7 12 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Dec 7

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Dec 7. Phase 3 unlikely by end of year unless more use TraceTogether, experts say The uptake of TraceTogether is 50.8 per cent, a far cry from the 70 per cent target. READ MORE HERE S'pore continuing to seek new travel bubble partners despite HK setback: Ong Ye Kung Countries that the Republic has unilaterally opened its borders to make natural partners, said Mr Ong. READ MORE HERE Choosing Singapore's Covid-19 vaccines An expert committee has reviewed more than 40 vaccine candidates over the past seven months. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani tests positive for coronavirus The 76-year-old is the latest in a long string of people close to the White House who have been infected. READ MORE HERE Indonesia regional elections: Covid-19's impact on polls Indonesians will cast their ballots in regional elections on Wednesday amid a surging coronavirus pandemic. READ MORE HERE S'poreans flock to attractions, hotels on first weekend after launch of tourism voucher scheme Many used their SingapoRediscovers vouchers at Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios Singapore and the Singapore Zoo. READ MORE HERE 22 taken to hospital after car and bus carrying foreign workers collide on Jurong Island 21 passengers of the bus, believed to be foreign workers, and the 42-year-old driver of the car were taken to hospital. READ MORE HERE 5 imported cases of Covid-19, including woman who came to S'pore for her wedding The 35-year-old woman from Indonesia is getting married to a Singaporean. READ MORE HERE AXA to move out of AXA Tower as other firms rethink office needs A Perennial Real Estate Holdings-led consortium and Alibaba Singapore will redevelop the building. READ MORE HERE Bill Gates among star speakers at Singapore's biggest fintech festival, starting Monday Over 60,000 participants from over 7,000 companies across 130 countries are expected. READ MORE HERE

6 12 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Dec 6

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Dec 6. SIA, other firms look to build on existing vaccine handling capabilities Significant volumes of Covid-19 vaccines are set to pass through Changi Airport. READ MORE HERE Bangladeshi worker who beat Covid-19 after 5-month battle in S'pore longs to go home Mr Raju Sarker, who was case 42, has yet to hold his son Safun, who was born in March. READ MORE HERE Condo builds around Geylang terraced houses as owners refuse to sell The condo developer worked closely with the architects to design three distinct blocks around the unusual site. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Walking through history: Top 5 heritage trails in Singapore Four Life reporters road-tested 19 heritage trails, and these are their picks of the best routes – and must-sees – to check out. READ MORE HERE All I want for Christmas this year... is a tree Demand for real trees is outstripping supply amid Covid-19 travel curbs and shipment delays. READ MORE HERE Ensure estates like Toa Payoh or Marine Parade are not beyond the reach of the low-income Inequity crops up when owners of subsidised flats sell at a huge profit, shutting out the less well-off and creating enclaves for the rich, says Enterprise editor Li Xueying. READ MORE HERE Hong Kong's tai-tai dance clubs blamed for large cluster of Covid-19 cases More than 600 cases have been linked to the clubs, nearly 10% of all infections there. READ MORE HERE S'porean who went to Indonesia under Business Travel Pass among 12 imported Covid-19 cases Prior to hospitalisation, he went to work at ASL Shipyard but did not interact with his colleagues. READ MORE HERE Five stocks you wish you had bought in 2020 Among this year's best performers on the S'pore market are non-STI constituents, highlighting need to look beyond the stock benchmark. READ MORE HERE Meet the people getting 'ugly' food onto plates and away from the bin Join volunteers as they swoop in to give produce a second lease of life. READ MORE HERE

5 12 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Dec 5

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Saturday, Dec 5. 6 heroes in fight to end Covid-19 pandemic named ST Asians of the Year The recipients of the award capture the entire trajectory of the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. READ MORE HERE Singapore’s first digital banks: What services can you expect How will Singaporeans benefit? Here's what you need to know about the new digital banks. READ MORE HERE Malaysia frets over foreign worker housing as Covid-19 infections surge Labour activists say the Top Glove dorms in Selangor linked to infection clusters are the tip of the iceberg. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Parti Liyani case: SCs Davinder, Jason Chan to represent two DPPs in disciplinary proceedings Lawyers Peter Low and Choo Zheng Xi are representing Parti Liyani in the disciplinary proceedings. READ MORE HERE Sneaker enthusiasts crowd Orchard Rd shoe retailer in breach of Covid-19 rules Foot Locker stores have continued to hold events that draw large crowds, despite repeated advisories. READ MORE HERE Are we ready to talk about race? The past few months have seen an uptick in conversations on race – online as well as offline. READ MORE HERE More irregularities found in Hin Leong's accounts, including over $4 billion in overstated assets PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the overstatement of Hin Leong's assets went back at least three years. READ MORE HERE M1 says all affected services restored after fibre broadband outage that lasted over 4 hours The telco said in an update at 10pm that all affected services had been fully restored. READ MORE HERE Cultured meat: No-kill products may be food for the future Such alternative proteins could pave the way for more sustainable food production and better food security. READ MORE HERE Which is The Straits Times Car of the Year? Three out of the eight cars shortlisted are electric vehicles. READ MORE HERE

