Since motorbikes are one of the cheapest forms of transportation in Singapore, it has earned a reputation as one of the most costly cities in the world, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

According to figures from the Land Transport Authority, the cost of a 10-year motorcycle permit in the city-state reached a record S$12,801 ($8,984) this month, up over 200 per cent in four years and more than the price of a new, entry-level bike in the Southeast Asian country.&nbsp;

Singapore regulates the number of certificates of entitlement, also known as permits, in order to reduce the number of motorbikes and cars on the road.&nbsp;

The city's motorbike fleet is limited to roughly 142,000 as of September. There can only be roughly 650,000 automobiles in total.&nbsp;

Drivers would require over S$20,000 at the present permit price in order to purchase and operate a $5,000 entry-level motorcycle.&nbsp;

As quoted by Bloomberg,&nbsp;Nathan Peng, a political science lecturer at the Singapore Management University, said it would eventually trickle down to delivery riders who zigzag the island on cheap motorcycles.&nbsp;

Currently, it costs more than S$11,000 to renew an existing permission. This is less than the cost of a new permit but about six times what it did a decade ago.&nbsp;

Renters' costs are anticipated to increase, while individuals who own their bikes will pay the higher rates directly. A lot of delivery drivers rent their cars, either from a private owner or from a meal delivery service like Grab.

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Since motorbikes are one of the cheapest forms of transportation in Singapore, it has earned a reputation as one of the most costly cities in the world, Bloomberg reported.

Since motorbikes are one of the cheapest forms of transportation in Singapore, it has earned a reputation as one of the most costly cities in the world, Bloomberg reported. According to figures from the Land Transport Authority, the cost of a 10-year motorcycle permit in the city-state reached a record S$12,801 ($8,984) this month, up over 200 per cent in four years and more than the price of a new, entry-level bike in the Southeast Asian country. Singapore regulates the number of certificates of entitlement, also known as permits, in order to reduce the number of motorbikes and cars on the road. The city's motorbike fleet is limited to roughly 142,000 as of September. There can only be roughly 650,000 automobiles in total. Drivers would require over S$20,000 at the present permit price in order to purchase and operate a $5,000 entry-level motorcycle. As quoted by Bloomberg, Nathan Peng, a political science lecturer at the Singapore Management University, said it would eventually trickle down to delivery riders who zigzag the island on cheap motorcycles. Currently, it costs more than S$11,000 to renew an existing permission. This is less than the cost of a new permit but about six times what it did a decade ago. Renters' costs are anticipated to increase, while individuals who own their bikes will pay the higher rates directly. A lot of delivery drivers rent their cars, either from a private owner or from a meal delivery service like Grab. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In Singapore, motorcycle permits are now costlier than a 10-year motorcycle

The cost of motorcycle permits has now surpassed the cost of a new, entry-level bike in Singapore. The cost of a 10-year motorcycle permit in the city-state hit a record of over $9000.

WION Business News | Singapore: Motorcycle permit prices at $9000

The speed of cyber attacks especially of ransomware types has urged Singapore to set up an interagency task force to help businesses and institutions which may be suppliers to critical information infrastructure operators there.

WION Business News | Singapore sets up Ransomware task force

The Singaporean government has tabled two legislations that seeks to reverse a colonial-era law criminalising sex between men.&nbsp;

The proposed bills seek to replace Section 377A and introduce a new “Institution of Marriage” act as an amendment to the constitution to protect the existing definition of marriage.&nbsp;

According to both Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), the proposed bill will not codify or enshrine the definition of marriage into the constitution which is currently defined as between a man and a woman.&nbsp;

Under the new bill, the parliament can define the institution of marriage and can formulate policies on the basis of that definition with the government.&nbsp;

The bill will be debated in the parliament on November 28, according to local media reports.&nbsp;

The move to decriminalise homosexual relations comes after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day Rally speech&nbsp;on August 21 said that Section 377A would be repealed.&nbsp;

“Most people accept that a person’s sexual orientation and behaviour is a private and personal matter, and that sex between men should not be a criminal offence,” he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a joint statement, MHA and MSF said that the government had held extensive consultations with the stakeholders before deciding to repeal Section 377A.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; 
“From the national point of view, private sexual behaviour between consenting adults does not raise any law-and-order issues,” said the statement.&nbsp;

Though the government has been more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, the people, on the other hand, have opposed gay relations.&nbsp;

According to Bloomberg, a&nbsp;poll conducted by Blackbox Research recently found that 55 per cent of those surveyed said "no” when asked whether they personally support gay marriage while 31 per cent said "yes.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Singaporean government has tabled two legislations that seeks to reverse a colonial-era law criminalising sex between men. The proposed bills seek to replace Section 377A and introduce a new “Institution of Marriage” act as an amendment to the constitution to protect the existing definition of marriage.

