13 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 13, 2021

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Wednesday, Oct 13. Stricter rules for those unvaccinated against Covid-19 take effect in S'pore Unvaccinated people seeking medical, childcare services at malls must show proof of appointment or letter from school to enter. READ MORE HERE More in S'pore getting Covid-19 vaccine jabs since travel lane announcement, dine-in ban for unvaccinated Clinics and private healthcare providers said they noticed an increase in people coming forward to get their jabs. READ MORE HERE 11 seniors die of Covid-19, bringing death toll to 183 in S'pore; 2,976 new cases Tightened restrictions appear to be helping to moderate the Covid-19 transmission wave, said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news No lack of interest in S'pore for leisure travel under VTL despite higher costs, risk of longer stay if infected The pent-up demand saw customers flocking to the SIA service centre and an uptick in inquiries at travel agents. READ MORE HERE askST: 6 things to know for quarantine-free travel under the Vaccinated Travel Lane scheme Check your destination’s entry requirements and if the vaccine you received is accepted. READ MORE HERE Keep eye on security even as world helps Afghanistan rebuild: PM Lee He also expresses hope that the country will have a government that will work with the global community. READ MORE HERE Metal producers among first casualties of China power crunch, impact felt in Singapore China's move to let electricity prices rise could impact the global economy more than the Evergrande debt crisis, says an analyst. READ MORE HERE Chinese President Xi announces new $315 million fund to protect biodiversity He says the fund will go towards developing nations, and calls for contributions from other countries. READ MORE HERE S'porean principal of Malaysian childcare centre arrested for abusing autistic child, overstaying The boy's father had said the child would sometimes return home with bruises on his face and body. READ MORE HERE House of Tan Yeok Nee, Singapore's last traditional Chinese courtyard house, up for sale at $92m The property is currently leased to an international education institution. READ MORE HERE

12 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 12

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Tuesday, Oct 12. S'pore healthcare workers feel the strain of manpower crunch amid rise in Covid-19 cases Pressure builds amid manpower crunch as they face more patients and working overtime. READ MORE HERE 10 seniors die from Covid-19; new cases fall to 2,263 with fewer swabs done at weekend Four of them were unvaccinated, three were partially vaccinated and three were vaccinated. READ MORE HERE MacPherson doctor who died from Covid-19 was kind, kept fees low to help needy patients Dr Raymond Yuen of Hosanna Medical Centre is said to have died in Tan Tock Seng Hospital after battling the virus. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Covid-19 survival kit: All your must-haves The Straits Times takes you through the toolkit to keep you and your family safe and prepared. READ MORE HERE Thailand plans to lift quarantine for vaccinated travellers from Singapore and at least 9 other countries from Nov 1 The list will be expanded in December and January to include more countries. READ MORE HERE Vaccinated Travel Lane: What you need to know about travelling with children aged 12 and below From Oct 19, children aged 12 or below who are not vaccinated will be allowed to travel to most countries under the VTL. READ MORE HERE Balance of fares, subsidies and commercial returns key to sustainable transport system High government grants giving rise to high operator profitability may not be good value for money, says senior transport correspondent Christopher Tan. READ MORE HERE S'pore businessman wanted by FBI pleads guilty to falsifying invoices to hide dealings with North Korea He is on the FBI's most-wanted list for laundering millions of dollars in funds for North Korea. READ MORE HERE No signs of physical trauma on young dugong found dead in Singapore waters: NParks NParks still working with NUS to investigate cause of death of the marine mammal. READ MORE HERE Exploring Germany: Pandemic trips are safe, zestful with new Vaccinated Travel Lane She has danced, safely, in a nightclub housed on a river boat and watched a live music performance, since arriving in Berlin last Friday. READ MORE HERE

