Yee Loon

2609 posts

Former Thai monk arrested for embezzling US$5.3 million from temple funds

Former Thai monk Phra Ajarn Khom Abhivaro, renowned for his meditation expertise and influential followers, has been arrested for embezzling 180 million baht ($5.3 million) from his temple. The investigation was initiated after irregularities in temple donations were reported.

62-year-old man fined over S$27k for illegal hawking of roasted chestnuts, netizens suggest alternative approach

An elderly Singaporean has been fined S$27,600 for illegal hawking of roasted chestnuts near bus stops and other public places. Tan Hee Meng, 62, faces a 36-day jail term if he cannot pay the fine. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) noted that unregulated street hawking poses a risk to food safety. Despite SFA’s justification, some netizens have argued that the fine is too harsh for the elderly individual and have suggested alternative solutions, such as providing temporary licenses and mandatory cleanliness workshops.

BasisAI co-founder investigated following complaint on BasisAI staff departure after Aicadium’s acquisition

Aicadium’s Vice President of Business Development, Liu Feng Yuan, who is also a co-founder of BasisAI, is reportedly under investigation following a whistleblower complaint. The complaint relates to staff departures from BasisAI, some of whom were later hired by SPH Media. Aicadium, a subsidiary of Temasek, has taken management action and conducted an investigation into Liu. However, no comments have been made by Aicadium or Temasek regarding the matter. Liu’s involvement in recruiting BasisAI engineers for SPH Media has raised concerns, as several employees left BasisAI after the acquisition by Aicadium was announced. BasisAI, known for its responsible AI software, was co-founded by Liu in 2018.

Three Chinese nationals caught for using glue to steal chips at MBS Casino

Three Chinese nationals were caught using superglue on their palms to steal S$1,575 worth of chips from patrons at Marina Bay Sands Casino in Singapore. The trio used this tactic for six days before being apprehended. Mastermind Huang Chunsheng and accomplices Zheng Jiansheng and Jiang Renjing have since pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal.

IBM halts hiring for roles that could be replaced by AI: Bloomberg

IBM plans to halt hiring for roles that could be replaced by artificial intelligence (AI) in the near future, potentially leading to a 30% workforce reduction in back-office functions within five years. As one of the largest workforce strategies announced in response to advancing technology, IBM will automate tasks such as employment verification letters and moving employees between departments. In Singapore, concerns have been raised about the impact of AI on the country’s workforce, with opposition parties questioning the creation of new jobs and the preparedness of the education system to cope with rapid changes brought about by AI.

Johor Chief Minister takes matters into his own hands to tackle traffic congestion at CIQ complex

Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi made a surprise visit to the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (CIQ) at the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) to address traffic issues. While netizens praised his efforts, they noted that operations would likely return to their usual state when he was not present. In response to the traffic problems, Onn Hafiz announced 15 measures to be implemented, including CCTV monitoring at all Immigration counters and vehicle lanes, upgrading the MBike lanes, and addressing human resource issues at the BSI and Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB).

Anwar lost majority support? Malaysia’s news source says the Palace won’t entertain such claims

Speculation is growing over a plot to remove Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after reports emerged that 10 MPs are considering forcing by-elections. However, Barisan Nasional deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan denies involvement in any efforts to topple the government. An anonymous source stated that an unexpected change in government is unlikely, with any attempt to do so through the Palace deemed impossible. Political instability in Malaysia is expected to be resolved by the upcoming six-state elections.

Police probe small explosion caused by remote-controlled PVC pipe bomb in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian police are investigating a small explosion caused by a remote-controlled explosive device made from modified PVC pipes outside a condominium in Kuala Lumpur. The incident occurred on May 2nd, with no casualties reported. Authorities have found three fingerprint impressions and are examining CCTV footage of two male suspects.

Newly renovated Yishun flat turned into a flooded mess after burst pipe, PUB apologised

A taxi driver’s newly purchased flat in Yishun Green, Singapore, was flooded with muddy water after a burst pipe caused water to gush from drain holes. The incident resulted in approximately S$100,000 worth of damage to renovations and furniture. The PUB received a complaint, and the water supply was disrupted for about two hours before being restored. The homeowner received an apology and assurance of assistance from PUB’s spokesperson.

DPM Wong’s remark on BTO flat prices “moving in tandem” with income draws backlash from netizens

Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed housing affordability concerns in Singapore, insisting that public housing remains accessible and affordable. He cited the rise in median household incomes in tandem with BTO flat prices and available housing grants. However, netizens criticized Mr Wong’s remarks as disconnected from reality, pointing to the high inflation and struggling families unable to meet housing and living expenses.