The Singaporean government has tabled two legislations that seeks to reverse a colonial-era law criminalising sex between men. The proposed bills seek to replace Section 377A and introduce a new “Institution of Marriage” act as an amendment to the constitution to protect the existing definition of marriage. According to both Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), the proposed bill will not codify or enshrine the definition of marriage into the constitution which is currently defined as between a man and a woman. Under the new bill, the parliament can define the institution of marriage and can formulate policies on the basis of that definition with the government. The bill will be debated in the parliament on November 28, according to local media reports. The move to decriminalise homosexual relations comes after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day Rally speech on August 21 said that Section 377A would be repealed. “Most people accept that a person’s sexual orientation and behaviour is a private and personal matter, and that sex between men should not be a criminal offence,” he said. In a joint statement, MHA and MSF said that the government had held extensive consultations with the stakeholders before deciding to repeal Section 377A. “From the national point of view, private sexual behaviour between consenting adults does not raise any law-and-order issues,” said the statement. Though the government has been more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, the people, on the other hand, have opposed gay relations. According to Bloomberg, a poll conducted by Blackbox Research recently found that 55 per cent of those surveyed said "no” when asked whether they personally support gay marriage while 31 per cent said "yes.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Singapore to table bill decrimnalising same sex relations between men

The Singapore government has set up an inter-agency counter-ransomware task force to pool representatives from different sectors and tackle the growing scourge of ransomware among businesses.

Singapore sets up ransomware task force to tackle rising threat to businesses from cyber attacks

Australia and Singapore agreed on Tuesday (October 18) on a "green economy" deal to boost cooperation on climate investment, financing and technology.

Australia, Singapore sign 'green economy' pact to boost cooperation on climate investment

The Australian and Singapore leaders have announced what they describe as the world's first agreement to to cooperate in transitioning their economies to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Singapore's Prime Minister and Australia's Prime Minister both outlined their green economy agreement.

World Business Watch: Australia, Singapore sign 'Green Economy' pact; aims net-zero emissions

Australia and Singapore on Tuesday signed a “green economy” deal to deepen cooperation on climate investment, financing and technology.

WION Climate Tracker: Singapore signs 'green economy' pact with Australia

In a development that could result in the merger of at least two big airlines in the Indian skies, Singapore Airlines has confirmed that it is in talks with Tata group for the integration of Vistara and Air India.

India-Singapore Merger: Singapore airlines, Tata group in talks

Singapore City State's economy has returned to growth in third quarter while showing fragility of post-pandemic prospects. The gross domestic product (GDP) in three months through September was up 1.5 percent from previous quarter.

World Business Watch: Central bank tightens monetary policy settings in Singapore

A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans.&nbsp;

The court penalised 22-year-old Tow after he pleaded guilty of violating a police order that restricted his access to the adult subscription platform while he was under investigation for allegedly breaking obscenity laws.&nbsp;

According to CNN, which has quoted Tow’s lawyer, the 22-year-old man’s jail term will begin on October 26.&nbsp;

In Singapore, the sale and production of pornographic materials are illegal, but watching porn is not.

However, despite such stringent laws in place that seeks to restrict access to adult content online, OnlyFans has managed to amass a huge number of subscribers in the conservative southeast Asian country.&nbsp;

Low came under scrutiny after a woman filed a police complaint in December last year after she found his obscene images on her 12-year-old niece's phone.

After the complaint, the police seized his phone and iPad, restricting Low's access to his OnlyFans account.&nbsp; But the 22-year-old model somehow regained his account and started sharing adult videos again. Apart from that, he had also created a second account.&nbsp;

He had joined the platform only in April this year, where he quickly became one of its biggest local stars.&nbsp;

Speaking to BBC last year, Low said that he had to be dependent&nbsp;on the site as it was his chief source of income.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, Low has over 210,000 followers on social media and is a well-known local influencer. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users. On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans.