11 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 11

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Oct 11. Seniors in S'pore find it hard to stay home in order to stay safe amid Covid-19 ST speaks to seniors on why they are out and about despite being advised to stay home. READ MORE HERE Students, staff on quarantine order can go to school if they have negative Covid-19 ART results Those with health risk warnings will also be allowed to return to school after their first negative ART self-test. READ MORE HERE S'pore reports 9 more Covid-19 deaths, bringing toll to 162, and 2,809 new cases The fall in the number of new cases is likely due to fewer swabs done over the weekend, says MOH. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news One-week grace period given before mall entry rules kick in for unvaccinated people This will include a framework to allow unvaccinated people access to childcare and medical services in these buildings. READ MORE HERE Why it makes sense to sharpen differentiated Covid-19 rules based on vaccination status Giving the fully vaccinated more freedoms can hasted the return to normalcy, says senior health correspondent Salma Khalik. READ MORE HERE What if I test positive for Covid-19 but feel well, and when can we stop wearing masks? ST tackles readers' questions about healthcare protocols and vaccine-differentiated measures. READ MORE HERE Malaysia to resume interstate and overseas travel from Oct 11 But a 14-day quarantine remains in force for anyone entering Malaysia. READ MORE HERE Coral reefs are dying. But there’s still time to save them What can be done to protect these marine habitats from the effects of climate change? Find out. READ MORE HERE Football: Lion City Sailors claim Singapore Premier League title on dramatic final day They beat Balestier 4-1 as defending champions Albirex could only draw 4-4 with Tanjong Pagar. READ MORE HERE Fun after the PSLE: From decorating jellies, rock climbing to hitting the beach Parents are taking time to celebrate their children's efforts. Here's how six families marked the end of the PSLE. READ MORE HERE

10 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 10

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Oct 10. Singaporeans flock to SIA service centre at Ion after news of easing of Covid-19 travel curbs The SIA website was hit by technical difficulties following a surge of traffic following the announcement. READ MORE HERE askST: What do I need to travel to the 11 countries under the Vaccinated Travel Lane scheme? The 11 countries include US, UK, South Korea and France. READ MORE HERE 11 Singaporeans aged between 56 and 90 die of Covid-19; 3,703 new cases reported Of those who died, four were unvaccinated, and all except one had underlying medical conditions. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Lunch with Sumiko: How Klook rode the Covid-19 crisis Klook had to let go of 10 to 15 per cent of its workforce but changing to focus on domestic leisure activities has now given it two engines of growth. READ MORE HERE 10 things you need to know about PM Lee's address and Covid-19 measures PM Lee addressed the nation on Saturday on the Covid-19 situation and the path to the new normal. READ MORE HERE askST: No entry to malls, no dine-in at hawker centres - what are the new rules for the unvaccinated? The unvaccinated can still visit large standalone supermarkets. Kids under 12 are exempted from this rule. READ MORE HERE New curbs leave some S'poreans hopeful over controlling spread of Covid-19, others vexed Some said it would disrupt their lifestyle and access to food and retail services. READ MORE HERE Number of BTO projects completed this year set to exceed pre-pandemic levels 19 projects are expected to be completed by the end of this year, compared with the 17 projects in 2018 and 2019 each. READ MORE HERE Malaysia to study options on Pedra Branca, 13 years after ICJ decision to award it S'pore The move comes more than three years after an application to review the ruling was abandoned by Malaysia. READ MORE HERE Pregnant with breast cancer at 37: Mum's 'roller coaster' year Three weeks after giving birth to her son prematurely, she underwent surgery to remove the lump in her breast. READ MORE HERE

6 10 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Wednesday, Oct 6. Private clinics in S'pore seeing demand for Sinovac and Sinopharm as Covid-19 vaccine boosters Experts said it is best to follow MOH's guidelines on eligibility for the booster dose and the type of vaccine to use. READ MORE HERE 3,486 new Covid-19 cases in Singapore; 9 more deaths brings tally to 130 Four were vaccinated, two had been partially vaccinated and three were unvaccinated. READ MORE HERE Suspension of visits to residential care homes in S'pore extended until Oct 24 It's prudent to do so in view of the continued rise of Covid-19 cases in the community, said MOH. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Singapore Parliament repeals Sedition Act after 83 years Key aspects of the Act have not been relevant in modern Singapore for a long time, said Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam. READ MORE HERE 5 things to know about Fica, the law to counter foreign interference Fica empowers the authorities to deal with covert attempts by hostile foreign entities to interfere in domestic politics. READ MORE HERE More maids to be allowed into S'pore from Nov 1; workers could still take 3 to 6 months to enter Priority will continue to be given to homes with urgent and challenging caregiving needs. READ MORE HERE Facebook products ‘harm children, stoke division', says whistleblower Frances Haugen, a former product manager at Facebook, said the company prioritised profit over public good. READ MORE HERE An inclusive ecosystem with strong public and private support for sports There are ways for those in the public and corporate spheres to step in and close the gap in monetary disparity, says senior political correspondent Grace Ho. READ MORE HERE 1.53m crocodile at East Coast Park caught and relocated by authorities It was filmed swimming in a canal near Fort Road. READ MORE HERE Bring the gym home: Surge in sales of exercise equipment in S'pore Apart from the unpredictability of gym closures, people also buy equipment to supplement their workouts at home. READ MORE HERE