1 12 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Dec 1

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Tuesday, Dec 1. Singapore to make Covid-19 PCR tests available to public from Dec 1 Before this, those who were not unwell and did not need to meet specific testing requirements could not request to get tested. READ MORE HERE Nepalese man visiting family in Singapore is sole Covid-19 community case The 35-year-old is in Singapore on a short-term visit pass. READ MORE HERE First day of new reusable mask distribution for Singapore residents mostly a breeze A resident said that having staff around helped him to select his size more accurately. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Moderna files for US authorisation, will seek EU nod after study shows Covid-19 vaccine 94.1% effective It also reported a 100 per cent success rate in preventing severe cases. READ MORE HERE HDB to build diverse flat types, keep prices affordable for housing estates in prime locations A range of housing types will be built in upcoming estates in prime locations such as the Greater Southern Waterfront. READ MORE HERE PM Lee seeks $150k in damages in defamation suit against blogger Leong Sze Hian PM Lee's lawyer argued that Leong had not only made "stunning allegations", but had cynically politicised the case. READ MORE HERE Arizona and Wisconsin certify Biden's election victory in latest blow to Trump Arizona and Wisconsin are the last contested battleground states to make their presidential election results official. READ MORE HERE Why piracy in Singapore Strait persists in the Covid-19 pandemic Factors include increased economic hardship and pirates capitalising on fatigue at sea. READ MORE HERE Injured motor-cyclist sues LTA, NParks over sambar deer collision in Upper Thomson Both LTA and NParks have denied the claims in court papers filed in October. READ MORE HERE Former employee of ex-actor Huang Yiliang said he feared for his life while working for Huang Huang stands accused of using a metal scraper to hit the employee on the abdomen and head. READ MORE HERE

30 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 30

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Nov 30. Jewel struggling to keep its shine with business still slow; retail sales at Changi terminals plunge 74% Some businesses have left Jewel in the last few months but it has also been able to attract new tenants. READ MORE HERE Diversification of food sources cannot be only strategy in the face of global disruptions Efforts have sped up to help local farms ramp up production over the next six to 24 month. READ MORE HERE Republicans turn to Biden transition as Trump's legal options dwindle However, Donald Trump said he will continue to fight the results of the election. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Maid-less in Singapore: Fewer FDW entry approvals, travel restrictions, fee hikes among woes faced by would-be employers MOM approved only 630 entry requests for maids out of about 4,100 applications and appeals received. READ MORE HERE Time to allow foreign workers out of dorms? Health experts weigh in MOM said it will further ease the restrictions if infection rates are "sustained at low levels". READ MORE HERE 876 tested in Tekka Centre community screening, 2 were positive for Covid-19: MOH Both the cases picked up from surveillance testing are likely to be past infections. READ MORE HERE PM Lee Hsien Loong's defamation suit against TOC's Terry Xu begins Monday PM Lee is suing TOC editor Terry Xu over an article posted on its website and Facebook page. READ MORE HERE US President-elect Joe Biden twists ankle after slipping while playing with dog Biden will be examined by an orthopedist "out of an abundance of caution". READ MORE HERE Americans should brace for 'surge upon surge' of coronavirus, US experts warn Anthony Fauci said America may see a surge upon a surge in two or three weeks. READ MORE HERE Donating unused leave to charity uncommon, but employees surveyed support idea 55% of 474 people surveyed said they would support donating some of their unused leave to charity. READ MORE HERE