A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users. On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans. The court penalised 22-year-old Tow after he pleaded guilty of violating a police order that restricted his access to the adult subscription platform while he was under investigation for allegedly breaking obscenity laws. According to CNN, which has quoted Tow’s lawyer, the 22-year-old man’s jail term will begin on October 26. In Singapore, the sale and production of pornographic materials are illegal, but watching porn is not. However, despite such stringent laws in place that seeks to restrict access to adult content online, OnlyFans has managed to amass a huge number of subscribers in the conservative southeast Asian country. Low came under scrutiny after a woman filed a police complaint in December last year after she found his obscene images on her 12-year-old niece's phone. After the complaint, the police seized his phone and iPad, restricting Low's access to his OnlyFans account. But the 22-year-old model somehow regained his account and started sharing adult videos again. Apart from that, he had also created a second account. He had joined the platform only in April this year, where he quickly became one of its biggest local stars. Speaking to BBC last year, Low said that he had to be dependent on the site as it was his chief source of income. According to local media reports, Low has over 210,000 followers on social media and is a well-known local influencer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Singapore: 22-year-old influencer jailed for using adult website OnlyFans 

There are many places in the world to get a job and live a good life but there are very few good places to get retired and receive pensions. In a recent survey, Iceland has been rated for the second year running as the best place all because of the private and public sector pension benefits available to all.

World Business Watch: Singapore beats Hong Kong in Asian pension systems

Singapore Airlines said pregnant cabin crew can remain employees, reversing a longstanding and much-criticized rule that they leave the airline.

Singapore Airlines will not fire pregnant flight attendants anymore

Singapore has recorded a drop in life expectancy for the first time. The drop has been driven by higher mortality rates due to covid-19. The country has reported 2,490 more deaths between 2020 and 2022.

Singapore reports first drop in life expectancy

Singapore will step up its vaccination program as it further eases its Covid-19 related curbs, lifting restrictions on non-vaccinated individuals in restaurants and other venues.

Singapore to ease more Covid curbs, step up vaccination program

Singaporean authorities have made their largest-ever rhino horn capture with a US $830,000 haul seized from a smuggler arriving from South Africa on Wednesday.

Twenty pieces of horn, totalling 34 kilogrammes (75 pounds), were reportedly found in two pieces of luggage on Tuesday at Singapore Changi Airport, according to the city-National state's Parks Board.&nbsp;

Sniffer dogs discovered the contraband, which belonged to a passenger continuing on to Laos, the board reported, adding that the suspect had been detained.&nbsp;

In a statement, it claimed that "this is the largest seizure of rhinoceros horns in Singapore to date."

The International Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) protects rhinos and forbids the trade of rhino horns internationally.&nbsp;

The board stated that after the seized horns have undergone genetic testing to determine their species, they would be destroyed to stop them from re-entering the market.&nbsp;

In certain regions of Asia, rhino horns are regarded as status symbols and are said to offer therapeutic benefits. Additionally, they are carved into jewellery and home furnishings like combs, buttons, and belt buckles.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trio-awarded-nobel-for-development-of-click-chemistry-522693">Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry'</a>

The poaching and illicit traffic in rhino horns have declined recently, but they still pose serious dangers to rhinos, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which has its headquarters in Switzerland.&nbsp;

It claimed that between 2018 and 2021, more than 2,700 rhinos were poached in Africa, with 90 per cent&nbsp;of the killings occurring in South Africa, primarily in the Kruger National Park.&nbsp;

The majority of rhinos in the world—nearly 80 per cent—live in South Africa.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Singaporean authorities have made their largest-ever rhino horn capture with a US $830,000 haul seized from a smuggler arriving from South Africa on Wednesday. Twenty pieces of horn, totalling 34 kilogrammes (75 pounds), were reportedly found in two pieces of luggage on Tuesday at Singapore Changi Airport, according to the city-National state's Parks Board.

Singaporean authorities have made their largest-ever rhino horn capture with a US $830,000 haul seized from a smuggler arriving from South Africa on Wednesday. Twenty pieces of horn, totalling 34 kilogrammes (75 pounds), were reportedly found in two pieces of luggage on Tuesday at Singapore Changi Airport, according to the city-National state's Parks Board. Sniffer dogs discovered the contraband, which belonged to a passenger continuing on to Laos, the board reported, adding that the suspect had been detained. In a statement, it claimed that "this is the largest seizure of rhinoceros horns in Singapore to date." The International Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) protects rhinos and forbids the trade of rhino horns internationally. The board stated that after the seized horns have undergone genetic testing to determine their species, they would be destroyed to stop them from re-entering the market. In certain regions of Asia, rhino horns are regarded as status symbols and are said to offer therapeutic benefits. Additionally, they are carved into jewellery and home furnishings like combs, buttons, and belt buckles. Also Read: Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry' The poaching and illicit traffic in rhino horns have declined recently, but they still pose serious dangers to rhinos, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which has its headquarters in Switzerland. It claimed that between 2018 and 2021, more than 2,700 rhinos were poached in Africa, with 90 per cent of the killings occurring in South Africa, primarily in the Kruger National Park. The majority of rhinos in the world—nearly 80 per cent—live in South Africa. (with inputs from agencies)

Singapore makes biggest ever seizure of rhino horn worth US$830,000

Raising the risk of a technical recession, factory activity in Singapore has contracted for the first time since 2020. This was the second month of contraction in the electronics sector.