5 10 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Tuesday, Oct 5. Singapore passes law to counter foreign interference after 10-hour Parliament debate Bill was passed with 75 MPs saying "yes", 11 from the WP and PSP objecting, and two NMPs abstaining. READ MORE HERE Pritam calls for more checks in law on foreign interference to guard against abuse The new law gives exceptional power to the executive branch, said the WP chief. READ MORE HERE Foreign interference law is necessary, but so too is good communication Given the need for Fica, a whole-of-government and whole-of-society effort is now needed to double down on transparency commitments, says senior political correspondent Grace Ho. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news 8 seniors die from Covid-19 complications; 2,475 new cases in S'pore 5 of them were vaccinated, 3 were unvaccinated, and all had various underlying medical conditions. READ MORE HERE Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp partly reconnecting after nearly six-hour outage Experts said the disruption could be the result of an internal mistake, though insider sabotage was possible. READ MORE HERE Home recovery programme didn't start well but 'things are improving day by day': Ong Ye Kung It was in the middle of a trial run but the country has planned ahead for the spike in cases. READ MORE HERE Analysis: A confused population cannot pull together to fight the Covid-19 pandemic Frequent changes in Covid-19 policies send conflicting messages to the public, says senior health correspondent Salma Khalik. READ MORE HERE Grandmother hospitalised after taking ivermectin to ‘protect herself’ against Covid-19 She did so on urging of her church friends, but fell violently ill on second day of taking pills. READ MORE HERE Delayed Hanoi SEA Games expected to be held in May 2022 Public not enthused amid Covid-19; March-April possible if Asian Indoor Games are postponed. READ MORE HERE S'poreans explore the world safely: Pandemic travel tips from four women The stories of these travellers demonstrate how it is possible to explore the world again with peace of mind. READ MORE HERE

4 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 4

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Oct 4. At home with Covid-19: My 10 days of recovering from the virus People on home recovery in Singapore share their experiences and tips on how to cope. READ MORE HERE 6 seniors die from Covid-19 complications, 2,057 new cases in Singapore The cases include 430 seniors who are above 60. READ MORE HERE Few vaccinated people in S'pore infected by Covid-19 develop long-term symptoms Symptoms include fatigue, chest pain, joint aches and "brain fog", which tend to last for four weeks or more. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Pandora Papers: Major leak allegedly links politicians and celebs to secret wealth The files are linked to about 35 current and former national leaders, and more than 330 politicians and public officials in 91 countries and territories. READ MORE HERE It's like living in a rubbish chute: Neighbours complain about stench from hoarders' flats in Chinatown block The smell is from a flat occupied by a couple. The husband is 75 years old and his wife is 65. READ MORE HERE Time to live again in Copenhagen: Denmark moves into post-Covid-19 mode There are hardly any vaccination sceptics in Denmark and 74.5% of the total population have been fully vaccinated. READ MORE HERE School principals to discuss impact of new PSLE scoring system on secondary school postings at Straits Times webinar The online event aims to help parents understand how the new PSLE scoring system could impact secondary school postings. READ MORE HERE Many South Koreans feel they are 'living' the Squid Game As one netizen wrote: "I've been playing the Squid Game for 30 years." READ MORE HERE Shipping executive based in Singapore played key role in return of stolen Indian artefacts Mr Kumar helped track down most of the 157 items that were returned during PM Modi's recent trip to the US. READ MORE HERE Tackling abuse of power at small businesses in Singapore Structural issues make start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises vulnerable to workplace harassment and bullying. READ MORE HERE

