The trial of patrol robots has sparked privacy concerns in Singapore. These robots are designed to blast warnings at people who are seen engaging in "undesirable social behaviour". &nbsp;

Singapore is seeing an explosion of tools to track inhabitants. These include CCTV cameras to lampposts kitted out with facial recognition tech.

Officials have long pushed for a vision of a hyper-efficient, tech-driven "smart nation". But this approach has drawn criticism from activists who say that privacy is being sacrificed&nbsp;and people have little control over what happens to their data.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/cosmic-music-check-out-nasa-post-on-heavenly-sounds-from-galaxys-centre-418128">'Cosmic Music': Check out NASA post on 'heavenly' sounds from galaxy's centre</a>

Singapore is frequently criticised for curbing civil liberties and people are accustomed to tight controls, but there is still growing unease at intrusive tech.

The government's latest surveillance devices are robots on wheels, with seven cameras, that issue warnings to the public and detect "undesirable social behaviour".

This includes smoking in prohibited areas, improperly parking bicycles, and breaching coronavirus social-distancing rules.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/before-chickens-early-humans-reared-one-of-the-most-dangerous-birds-study-417744">Before chickens, early humans reared one of the most dangerous birds: Study</a>

During a recent patrol, one of the "Xavier" robots wove its way through a housing estate and stopped in front of a group of elderly residents watching a chess match.

"Please keep one-metre distancing, please keep to five persons per group," a robotic voice blared out, as a camera on top of the machine trained its gaze on them.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-has-captured-image-of-eye-in-the-sky-418294">NASA has captured image of 'eye in the sky'</a>

During a three-week trial in September, two robots were deployed to patrol the housing estate and a shopping centre.

"It reminds me of Robocop," said Frannie Teo, a 34-year-old research assistant, who was walking through the mall.

It brings to mind a "dystopian world of robots... I'm just a bit hesitant about that kind of concept", she added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The trial of patrol robots has sparked privacy concerns in Singapore. These robots are designed to blast warnings at people who are seen engaging in "undesirable social behaviour".

The trial of patrol robots has sparked privacy concerns in Singapore. These robots are designed to blast warnings at people who are seen engaging in "undesirable social behaviour". Singapore is seeing an explosion of tools to track inhabitants. These include CCTV cameras to lampposts kitted out with facial recognition tech. Officials have long pushed for a vision of a hyper-efficient, tech-driven "smart nation". But this approach has drawn criticism from activists who say that privacy is being sacrificed and people have little control over what happens to their data. Also Read | 'Cosmic Music': Check out NASA post on 'heavenly' sounds from galaxy's centre Singapore is frequently criticised for curbing civil liberties and people are accustomed to tight controls, but there is still growing unease at intrusive tech. The government's latest surveillance devices are robots on wheels, with seven cameras, that issue warnings to the public and detect "undesirable social behaviour". This includes smoking in prohibited areas, improperly parking bicycles, and breaching coronavirus social-distancing rules. Also Read | Before chickens, early humans reared one of the most dangerous birds: Study During a recent patrol, one of the "Xavier" robots wove its way through a housing estate and stopped in front of a group of elderly residents watching a chess match. "Please keep one-metre distancing, please keep to five persons per group," a robotic voice blared out, as a camera on top of the machine trained its gaze on them. Also Read | NASA has captured image of 'eye in the sky' During a three-week trial in September, two robots were deployed to patrol the housing estate and a shopping centre. "It reminds me of Robocop," said Frannie Teo, a 34-year-old research assistant, who was walking through the mall. It brings to mind a "dystopian world of robots... I'm just a bit hesitant about that kind of concept", she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore: Patrol robots seeking 'undesirable social behaviour' spark privacy concerns

Singapore's parliament passed a law aimed at preventing foreign interference in domestic politics even as the opposition and activists criticised the move.

The new law allows authorities to compel internet service providers and social media platforms to provide user information, block content and remove applications used to spread content they deem hostile.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/singapore-news-site-suspended-critics-fear-censorship-413088">Also Read:&nbsp;Singapore news site suspended, critics fear censorship</a>

The bill was passed with a 75-11 voting margin. K Shanmugam, law and home affairs minister, said: "The internet has created a powerful new medium for subversion... countries are actively developing attack and defence capabilities as an arm of warfare."

The law known as Foreign Interference Countermeasures Act (FICA) gives power to authorities to compel internet service providers to give user information to the authorities and even block content.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-trials-patrol-robots-to-deter-bad-social-behaviour-411229">Also Read:&nbsp;Singapore trials patrol robots to deter bad social behaviour</a>

The authorities can also remove applications. The law also has provision for a person to be categorised under "politically significant persons" which would require&nbsp;disclosure of foreign funding sources with violators set to get prison terms or fines upon conviction.

The law also allows cases to be heard by a tribunal and not a court during an appeal in a move which the government says is essential to protect national security.

K Shanmugam defended the government's move in the country's parliament saying: "As long as they are done in an open and transparent manner, and not part of an attempt to manipulate our political discourse or undermine public interest such as security."

However,&nbsp;Human Rights Watch hit against the move assering that it is a "bogeyman to justify expanded persecution of opposition politicians, civil society activists and independent media"

The rights group said Singapore's "international reputation will take the hardest knock from the new law".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Singapore's parliament passed a law aimed at preventing foreign interference in domestic politics even as the opposition and activists criticised the move. The new law allows authorities to compel internet service providers and social media platforms to provide user information, block content and remove applications used to spread content they deem hostile.

Singapore's parliament passed a law aimed at preventing foreign interference in domestic politics even as the opposition and activists criticised the move. The new law allows authorities to compel internet service providers and social media platforms to provide user information, block content and remove applications used to spread content they deem hostile. Also Read: Singapore news site suspended, critics fear censorship The bill was passed with a 75-11 voting margin. K Shanmugam, law and home affairs minister, said: "The internet has created a powerful new medium for subversion... countries are actively developing attack and defence capabilities as an arm of warfare." The law known as Foreign Interference Countermeasures Act (FICA) gives power to authorities to compel internet service providers to give user information to the authorities and even block content. Also Read: Singapore trials patrol robots to deter bad social behaviour The authorities can also remove applications. The law also has provision for a person to be categorised under "politically significant persons" which would require disclosure of foreign funding sources with violators set to get prison terms or fines upon conviction. The law also allows cases to be heard by a tribunal and not a court during an appeal in a move which the government says is essential to protect national security. K Shanmugam defended the government's move in the country's parliament saying: "As long as they are done in an open and transparent manner, and not part of an attempt to manipulate our political discourse or undermine public interest such as security." However, Human Rights Watch hit against the move assering that it is a "bogeyman to justify expanded persecution of opposition politicians, civil society activists and independent media" The rights group said Singapore's "international reputation will take the hardest knock from the new law". (With inputs from Agencies)

Singapore approves 'foreign interference' bill, critics slam move

Singapore's parliament has now passed a law aiming to prevent foreign interference in domestic politics, opposition has however, criticized this move.

Singapore parliament's new bill aims to prevent foreign interference

Singapore`s parliament began discussion on Monday of a proposed law to counter foreign interference that has sparked concern from opposition parties, rights groups and experts about its broad scope and limits on judicial review.

The small and open city-state, which says it is vulnerable to foreign meddling, targeted fake news with a far-reaching law in 2019, and joins nations such as Australia&nbsp; and Russia&nbsp;that have passed laws in recent years to deter foreign interference.

It allows authorities to compel internet, social media service providers and website operators to provide user information, block content and remove applications, and is likely to be passed, as the ruling party has a majority in parliament.