29 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 29

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Nov 29. More new business entities set up in Singapore despite Covid-19 recession Some 5,500 to 6,400 new businesses were formed monthly between June and October. READ MORE HERE Infected after holiday to Europe, pregnant mum gives birth to baby with Covid-19 antibodies Celine Ng-Chan is one of a few women in Singapore who were infected with the coronavirus during their pregnancies to have given birth so far. READ MORE HERE 68-year-old S'porean man dies of Covid-19 complications, 29th such death in S'pore The man returned from work in Indonesia on Nov 17, and had a history of hypertension and heart disease. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Why is stacking of $100 tourism vouchers not allowed: STB Some consumers have lamented that the vouchers cannot be combined with those of their family and friends within the same redemption. READ MORE HERE Lunch With Sumiko: Chair man of the gaming world When he was 22, Ian Ang set out to build the perfect chair for gamers. Secretlab, which he co-founded, has since sold more than one million chairs, the 28-year-old CEO tells Sumiko Tan. READ MORE HERE Boy who died of cancer before getting PSLE results was brave, inquisitive and thoughtful, say his parents Raphael Lee suffered from excessive blood loss during an operation, which resulted in brain damage. READ MORE HERE La Nina could extend Singapore's rainy season to March La Nina is the "crybaby" sister to El Nino - the phenomenon usually associated with hot and dry weather in South-east Asia. READ MORE HERE Youth in Japan, South Korea bear the brunt of job losses due to Covid-19 It’s described as an “employment ice age” in Japan and “Hell Joseon” in South Korea. READ MORE HERE Scaling towards zero food waste in fish farming This fish farm's waste is raw material for a restaurant as the food industry pushes towards zero food waste. READ MORE HERE The quicksand of overspending By the time you read this, you might have already spent quite a bit of money shopping for great deals in the Black Friday sale, and there is still Cyber Monday to come. READ MORE HERE

28 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 28

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Saturday, Nov 28. More Covid-19 cases may emerge from Seoul Garden family dinner but a major cluster unlikely: Experts The group of 12 occupied three tables and there was mingling. READ MORE HERE S'pore has no need to rely on one Covid-19 vaccine with several promising candidates in the race With at least three drugs seeking emergency use authorisation, S'pore need not bank on a specific candidate. READ MORE HERE Some employers in Singapore planning to scrap staff bonuses this year These firms have been making losses this year due to delayed projects or sharp drop in daily takings. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Iran vows 'revenge' after prominent nuclear scientist Fakhrizadeh's assassination He died in hospital after armed assassins gunned him down in his car. READ MORE HERE In new blow to Trump, US court rejects Pennsylvania election case Despite the ruling, Trump's campaign plans to appeal to the US Supreme Court. READ MORE HERE Malaysia yet to finalise plans for KL-S'pore high-speed rail, says minister A news report claimed Malaysia was considering changes so that the line ends in Johor Baru and not Singapore. READ MORE HERE Jumbo Group to acquire Kok Kee Wanton Noodle for $2.1m It will take a 75% stake in the 35-year-old wonton noodle stall. READ MORE HERE HDT S'pore Taxi exits business, about 90 drivers let go The electric taxi operator said it had been "wrestling with the slowing growth" since the start of the year. READ MORE HERE HK woman duped in online love scam roots out fake profiles with S'pore singer Dick Lee's photos Lee has been approached by women who told him they had fallen victim to similar scams. READ MORE HERE Who is responsible for fraudulent transactions, customer or bank? Can the Singapore police help you to recover funds transferred to an overseas bank? READ MORE HERE

27 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 27

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Friday, Nov 27. First Covid-19 community case in 16 days met 12 family members at Seoul Garden in Tampines The family had occupied three tables at the restaurant, and there was mingling between the groups. READ MORE HERE Dyson plans $4.9b in investments across Singapore, UK, Philippines It will hire more engineers in fields such as software, machine learning and robotics. READ MORE HERE Trump says he will leave the White House if Electoral College votes for Biden The Electoral College is due to meet on Dec 14. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Malaysian PM Muhyiddin triumphs at budget vote but more challenges lie ahead His celebration is likely short-lived, as both friend and foe continue deal-making for power. READ MORE HERE Maradona flew and fell. It is why we loved him Few stories in sport were so full of pain and yet streaked with such unforgettable perfection, says Rohit Brijnath. READ MORE HERE Boy who died of cancer before he can collect PSLE results remembered for his humour, strength Raphael died on Nov 13, 12 days before his PSLE results were released. READ MORE HERE STB survey finds growing confidence in overseas travel among top tourist sources Three in four leisure travellers and nine in 10 business travellers are likely to go abroad in the year ahead. READ MORE HERE Woman suing PUB for $5m over manhole fall gives up fight, accepts settlement offer Madam Chan Hui Peng has decided to accept PUB's offer and move on with her life, said her lawyer. READ MORE HERE Robinsons to hold last Black Friday sale with discounts of up to 70% A final shipment of stock has arrived in time for the sale and Robinsons' warehouses are now empty. READ MORE HERE The Life List: 5 festive, socially distanced markets for Christmas shopping This year, they will be smaller, cosier affairs curated and run by local vendors. READ MORE HERE