World Business Watch: Singapore factory activity contracts for first time since 2020

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s trip to Singapore over the weekend to watch a Formula One race has come under attack from critics, while a recent storm has displaced thousands of Filipinos.

Philippine President Marcos watches F1 Singapore Grand Prix as country grapples with typhoon

Luxury hotel chain Shangri-La Group has been a victim of a major data breach. Reportedly, the personal data of guests who had stayed at its hotels in countries such as Tokyo, Singapore, Thailand, Taipei, and Hong Kong has been compromised.

Luxury hotel chain Shangri-La Group has been a victim of a major data breach. Reportedly, the personal data of guests who had stayed at its hotels in countries such as Tokyo, Singapore, Thailand, Taipei, and Hong Kong has been compromised. "A sophisticated threat actor managed to bypass Shangri-La's IT security monitoring systems undetected and illegally accessed the guest databases," the hotel chain's senior vice-president for operations and process transformation, Brian Yu informed the affected guests in an e-mail. The database contained data such as guest names, email addresses, phone numbers, postal addresses, Shangri-La Circle membership numbers, reservation dates and company names. "Although we were not able to confirm the content of the exfiltrated data files, it is likely that they contained guest data," he further said. The hotel, however, assured the guests that critical information such as passport numbers, ID numbers, date of birth and credit card numbers were encrypted. The hotel informed that the data breach incident transpired during the May-July period, earlier this year. Interestingly enough, the data breach occurred at the same time as Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's top security summit was held at the Shangri-La, Organe Grove Road hotel in Singapore after a two-year Covid-19-induced hiatus. WATCH | The final day of Shangri-La dialogue underway: China remains firm on Taiwan issue × Experts accessing the data breach suggested that the top security summit might have been the target of the hackers. However, when asked about the same, the Shangri-La hotel authorities refused to make any connection. “There is no evidence to suggest any specific hotel or event was singled out. As a matter of policy, we do not disclose information about our guests," said a hotel spokesman. Read more: China-backed hackers waged cyberattacks on Indian power grid system near Ladakh: Report (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shangri-La reports major data breach at eight hotels; guests' data leaked

Hong Kong has long been Asia's financial hub but now a new city is catching up. Singapore is aiming to displace Hong Kong as the wealthiest hub in Asia.

Singapore emerges as safe haven in Asia, Hong Kong's wealth hub status in danger

Singapore has tightened housing loan rates to control spiraling prices. Government believes this will help in moderating demand at a time when inflation is making life tough for common citizens.

Singapore tightens housing loan rates; property becoming unaffordable for citizens

The world has come back to narmalcy and if you are crazy to watch Singapore's Formula 1 race this time, it can cost you as high as 40 to 50 thousand dollars enjoying just a week of fun.

Singapore Grand Prix: Night race on F1's calender

Elizabeth is majestic, hardy and "very fashionable", said a top Singapore flower curator—referring not to the late monarch, but to an orchid named after the queen when she visited the former British colony.

After Queen Elizabeth II's death last week, the city-state's Botanic Gardens loaned a towering sprig of Dendrobium Elizabeth to the British high commissioner's residence, to be displayed alongside pictures of the monarch.

The&nbsp;orchid&nbsp;hybrid, with twisted Dresden-yellow petals and a uranium-green lip, was named in honour of the queen when she visited Singapore in 1972, said Whang Lay Keng, curator at Singapore's National Orchid Garden.

"Dendrobium Elizabeth is a majestic, robust and resilient plant," she told AFP.

"It's kind of like how Queen Elizabeth carried herself."

Flowering just twice a year, the Dendrobium Elizabeth was bred from orchids originating from Singapore and Papua New Guinea, and carries just about 40 blooms per plant.

Orchid-mad Singapore boasts the delicate, colorful blooms as their national flower, and the city-state often christens new hybrids after visiting dignitaries as part of its diplomatic charm offensive.

The tradition took root in 1957 during British colonial rule—which spanned more than 140 years—when an orchid variety was named after the wife of London's high commissioner to Singapore at the time.

Queen Elizabeth first made a state visit to Singapore in 1972, followed by two more trips in 1989 and 2006.

"During the 1970s, the colour yellow-green was very popular, so naturally we wanted to select something that was fashionable and very interesting," Whang said, adding that "yellow is a colour of royalty".

But the tropical lowland orchid also has very distinct Southeast Asian traits.

It is a "sun-loving plant that thrives in a moist and humid climate, where sunlight and warmth are important for its growth", the orchid curator said.