But some critics say its broad language risks capturing even legitimate activities, while rights group Reporters Without Borders said the law could ensnare independent media outlets.

"The pre-emptive powers&nbsp;and broad scoping of provisions could potentially provide the government with significant wherewithal to curb legitimate civil society activity," said Eugene Tan, a law professor at Singapore Management University.

"FICA has the makings of being the most intrusive law on the statute books," he said of the bill, to be formally known as the Foreign Interference Countermeasures Act (FICA).

In response to a Reuters query, the home ministry said the bill did not cover discussion or advocacy by Singapore citizens, or the vast array of their collaborations with foreigners.

But orders can be issued if a citizen acts for a foreign principal in a manner contrary to the public interest, it added, saying the law set out clear thresholds.

The bill lets the home minister order investigations in the public interest to "expose hostile information campaigns", based on suspicion of foreign interference.

Instead of open court, an independent panel, chaired by a judge, will hear appeals against the minister`s decisions, a move the government says is necessary as matters may involve sensitive intelligence with implications for national security.

&nbsp;Growing Threat

As use of social media and communications technology increases, experts and opposition parties have agreed on the need to counter a growing threat of foreign interference in domestic affairs.

Critics have said Russia`s `sovereign internet` 2019 law allows authorities the discretion to limit access to resources and information, while Australian laws target lobbyists for foreign countries.

In parliament on Monday, Singapore home minister K. Shanmugam pointed to examples of spurts in online activity over the years 2016 and 2017 as well as 2018 and 2019 that aimed to influence sentiment or create artificial impressions of Singapore`s positions, but he did not name any countries.

In 2016, Singapore went through a choppy period in ties with China over Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea, while 2018 saw it embroiled in a dispute over airspace and maritime boundaries with neighbouring Malaysia.

Singapore`s bill is unique in targeting foreign interference through the internet as well as individuals, but not as extensive as U.S. or Australian laws on transparency and regulation of individuals, Chong Ja Ian, a political analyst at National University of Singapore.

Besides aiming to remove content that threatens immediate and significant harm, it imposes obligations on those considered "politically significant persons", who are directly involved in Singapore`s political processes, such as MPs.

Others may be included in the category if their activities are directed towards a political end, however.

The main opposition Workers` Party has called for changes to the draft law, such as narrowing the scope of executive powers to reduce the chance of an abuse of power.

Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had said the bill would not apply to foreign individuals or publications "reporting or commenting on Singapore politics, in an open, transparent and attributable way."

Rights groups had warned the 2019 law on fake news could hurt freedom of expression. The government said legitimate criticism and free speech are unaffected.

Singapore`s parliament began discussion on Monday of a proposed law to counter foreign interference that has sparked concern from opposition parties, rights groups and experts about its broad scope and limits on judicial review.

Singapore`s parliament began discussion on Monday of a proposed law to counter foreign interference that has sparked concern from opposition parties, rights groups and experts about its broad scope and limits on judicial review. The small and open city-state, which says it is vulnerable to foreign meddling, targeted fake news with a far-reaching law in 2019, and joins nations such as Australia and Russia that have passed laws in recent years to deter foreign interference. It allows authorities to compel internet, social media service providers and website operators to provide user information, block content and remove applications, and is likely to be passed, as the ruling party has a majority in parliament. But some critics say its broad language risks capturing even legitimate activities, while rights group Reporters Without Borders said the law could ensnare independent media outlets. "The pre-emptive powers and broad scoping of provisions could potentially provide the government with significant wherewithal to curb legitimate civil society activity," said Eugene Tan, a law professor at Singapore Management University. "FICA has the makings of being the most intrusive law on the statute books," he said of the bill, to be formally known as the Foreign Interference Countermeasures Act (FICA). In response to a Reuters query, the home ministry said the bill did not cover discussion or advocacy by Singapore citizens, or the vast array of their collaborations with foreigners. But orders can be issued if a citizen acts for a foreign principal in a manner contrary to the public interest, it added, saying the law set out clear thresholds. The bill lets the home minister order investigations in the public interest to "expose hostile information campaigns", based on suspicion of foreign interference. Instead of open court, an independent panel, chaired by a judge, will hear appeals against the minister`s decisions, a move the government says is necessary as matters may involve sensitive intelligence with implications for national security. Growing Threat As use of social media and communications technology increases, experts and opposition parties have agreed on the need to counter a growing threat of foreign interference in domestic affairs. Critics have said Russia`s `sovereign internet` 2019 law allows authorities the discretion to limit access to resources and information, while Australian laws target lobbyists for foreign countries. In parliament on Monday, Singapore home minister K. Shanmugam pointed to examples of spurts in online activity over the years 2016 and 2017 as well as 2018 and 2019 that aimed to influence sentiment or create artificial impressions of Singapore`s positions, but he did not name any countries. In 2016, Singapore went through a choppy period in ties with China over Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea, while 2018 saw it embroiled in a dispute over airspace and maritime boundaries with neighbouring Malaysia. Singapore`s bill is unique in targeting foreign interference through the internet as well as individuals, but not as extensive as U.S. or Australian laws on transparency and regulation of individuals, Chong Ja Ian, a political analyst at National University of Singapore. Besides aiming to remove content that threatens immediate and significant harm, it imposes obligations on those considered "politically significant persons", who are directly involved in Singapore`s political processes, such as MPs. Others may be included in the category if their activities are directed towards a political end, however. The main opposition Workers` Party has called for changes to the draft law, such as narrowing the scope of executive powers to reduce the chance of an abuse of power. Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had said the bill would not apply to foreign individuals or publications "reporting or commenting on Singapore politics, in an open, transparent and attributable way." Rights groups had warned the 2019 law on fake news could hurt freedom of expression. The government said legitimate criticism and free speech are unaffected.

Singapore parliament debates bill to tackle foreign interference

A Singaporean news website often critical of authorities had its licence suspended Tuesday for failing to declare funding sources, regulators said, with a rights group slamming the move as "unacceptable censorship".

Critics frequently accuse the tightly-regulated city-state of curbing media freedoms, and The Online Citizen (TOC) had long been in the government's crosshairs.

One of&nbsp;Singapore's few alternative news sources, it often ran stories more critical of the authorities than those in the pro-government mainstream media.&nbsp;

The city-state's media regulator said it had suspended the company's licence to operate its websites and social media channels as it had not fully met obligations to declare funding.&nbsp;

Sites such as TOC "are required to be transparent about their sources of funding", the Infocomm Media Development Authority said in a statement.

"This is to prevent such sites from being controlled by foreign actors, or coming under the influence of foreign entities or funding."

TOC was ordered to disable its websites and social media accounts by Thursday. If it fails to provide enough further information, then its licence to operate may be cancelled entirely, the regulator warned.&nbsp;

The site, which first registered in 2018, had not fully complied with its obligations to declare its funding since 2019, the regulator said.&nbsp;

It noted that TOC had allowed subscribers to get specific articles written in return for "subscription funding", and warned this "could be an avenue for foreign influence".

But chief editor Terry Xu told AFP that the site "has never received any foreign funding, nor would it in the future", and the company was considering its options.

Earlier this month, Xu and one TOC writer were ordered to pay substantial damages after losing a defamation suit against Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.&nbsp;

Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch, said the licence suspension was "outrageous and unacceptable censorship, disguised as government regulatory action".

"The reality is the Singaporean government has been looking to shut down TOC by hook or by crook, because they simply don't like their independence or their critical reporting."