25 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 25

Calm, credible voices needed to fight terror: Shanmugam ISIS remains a threat and its violent ideology continues to radicalise individuals, he said. READ MORE HERE Next year's Chinese New Year bazaar at Chinatown called off Organisers said the decision was due to concerns over crowd control amid the Covid-19 pandemic. READ MORE HERE Biden says US 'ready to lead' again on global stage, vows to work with allies The S&P 500 Index closed at an all-time high and the Dow topped 30,000 for the first time as Biden’s transition to the White House gathered speed. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news 37 people investigated, 16 foreigners deported in wake of recent terror attacks abroad: MHA The 14 Singaporeans and 23 foreigners were suspected of radical inclinations or had made comments that incite violence. READ MORE HERE Singapore's events sector gearing up to reinforce Republic's leading hub status STB is currently processing up to 50 requests to hold pilot Mice events, with at least 20 approved so far. READ MORE HERE No active Covid-19 clusters in S'pore for the first time since Feb 3 This is after the cluster at Cassia @ Penjuru at 15 Penjuru Walk was closed as it had no new cases for the past two incubation periods, or 28 days. READ MORE HERE Malaysia's crucial Budget 2021 vote likely to be delayed There has been heated debate since Budget 2021 was tabled on Nov 6 by the government. READ MORE HERE Economic Affairs: Revisiting bitcoin The No. 1 crypto asset has become the financial virus of our time, says associate editor Vikram Khanna. READ MORE HERE Pines club members sue motoring tycoon over relocation, redevelopment of premises 162 club members are seeking damages of more than $110,000 each. READ MORE HERE Add fun to your run by exploring these scenic routes Take in cultural landmarks, iconic attractions and food destinations along the way. READ MORE HERE

24 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 24

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Tuesday, Nov 24. No Covid-19 cases in community and dorms for 13 days in S'pore, but complacency must not set in: Experts Experts cautioned that local, undetected cases may still be lurking. READ MORE HERE Biden to get his delayed presidential transition aid: Trump This is Trump's closest statement yet to finally conceding he lost the US election. READ MORE HERE Long-time Joe Biden adviser Antony Blinken set to be US secretary of state Biden's choices signal a return to professionalism and experience, analysts said. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Singapore consumers express concern over 'complicated' tourism voucher redemption process The SingapoRediscovers Vouchers can be redeemed online through five authorised booking partners. READ MORE HERE $100 tourism vouchers: More choices with multiple redemption platforms, say observers A single platform to redeem the vouchers would be ideal, but having options has its draws too, they say. READ MORE HERE Woman sues PUB for $5 million after falling into manhole, says accident caused schizophrenia Madam Chan Hui Peng, a chartered accountant, initially sought $20 million in damages over the accident. READ MORE HERE Five-room BTO flats in Toa Payoh 6 times oversubscribed; Bishan four-room flats by 5 times Prices for the 5-room flats in Toa Payoh (Bidadari) range from $627,000 to $726,000, excluding grants. READ MORE HERE Family of murdered Malaysian student to sue Taiwan govt for alleged negligence: Lawyer Irene Chung, 24, was found dead in Taiwan and an arrested suspect had confessed to killing her. READ MORE HERE Rude language against Thai monarchy? People are just venting, says young key protest leader "These are not vulgarities. They are expressions of people who have long been oppressed." READ MORE HERE 2020's best smartphone camera Artificial intelligence is the new battleground for smartphone cameras. READ MORE HERE