3 10 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 3

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Oct 3. From ART to WFH: Alphabet soup in times of Covid-19 pandemic Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said Singapore's abbreviations for healthcare protocols related to Covid-19 can be like "alphabet soup". READ MORE HERE Unvaccinated 55-year-old among 4 new Covid-19 deaths in S'pore; 2,356 new cases There were 1,938 new infections in the community, 412 new cases in migrant worker dorms and six imported cases. READ MORE HERE Finance Minister Lawrence Wong urges patience on reopening further Lawrence Wong on the Covid-19 wave in Singapore He added that people should not get too anxious or fearful about the total number of new cases being reported daily. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Minister Gan Kim Yong issued health risk warning, in isolation until Oct 4 The minister attended Saturday's multi-ministry task force press conference via Zoom. READ MORE HERE 2-month-old baby was vomiting ‘like the Merlion’ before she was diagnosed with Covid-19 Mum recalls ordeal that the family of six went through after four of them had Covid-19. READ MORE HERE A S'porean story on the road less travelled Noeleen Heyzer's life story offers valuable lessons and inspiration to young Singaporeans in tackling the varied challenges of the future, says editor-at-large Han Fook Kwang. READ MORE HERE Malaysia-born actor Christopher Lee wins second Golden Bell Award for HBO Asia's Workers In an emotional acceptance speech, he thanked his actress wife Fann Wong and their seven-year-old son. READ MORE HERE Why a housewife's contributions can be worth millions A landmark ruling in 2015 provides guides to calculate each spouse's contributions in a family. READ MORE HERE China's tech 'princess' Meng Wanzhou's return whips up nationalistic outpouring State media and men in the street alike have held up her return as an example of China's international standing. READ MORE HERE The Life List: What to watch after K-drama Squid Game There are no plans yet for a second season, but you can still get your fix of survival thrillers. READ MORE HERE

1 10 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Friday, Oct 1. Two more market and food centres closed due to Covid-19 transmission The markets and food centres in Geylang Bahru and Bendemeer will be closed for three days, starting Saturday. READ MORE HERE 2,478 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore; 2 seniors die Both were not vaccinated and had underlying medical conditions; total death toll rises to 95. READ MORE HERE Daily Covid-19 numbers should not blur the bigger picture and cause unintended pain Transiting to living with Covid-19 might be easier if people are not being bombarded - and frightened - by numbers every night. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news 'Everyone needs fresh air': Seniors say it's hard to stay at home despite latest advisory One said being made to stay at home felt like being in prison, while another said he was not afraid of getting the virus. READ MORE HERE Pupil visits doctor for stomach ailment but has to take PCR test, and misses PSLE English paper Pupils who miss national exams for valid reasons will receive projected grades. READ MORE HERE Senior volunteers: At 89, she still cycles around Tiong Bahru to befriend seniors "When I volunteer, I feel happier and it's easy to pass the time," said the retired seamstress. READ MORE HERE No one is really talking to us, says BooksActually owner's ex-wife, Renee Ting She has spoken out for the first time since a viral expose on Kenny Leck's alleged misconduct. READ MORE HERE Singapore fashion survivors: 4 brands on lasting a decade and more in the industry Even pre-pandemic, sticking around for 10 years in the Singapore fashion industry can be a challenge. READ MORE HERE Second car in Paya Lebar landed property area has windshield damaged Its owner made a police report after reading ST news on a similar incident in the area. READ MORE HERE The cat-and-mouse game of ferreting out influence operations Fake accounts, content farms and perception hacking. Welcome to the evolving world of influence operations. READ MORE HERE

30 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Thursday, Sept 30. 8 seniors die of Covid-19, bringing death toll to 93 in S'pore; 2,268 new cases They comprise five Singaporean men and three Singaporean women, six of whom were unvaccinated. READ MORE HERE 7 wards closed in 6 hospitals in recent weeks as 130 Covid-19 cases detected among staff, patients Visits to hospital wards have been disallowed for four weeks from Sept 24 to Oct 23 due to more Covid-19 cases being detected. READ MORE HERE Nursing home staff soldiering on despite surge in Covid-19 cases and curbs Employees at Hougang's Thye Hua Kwan Nursing Home pull 12-hour shifts, stay away from gatherings to avoid infection. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news ART vending machines make a difference at S'pore hospitals, firms They help hospitals to redirect precious healthcare resources to perform more specialised tasks. READ MORE HERE PSLE pupils' parents anxious, frustrated by Covid-19 rules and delays Some have called for more clarity and coordination among the service providers. READ MORE HERE So, the US is back in Asia: What's next? In the wake of a recent flurry of American initiatives, China needs to offer fresh selling points, says associate editor Ravi Velloor. READ MORE HERE Debrief: Population decline raises issues around Singapore society, identity Observers point to social considerations made more pronounced by the pandemic. READ MORE HERE How Fumio Kishida might steer Japan as the next Prime Minister He now supports a more forceful defence posture despite heading one of the most dovish factions in the ruling party. READ MORE HERE Jack Neo's Ah Girls Go Army coming for Chinese New Year 2022 In the new movie, women have to be conscripted into the military as there are not enough men. READ MORE HERE Tuas blast inquiry: Engineer says he deleted messages and photo from his phone and dead worker's Mr Lwin Moe Tun was not in the workshop when the explosion occurred. READ MORE HERE