Singapore&nbsp;ranks 160th out of 180 countries and territories in Reporters Without Borders' World Press Freedom Index, where number one indicates the country with the greatest media freedoms.&nbsp;

A Singaporean news website often critical of authorities had its licence suspended Tuesday for failing to declare funding sources, regulators said, with a rights group slamming the move as "unacceptable censorship".

A Singaporean news website often critical of authorities had its licence suspended Tuesday for failing to declare funding sources, regulators said, with a rights group slamming the move as "unacceptable censorship". Critics frequently accuse the tightly-regulated city-state of curbing media freedoms, and The Online Citizen (TOC) had long been in the government's crosshairs. One of Singapore's few alternative news sources, it often ran stories more critical of the authorities than those in the pro-government mainstream media. The city-state's media regulator said it had suspended the company's licence to operate its websites and social media channels as it had not fully met obligations to declare funding. Sites such as TOC "are required to be transparent about their sources of funding", the Infocomm Media Development Authority said in a statement. "This is to prevent such sites from being controlled by foreign actors, or coming under the influence of foreign entities or funding." TOC was ordered to disable its websites and social media accounts by Thursday. If it fails to provide enough further information, then its licence to operate may be cancelled entirely, the regulator warned. The site, which first registered in 2018, had not fully complied with its obligations to declare its funding since 2019, the regulator said. It noted that TOC had allowed subscribers to get specific articles written in return for "subscription funding", and warned this "could be an avenue for foreign influence". But chief editor Terry Xu told AFP that the site "has never received any foreign funding, nor would it in the future", and the company was considering its options. Earlier this month, Xu and one TOC writer were ordered to pay substantial damages after losing a defamation suit against Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch, said the licence suspension was "outrageous and unacceptable censorship, disguised as government regulatory action". "The reality is the Singaporean government has been looking to shut down TOC by hook or by crook, because they simply don't like their independence or their critical reporting." Singapore ranks 160th out of 180 countries and territories in Reporters Without Borders' World Press Freedom Index, where number one indicates the country with the greatest media freedoms.

Singapore news site suspended, critics fear censorship

India and Singapore will link their respective fast payment systems -- Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and PayNow -- to enable users to make instant, low-cost fund transfers on a reciprocal basis, the Reserve Bank said on Tuesday.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced the project to link the fast payment systems. The linkage is targeted for operationalisation by July 2022, the RBI said in a statement.

"The UPI-PayNow linkage will enable users of each of the two fast payment systems to make instant, low-cost fund transfers on a reciprocal basis without a need to get onboarded onto the other payment system," it said.

RBI said the UPI-PayNow linkage is a significant milestone in the development of infrastructure for cross-border payments between India and Singapore, and closely aligns with the G20''s financial inclusion priorities of driving faster, cheaper and more transparent cross-border payments.

The linkage builds upon the earlier efforts of NPCI International Private Limited (NIPL) and Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS) to foster cross-border interoperability of payments using cards and QR codes, between India and Singapore.

It will further anchor trade, travel and remittance flows between the two countries.

This initiative is also in line with RBI''s vision of reviewing corridors and charges for inbound cross-border remittances outlined in the Payment Systems Vision Document 2019-21.

It is to be mentioned here that UPI is a mobile-based fast payment system that facilitates customers to make round the clock payments instantly using a Virtual Payment Address (VPA) created by the customer.

This eliminates the risk of sharing bank account details by the remitter. UPI supports both Person-to-Person (P2P) and Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments and enables a user to send or receive money.

PayNow is the fast payment system of Singapore which enables peer-to-peer funds transfer service, available to retail customers through participating banks and Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NFIs) in Singapore.

It enables users to send and receive instant funds from one bank or e-wallet account to another in Singapore by using just their mobile number, Singapore NRIC/FIN, or VPA.

India and Singapore will link their respective fast payment systems -- Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and PayNow -- to enable users to make instant, low-cost fund transfers on a reciprocal basis, the Reserve Bank said on Tuesday.

India and Singapore will link their respective fast payment systems -- Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and PayNow -- to enable users to make instant, low-cost fund transfers on a reciprocal basis, the Reserve Bank said on Tuesday. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced the project to link the fast payment systems. The linkage is targeted for operationalisation by July 2022, the RBI said in a statement. "The UPI-PayNow linkage will enable users of each of the two fast payment systems to make instant, low-cost fund transfers on a reciprocal basis without a need to get onboarded onto the other payment system," it said. RBI said the UPI-PayNow linkage is a significant milestone in the development of infrastructure for cross-border payments between India and Singapore, and closely aligns with the G20''s financial inclusion priorities of driving faster, cheaper and more transparent cross-border payments. The linkage builds upon the earlier efforts of NPCI International Private Limited (NIPL) and Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS) to foster cross-border interoperability of payments using cards and QR codes, between India and Singapore. It will further anchor trade, travel and remittance flows between the two countries. This initiative is also in line with RBI''s vision of reviewing corridors and charges for inbound cross-border remittances outlined in the Payment Systems Vision Document 2019-21. It is to be mentioned here that UPI is a mobile-based fast payment system that facilitates customers to make round the clock payments instantly using a Virtual Payment Address (VPA) created by the customer. This eliminates the risk of sharing bank account details by the remitter. UPI supports both Person-to-Person (P2P) and Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments and enables a user to send or receive money. PayNow is the fast payment system of Singapore which enables peer-to-peer funds transfer service, available to retail customers through participating banks and Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NFIs) in Singapore. It enables users to send and receive instant funds from one bank or e-wallet account to another in Singapore by using just their mobile number, Singapore NRIC/FIN, or VPA.

India, Singapore launch project to link payment systems for instant fund transfers

After pleading guilty to verbally insulting an auxiliary police officer, two ladies, aged 49 and 50, were fined S$3,000 apiece on Wednesday (September 8).

The two ladies are Koh Lee Yen and Chee Kam Fah, according to court documents obtained by Mothership.

They're both from Singapore.

Asyikah Suri Kamsari, a 22-year-old Singaporean lady, was the victim.

She was an auxiliary police officer assigned as an authorised officer under the Environmental Public Health Act by the Director-General of Public Health, National Environmental Agency (NEA).

She was given the task of enforcing the law against public health violations as defined by the NEA.&nbsp;

Asyikah Suri Kamsari was on duty in the neighbourhood with a coworker.

She was permitted by the National Environment Agency to take legal action against public health violators.

She saw Koh and Chee smoking outside the designated area and approached them, asking for their personal information so she could summon them.

While she was documenting Koh's details, the duo began verbally abusing her.

"Your salary how much, one thousand just one month I suppose," they said, and "crazy girl, better go back and hug your pillow and cry, your pay not enough for me to buy a pillow..."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After pleading guilty to verbally insulting an auxiliary police officer, two ladies, aged 49 and 50, were fined S$3,000 apiece on Wednesday (September 8). The two ladies are Koh Lee Yen and Chee Kam Fah, according to court documents obtained by Mothership.

After pleading guilty to verbally insulting an auxiliary police officer, two ladies, aged 49 and 50, were fined S$3,000 apiece on Wednesday (September 8). The two ladies are Koh Lee Yen and Chee Kam Fah, according to court documents obtained by Mothership. They're both from Singapore. Asyikah Suri Kamsari, a 22-year-old Singaporean lady, was the victim. She was an auxiliary police officer assigned as an authorised officer under the Environmental Public Health Act by the Director-General of Public Health, National Environmental Agency (NEA). She was given the task of enforcing the law against public health violations as defined by the NEA. Asyikah Suri Kamsari was on duty in the neighbourhood with a coworker. She was permitted by the National Environment Agency to take legal action against public health violators. She saw Koh and Chee smoking outside the designated area and approached them, asking for their personal information so she could summon them. While she was documenting Koh's details, the duo began verbally abusing her. "Your salary how much, one thousand just one month I suppose," they said, and "crazy girl, better go back and hug your pillow and cry, your pay not enough for me to buy a pillow..." (With inputs from agencies)

'You're a poor girl, talk to rich people nicely': Women fined for abusing in Singapore

Singapore&nbsp;will from next week begin easing movement restrictions on&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;workers&nbsp;living in dormitories, authorities said Thursday, over a year after they were implemented to curb coronavirus outbreaks.