Among the more than 200 orchid hybrids named after visiting leaders and celebrities—displayed in the VIP section of the city's sprawling Botanic Gardens—there is also the Dendrobium Memoria Princess Diana. The pastel-white bloom was so dubbed after the death of the princess of Wales.

Elizabeth is majestic, hardy and "very fashionable", said a top Singapore flower curator—referring not to the late monarch, but to an orchid named after the queen when she visited the former British colony.

Elizabeth is majestic, hardy and "very fashionable", said a top Singapore flower curator—referring not to the late monarch, but to an orchid named after the queen when she visited the former British colony. After Queen Elizabeth II's death last week, the city-state's Botanic Gardens loaned a towering sprig of Dendrobium Elizabeth to the British high commissioner's residence, to be displayed alongside pictures of the monarch. The orchid hybrid, with twisted Dresden-yellow petals and a uranium-green lip, was named in honour of the queen when she visited Singapore in 1972, said Whang Lay Keng, curator at Singapore's National Orchid Garden. "Dendrobium Elizabeth is a majestic, robust and resilient plant," she told AFP. "It's kind of like how Queen Elizabeth carried herself." Flowering just twice a year, the Dendrobium Elizabeth was bred from orchids originating from Singapore and Papua New Guinea, and carries just about 40 blooms per plant. Orchid-mad Singapore boasts the delicate, colorful blooms as their national flower, and the city-state often christens new hybrids after visiting dignitaries as part of its diplomatic charm offensive. The tradition took root in 1957 during British colonial rule—which spanned more than 140 years—when an orchid variety was named after the wife of London's high commissioner to Singapore at the time. Queen Elizabeth first made a state visit to Singapore in 1972, followed by two more trips in 1989 and 2006. "During the 1970s, the colour yellow-green was very popular, so naturally we wanted to select something that was fashionable and very interesting," Whang said, adding that "yellow is a colour of royalty". But the tropical lowland orchid also has very distinct Southeast Asian traits. It is a "sun-loving plant that thrives in a moist and humid climate, where sunlight and warmth are important for its growth", the orchid curator said. Among the more than 200 orchid hybrids named after visiting leaders and celebrities—displayed in the VIP section of the city's sprawling Botanic Gardens—there is also the Dendrobium Memoria Princess Diana. The pastel-white bloom was so dubbed after the death of the princess of Wales.

A majestic Singapore orchid named in honour of Queen Elizabeth

Singapore is planning to restrict retail access to cryptocurrencies by planning to make it difficult for the public to buy cryptocurrencies. But the country is not talking straightaway imposing a ban on such trading activities.

Singapore is planning to restrict retail access to cryptocurrencies by planning to make it difficult for the public to buy cryptocurrencies. But the country is not talking straightaway imposing a ban on such trading activities. Ravi Menon, who is the managing director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), said at an event on Monday (August 29) that surveys show that consumers across the world are trading in cryptocurrencies. He said it is increasing with each day despite the warnings and measures shared by the government authorities and experts. ALSO READ | Charging EV in 10 minutes may be possible, but electric vehicle adoption depends on more such options He said, "They seem to be irrationally oblivious about the risks of cryptocurrency trading. Adding frictions” on retail access to cryptocurrencies was an area the MAS was contemplating." "These may include customer suitability tests and restricting the use of leverage and credit facilities for cryptocurrency trading," Menon said at a seminar titled "Yes to digital asset innovation, No to cryptocurrency speculation." Menon also said that MAS is mulling over customer suitability tests and also restricting the use of leverage and credit facilities for the trading of cryptocurrencies. He added that the monetary authority regards cryptocurrencies as unsuitable for use as money and as "highly hazardous" for retail investors. But he further noted that since crypto trading is not bound by borders, putting bans on retail access to crypto might not work. ALSO READ | The HMS Prince of Wales breaks down a day after leaving Portsmouth Speculating on price movements via a trading account, or buying and selling the underlying coins via an exchange are the activities involved in Cryptocurrency trading. He said, "With just a mobile phone, Singaporeans have access to any number of crypto exchanges in the world and can buy or sell any number of cryptocurrencies." In several instances, the Singaporean monetary authority has been criticised for unclear rules and positions. The trading experts have also said that there is a tedious licensing regime. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore planning to restrict retail access to cryptocurrencies amid a rise in trading

Singapore&nbsp;will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday.

For the first time in more than two years, people in the Southeast Asian city-state will no longer be required to wear masks indoors except on public transport and in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-marriage-to-the-death-penalty-lgbtq-rights-across-the-globe-509186">From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe</a>

The health ministry also updated rules for non-vaccinated travellers, dropping a 7-day quarantine requirement starting next week.