29 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Wednesday, Sept 29. 5 seniors die from Covid-19 complications; 2,236 new cases in Singapore All five had various underlying medical conditions, said MOH. READ MORE HERE Telemedicine providers stretched thin as more people go into home recovery for Covid-19 To meet demand, providers have been working to scale up their operations. READ MORE HERE Rise in inquiries, bookings from Germany under vaccinated travel to S'pore Hotels and online platforms see uptick in business; some offer promotional packages. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news How Covid-19 and other trends hit Singapore's population - in 8 charts ST looks at some of the key numbers and trends from the annual Population in Brief report. READ MORE HERE Japan to fully lift Covid-19 emergency as cases fall dramatically nationwide PM Yoshihide Suga is to end an ongoing state of emergency as planned at midnight on Thursday in one of his last acts in office. READ MORE HERE Navigating Covid-19 measures a challenge for those with visual impairment Mr Dennis Teo said he is unable to make out which seats have been marked for safe distancing. READ MORE HERE Singapore Democratic Party releases alternative plan to tackle Covid-19 Part of its plan involves stopping the testing of asymptomatic people outside of contact tracing. READ MORE HERE Impact of Evergrande crisis could spread far beyond China The collateral damage could be considerable, says associate editor Vikram Khanna. READ MORE HERE Football: Singapore to host AFF Suzuki Cup tournament Fans are likely to be allowed at the biggest sporting event here since the start of the pandemic. READ MORE HERE Singapore Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai to showcase lush vision of a City in Nature Visitors can learn about S'pore's innovations via experiences that integrate nature, architecture, tech. READ MORE HERE

26 9 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Sept 26

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Sept 26. 1,443 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore, 3 more seniors die The total number of fatalities in September now stands at 21. READ MORE HERE Johor ramps up vaccination in hopes of reopening border with Singapore The state government in Johor is launching a vaccination plan for Malaysians who used to cross into Singapore daily. READ MORE HERE Release of Huawei's Meng a step towards better US-China ties, Beijing's CPTPP goal But there still remains a raft of issues to be resolved between the world's two largest economies. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Lunch with Sumiko: Noeleen Heyzer on marriage, feminism and how she rose up the UN career ladder Noeleen Heyzer's memoir looks back at how she overcame a difficult childhood to scale the career ladder at the United Nations. READ MORE HERE Employers not allowed to ask staff with positive ART result to come to work even if they feel well Employees who are physically well are advised to self-isolate at home for 72 hours, and then do another ART test. READ MORE HERE Are certain neighbourhoods more prone to being struck by Covid-19? A better understanding of how the disease affects neighbourhoods differently could allow for more targeted strategies, says Li Xueying. READ MORE HERE Fight to live with Covid-19 continues, pause or no pause The record case numbers look like they may double in a week's time and continue shooting upwards. READ MORE HERE Sorry, I had bad credit before I met you: When debt causes couples to break up Some people chalked up debt when they were single and this could affect their chance of getting a loan for a marital home. READ MORE HERE Tidying takes off during Covid-19 in Singapore and around the world Interest in tidying could be attributed to a desire to exert control in these uncertain times. READ MORE HERE All fired up over pizza in Singapore Pizzas in Singapore are gaining new twists, with unusual toppings and fresh ways of cooking. READ MORE HERE

