling to Pakistan, and India unnecessarily, due to the escalating tensions between both countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on 27 Feb. Both countries have always been in conflict over disputed Indian Kashmir. However, the tension had skyrocketed on 14 Feb after a suicide bombing in Kashmir […]
Protection insurance scheme to roll out for Gojek drivers
With effect from 1 Apr, Gojek drivers will be covered by a protection insurance scheme, as a result of the partnership between Gojek and Gigacover – a Singapore-based insurance company, which focuses on freelancers. The scheme was designed in close consultation with the National Private Hire Vehicles Association of Singapore – an affiliate of the […]
Do not be afraid to talk about mental health: President Halimah
To show support and raise awareness for mental health, President Halimah Yacob visited the Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH)’s Creative SAY! Center for a special forum theatre performance on 25 Feb. The center offers sports, outdoor and art activities to help spark conversations and promote mental well-being and to help prevent young people from […]
HSA warns against 2 products containing erectile dysfunction medicine
On 26 Feb, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) warned the public to not purchase or consume two products sold online as candies – Hickel and Solomon Island Soloco Traditional Candy. Both candies were misleadingly marketed as “100% natural”, with exaggerated claims to “improve cardiovascular and kidney health, diabetic conditions, vitality, fertility and immunity”. Very high […]
Burning smell in parts of Singapore due to fire in Johor
A fire in southern Johor had caused a burning smell in parts of Singapore the National Environment Agency (NEA) said on 25 Feb. The authorities were first alerted to the burning smell in the eastern part of Singapore on 24 Feb. Singapore could experience a slight haze if the wind direction were to change, NEA […]
Rise in drug abusers, Central Narcotics Bureau raises concern
In its annual report on 25 Feb, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) reported that there was an overall increase of drug abusers in 2018 as compared to 2017. 3,438 drug abusers were arrested in 2018, an 11 percent increase from 3,091 in 2017. Of which, those aged 20 to 29 continue to form the largest […]
Crocodile caught at Lower Seletar Reservoir
With the help of the National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore national water agency PUB caught a crocodile at Lower Seletar Reservoir on 23 Feb. The crocodile was first spotted by a PUB contractor on 14 Feb, putting a halt in all water and fishing activities there. Officers from PUB and NParks had been conducting daily […]
More support for freelance coaches and instructors
In a media release on 20 Feb, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) announced that the National Instructors and Coaches Association (NICA) is officially registered with the Registry of Societies and has also become an affiliate of the Labour Movement. The association aims to represent the interests of some 5,000 full-time freelance coaches and instructors […]
Ben Davis may face imprisonment for defaulting National Service
Fulham footballer Benjamin Davis has defaulted on his national service commitments, The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) said in a statement on 18 Feb. The announcement was made after Mr. Davis failed to report for enlistment on 14 Feb. He is also staying overseas without a valid exit permit, MINDEF added. Mr. Davis may be fined […]