23 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 23

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Nov 23. G-20 countries pledge to work towards inclusive and sustainable recovery from Covid-19 as annual summit ends PM Lee calls on countries to strengthen social resilience and redouble efforts on sustainability. READ MORE HERE S'pore-HK air travel bubble suspension not the death knell for leisure travel Experts say the delay is a sensible decision as travellers accept sudden changes as part of the situation. READ MORE HERE First Americans could get Covid-19 vaccine by mid-December, top US health official says The agency's advisers will meet on Dec 10 to discuss whether to approve the Pfizer vaccine for emergency use. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Should wildlife stay or go? Pasir Ris residents to have a say A wild boar attacked a woman at a park in Pasir Ris last Tuesday, leaving her with injuries on her left leg and face. READ MORE HERE Two Singaporean private plane pilots make emergency landing on North-South Expressway in Johor The two Singaporean pilots on board are reportedly in stable condition. READ MORE HERE RCEP signing a wake-up call for the US The United States' absence from mega Asian trade agreements undermines its own security arrangements, analysts warn. READ MORE HERE Local brain bank receives first donations of brains for research The one-year-old centre is in an early stage of donor recruitment, with 71 registered names. READ MORE HERE No new Covid-19 community cases in Singapore for 12th day, longest such stretch since start of outbreak Two of the imported cases on Sunday were crew members of separate ships. READ MORE HERE Drains, canals near capacity after heavy Sunday afternoon rain PUB issued flood warnings for 12 locations as water levels there hit at least 90% capacity. READ MORE HERE Mark Lee's daughter tells him after Golden Horse loss: 'It's okay, you still have a long journey ahead' “I'm 52 so I guess to have a long journey I must live till 100," said the actor jokingly. READ MORE HERE

22 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 22

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Nov 22. Passengers disappointed, frustrated over deferment of S'pore-HK air travel bubble Some say it may be tough to secure a seat again when the bubble begins. READ MORE HERE G-20 summit: PM Lee calls for fair access to Covid-19 vaccine, stronger disease surveillance He said the group is well-placed to drive the global response required to tackle the crisis. READ MORE HERE Would you take virus test to go clubbing? Sunday Times poll finds out Most polled won’t patronise karaoke outlets and nightclubs in pilot if they have to take a test. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Mark Lee misses out on Best Leading Actor trophy but local film Number 1 still wins at Golden Horse Local musical comedy Number 1 won the award for Best Makeup and Costume Design. READ MORE HERE Cabbies, private-hire drivers find the going tough even with easing of Covid-19 restrictions Demand for rides weak with little nightlife, many working from home and no tourists. READ MORE HERE Staying in, burning out: Covid-19 casts spotlight on mental health at work The blurring of lines between the workplace and home has put pressure on many workers. READ MORE HERE The Ah Beng hawkers who became Covid heroes and now have their own fine-dining restaurant Beng Who Cooks duo dished out $15,000 worth of free meals during the circuit breaker. READ MORE HERE askST: What support is there for S'pore freelancers amid the Covid-19 pandemic? Find out how Singaporean freelancers and self-employed people with less means and family support can receive financial support. READ MORE HERE Cycle and hike along Lornie Nature Corridor, the latest addition to S'pore's green efforts The 1.76 km corridor also serves as a green route between MacRitchie Reservoir Park and Adam Road. READ MORE HERE Calls to change eating habits and overhaul in food supply chain to cut Singapore's food waste How much money is thrown away through the food waste generated by S'pore households every year? The answer: $342m. READ MORE HERE

21 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 21

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Saturday, Nov 21. Apec leaders agree on need for free, fair environment for trade and investment to drive economic recovery They say more has to be done to foster an enabling environment for trade and investment in the region. READ MORE HERE Lee Suet Fern focused on what husband wanted done, did not consider Lee Kuan Yew's interests: Court Not having due regard for Mr Lee Kuan Yew's interests was a "grave failure" on her part, the court said. READ MORE HERE Hong Kong to tighten Covid-19 measures as travel bubble with Singapore hangs in the balance ST understands that the travel bubble could be scuppered, depending on Saturday's Covid-19 cases. READ MORE HERE The Great Reset: Can US and China revive relations? Asia is gearing up for the new US team led by Biden. ST bureaus take the pulse in Asian capitals as the Trump era retreats. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Lesson for Singapore from US election If this is American democracy there should be social distancing rules to keep it away from the rest of the world. READ MORE HERE Donald Trump Jr tests positive for coronavirus He is asymptomatic and in isolation. READ MORE HERE Don't get hung up over when phase 3 will happen in Singapore Instead, think about how to stay safe when it comes around. READ MORE HERE Travellers arriving in S'pore from Malaysia and Japan to serve SHN at dedicated facilities The measures are due to the resurgence of Covid-19 cases in these places. READ MORE HERE Can green economy drive S'pore and region's recovery? ST looks at the promise of a green recovery that could propel Singapore and the region into a new era of prosperity. READ MORE HERE Snowfall, marshmallows and festive escapades at Changi It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Changi Airport. READ MORE HERE

