Singapore
- Thailand News
Singapore CEO wins hearts washing dishes himself
The CEO of FairPrice Group from Singapore took the corporate world by surprise with his unconventional approach to leadership. Henry Chu wasn’t content with merely issuing orders from the boardroom, instead, he made headlines by rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in the day-to-day operations of the company’s restaurants, including cooking and washing dishes—a move that has garnered widespread admiration.…
- Business News
Singapore introduces flexible work options from December 1
Singapore employees are set to enjoy a new level of workplace flexibility starting from December 1, with the ability to request four-day work weeks, increased remote working days, and varied work timings. This move is part of a broader global shift as governments and companies loosen traditional office structures to retain skilled staff. The Ministry of Manpower has revealed that…
- Thailand News
Singapore tops Asia in World Happiness Report 2024 rankings
Singapore has retained its position as the happiest country in Asia for the second consecutive year, according to the recently released World Happiness Report 2024. The city-state ranked 30th out of 143 surveyed countries globally but stood at the pinnacle in Asia, outshining its regional peers including Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. Thailand came in seventh…
- Thailand News
Jetstar flight fiasco: Passengers grounded as 24 hour delays soar
Jetstar Airways faced criticism from passengers when a flight from Bangkok to Singapore was delayed by more than 24 hours. The low-budget airline came under fire after 161 passengers found themselves stranded at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Wednesday, March 13. Passengers were scheduled to board Jetstar Asia flight 3K516 for a 1.35pm departure, Singapore time, with an arrival at Changi…
- Thailand News
Swift deception leaves Thai influencer stranded outside Taylor gig
A deceptive concert ticket seller left a well-known Thai social media influencer, her friend, and eight other Thais stranded outside the venue of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Singapore on March 3. Thai netizens and social media influencers flooded a social media account of a 27 year old Natrada “Pluem” Thammapanya, known among her fans as Chopluem, with words of…
- Thailand News
Taylor Swift saga: Tug of war over tour sparks Thailand rift (video)
The tug of war over Taylor Swift rumbles on after Thailand and the Philippines both accused Singapore of setting up a clandestine deal to block the US singer-songwriter from appearing in other Southeast Asian countries. Politicians from the Philippines and Thailand expressed concerns regarding the secret deal negotiated by Singapore, which confines Swift’s Eras Tour exclusively to the affluent city-state…
- Thailand News
Man executed for murder of ex-fiancée in Singapore
In a sombre statement released yesterday, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed the execution of a Bangladeshi national for the murder of his former fiancée at a budget hotel in Geylang back in 2018. Despite fervent appeals for clemency, the president’s decision stood firm, sealing Ahmed Salim’s grim fate. This chilling incident marks the Republic’s first judicial execution for murder since…
- Thailand News
Singapore’s Tada revs up in Thailand with zero commission fees
In a bid to capture the hearts and wallets of Thai commuters, Tada, the Singapore-based ride-hailing giant, is revving up for its grand entrance into Bangkok’s competitive market. With zero commission fees and a vow to balance the books within three to five years, Tada aims to disrupt the status quo and dominate Thailand’s ride-hailing landscape. Establishing its foothold in…
- Thailand News
Did Singapore pay millions to keep Taylor Swift to themselves?
Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin alleges that Singapore may have struck a multimillion-dollar pact to secure Taylor Swift’s exclusivity in Southeast Asia, leaving fans fuming and conspiracy theories swirling. PM Srettha made waves with his claims at a business forum in Bangkok, stating that concert promoter AEG had disclosed Singapore’s purported offer of hefty subsidies, ranging from US$2 million (approximately…
- Aviation News
Singapore aims to use sustainable aviation fuel in all flights by 2026
Singapore Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat revealed a green initiative to transition all outgoing flights to utilise sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2026. This announcement came during the Changi Aviation Summit, a precursor to the Singapore Airshow. The city-state is committing to a 1% SAF usage target by 2026, with ambitions to elevate this figure to between 3% and 5%…
- Press Room
ROSHI unveils groundbreaking insights into personal lending trends
Singapore-based Fintech ROSHI has released a detailed analysis that talks about what types of individuals use personal lending services to tackle financial pressures over 2023’s high inflation economy. This meticulous study utilised first-party application data to delve into the profile characteristics and utilisation patterns of numerous Singaporeans who sought personal loans from ROSHI to mitigate income disparities during the past…
- Thailand News
Cross-border connections revolution: Visa free travel for Chinese and Singaporeans
Starting from February 9, Chinese and Singaporean travellers can jet off visa-free in a new move to waive the requirement. In an exclusive bilateral agreement unveiled today, January 25, the world’s second-largest economy, China, and the vibrant city-state of Singapore have torn down the bureaucratic barriers, allowing their citizens a visa-free stay of up to 30 days on either side. This…
- Business News
Malaysia and Singapore unite to boost trade with special economic zone