The vast, self-contained dormitory complexes are home to more than 200,000 foreign&nbsp;workers, mainly from South Asia, who work in jobs like construction and maintenance.

Virus&nbsp;outbreaks tore through the sites in the early stages of the pandemic, shining a harsh spotlight on the prosperous city-state's treatment of the low-paid migrants.

Authorities imposed movement&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;in April last year, and since then the&nbsp;workers&nbsp;have for the most part only been allowed to travel between their dorms and places of work.

Under a pilot programme to launch Monday, up to 500 vaccinated&nbsp;workers&nbsp;will be allowed to visit selected locations for six hours each week, the labour ministry said.

They will need to take a&nbsp;virus&nbsp;test before the visit, and three days afterwards, with the scheme to be evaluated after a month, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-extends-covid-curbs-in-tokyo-till-september-end-411864">Also read |&nbsp;Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end</a>

The decision was taken after vaccination rates among&nbsp;workers&nbsp;living in dorms reached over 90 percent, the ministry said.

But Alex Au, vice president of&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;rights group Transient&nbsp;Workers&nbsp;Count Too, criticised the plan as not going far enough, as so few&nbsp;workers&nbsp;will be able to participate.

"It's a drop in the ocean," he told AFP.&nbsp;"It is way too timid, it's actually going to cause more frustration."

The majority of&nbsp;Singapore's&nbsp;virus&nbsp;infections have been among&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;workers.

But the city-state has largely been successful at keeping its outbreak in check, reporting only about 70,000 infections and 55 deaths.

There has been an uptick in recent weeks driven by the more contagious Delta variant, but most infections have been outside the dorms.

Singapore will from next week begin easing movement restrictions on migrant workers living in dormitories, authorities said Thursday, over a year after they were implemented to curb coronavirus outbreaks.

Singapore will from next week begin easing movement restrictions on migrant workers living in dormitories, authorities said Thursday, over a year after they were implemented to curb coronavirus outbreaks. The vast, self-contained dormitory complexes are home to more than 200,000 foreign workers, mainly from South Asia, who work in jobs like construction and maintenance. Virus outbreaks tore through the sites in the early stages of the pandemic, shining a harsh spotlight on the prosperous city-state's treatment of the low-paid migrants. Authorities imposed movement curbs in April last year, and since then the workers have for the most part only been allowed to travel between their dorms and places of work. Under a pilot programme to launch Monday, up to 500 vaccinated workers will be allowed to visit selected locations for six hours each week, the labour ministry said. They will need to take a virus test before the visit, and three days afterwards, with the scheme to be evaluated after a month, it said. Also read | Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end The decision was taken after vaccination rates among workers living in dorms reached over 90 percent, the ministry said. But Alex Au, vice president of migrant rights group Transient Workers Count Too, criticised the plan as not going far enough, as so few workers will be able to participate. "It's a drop in the ocean," he told AFP. "It is way too timid, it's actually going to cause more frustration." The majority of Singapore's virus infections have been among migrant workers. But the city-state has largely been successful at keeping its outbreak in check, reporting only about 70,000 infections and 55 deaths. There has been an uptick in recent weeks driven by the more contagious Delta variant, but most infections have been outside the dorms.

Singapore to ease virus curbs for migrant workers

Singapore&nbsp;has started trialing robots to patrol public areas and deter poor social behaviour in its latest effort to further augment its strong portfolio of surveillance tools.

Ranked one of the safest countries in the world,&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;has put two autonomous robots on trial to detect bad behaviour such as flouting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> safety measures, smoking in prohibited areas and the improper parking of bicycles,&nbsp;Singapore's Home Team Science and Technology Agency said in a statement on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-to-ease-some-covid-19-curbs-as-vaccination-rate-soars-403577">Singapore to ease some COVID-19 curbs as vaccination rate soars</a>

It said the two patrol robots, named Xavier, are equipped with cameras that can detect bad social behaviour and trigger real-time alerts to the command and control centre.

The trial is taking place at an area with high foot traffic in central&nbsp;Singapore.

The agency said that during the three-week trial, the robots would be used for surveillance and displaying messages to educate the public on proper behaviour. A spokesperson from the agency said on Monday the robots would not be used for law enforcement during the trial.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-lab-grown-chicken-nugget-debuts-in-singapore-351667">Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore</a>

"The deployment of Xavier will support the work of public officers as it will reduce the manpower required for foot patrols and improve operation efficiency," the agency said.

Singapore's home affairs minister, K Shanmugam, said in August the city-state aimed to have more than 200,000 police cameras&nbsp;by 2030, more than double the current number of cameras deployed across the island state in Southeast Asia.

Singapore has started trialing robots to patrol public areas and deter poor social behaviour in its latest effort to further augment its strong portfolio of surveillance tools.

Singapore has started trialing robots to patrol public areas and deter poor social behaviour in its latest effort to further augment its strong portfolio of surveillance tools. Ranked one of the safest countries in the world, Singapore has put two autonomous robots on trial to detect bad behaviour such as flouting of COVID-19 safety measures, smoking in prohibited areas and the improper parking of bicycles, Singapore's Home Team Science and Technology Agency said in a statement on Sunday. Also read | Singapore to ease some COVID-19 curbs as vaccination rate soars It said the two patrol robots, named Xavier, are equipped with cameras that can detect bad social behaviour and trigger real-time alerts to the command and control centre. The trial is taking place at an area with high foot traffic in central Singapore. The agency said that during the three-week trial, the robots would be used for surveillance and displaying messages to educate the public on proper behaviour. A spokesperson from the agency said on Monday the robots would not be used for law enforcement during the trial. Also read | Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore "The deployment of Xavier will support the work of public officers as it will reduce the manpower required for foot patrols and improve operation efficiency," the agency said. Singapore's home affairs minister, K Shanmugam, said in August the city-state aimed to have more than 200,000 police cameras by 2030, more than double the current number of cameras deployed across the island state in Southeast Asia.

Singapore trials patrol robots to deter bad social behaviour

US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. 
 
Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and later visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US&nbsp;Navy. 
 
Singapore is not a US&nbsp;treaty ally, but remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. However, it also seeks to balance its relationships with the United States and China by not taking sides. 
 
The country is home to the biggest port in Southeast Asia, and supports continued free navigation in the area, where China is growing increasingly assertive. 
 
Harris arrived in Singapore on Sunday at the start of a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. During the visits, US&nbsp;officials will aim to address Washington's concerns about China's claims to disputed parts of the South China Sea. 
 
"Singapore has encouraged greater US&nbsp;engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive," according to a report released in April by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US&nbsp;Congress. 
 
"Singapore has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US&nbsp;retrenchment," the report said. 
 
In a recent interview with Reuters, Singapore's foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan, welcomed the role the United States and China play in the region - reflecting the delicate diplomacy it has succeeded at and one Harris has to navigate. 
 
He said the United States and Singapore will discuss topics such as the pandemic, the digital economy and cybersecurity.

US Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence.

US Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and later visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy. Singapore is not a US treaty ally, but remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. However, it also seeks to balance its relationships with the United States and China by not taking sides. The country is home to the biggest port in Southeast Asia, and supports continued free navigation in the area, where China is growing increasingly assertive. Harris arrived in Singapore on Sunday at the start of a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. During the visits, US officials will aim to address Washington's concerns about China's claims to disputed parts of the South China Sea. "Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive," according to a report released in April by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress. "Singapore has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment," the report said. In a recent interview with Reuters, Singapore's foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan, welcomed the role the United States and China play in the region - reflecting the delicate diplomacy it has succeeded at and one Harris has to navigate. He said the United States and Singapore will discuss topics such as the pandemic, the digital economy and cybersecurity.

Kamala Harris visits Singapore to deepen ties, counter China's influence

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region.

Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer"&nbsp;to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan.&nbsp;"We look forward to following up on that discussion,"&nbsp;she said.

The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously.

It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. 
Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this.

The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel.

"I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift,"&nbsp;said Lee.

The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15.

Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF).

The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions.

Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here.

The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base.

"For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again,"&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors.

The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity.

The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen

Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016.

This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement.

It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents.

Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests"&nbsp;in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives.

Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part"&nbsp;of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity.

"The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow,"&nbsp;she said.

The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development.

Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments.

Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts.

"Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement.

The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone.

A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties.

The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence.

There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions.

The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).

Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others.

In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage.

The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand".

"Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. 
"By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region,"&nbsp;it said.

Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets.

Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport.

The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks.

"Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. 
Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions.

The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart

Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement.

"Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity. Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region. Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer" to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan. "We look forward to following up on that discussion," she said. The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously. It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this. The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel. "I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift," said Lee. The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15. Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF). The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions. Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here. The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base. "For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again," he said. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors. The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity. The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016. This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement. It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents. Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests" in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives. Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part" of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity. "The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow," she said. The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development. Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments. Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts. "Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement. The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone. A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties. The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence. There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions. The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others. In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage. The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand". "Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. "By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region," it said. Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets. Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport. The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks. "Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions. The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement. "Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore offers tanker aircraft to US for Afghan evacuation as VP Harris holds talks with PM Lee

US Vice President Kamala Harris met with Singapore's Prime Minister and will meet with the country's President as she kicks off a visit to Southeast Asia focused on strengthening ties with key allies in the region.

US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police.

Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished.

Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May.

The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month.

According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19.

This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue.

On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance.

A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule.

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished. Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May. The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month. According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19. This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue. On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance. A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore: British man handed jail term for not wearing mask

To boost self-sufficiency, the government has developed an advanced system for treating sewage involving a network of tunnels and high-tech plants.

Singapore using advance system to turn sewage water into ultra-clean water

After 13 months of intensive treatment, an infant believed to be the tiniest in the world at birth has been released from a Singaporean hospital.

A baby is typically born at 40 weeks or more, but this girl was delivered at just under 25 weeks. At birth, the baby named Kwek Yu Xuan weighed only 212 grams or 7.47 ounces&nbsp;- about the weight of an apple - and measured just 24 cm in length.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sixth-day-of-greek-fires-blaze-ravages-evia-island-like-a-horror-movie-404258">Sixth day of Greek fires: Blaze ravages Evia island 'like a horror movie'</a>

The National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore where she was born had deemed her chances of survival as "limited".

In a statement, the hospital described her as&nbsp;an extraordinary&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> baby, a ray of hope amid the turmoil.

Yu Xuan was hospitalised for a long period of time and had to depend on various machines to survive. Her parents had raised S$366,884 ($270,601; £195,188) through a crowdfunding campaign to pay for her long hospital stay.

The baby was delivered through&nbsp;emergency C-section four months early after her mother was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, a condition marked by dangerously high blood pressure that can harm and even kill the mother and baby.

The previous record-holder for the world's tiniest babies before Yu Xuan was a US baby girl born in 2018 who weighed 245g.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-herd-of-wandering-elephants-finally-on-their-way-back-home-404259">China’s herd of wandering elephants finally on their way back home</a>

Even though she still has chronic lung disease and will need assistance at home with breathing, doctors say she is doing well and has made good progress, and her condition has now improved enough to allow her discharge.

Now, with a weight of 6.3kg (14 pounds), according to the doctors, Yu Xuan is much healthier.

After 13 months of intensive treatment, an infant believed to be the tiniest in the world at birth has been released from a Singaporean hospital. A baby is typically born at 40 weeks or more, but this girl was delivered at just under 25 weeks.

After 13 months of intensive treatment, an infant believed to be the tiniest in the world at birth has been released from a Singaporean hospital. A baby is typically born at 40 weeks or more, but this girl was delivered at just under 25 weeks. At birth, the baby named Kwek Yu Xuan weighed only 212 grams or 7.47 ounces - about the weight of an apple - and measured just 24 cm in length. Also read | Sixth day of Greek fires: Blaze ravages Evia island 'like a horror movie' The National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore where she was born had deemed her chances of survival as "limited". In a statement, the hospital described her as an extraordinary COVID-19 baby, a ray of hope amid the turmoil. Yu Xuan was hospitalised for a long period of time and had to depend on various machines to survive. Her parents had raised S$366,884 ($270,601; £195,188) through a crowdfunding campaign to pay for her long hospital stay. The baby was delivered through emergency C-section four months early after her mother was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, a condition marked by dangerously high blood pressure that can harm and even kill the mother and baby. The previous record-holder for the world's tiniest babies before Yu Xuan was a US baby girl born in 2018 who weighed 245g. Also read | China’s herd of wandering elephants finally on their way back home Even though she still has chronic lung disease and will need assistance at home with breathing, doctors say she is doing well and has made good progress, and her condition has now improved enough to allow her discharge. Now, with a weight of 6.3kg (14 pounds), according to the doctors, Yu Xuan is much healthier.

'Smallest baby at birth' comes home after 13 months in the hospital

The&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;government will adjust foreign worker policies to address concerns among locals over competition for jobs, even as the global business hub remains open to talent from overseas, its prime minister said on Sunday.

"We have to adjust our policies to manage the quality, numbers and concentrations of foreigners in&nbsp;Singapore," Lee Hsien Loong said in his National Day Message. "If we do this well, we can continue to welcome foreign workers and new immigrants, as we must.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-to-ease-some-covid-19-curbs-as-vaccination-rate-soars-403577">Singapore to ease some COVID-19 curbs as vaccination rate soars</a>

Foreign labour has long been a hot button issue in&nbsp;Singapore, but uncertainties due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a> have increased employment worries among locals as the city-state recovers from last year's record recession.

The issue was also highlighted by opposition parties during last year's general election campaign as they mounted a historic challenge to Lee's People's Action Party, which has ruled&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;since its independence in 1965.

Just under 30 per cent of&nbsp;Singapore's 5.7 million population are non-residents, up from around 10 per cent in 1990, according to government statistics.

Lee warned that turning inwards would damage&nbsp;Singapore's standing as a global and regional hub. "It would cost us jobs and opportunities."

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His government has been tightening foreign worker policies for several years while taking steps to promote local hiring, including by raising the salary threshold for issuing work permits.

The number of people living in&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;declined 0.3 per cent last year, the first drop since 2003, as travel curbs and job losses brought about by the pandemic pushed foreign workers from the country.

The Singapore government will adjust foreign worker policies to address concerns among locals over competition for jobs, even as the global business hub remains open to talent from overseas, its prime minister said on Sunday.