21 11 月, 2020

Nadal hopes to make the most of ‘different’ year

LONDON • Rafael Nadal revealed that he is fresher than usual at the ATP Finals and is ready to play his best today to stop Daniil Medvedev from clinching a maiden victory over him in their fourth meeting. The Spaniard's hopes of winning the season-ender for the first time live on, after he beat defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 on Thursday. The last round-robin match in the London 2020 Group had become a straight knockout, with both men having lost to Dominic Thiem and beaten Andrey Rublev earlier in the week. But it was Nadal who always appeared the more likely winner despite a lapse which allowed Tsitsipas to extend the contest into a decider at a near-deserted O2 Arena. After a flurry of service breaks at the start of the third set, he showed all his experience to pull away and reach the semi-finals for the first time in five years. "In general this was a very positive match for me," said the 34-year-old, who, despite winning 20 Grand Slam titles, has only two runners-up places from his previous nine appearances at the ATP Finals. "Excited to be in the semi-finals. It's always difficult to play here against the best players in the world every single day, end of the season. Most of the time, you get here a little bit tired, but this year is a little bit different… I hope to be ready to try my best." The Spaniard, who has won two titles - at Roland Garros and Acapulco - in this coronavirus-shortened season, is chasing the biggest prize missing from his resume at the eight-man elite event. He has qualified for the ATP Finals for a record 16 consecutive years but has been forced to withdraw on six occasions. As group runner-up behind Austrian Thiem, he will face Medvedev for a place in the final, with the Russian already assured of top spot in the Tokyo 1970 Group. Said Medvedev, who lost to Nadal three times last year, including an ATP Finals defeat at the round-robin stage and a US Open final loss: "Of course I want to get a win against Rafa. I still don't have one." REUTERS ATP FINALS S-finals: StarHub Ch211, 10pm & tomorrow, 4am

19 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 19

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Thursday, Nov 19. Bigger BTO flats in Bishan and Toa Payoh heavily oversubscribed in one day despite website glitches Five-room flats in Toa Payoh's Bartley Beacon housing project were the most in-demand. READ MORE HERE Pfizer ends Covid-19 trial with 95 per cent efficacy, to seek emergency-use authorisation Pfizer said its Covid-19 vaccine did not cause major side effects. READ MORE HERE Thai Parliament rejects monarchy reform as protesters spray paint at police HQ Protest groups have vowed to stage mass gatherings until all of their demands are met. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news US ends Boeing 737 Max flight ban after crash probes The FAA detailed software upgrades and training changes Boeing must make in order for it to resume commercial flights. READ MORE HERE House owner fails in bid to lay claim to neighbouring land plot where rambutan tree roots spread His arguments were thrown out by High Court Judge Lee Seiu Kin. READ MORE HERE UOB sues retiree to recover more than $100k lost in alleged phone scam Lim Thiam Ho claims that he was duped into logging into his bank account by scammers who applied for the cash advance. READ MORE HERE Trump to represent US at this week's virtual Apec summit, official says Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping also plans to participate in the summit. READ MORE HERE MOM to work closely with employers to manage risk of infectious diseases spreading at work Mental health support will also be enhanced, said Senior Minister of State for Manpower Zaqy Mohamad. READ MORE HERE China insists coronavirus can be imported through food, the world disagrees There have been sporadic outbreaks across China, mostly linked to workers dealing with cold-chain imported food. READ MORE HERE New guidelines for pet vaccinations in Singapore help clear up ambiguities Concerns over animal-to-human disease transmission are high due to the Covid-19 pandemic. READ MORE HERE