Singapore, which is a major Asian financial and travel hub, lifted most pandemic curbs, including travel restrictions, earlier this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/singapore-lifts-ban-on-gay-sex-repeals-section-377a-but-upholds-marriage-ban-508900">Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban</a>

About 70 per cent&nbsp;of the city-state's 5.5 million population has already contracted COVID-19, Ong Ye Kung, the health minister said in a news conference, adding that the re-infection rate is so far "very low".

Singapore&nbsp;has vaccinated more than 90 per cent&nbsp;of its population and has among the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the world.

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Singapore will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday.

Singapore will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday. For the first time in more than two years, people in the Southeast Asian city-state will no longer be required to wear masks indoors except on public transport and in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities. Also read | From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe The health ministry also updated rules for non-vaccinated travellers, dropping a 7-day quarantine requirement starting next week. Singapore, which is a major Asian financial and travel hub, lifted most pandemic curbs, including travel restrictions, earlier this year. Also read | Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban About 70 per cent of the city-state's 5.5 million population has already contracted COVID-19, Ong Ye Kung, the health minister said in a news conference, adding that the re-infection rate is so far "very low". Singapore has vaccinated more than 90 per cent of its population and has among the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the world.

Singapore to drop most indoor mask requirements next week

As the world slowly eases down on laws pertaining to sexual identities, Singapore's Prime Minister announced that the country will revoke a colonial era law that criminalized gay sex. However, the government will still uphold marriage as being between a man and a woman.

377A: Singapore to repeal law against gay sex; will uphold marriage rules

LGBTQ community in Singapore on Monday (August 22) welcomed government's plan of decriminalising gay sex. However, the community warned that amendment in the constitution to enshrine traditional definition of marriage may promote inequality. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday made an announcement in which he said that the city-state will repeal section 377A, the colonial-era law that penalised sex between men. The section prescribed punishment of up to two years in jail.

Gay rights campaigners have long said section 377A runs counter to the affluent city-state's vibrant culture and have unsuccessfully challenged the law in court.&nbsp;

Roy Tan, one of several people who had unsuccessfully challenged the law in court, said repealing 377A would make him "feel more like I belonged in Singapore, now that the state no longer regards me as a criminal".&nbsp;

"Removing the stigma wrought by Section 377A would make it easier for more closeted gay men to come out and embrace their sexuality instead of hiding their identities in shame, together with all the psychological damage that it causes," he told AFP.

"Too many elderly LGBT people are living their lives alone and it would be a tragedy if most died solitary and uncared for."

In spite of the repeal, Singapore PM's announcement on Sunday also created obstacles on the path to full marriage equality. As of now, people can still challenge the constitutionality of the definition of marriage, but Lee said doing so would risk the court stepping into policy-making.&nbsp;

"Judges interpret and apply the law... They have neither the expertise nor the mandate to settle political questions, nor rule on social norms and values," Lee said.

He said that in order to prevent this, the government would amen constitution to &nbsp;"safeguard the institution of marriage". The definition of institution of marriage will be that between a man and a woman.

The LGBTQ community -- in a statement signed by more than 20 groups -- said they opposed to any further laws and constitutional changes to protect the traditional definition of marriage as doing so would promote unequal treatment.

"We urge the government not to heed recent calls from religious conservatives to enshrine the definition of marriage into the constitution," they said in the statement issued late Sunday.

"Such a decision will undermine the secular character of our constitution, codify further discrimination into supreme law, and tie the hands of future parliaments."

(With inputs from agencies)

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LGBTQ community in Singapore on Monday (August 22) welcomed government's plan of decriminalising gay sex. However, the community warned that amendment in the constitution to enshrine traditional definition of marriage may promote inequality.

LGBTQ community in Singapore on Monday (August 22) welcomed government's plan of decriminalising gay sex. However, the community warned that amendment in the constitution to enshrine traditional definition of marriage may promote inequality. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday made an announcement in which he said that the city-state will repeal section 377A, the colonial-era law that penalised sex between men. The section prescribed punishment of up to two years in jail. Gay rights campaigners have long said section 377A runs counter to the affluent city-state's vibrant culture and have unsuccessfully challenged the law in court. Roy Tan, one of several people who had unsuccessfully challenged the law in court, said repealing 377A would make him "feel more like I belonged in Singapore, now that the state no longer regards me as a criminal". "Removing the stigma wrought by Section 377A would make it easier for more closeted gay men to come out and embrace their sexuality instead of hiding their identities in shame, together with all the psychological damage that it causes," he told AFP. "Too many elderly LGBT people are living their lives alone and it would be a tragedy if most died solitary and uncared for." In spite of the repeal, Singapore PM's announcement on Sunday also created obstacles on the path to full marriage equality. As of now, people can still challenge the constitutionality of the definition of marriage, but Lee said doing so would risk the court stepping into policy-making. "Judges interpret and apply the law... They have neither the expertise nor the mandate to settle political questions, nor rule on social norms and values," Lee said. He said that in order to prevent this, the government would amen constitution to "safeguard the institution of marriage". The definition of institution of marriage will be that between a man and a woman. The LGBTQ community -- in a statement signed by more than 20 groups -- said they opposed to any further laws and constitutional changes to protect the traditional definition of marriage as doing so would promote unequal treatment. "We urge the government not to heed recent calls from religious conservatives to enshrine the definition of marriage into the constitution," they said in the statement issued late Sunday. "Such a decision will undermine the secular character of our constitution, codify further discrimination into supreme law, and tie the hands of future parliaments." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Singapore: LGBTQ community fears enshrining traditional marriage will cause inequality