The Singapore government will adjust foreign worker policies to address concerns among locals over competition for jobs, even as the global business hub remains open to talent from overseas, its prime minister said on Sunday. "We have to adjust our policies to manage the quality, numbers and concentrations of foreigners in Singapore," Lee Hsien Loong said in his National Day Message. "If we do this well, we can continue to welcome foreign workers and new immigrants, as we must. Also read | Singapore to ease some COVID-19 curbs as vaccination rate soars Foreign labour has long been a hot button issue in Singapore, but uncertainties due to the COVID-19 pandemic have increased employment worries among locals as the city-state recovers from last year's record recession. The issue was also highlighted by opposition parties during last year's general election campaign as they mounted a historic challenge to Lee's People's Action Party, which has ruled Singapore since its independence in 1965. Just under 30 per cent of Singapore's 5.7 million population are non-residents, up from around 10 per cent in 1990, according to government statistics. Lee warned that turning inwards would damage Singapore's standing as a global and regional hub. "It would cost us jobs and opportunities." Also read | 'Neither side can put the other one down': Singapore PM on US-China rivalry His government has been tightening foreign worker policies for several years while taking steps to promote local hiring, including by raising the salary threshold for issuing work permits. The number of people living in Singapore declined 0.3 per cent last year, the first drop since 2003, as travel curbs and job losses brought about by the pandemic pushed foreign workers from the country.

Singapore to tweak foreign worker policies amid local job concerns

Singapore will from next week lift some COVID-19 curbs and ease restrictions on entry for foreign workers, its health minister said on Friday, as the share of people who have been fully vaccinated against the virus in the city state nears 70%.

Fully vaccinated people will be able to dine-in at restaurants in groups of five from August 10, health minister Ong Ye Kung said, and a limit on the number of people allowed to gather socially will increase to five, from two.

"We are confident that by National Day (Aug. 9), we will have more than 70% of us receiving full vaccination," Ong told a news conference.

Singapore has moved quickly to inoculate its 5.7 million people against COVID-19 and has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.

It had managed to contain the virus for most of the pandemic, but recently re-introduced some restrictions after a fresh wave of infections.

"When at least 80% of our population have received their full vaccination regimens, we will be able to take the next steps towards opening up our economy, social activities, and travel," the health ministry said in a statement.

The government has said one such step could be quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated people in September, when it expects the vaccination rate in Singapore to reach 80 per cent.

Singapore has officially approved the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna&nbsp;

vaccines under its national programme, but the health ministry said people who have had sufficient doses of vaccines approved by the World Health Organization would also be considered fully vaccinated.

That would include the Sinovac-CoronaVac vaccine, which the government had previously said carries significant risk of breakthrough infection.

The government will also resume entry approvals for vaccinated work visa holders and their dependants with travel history to higher risk countries from Aug. 10, the health ministry said.

Many of Singapore's foreign workers have been unable to re-enter the city state due to border restrictions, in place since last year.

Singapore will from next week lift some COVID-19 curbs and ease restrictions on entry for foreign workers, its health minister said on Friday, as the share of people who have been fully vaccinated against the virus in the city state nears 70%.

Singapore will from next week lift some COVID-19 curbs and ease restrictions on entry for foreign workers, its health minister said on Friday, as the share of people who have been fully vaccinated against the virus in the city state nears 70%. Fully vaccinated people will be able to dine-in at restaurants in groups of five from August 10, health minister Ong Ye Kung said, and a limit on the number of people allowed to gather socially will increase to five, from two. "We are confident that by National Day (Aug. 9), we will have more than 70% of us receiving full vaccination," Ong told a news conference. Singapore has moved quickly to inoculate its 5.7 million people against COVID-19 and has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. It had managed to contain the virus for most of the pandemic, but recently re-introduced some restrictions after a fresh wave of infections. "When at least 80% of our population have received their full vaccination regimens, we will be able to take the next steps towards opening up our economy, social activities, and travel," the health ministry said in a statement. The government has said one such step could be quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated people in September, when it expects the vaccination rate in Singapore to reach 80 per cent. Singapore has officially approved the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines under its national programme, but the health ministry said people who have had sufficient doses of vaccines approved by the World Health Organization would also be considered fully vaccinated. That would include the Sinovac-CoronaVac vaccine, which the government had previously said carries significant risk of breakthrough infection. The government will also resume entry approvals for vaccinated work visa holders and their dependants with travel history to higher risk countries from Aug. 10, the health ministry said. Many of Singapore's foreign workers have been unable to re-enter the city state due to border restrictions, in place since last year.

Singapore to ease some COVID-19 curbs as vaccination rate soars

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong speaking at the Aspen Security Forum said that there is bipartisan consensus in the US about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-warship-heads-for-south-china-sea-amid-tension-with-beijing-402643">China</a> but added that "stance is to take a hard line. And I'm not sure that is the right consensus."

"I don't know whether Americans realise what a formidable adversary they would be taking on if they decide that China is an enemy," Singapore PM said, adding, "In this situation, I would say to both, pause, think carefully before you fast-forward, it's very dangerous."

US-China relations have been on the downhill since the Trump administration with President Biden also continuing to put pressure on the Xi regime over China's record on human rights and its trade practices.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-warns-uk-warship-in-south-china-sea-401861/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It's vital for the US and China to strive to engage each other to head off a clash, which would be disastrous for both sides, and the world," he said. 
&nbsp; 
"The reality is neither side can put the other one down," PM Loong said.

The Singapore PM urged "long term strategic consistency from the US" adding that China would not be making a "unilateral move" like invading <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-gold-medal-win-over-china-in-badminton-raises-tensions-402279">Taiwan</a>.

"But I think there is a danger, and the danger is of mass miscalculation," Lee said on the Taiwan issue referring to China.

The Singapore PM's statement comes in the backdrop of the recent meeting between Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and&nbsp;US envoy Sherman in Tianjin. During the meeting,&nbsp;the Chinese foreign minister said the US side should "abandon arrogance and prejudice" amid growing differences between the two sides.

Lee expressed confidence over US defense secretary Lloyd Austin's comments in Singapore warning change in status quo in Taiwan, saying it was if the position is maintained then there will be peace across the Taiwan Strait.

Although the PM added it was "quite a difficult period."

(With inputs from Agencies)

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong speaking at the Aspen Security Forum said that there is bipartisan consensus in the US about China but added that "stance is to take a hard line.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong speaking at the Aspen Security Forum said that there is bipartisan consensus in the US about China but added that "stance is to take a hard line. And I'm not sure that is the right consensus." "I don't know whether Americans realise what a formidable adversary they would be taking on if they decide that China is an enemy," Singapore PM said, adding, "In this situation, I would say to both, pause, think carefully before you fast-forward, it's very dangerous." US-China relations have been on the downhill since the Trump administration with President Biden also continuing to put pressure on the Xi regime over China's record on human rights and its trade practices. Watch: "It's vital for the US and China to strive to engage each other to head off a clash, which would be disastrous for both sides, and the world," he said. "The reality is neither side can put the other one down," PM Loong said. The Singapore PM urged "long term strategic consistency from the US" adding that China would not be making a "unilateral move" like invading Taiwan. "But I think there is a danger, and the danger is of mass miscalculation," Lee said on the Taiwan issue referring to China. The Singapore PM's statement comes in the backdrop of the recent meeting between Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and US envoy Sherman in Tianjin. During the meeting, the Chinese foreign minister said the US side should "abandon arrogance and prejudice" amid growing differences between the two sides. Lee expressed confidence over US defense secretary Lloyd Austin's comments in Singapore warning change in status quo in Taiwan, saying it was if the position is maintained then there will be peace across the Taiwan Strait. Although the PM added it was "quite a difficult period." (With inputs from Agencies)