22 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Wednesday, Sept 22. 3 more Covid-19 deaths bring total to 65; third time in 4 days new cases in community cross 1,000 1,178 new Covid-19 cases were reported in Singapore on Tuesday. READ MORE HERE 80% of adults fully vaccinated against Covid-19 in Malaysia It has also lifted more restrictions and announced an expansion of a pilot plan to resume domestic travel. READ MORE HERE At UN, Biden promises ‘relentless diplomacy,’ defence of democracy Mr Biden said the American military "must not be used as the answer to every problem we see around the world". READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news In climate pledge at UN, Xi says China will not build new coal-fired power projects abroad The Chinese leader vows to accelerate efforts to help the world battle the climate change crisis. READ MORE HERE Aukus submarine deal signals new Indo-Pacific balance of power A more transactional US and aggressive China will push the region to eventually reach an eight-stage mutually assured destruction nuclear balance. READ MORE HERE Body found in Wyoming identified as missing US woman Gabby Petito Petito's family reported her missing 10 days after her fiance returned home from a cross-country road trip without her. READ MORE HERE Two boys under investigation for alleged vandalism linked to TikTok challenge The "Devious Licks" challenge has seen participants in the United States bragging about the things they stole from schools on the video-sharing platform. READ MORE HERE 'I realised I was burning and my clothes had burned off': Worker recalls Tuas factory explosion during inquiry hearing Mr Mehedi, the youngest of the 10 injured workers, suffered burns to his head, face, back, shoulders, arms, hands and leg. READ MORE HERE Getting arthritis in their 20s: Condition affects not just the elderly The first symptoms are usually pain and stiffness in the lower back or buttocks region. READ MORE HERE McDonald's Happy Meal toys to go green globally by 2025 More toys will also be made from recycled or plant-based plastics. READ MORE HERE

20 9 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Sept 20

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Sept 20. New Covid-19 community care facilities to be set up for stable patients with underlying conditions The first such facility at the NTUC Health nursing home in Tampines will start operations on Thursday (Sept 23). READ MORE HERE 1,012 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore; second day in a row new infections cross 1,000 mark 919 cases were in the community, 90 were among dormitory residents and three cases were imported. READ MORE HERE Number of Covid-19 patients in ICU can go up very quickly, so S'pore cannot afford to be complacent: Lawrence Wong Mr Lawrence Wong urged the public to scale back on non-essential social activities, practise good hygiene and comply with safe management measures. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news The science behind Covid-19 vaccine boosters: Do we really need an extra shot? A guide to whether people need an additional dose, the pros and cons, and broader implications of getting one. READ MORE HERE Singapore property firms dangle cash incentives to lure agents to jump ship amid hot market The hot property market has sparked a recruitment war between real estate agencies. READ MORE HERE S'pore counsellors face burnout as more people seek therapy amid Covid-19 pandemic More people are seeking help for mental health concerns and stress related to employment and family relationships. READ MORE HERE The Straits Times remains best-read title, with clear shift to digital, across all age groups: Survey The Straits Times is read by 44 per cent of people aged 15 and above in Singapore. READ MORE HERE McDonald's to continue running Ridout Tea Garden outlet in Queensway after winning tender It previously said it would cease operations there in December upon the expiry of its tenancy agreement. READ MORE HERE Xi Jinping's celebrity crackdown no match for Universal Studios in China Tickets for the grand opening on Monday, priced at 638 yuan (S$133), sold out within 30 minutes of going online. READ MORE HERE Be a coach and cheerleader for your child during exam season A week before the PSLE, listening to your children and showing them your unwavering support is key. READ MORE HERE

19 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Sept 19. S'pore's new Covid-19 cases cross 1,000 mark; unvaccinated man, 90, dies from complications There are 1,009 new cases, including 926 in the community. READ MORE HERE Some parents call for HBL to start from Sept 20, others would prefer less disruptions This comes in the wake of surging Covid-19 cases. READ MORE HERE ‘My toughest assignment': Khaw Boon Wan on his new role as SPH Media Trust chairman Mr Khaw Boon Wan came out of retirement to chair SPH Media Trust. He tells Executive Editor Sumiko Tan what his priorities are. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Singaporeans still out and about but more cautious as daily Covid-19 cases rise Many are taking more precautions like avoiding crowded areas. READ MORE HERE Concrete proposals to tackle women's issues to be presented in early 2022: PM Lee He outlined 3 broad areas in which Government policies and programmes can help level the playing field for women. READ MORE HERE Reebonz: When the gloss came off a luxury retailer The 12-year-old marketplace's fall from grace had been a long time coming, said experts. READ MORE HERE Submarine contract saga: The French are peeved more by the deception than loss of business The ambassadors will soon return, but the French won't easily forget the humiliation, says global affairs correspondent Jonathan Eyal. READ MORE HERE How two 22-year-old Singaporeans racked up $80k debt Two young Singaporeans have become record-holders of sorts after they dabbled in risky and complex investments that bewilder even many adults. READ MORE HERE Sporting world reopens for Singapore athletes More local athletes from individual sports have been venturing overseas to train and compete. READ MORE HERE Are S'pore malls accessible? Seniors and persons with disabilities weigh in More developers have also incorporated accessibility into building design. Still, users say there could be better awareness of different needs. READ MORE HERE