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM&nbsp;Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

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Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same.

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus. Click the headlines to read more Underdog has nothing to lose, he fights for every inch: Rishi Sunak in campaign video As allies insisted he is still in a position to win, Rishi Sunak has positioned himself as the "underdog" in the race to become the next prime minister of UK. At the Tories' Friday hustings for the party's top job in Manchester, Sunak was introduced in a brand-new video montage that portrayed the former chancellor as an audacious outsider. Israel: NSO Group CEO steps down amid mounting legal actions for Pegasus Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionaly, the company is laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750. Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address. Pakistan govt warns Imran Khan, mulls filing case against him over 'threat speech' The interior minister for Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Sunday that the government was discussing whether to bring a new case against Imran Khan, the PTI chairman, for his "provocative speech" from the previous day or to add him to an existing case. Russian missiles pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip The Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive. Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina? Russia President Vladimir Putin's ally Alexander Dugin's daughter Darya Dugina, 30, was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow, reports said. Alexander was in a car behind Darya's vehicle when the explosion occurred. Darya Dugina's death was confirmed by the Russian news agency TASS. She was reportedly driving a Toyota land cruiser Prado when the explosion occurred. Experts urge UK to rethink its genetics data sharing policy with China Demands are being raised in the United Kingdom to stop the sharing of confidential genetic data of over 500,000 Britons with China. Reportedly, under several hundred ongoing projects of the UK Biobank, researchers in China have been accessing 'detailed genetic information' and other health-related data of UK citizens. This victory is for my country: Oleksandr Usyk pays tribute to Ukrainian military after beating Anthony Joshua "I did this victory for my country, for all people, militaries who are defending the country. Thank you very, very much." said Oleksandr Usyk after defeating British boxer Anthony Joshua. Netizens strongly react to anonymous death threats made against BTS' Jimin and V On Friday, netizens started reporting suspicious posts containing death threats against BTS' Jimin and V on the fan community platform Weverse. Referring to the upcoming Busan concert, an anonymous person made threats to assassinate the popular South Korean singers and shared a picture of a gun. Screenshots of the death threats have been doing rounds on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news: Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, Japan's PM tests positive for COVID-19 and more

In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address.&nbsp;

Lee remarked that removing the colonial era Section 377A of the Penal Code was the "right thing to do which most Singaporeans will now accept".&nbsp;

He also added that the repeal of section 377A “will bring the law into line with current social mores, and I hope, provide some relief to gay Singaporeans".&nbsp;

While gay sex between private consenting men has been decriminalised, the Singaporean government has also moved a motion to&nbsp;amend the constitution to ban marriage equality.&nbsp;Meaning, same-sex marriage continues to be prohibited in the country as various religious groups consider marriage a union between a man and a woman.&nbsp;

Terming the dual move a&nbsp;“political accommodation that balances different legitimate views and aspirations among Singaporeans”, PM Lee added:&nbsp;"For most, their main worry is what they feel Section 377A stands for, and what they fear repealing it may quickly lead to. With these concerns in mind, the government will fortify the country’s current legal definition of marriage: under the law, only marriages between one man and woman are recognised in the city state."

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/singapore-extends-ex-sri-lankan-president-gotabaya-rajapaksas-visa-by-14-days-501117">Singapore extends ex-Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa`s visa by 14 days</a>

What is Section 377 A?