'Neither side can put the other one down': Singapore PM on US-China rivalry

Even as the trip details are not yet&nbsp;finalised,&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;may visit&nbsp;Vietnam and Singapore in&nbsp;coming&nbsp;August, a Reuters report said, citing&nbsp;a source familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

Harris agenda of the travel is highly likely to be&nbsp;the coronavirus pandemic, said&nbsp;the source on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Earlier, Harris visited a border patrol facility near the US-Mexico border and urged a focus on children and practical solutions to migration, in a trip meant to blunt Republican criticism of White House immigration policies.&nbsp;

The visit, her first since becoming vice president five months ago, came amid a rise in migrants caught crossing the border, which has sparked outrage from Republicans, who&nbsp;favour&nbsp;the stricter immigration policies implemented by former president Donald Trump.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden, a Democrat, tasked Harris with spearheading his administration's handling of the broader issue of people fleeing Central American countries for the United States. She visited Guatemala and Mexico earlier this month.&nbsp;

"This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We're talking about children, we're talking about families, we're talking about suffering. And our approach has to be thoughtful and effective," Harris said at the conclusion of her short trip.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the trip details are not yet finalised, Vice President Kamala Harris may visit Vietnam and Singapore in coming August, a Reuters report said, citing a source familiar with the matter.

Even as the trip details are not yet finalised, Vice President Kamala Harris may visit Vietnam and Singapore in coming August, a Reuters report said, citing a source familiar with the matter. Harris agenda of the travel is highly likely to be the coronavirus pandemic, said the source on condition of anonymity. Earlier, Harris visited a border patrol facility near the US-Mexico border and urged a focus on children and practical solutions to migration, in a trip meant to blunt Republican criticism of White House immigration policies. The visit, her first since becoming vice president five months ago, came amid a rise in migrants caught crossing the border, which has sparked outrage from Republicans, who favour the stricter immigration policies implemented by former president Donald Trump. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, tasked Harris with spearheading his administration's handling of the broader issue of people fleeing Central American countries for the United States. She visited Guatemala and Mexico earlier this month. "This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We're talking about children, we're talking about families, we're talking about suffering. And our approach has to be thoughtful and effective," Harris said at the conclusion of her short trip. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris may visit Vietnam, Singapore in August: Report 

Singapore is set to allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-reverses-plan-to-skip-quarantine-after-covid-19-exposure-398957">quarantine</a>-free travel from September with the country set to fully vaccinate 80 per cent of its population over the next two months.

"There is no need to wait for everyone to be vaccinated before we begin to open up. That would mean holding back the entire reopening timeline until much later in the year, which is not tenable,” the country's finance minister Lawrence Wong told Parliament.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-quarantine-originated-more-than-600-years-ago-363841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wong added that Singapore will establish travel corridors with countries where the virus is under control with vaccinated people may&nbsp;not be needed to quarantine and will be allowed to isolate at home.

Reports say half the country has been vaccinated with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. At least 75 per cent of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine.

“While other countries may have come to terms with a certain level of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-outbreak-of-covid-19-in-china-highest-daily-rise-since-january-400714">COVID-19</a> cases and even deaths, this is not the choice we want to make in Singapore,” Wong said.

The country has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases last month with COVID-19 clusters in karaoke lounges and ports as authorities quickly moved to combat the sudden outbreak by limiting gatherings and banning dining in restaurants.

Police began investigating nightspots for breaching coronavirus rules which stipulated bars to restrict operations while providing food and drinks.

The new cases were due to the spread of the Delta variant, authorities said.&nbsp;

Singapore government is now aiming to become "Covid-resilient" with authorities set to review virus curbs next month.

Wong added that vaccinated people may be able to travel without serving the mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine on their return to the country once key vaccination levels are reached with testing becoming the new benchmark for&nbsp;the government.

The finance minister said hospitalisations and ICU&nbsp;cases will be closely monitored by authorities while warning that the government may have to "pull back" plans if cases and hospitalisations rise.

The country has recorded 64,179 coronavirus cases and 37 deaths so far with 1,537 active cases currently and 12 cases of serious illness.

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;

Singapore is set to allow quarantine-free travel from September with the country set to fully vaccinate 80 per cent of its population over the next two months. "There is no need to wait for everyone to be vaccinated before we begin to open up.

Singapore is set to allow quarantine-free travel from September with the country set to fully vaccinate 80 per cent of its population over the next two months. "There is no need to wait for everyone to be vaccinated before we begin to open up. That would mean holding back the entire reopening timeline until much later in the year, which is not tenable,” the country's finance minister Lawrence Wong told Parliament. Watch: Wong added that Singapore will establish travel corridors with countries where the virus is under control with vaccinated people may not be needed to quarantine and will be allowed to isolate at home. Reports say half the country has been vaccinated with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. At least 75 per cent of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine. “While other countries may have come to terms with a certain level of COVID-19 cases and even deaths, this is not the choice we want to make in Singapore,” Wong said. The country has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases last month with COVID-19 clusters in karaoke lounges and ports as authorities quickly moved to combat the sudden outbreak by limiting gatherings and banning dining in restaurants. Police began investigating nightspots for breaching coronavirus rules which stipulated bars to restrict operations while providing food and drinks. The new cases were due to the spread of the Delta variant, authorities said. Singapore government is now aiming to become "Covid-resilient" with authorities set to review virus curbs next month. Wong added that vaccinated people may be able to travel without serving the mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine on their return to the country once key vaccination levels are reached with testing becoming the new benchmark for the government. The finance minister said hospitalisations and ICU cases will be closely monitored by authorities while warning that the government may have to "pull back" plans if cases and hospitalisations rise. The country has recorded 64,179 coronavirus cases and 37 deaths so far with 1,537 active cases currently and 12 cases of serious illness. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Covid-resilient' Singapore aims to start quarantine-free travel

A few hours after Singapore police found the dead body of a 13-year-old, officials have arrested a 16-year-old on suspicion of the murder.

On Monday, police officials found the dead body of the victim with multiple wounds in a school bathroom along with an ax. He was immediately pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic.

The crime took place at River Valley High School, which is one of the top schools in Singapore’s western region.

"We are all shocked to receive news of the tragic incident at River Valley High School this morning,"&nbsp;said Chan Chun Sing, Singapore's Minister of Education, in a Facebook post. "Our thoughts are with the families of the students concerned. Ministry of Education, Singapore is rendering all possible support to them, and the students and staff at the school."

While the 16-year-old was arrested and was due to be charged soon, the police will also be seeking a court order to remand the criminal for psychiatric assessment.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the two children did not know each other. So, the motive behind this murder is still unclear. A detailed investigation has been launched into the matter.

The case sent shivers around the city where the safety of children amid rising violence cases has come out as an important issue that needs to be addressed. Assuring parents and students that the government will put its best foot forward to take of kids’ safety, Sing said, "We will take care of you as always. If you need to talk to anyone, or know someone who needs help, please reach out to an adult, your teachers or school counsellors. You are never alone, and we will always stand ready to help you."

A few hours after Singapore police found the dead body of a 13-year-old, officials have arrested a 16-year-old on suspicion of the murder. On Monday, police officials found the dead body of the victim with multiple wounds in a school bathroom along with an ax.