Major trading partners Malaysia and Singapore agreed on a collaborative effort to establish a special economic zone. This endeavour aims to enhance trade between the neighbouring countries, which consider each other as their second most significant trading partner. The proposed economic zone is slated to be located in Johor, a southern state of Malaysia. This zone will allow businesses to enjoy…
- Business News
Malaysia and Singapore lure Chinese travellers with visa-free policies
The Chinese traveller market could see a significant rise to 7 million arrivals next year as Malaysia and Singapore become increasingly attractive due to reciprocal visa-free policies. Thailand, however, has yet to secure such an agreement with China. Following the introduction of a visa exemption for Malaysians, Beijing is speculated to extend a 30-day visa exemption to Singapore in the…
- Business News
Singapore and Zurich rank as world’s most expensive cities in 2023
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) recently revealed that Singapore and Zurich share the title of the world’s most expensive city in 2023. Following closely are Geneva, New York, and Hong Kong, maintaining that the worldwide cost-of-living crisis is yet unresolved. The research and analysis division of the Economist Group observed that prices for over 200 frequently utilised goods and services…
- World News
Unexpected connection: Late mother’s number replies
A surprising incident caught the attention of the online world when Minnie, a young woman from Singapore, received an unexpected reply from the mobile number of her mother who passed away four years ago. Minnie continued to send text messages to her mother’s phone number intermittently, using this method to alleviate her sorrow and feel as though she was still…
- Business News
MAS to review Credit Suisse amid Singapore money laundering scandal
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced its intention to conduct an on-site review of Credit Suisse Group AG. The decision comes in the wake of a far-reaching financial scandal, in which at least one customer of the bank has been charged with money laundering. The review aims to assess the bank’s handling and monitoring of wealthy clients. The local…
- World News
Fish store shocker: Customer buys out entire stock, sets them free in Singapore river
A customer left a fish store employee astounded after spending more than 400 Singapore dollars to buy all the fish in the store, only to release them all into a river. The unusual event was reported by local media, following the account of the fish store’s worker. The male customer walked into the store and stated his intention to purchase…
- World News
Singapore’s capital punishment stirs controversy as first female convict faces execution in decades
Singaporean authorities are set to carry out capital punishment on two drug convicts this week, drawing attention to the first female prisoner due for execution in almost two decades. The impending executions have sparked outrage among human rights groups. According to the local rights group Transformative Justice Collective (TJC), the first convict, a 56 year old man found guilty of smuggling…
- Transport News
Porsche powerplay: Drivers blaze jaw-dropping trail from Bangkok to Singapore
In a revved-up feat of automotive prowess, a dynamic team of Porsche drivers left car enthusiasts awe-struck as they blazed a trail from Bangkok, Thailand to the heart of Singapore in a jaw-dropping sub-30-hour dash. The trio, hailing from Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, took the wheel of a cutting-edge Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo in the small hours of June…
- World News
Singaporean landlord under scrutiny after using tenant’s undergarments
A situation of intrusive landlord behaviour recently emerged in Singapore. This involved a homeowner illegally entering the private space of a 23 year old Malaysian woman and her boyfriend who were renting a room, causing them to quickly vacate the premises. The discovery of a scandalous act related to the tenant‘s undergarments was a critical clue that led the way…
- World News
Teen domestic worker from Myanmar given life sentence for Singapore murder case
A chilling case emerged today in Singapore as a young domestic worker faces life imprisonment for fatally stabbing her employer, a 70 year old woman, 26 times. The shocking event reportedly arose after the victim threatened to send the maid, originally from Myanmar, back home. The case became murkier upon discovering she had submitted false age information. Zin Mar Nwe…
- Best Bites
Shiok! 5 tasty Singaporean restaurants in Bangkok
Singapore’s multi-ethnic community is reflected in the food, which is renowned for its unique fusion of Malay, Indonesian, Chinese, Indian, and Western flavours. You’re in luck because Bangkok is home to a number of delicious Singaporean restaurants. Whether you’re familiar with Singaporean food or a first-timer, these eateries will not disappoint. Lai, come. I’ll tell you about the best Singaporean…
- World News
Durian surplus sparks joy in Singapore as Malaysian supply surges
Durian surplus in Singapore has led enthusiasts to find their favourite spiky fruit available in abundance this year. The unprecedented bounty of the asperous fruit is so significant that claw machines now carry it, creating a thrilling opportunity to cradle a durian for the trivial cost of just 26 baht. A surplus from the leading producer, Malaysia, has driven durian…
- World News
Singapore FM condemns Jocelyn Chia’s MH370 joke, apologises to Malaysians
Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, criticised stand-up comedian Jocelyn Chia on Twitter for her insensitive and offensive remarks about Malaysia during a recent performance. Chia, a Singapore-born performer, made jokes about Malaysia’s development and the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, sparking outrage in Malaysia. “I am appalled by her horrendous statements. She certainly does not speak for Singaporeans. We treasure…