18 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 18

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Wednesday, Nov 18. S'pore needs top tech talent to build world-class teams: PM Lee Singaporeans must see that tech firms are bringing in people they can learn from, he said. READ MORE HERE Trump to cut troop levels in Afghanistan and Iraq Troop levels will be cut by Jan 15 - five days before Trump is due to leave office. READ MORE HERE S'pore hawkers welcome recommendation for their culture to be included in Unesco's heritage list Some hope the nomination will encourage young people to step into the industry. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news SIA applies self-disinfecting coating in planes as it prepares to carry more passengers The move comes ahead of the launch of the first air travel bubble flights to Hong Kong. READ MORE HERE Washington, Beijing must find areas of cooperation or risk sliding into conflict: Henry Kissinger Under the Trump administration, bilateral relations have sunk to their lowest point in decades. READ MORE HERE US Navy plans to raise new fleet in Indo Pacific, says top US official The Secretary of the US Navy said an additional fleet will beef up deterrence against China. READ MORE HERE S'pore-based Muslim Pro app developer denies selling user data to US military Bitsmedia said it will immediately terminate its relationships with its data partners. READ MORE HERE Cortina plans to acquire Sincere Watch for $84.5 million Sincere Watch group runs 18 boutiques, with luxury brands such as Omega and Audemars Piguet. READ MORE HERE Olympics: Singapore athletes in favour of getting vaccinated ahead of Tokyo Games IOC boss Bach has urged all participants and fans to do so for the delayed event. READ MORE HERE Keep calm and curl up: More turning to meditation to cope with stress At least three meditation centres here have seen an increase in people taking part in programmes. READ MORE HERE

17 11 月, 2020

Buck up to move up: Sailors coach

Local footballers and teams have to step out of their comfort zone and up the tempo of the game if Singapore football wants to progress to the next level, said Lion City Sailors coach Aurelio Vidmar. Having played in the Dutch Eredivisie, J-League and A-League, coached the Australian national and Olympic teams, and taken Adelaide United to the AFC Champions League final, the 53-year-old knows a talented footballer when he sees one. Among the promising players he has observed during his year-long stint here include Sailors midfielders Shahdan Sulaiman, 32, Adam Swandi, 24, Saifullah Akbar, 21, and Naqiuddin Eunos, 23, who he says can make the cut in better leagues overseas. But the mentality has to change. "This is one of the things I noticed when I first came here - many players are comfortable where they are at," he said. Vidmar noted that the actual playing time in games here is around 40 to 43 minutes, compared to the 60 minutes of in-play football in top-level matches. He added: "The tempo and actual playing time have to lift. There are definitely players here who have potential to play overseas, but if they are going to play this slow, it makes it very difficult." Revealing that he had turned down the Sailors once, he agreed to join the club after he was convinced by the management that their football philosophies are aligned in terms of style of play, as well as championship and continental ambitions. But the uniquely Singaporean environment was an eye-opener, with the Under-23 player quota for the Singapore Premier League (SPL) a new concept to the former Socceroos skipper. Another instance is how some players miss training as school sometimes only finishes in the evenings, whereas Australian students finish school at 3.30pm. Vidmar also expressed his dismay at how some SPL teams play an "anti-football" style despite having capable players. He added: "Having a much more positive mindset, and trying to play a bit more attractive football, you have got a better chance of developing players for the next level. "And also, actually enjoying your football, rather than just sitting there and waiting until the opposition makes a mistake." After a tough start, Vidmar seems to have steadied the ship with the Sailors now third in the table. But Shahdan said his coach never wavered. The playmaker said: "It is obvious how much knowledge and experience he has and wants to impart." TODAY Albirex v Balestier StarHub Ch202, Jurong East Stadium, 7.30pm Geylang v Tg Pagar Singtel TV Ch111, Our Tampines Hub, 7.35pm Hougang v Lion City Ch112 & Ch204, Hougang Stadium, 7.35pm Young Lions v Tampines Ch113 & Ch201, Jurong West Stadium, 7.35pm Also on SPL's Facebook page Vidmar also shared how his passion for football is helping him rediscover himself after losing his older sister, father and mother in three years since leaving Bangkok Glass in 2017. He missed his mother's funeral in March due to Australia's border controls during the coronavirus pandemic. He said: "I love coming to training, I love working and communicating with the boys."