18 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Saturday, Sept 18. 934 locally transmitted Covid-19 cases in S'pore, highest since April last year A new Covid-19 cluster with 26 cases emerged at Sembcorp Marine Admiralty Yard. READ MORE HERE Covid-19 cases in S'pore rising faster than expected, but serious infections rising at slower rate High vaccination rate has prevented the healthcare system here from being overwhelmed. READ MORE HERE What you need to do if you test positive for Covid-19 using ART kit and have no symptoms Do not rush to a hospital emergency department, said S'pore's director of medical services Kenneth Mak. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Getting a mild infection after Covid-19 vaccination gives best protection against future variants: Expert Getting an infection teaches the body to recognise all parts of the virus, including the core that cannot change. READ MORE HERE France recalls ambassadors from US, Australia over submarines row The move by France against such key allies is unprecedented. READ MORE HERE Race to succeed Japan PM Suga heats up Who will lead Japan's ruling party into the next general election? READ MORE HERE Surge in number of Covid-19 cases and deaths among children in Malaysia Covid-19 cases involving children leapt to 310,074 as at the end of August, which is 25 times more than the whole of last year. READ MORE HERE Moderna Covid-19 vaccine edges Pfizer in new US research It appears to confer better long-term protection against hospitalisation than Pfizer. READ MORE HERE Taxi and private-hire car drivers issued advisory on Afghanistan crisis An advisory issued to drivers warns that the crisis in Afghanistan is worrying, and may pose a security threat. READ MORE HERE Apple and Facebook are coming for your face next The face computer is coming - brace yourself for an onslaught of "smart" glasses, virtual-reality headsets and other devices that link your eyes to the digital world. READ MORE HERE

16 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Thursday, Sept 16. Australia will upgrade to nuclear-powered submarines in new security partnership with Britain, US The pact is not aimed at China, senior US administration officials said. READ MORE HERE 807 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore; new clusters at two nursing homes There are 13 cases each at Orange Valley Nursing Home in Simei and Jamiyah Nursing Home in West Coast Drive. READ MORE HERE British PM Johnson demotes foreign minister in major Cabinet reshuffle Dominic Raab has faced sustained criticism for his handling of the Afghan crisis. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Vivian Balakrishnan apologises to PSP's Leong Mun Wai after ‘illiterate’ comment circulates online Mr Leong said he received a call from Dr Balakrishnan on Wednesday and he has accepted the minister's apology. READ MORE HERE Moderna says Covid-19 vaccine protection wanes, makes case for booster Moderna on Sept 1 submitted its application to the US FDA seeking authorisation for a booster shot. READ MORE HERE Health Check Podcast: Why bother about asymptomatic Covid-19 cases, says expert Infectious disease expert Ooi Eng Eong also explains how Covid herd immunity is a myth. READ MORE HERE Chicken prices could increase in Singapore, fuelled by rising feed costs in Malaysia Chicken is the most widely consumed meat in Singapore, with more than a third of supply from Malaysia. READ MORE HERE Education pet cause of S'pore's 3rd richest man who completed only primary school Paint tycoon Goh Cheng Liang, 94, donated $20 million to start the foundation. READ MORE HERE Online platforms roped in to fight against sale of ivory products as Singapore domestic ban kicks in Sites such as Carousell and Facebook have committed to prohibiting such content, advertisements and listings. READ MORE HERE Verdict on marathoners Soh Rui Yong-Ashley Liew defamation case could be out by end-September The legal dispute between the ex-national teammates has gone on for over two years. READ MORE HERE