- World News
Study reveals senior Singaporean volunteers contribute more time to charities
A recent study has shown that senior volunteers in Singapore contribute more time to charitable causes than their younger counterparts. Conducted by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) and the Singapore Management University, the study aimed to help social service agencies attract and retain volunteers by identifying what drives people to volunteerism and areas for their own growth. The…
- World News
Singapore luxury home rentals surge amid high net worth individual demand
Demand from high net worth individuals has driven a surge in luxury home rentals in Singapore, with landed property rents experiencing a significant 14.5% increase in the first quarter. This comes after several consecutive quarters of growth, resulting in a year-on-year jump of 39.3%. Analysts have attributed the sharp rise to a low supply of luxury homes and strong demand…
- World News
El Nino set to return in 2023, raising haze risk for Singapore
Haze is expected to once again rear its ugly head in Southeast Asia. The Meteorological Service Singapore has forecasted that El Nino conditions are expected to develop in the second half of 2023, following three years of La Nina conditions. This comes seven years after the last strong El Nino event. The Met Service also predicts that a positive Indian…
- World News
SET and SGX launch cross-border trading for Thai depositary receipts
The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and the Singapore Exchange (SGX) announced a joint venture that enables the trading of three depositary receipts (DRs) of Thai-listed companies on the SGX. This innovative collaboration, launched yesterday, is the first of its kind under the Thailand-Singapore DR Linkage project and aims to boost the appeal of Thai-listed companies in the regional market by…
- World News
Singapore’s private home prices soar to US$1.2 million, topping Asia Pacific cities
The median price of a private home in Singapore reached US$1.2 million in 2022, making it the highest among Asia Pacific cities, according to a report by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Asia Pacific Centre for Housing. Singapore is also ranked as the most expensive city in the region for renting a private home. The median private home price in…
- Business News
Temasek cuts staff pay after failed FTX crypto investment
Singapore-based investment company Temasek has announced that its investment team and senior management experienced a reduction in compensation following the firm’s failed investment in cryptocurrency company FTX. Temasek Chairman Lim Boon Heng stated that despite no misconduct by the investment team, they took collective accountability for the outcome. In November, Temasek Holdings revealed that it would write down its US$275…
- World News
Singapore at high risk of technical recession amid external challenges
Singapore is facing a heightened risk of entering a technical recession in the second quarter as external challenges continue to impact the economy. The city-state saw a 0.4% decline in the economy during the first quarter compared to the previous three months, marking a reversal from the 0.1% growth in the fourth quarter of 2022. Singapore last experienced a technical…
- Business News
Singapore maintains 2023 growth forecast amid global economic risks
Singapore‘s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) has announced that it is maintaining its growth forecast for 2023 at 0.5% to 2.5%, with growth expected to be around the mid-point of this range. This comes as the economy experienced a 0.4% year-on-year growth between January and March, primarily due to the manufacturing, wholesale trade, and finance and insurance sectors. The…
- Business News
Dyson aims to double product range, expand beyond home innovations by 2025
Dyson, renowned for its innovative household appliances, has been focusing on making everyday tasks more efficient and convenient for users. The development of such cutting-edge products often takes years and numerous prototypes, with Dyson’s bagless vacuum cleaner taking over five years and 5,127 prototypes to perfect. The company’s entrance into the beauty market with its hair dryer involved four years…
- World News
Singapore firms eye Central Asia’s growing consumer market for expansion
Central Asia, a region known for its landlocked countries, may not be the most obvious choice for Singaporean businesses looking to expand their horizons. However, Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) believes that the area’s growing consumer market and young population can offer early-mover advantages for companies, particularly in sectors such as urban infrastructure, technology, and innovative consumer products. Despite Central Asia’s strategic…
- Business News
Singapore leads Southeast Asia with 97% cashless payment adoption rate
In Singapore, a growing majority of people are opting for cashless payment methods, with the country’s adoption rate of such payments being the highest in Southeast Asia at 97%. This trend has been accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic and an ongoing national drive for a less-cash society. Digital wallets are expected to overtake credit cards as the most popular online…
- Cannabis News
Singapore hangs 2 cannabis traffickers in 3 weeks
A man was hanged at Changi Prison in eastern Singapore at dawn today for trafficking 1.5 kilogrammes of cannabis. He is the second cannabis trafficker to be executed at the prison in just three weeks. The 37 year old ethnic Malay Singaporean was hanged today after a last-minute plea to stop the execution was rejected by the appeal court without…