The British era law, Section 377A of the Penal Code&nbsp;criminalised&nbsp;sex between men in the former British colony. It came into force in 1938 after being adapted from a similar law in the Indian Penal Code. It is pertinent to note that India decriminalised gay sex, way back in October 2018.&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-singapores-pm-cites-jawaharlal-nehrus-legacy-during-a-parliamentary-debate-on-democracy-454039">&nbsp;India pushes back on Singapore PM's 'criminal, rapists' remarks about Indian MPs</a>

Prior to the repeal of the law in Singapore,&nbsp;Section 377A remained a major policy issue, dividing the conservative and liberal voices in the country, both in the political corridors as well as in ordinary society.&nbsp;

However, for gay rights activists, it is a battle that is only half won. The government is not willing to allow gay marriages and that could prove a major impediment to gay couples, attempting to lead a normal life.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address.

In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address. Lee remarked that removing the colonial era Section 377A of the Penal Code was the "right thing to do which most Singaporeans will now accept". He also added that the repeal of section 377A “will bring the law into line with current social mores, and I hope, provide some relief to gay Singaporeans". While gay sex between private consenting men has been decriminalised, the Singaporean government has also moved a motion to amend the constitution to ban marriage equality. Meaning, same-sex marriage continues to be prohibited in the country as various religious groups consider marriage a union between a man and a woman. Terming the dual move a “political accommodation that balances different legitimate views and aspirations among Singaporeans”, PM Lee added: "For most, their main worry is what they feel Section 377A stands for, and what they fear repealing it may quickly lead to. With these concerns in mind, the government will fortify the country’s current legal definition of marriage: under the law, only marriages between one man and woman are recognised in the city state." Read More: Singapore extends ex-Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa`s visa by 14 days What is Section 377 A? The British era law, Section 377A of the Penal Code criminalised sex between men in the former British colony. It came into force in 1938 after being adapted from a similar law in the Indian Penal Code. It is pertinent to note that India decriminalised gay sex, way back in October 2018. Read More: India pushes back on Singapore PM's 'criminal, rapists' remarks about Indian MPs Prior to the repeal of the law in Singapore, Section 377A remained a major policy issue, dividing the conservative and liberal voices in the country, both in the political corridors as well as in ordinary society. However, for gay rights activists, it is a battle that is only half won. The government is not willing to allow gay marriages and that could prove a major impediment to gay couples, attempting to lead a normal life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban

Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired.&nbsp;

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation.

Following enormous turmoil over his administration's handling of the greatest economic crisis in seven decades and days after tens of thousands of protestors stormed the president's official mansion and office, Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly after.

Rajapaksa will reportedly return to Sri Lanka in November when his 90-day visa to Thailand expires and as he runs out of options to find temporary refuge in another nation.

Watch: End of the road for Sri Lanka's 'Terminator' President Gotabaya Rajapaksa

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Rajapaksa will be allowed admission into Thailand on humanitarian grounds, and the Thai Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-O-Cha, yesterday assured foreign media that it would only be a brief visit.

In order to get Rajapaksa's permission to take up temporary residence in Thailand, the Sri Lankan government had filed a direct plea on his behalf.

The Sri Lankan administration has been in contact with the governments of Singapore, the Maldives, and now Thailand since Rajapaksa left Colombo last month for the Maldives to make arrangements for Rajapaksa to temporarily stay in those nations.

According to the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror, only the Air Force jet that took him and his wife from Colombo to Male last month was paid for with state money. The other expenses for the Rajapaksas to depart the nation were covered by him and his son, Manoj Rajapaksa.

The former President's accommodations are being paid for by wealthy businesses thanks to the Rajapaksas' strong contacts abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation.

Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation. Following enormous turmoil over his administration's handling of the greatest economic crisis in seven decades and days after tens of thousands of protestors stormed the president's official mansion and office, Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly after. Rajapaksa will reportedly return to Sri Lanka in November when his 90-day visa to Thailand expires and as he runs out of options to find temporary refuge in another nation. Watch: End of the road for Sri Lanka's 'Terminator' President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Rajapaksa will be allowed admission into Thailand on humanitarian grounds, and the Thai Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-O-Cha, yesterday assured foreign media that it would only be a brief visit. In order to get Rajapaksa's permission to take up temporary residence in Thailand, the Sri Lankan government had filed a direct plea on his behalf. The Sri Lankan administration has been in contact with the governments of Singapore, the Maldives, and now Thailand since Rajapaksa left Colombo last month for the Maldives to make arrangements for Rajapaksa to temporarily stay in those nations. According to the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror, only the Air Force jet that took him and his wife from Colombo to Male last month was paid for with state money. The other expenses for the Rajapaksas to depart the nation were covered by him and his son, Manoj Rajapaksa. The former President's accommodations are being paid for by wealthy businesses thanks to the Rajapaksas' strong contacts abroad. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka president on the run: Rajapaksa exits Singapore for Thailand

From Singapore to Malaysia to Taiwan to South Korea to Japan: Nancy Pelosi's whirlwind Asia-pacific tour

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