14 9 月, 2021

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

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Tuesday, Sept 14. 607 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore; new cluster with 28 cases at Ren Ci nursing home in Bukit Batok Twenty cases are nursing home residents while eight are staff, said MOH. READ MORE HERE Migrant worker enclaves in S'pore transformed after year and a half of Covid-19 curbs Following the restrictions imposed on those living in dormitories last March, businesses in Little India have struggled to make ends meet. READ MORE HERE Rights to wedding photos will belong to photographers by default with Copyright Act changes Some MPs were worried the public would be caught by surprise with switch in rights ownership. READ MORE HERE Malaysian govt and Pakatan Harapan ink deal on historic bipartisan cooperation The deal says Parliament will not be dissolved before next August, meaning polls will not be held for at least another year. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets DPM Heng, Vivian during working visit to Singapore The leaders noted the strong ties, cooperation between the two countries amid pandemic. READ MORE HERE House debates Yale-NUS issue, but a new chapter for liberal arts is being written The New College will take up where Yale-NUS left off but it should evolve its own direction, says Linette Lai. READ MORE HERE Most people don't need Covid-19 vaccine boosters, scientists find Governments would be better served to focus on immunising the unvaccinated, the experts argued in The Lancet. READ MORE HERE Can't fly? Aviation enthusiasts say plane spotting is the next best thing More people in their late teens are taking an interest in the hobby. READ MORE HERE Time to consider a wealth tax for Singapore Fiscal sustainability and fairness are some reasons for revisiting the tax mix. READ MORE HERE Singer JJ Lin refutes talk that he is the man linked to Covid-19 cluster in China's Fujian On Friday night, he posted on social media photos he took in Singapore with his friends. READ MORE HERE

13 9 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Sept 13

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Monday, Sept 13. Testing of equipment under way at Tuas Port, first phase to open as planned in end-2021 Tuas Port will be designated as an immigration anchorage for vessels arriving in or leaving Singapore from Oct 1. READ MORE HERE 520 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore; new cluster with 28 cases at DHL centre near Paya Lebar The number of serious Covid-19 cases requiring oxygen support rose to 54 from 35. READ MORE HERE Commentary: S'pore should make Covid-19 jabs mandatory so measures can be eased for all The only thing that prolonging, or even enhancing, safety measures can do is to slow the spread of coronavirus, says Salma Khalik. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news People with long Covid feared to be at risk of developing dementia Some people continue to report poor concentration, memory difficulties and other cognitive issues long after recovering from Covid-19. READ MORE HERE Fix COE system to preserve its original intent The COE quota system has been fine-tuned many times, but there are still signs of speculative bidding in some categories. READ MORE HERE Parliament sitting to test Malaysian PM Ismail's grip on power The parliamentary session that opens on Monday will offer an immediate test of how stable the new government is. READ MORE HERE Pandemic habits are harming your child's development Leaving young children with devices all day long can impact their development in areas such as speech and socialisation. READ MORE HERE A story undone: Yale-NUS and the future of liberal arts in Singapore A response to NUS president Tan Eng Chye, from three Yale-NUS alumni. READ MORE HERE High demand, system error delay deliveries of pre-ordered Samsung foldable phones Some customers who pre-ordered from Samsung had expected to get their handsets from Sept 2 onwards. READ MORE HERE Tennis: Djokovic's Grand Slam dream foiled as Medvedev wins US Open Russia's second-ranked Medvedev dominated Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. READ MORE HERE

12 9 月, 2021

Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Sept 12

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Sunday, Sept 12. Chinatown Complex closed after Covid-19 cluster with 66 cases; S’pore reports 555 new infections All staff working at Chinatown Complex are being tested for Covid-19. READ MORE HERE Messages of unity, resolve mark 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks The greatest lesson from that day was the value of national unity, Mr Biden said. READ MORE HERE RSAF scrambled F16 fighter jets on Saturday in response to potential air threat A Royal Malaysia Police helicopter flew over Pulau Tekong on Saturday morning at around 9.20am. READ MORE HERE More on this topic Related Story ST newsletters: Get alerts on the latest news About 1,000 F&B, retail businesses open in S'pore each month despite pandemic Not only did the number of businesses formed exceed that of closures, more businesses opened compared with that during the pre-pandemic years, between 2017 and 2019. READ MORE HERE How the Covid-19 cluster linked to Jurong Fishery Port was contained The Jurong Fishery Port cluster is Singapore's largest Covid-19 cluster in the community to date. READ MORE HERE S'pore opens Covid-19 vaccination channels for overseas-based citizens There are two vaccination channels available for overseas Singaporeans. READ MORE HERE Man's $670,000 investment loss a cautionary tale Mr Andy Poh plunged headlong into an investment on the recommendation of a bank relationship manager. READ MORE HERE Let's talk about race, but not just about race What is it that Singaporeans want to achieve when they talk about race, or enact laws to protect and enhance race relations? READ MORE HERE Former commando creates miniatures so beautiful that people cry Mr Wilfred Cheah decided to become a full-time miniature artist when he turned 55 last year. READ MORE HERE Look how much you've grown: Baby panda's first month Mum Jia Jia and baby are still together in an off-exhibit den to give them time to nurse and bond in privacy. READ MORE HERE