Yee Loon

2609 posts

Singapore national servicemen to receive increment ranging from S$125 to S$200, effective from 1 July

The Singapore government has announced an increase in the National Service (NS) allowance for national servicemen, with increments ranging from $125 to $200 depending on rank and vocation. The adjustment, effective from 1 July 2023, will result in a substantial rise of 10.9% to 21.7% in NS allowances. The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated that the allowances are periodically reviewed to ensure adequacy. This increase comes after a proposal to peg NS allowances to inflation was rejected earlier this year.

Kuching High Court dismisses pro-independence activists’ suit challenging validity of Malaysia Agreement 1963

The Kuching High Court in Sarawak, Malaysia, dismissed a suit last Thursday which challenged the validity of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). Judicial Commissioner Alexander Siew How Wai ruled that the suit lacked a reasonable cause of action and was misconceived. He emphasized that the Federal Constitution establishes Sabah and Sarawak as part of Malaysia, and any changes would require two-thirds majority parliamentary approval and the consent of Sabah and Sarawak. The judge also ordered the plaintiffs to pay costs amounting to RM10,000. The suit was filed in March 2022 by 11 Sarawakians seeking declarations on the agreement’s legality and the decolonization process.

Woman deleted her LinkedIn account after backlash from her classist remarks about “HDB people”

A woman’s classist remarks on LinkedIn sparked backlash as she expressed the need to limit contact with “HDB people” (residents of public housing). Nadine, a law undergraduate, responded passionately, highlighting that homeownership is a unique culture for “HDB people” and dismissing the notion that they lack humanity. She emphasized the importance of respect for all individuals, regardless of societal standing. Another user criticized the woman’s elitist views and highlighted the contributions of Singapore’s laborers. The woman eventually took her LinkedIn profile offline due to the negative attention.

Authorities conduct extensive five-hour search after man in only underwear spotted in a drain near Hume Avenue

A five-hour police operation, involving over 30 officers, was launched in response to a report of a man, allegedly only in underwear, being spotted in a drain along Hume Avenue, Hillview area. A suitcase, chairs, a mattress, and other items were retrieved from the drain. Unauthorized entry into drains is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns and can incur a $3,000 fine.

“Much commendable” if Supreme Court judges to lead the Ridout Road saga’s review, says Senior Counsel Harpreet Singh

Senior Counsel Harpreet Singh Nehal addressed the Ridout Road controversy, emphasizing that the credibility of the government’s review depends on full disclosure of all facts and perceived independence of the review. He suggested appointing respected current or retired Supreme Court judges to lead the review, ensuring impartiality and credibility. Mr Singh underlined the importance of transparency, fairness, and the avoidance of perceived special treatment in transactions involving ministers or their family members.

Political instability caused disruption to Malaysia’s athletes, says Malaysian Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh

Despite fielding the fifth largest contingent of 677 athletes and setting a target of winning 40 gold medals at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, Malaysians were left disheartened as the country recorded its worst-ever performance in the SEA Games, raising concerns about the future of Malaysian sports. Hannah Yeoh, the Malaysian Youth and Sports Minister in Anwar’s Cabinet, has highlighted the adverse effects of political instability on Malaysia’s athletes and their performance, including in the recently concluded SEA Games.

Singapore ranks 35 in the 2022 Social Progress Index, “underperforming” in providing opportunities to its citizens

The Economist recently published a chart assessing the well-being of citizens in different countries, using the Social Progress Index (SPI) that goes beyond GDP. While wealthier nations tend to have thriving citizens, the data show that progress in one area often falls short in others. Norway ranked first, while Singapore, though meeting basic needs well, underperformed in providing opportunities and safeguarding personal rights, receiving low scores in those areas.

Singapore Airlines’ cancels trial of paper based meal boxes: Criticism rises over quality concerns

Singapore Airlines’ trial of eco-friendly paper meal boxes has been cancelled following critical feedback from customers. Despite initial claims of enhanced meal quality and variety, issues related to the packaging design and food quality were highlighted, leading to the decision to halt the implementation.

Tragic collision at junction of Victoria Street and Bras Basah Road claims motorcyclist’s life

A fatal accident occurred on Thursday morning (25 May) at the junction of Victoria Street and Bras Basah Road, claiming the life of a 26-year-old motorcyclist.

The electorate is watching you”, Gerard Ong reminds ministers of Singaporeans’ expectation of them

Gerald Ong, a former Managing Director at Foreword Communications, took to Facebook to express his views on the conduct of the two ministers residing in colonial bungalows on Ridout Road. Ong emphasized that as public servants and leaders, they should uphold decorum and humility, understanding their responsibility to serve the people with empathy. He recalled past leaders like Deputy PM Goh Keng Swee and founding Father Lee Kuan Yew, who chose humble lifestyles. Ong believes that ministers should be aware that the electorate is always watching their actions and lifestyle choices.