16 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 16

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Nov 16. 15 countries, including Singapore, sign RCEP, the world's largest trade pact They comprise all 10 Asean members and key partners Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand. READ MORE HERE TraceTogether app's upgrade will make contact tracing smoother for tourists The app will be upgraded by next month to allow tourists to do SafeEntry check-ins at shopping malls and dining venues. READ MORE HERE Who should be first to get access to a Covid-19 vaccine in Singapore? A committee has been formed to prioritise the people who should be given the vaccines as they become available. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Trump backtracks on acknowledging Biden won election, concedes ‘nothing' Twitter flagged the posts to indicate that the claims of election fraud are disputed. READ MORE HERE Why Biden will be tougher on China than Obama Congressional dynamics and popular sentiments in the US support a more confrontational stance. READ MORE HERE NTUC LearningHub CEO Kwek Kok Kwong dies at age 53 It is believed Mr Kwek collapsed after a cycling session with a group of his friends. READ MORE HERE Starburst Holdings chairman, MD on bail amid CPIB probe They were interviewed by the CPIB last Thursday (Nov 12) in connection with Starburst Engineering, a wholly owned subsidiary. READ MORE HERE Residents bid goodbye to Geylang Lor 3 homes, the first leasehold residential properties to expire in Dec The 191 terrace houses will be demolished to make way for future public housing. READ MORE HERE Straits Times Best Law Firms 2021 shows spread of large and small firms List will be a useful guide to those seeking seek legal advice and services. READ MORE HERE Word(s) of the year ST photojournalists show that a picture is worth a thousand words. READ MORE HERE

15 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 15

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Nov 15. East Asia Summit leaders call for greater cooperation to tackle pandemic, economic crisis Countries must work together to rebuild economies, said PM Lee Hsien Loong. READ MORE HERE Stuck at sea: Seafarers who kept international trade humming despite Covid-19 Sailors around the world are stuck on ships due to the pandemic as few ports let crew disembark. READ MORE HERE A trade pact nearly 10 years in the making: 5 things to know about RCEP The world's largest trade pact is set to be signed on Sunday (Nov 15). READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Picking a reusable mask: Breathability v filtration efficiency With so many types of masks available, the question is: How effective are they against Covid-19 ? READ MORE HERE Lunch With Sumiko: Pastry chef Janice Wong on what sweet dreams are made of The dessert queen tells Executive Editor Sumiko Tan that chefs need an identity, and must innovate. READ MORE HERE Older interns impress with growth mindset Firms value their perspectives and past experience and younger interns view them as role models. READ MORE HERE askST: My employer says he can't afford to pay me several months' worth of salary. What should I do? Employees who have not been paid their wages are advised to actively engage with their employers and unions. READ MORE HERE Frenchman who flew to S'pore to visit fiancee among 2 new Covid-19 imported cases There were no cases in the community and none in workers' dormitories. READ MORE HERE A more sombre Deepavali due to safety measures, as some mark occasion online While some turned up at Hindu temples, more chose to perform their rituals online at home. READ MORE HERE Racism accusations fly in feud within one of Japan's wealthiest families The founder of Maruhan, a leading operator of pachinko parlours, has sued the eldest of his 6 children. READ MORE HERE

14 11 月, 2020

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Nov 14

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Saturday, Nov 14. Will Covid-19 create a 'lost generation' in Asia? What is the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the young people of Singapore and Asia? READ MORE HERE Trump appears to acknowledge for first time that Biden could succeed him He appears to acknowledge the possibility of a Biden administration, in first public remarks since election loss. READ MORE HERE Hospitals should have flexible designs to adapt to changing needs, says Gan Kim Yong Changing demographics and disease patterns will require a changing model of care, he said. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Biden solidifies US election victory over Trump, with 306 electoral votes to 232 Biden wins Georgia, while Trump claims victory in North Carolina. READ MORE HERE More than 130 US Secret Service agents struck by Covid-19: Media Numerous agents had travelled to campaign rallies with Trump where many officials and most of the attendees went maskless. READ MORE HERE Family takes Covid-19 pandemic in its stride for Deepavali festivities While some customs have been disrupted this year, the spirit of the festival remains unchanged, they said. READ MORE HERE Dazzling start to Orchard Road Christmas light-up amid Covid-19 pandemic The festive lights will come on nightly from now until Jan 1 next year. READ MORE HERE Singaporean students disappointed after Australia scraps plans to allow foreign students back Australia wants to give priorities to Australians stuck overseas to return as there are not enough quarantine facilities. READ MORE HERE NParks releasing over 280 gardening plots in 4 parks The plots will be made available in Bedok Reservoir Park, Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, one-north Park and East Coast Park. READ MORE HERE 3 delightful, nature-filled trails around MacRitchie Reservoir Explore gorgeous flora and see interesting fauna with these three trails to suit people of all fitness levels. READ MORE HERE