A few hours after Singapore police found the dead body of a 13-year-old, officials have arrested a 16-year-old on suspicion of the murder. On Monday, police officials found the dead body of the victim with multiple wounds in a school bathroom along with an ax. He was immediately pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic. The crime took place at River Valley High School, which is one of the top schools in Singapore’s western region. "We are all shocked to receive news of the tragic incident at River Valley High School this morning," said Chan Chun Sing, Singapore's Minister of Education, in a Facebook post. "Our thoughts are with the families of the students concerned. Ministry of Education, Singapore is rendering all possible support to them, and the students and staff at the school." While the 16-year-old was arrested and was due to be charged soon, the police will also be seeking a court order to remand the criminal for psychiatric assessment. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the two children did not know each other. So, the motive behind this murder is still unclear. A detailed investigation has been launched into the matter. The case sent shivers around the city where the safety of children amid rising violence cases has come out as an important issue that needs to be addressed. Assuring parents and students that the government will put its best foot forward to take of kids’ safety, Sing said, "We will take care of you as always. If you need to talk to anyone, or know someone who needs help, please reach out to an adult, your teachers or school counsellors. You are never alone, and we will always stand ready to help you."

Singapore: School boy charged for murder of 13-year-old kid

According to reports, a cruise liner has returned to Singapore with a confirmed coronavirus case with nearly 3,000 passengers and crew on board asked to be confined to their cabins.

A passenger was detected with the virus and was ordered to be isolated. The World Dream cruise liner had 1,646 passengers and 1,249 crew members on board who were told to remain in their cabins.

The guests had reportedly tested negative before departing for the cruise.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/singapore-airlines-posts-record-32-billion-annual-loss-386184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dream Cruises said only essential service crew is being allowed limited movement. The 'cruise&nbsp;to nowhere' concept has become popular during the pandemic due to limited travel options.&nbsp;The service was launched last year with no stops in an attempt to restart the travel industry which is one of the worst-hit sectors amid the pandemic.

Dream Cruises said contactless meals is being sent to passengers. The ship is owned by&nbsp;Malaysia's&nbsp;Genting Group. It had left Singapore on Sunday on a four-day cruise.

Reports claimed the ocean liner was forced to make its scheduled stop earlier than expected after COVID-19 case&nbsp;was detected on board.

Reports said&nbsp;the passengers were fully vaccinated as part of onboard health protocols. Three companions of the person detected with the virus were also isolated, however, they reportedly tested negative.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to reports, a cruise liner has returned to Singapore with a confirmed coronavirus case with nearly 3,000 passengers and crew on board asked to be confined to their cabins.

According to reports, a cruise liner has returned to Singapore with a confirmed coronavirus case with nearly 3,000 passengers and crew on board asked to be confined to their cabins. A passenger was detected with the virus and was ordered to be isolated. The World Dream cruise liner had 1,646 passengers and 1,249 crew members on board who were told to remain in their cabins. The guests had reportedly tested negative before departing for the cruise. Watch: Dream Cruises said only essential service crew is being allowed limited movement. The 'cruise to nowhere' concept has become popular during the pandemic due to limited travel options. The service was launched last year with no stops in an attempt to restart the travel industry which is one of the worst-hit sectors amid the pandemic. Dream Cruises said contactless meals is being sent to passengers. The ship is owned by Malaysia's Genting Group. It had left Singapore on Sunday on a four-day cruise. Reports claimed the ocean liner was forced to make its scheduled stop earlier than expected after COVID-19 case was detected on board. Reports said the passengers were fully vaccinated as part of onboard health protocols. Three companions of the person detected with the virus were also isolated, however, they reportedly tested negative. (With inputs from Agencies)

Cruise ship in Singapore with nearly 3,000 onboard confined to cabins after COVID-19 case

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was working to expedite the implementation of a five-point consensus reached by their leaders to deal with the crisis in&nbsp;Myanmar, Singapore's foreign minister said on Tuesday.

"We recognise that implementation of the Five-Point Consensus has been slow and a little disappointing," Vivian Balakrishnan said in written replies to parliamentary questions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoys-meet-myanmar-junta-leader-to-press-for-dialogue-389555">ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue</a>

"We are working within ASEAN to expedite this process, with a view to alleviate the humanitarian situation, cease the violence in&nbsp;Myanmar, and set it back on the path of direct negotiation by all stakeholders that will lead to normalcy, peace, and stability for the long term," he said.

In April, ASEAN announced a five-point consensus towards resolving the crisis, though no timeframe was agreed.

Myanmar&nbsp;has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government on Feb. 1, with almost daily protests and fighting between the army and newly formed militias.

Last month, the United Nations General Assembly called for a stop to the flow of arms to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including Suu Kyi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-calls-for-halt-of-weapons-to-myanmar-392513">United Nations calls for halt of weapons to Myanmar</a>

Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam and&nbsp;Myanmar's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who speaks for the country's elected civilian government, voted in support of the resolution, while Brunei, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand abstained.

An initial draft UN&nbsp;resolution included stronger language calling for an arms embargo on&nbsp;Myanmar. According to a proposal seen by Reuters in May, nine Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, wanted that language removed.

Balakrishnan said ASEAN would not waiver in its commitment to facilitate and support the process in line with the five-point consensus, although it would not be "quick or easy."

He said Singapore voted in favour of the UN&nbsp;resolution as the key elements of the resolution are consistent with the city-state's position.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rejects-un-resolution-urging-arms-embargo-392640">Myanmar rejects UN resolution urging arms embargo</a>

He added that Singapore complies strictly with international obligations on international arms sales and transfers, and abides by UN&nbsp;sanctions or embargo against any country.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was working to expedite the implementation of a five-point consensus reached by their leaders to deal with the crisis in Myanmar, Singapore's foreign minister said on Tuesday.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was working to expedite the implementation of a five-point consensus reached by their leaders to deal with the crisis in Myanmar, Singapore's foreign minister said on Tuesday. "We recognise that implementation of the Five-Point Consensus has been slow and a little disappointing," Vivian Balakrishnan said in written replies to parliamentary questions. Also read | ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue "We are working within ASEAN to expedite this process, with a view to alleviate the humanitarian situation, cease the violence in Myanmar, and set it back on the path of direct negotiation by all stakeholders that will lead to normalcy, peace, and stability for the long term," he said. In April, ASEAN announced a five-point consensus towards resolving the crisis, though no timeframe was agreed. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government on Feb. 1, with almost daily protests and fighting between the army and newly formed militias. Last month, the United Nations General Assembly called for a stop to the flow of arms to Myanmar and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including Suu Kyi. Also read | United Nations calls for halt of weapons to Myanmar Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam and Myanmar's UN Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who speaks for the country's elected civilian government, voted in support of the resolution, while Brunei, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand abstained. An initial draft UN resolution included stronger language calling for an arms embargo on Myanmar. According to a proposal seen by Reuters in May, nine Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, wanted that language removed. Balakrishnan said ASEAN would not waiver in its commitment to facilitate and support the process in line with the five-point consensus, although it would not be "quick or easy." He said Singapore voted in favour of the UN resolution as the key elements of the resolution are consistent with the city-state's position. Also read | Myanmar rejects UN resolution urging arms embargo He added that Singapore complies strictly with international obligations on international arms sales and transfers, and abides by UN sanctions or embargo against any country.

Singapore says ASEAN aims to speed up plan to end Myanmar crisis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Singapore+allows+Sinovac+shots+but+casts+doubt+on+their+effectiveness">Singapore</a> is set to further lift COVID-19 restrictions allowing up to five people to dine together from next Monday.

The country has put strict coronavirus guidelines and vaccinated at least half of its population with one dose with the government declaring it would get at least two-thirds of the population fully vaccinated by August 9.

Singapore had moved towards heightened alert in May to control the spread of the virus as it aimed to reduce <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-to-ease-curbs-as-virus-cases-fall-390641">virus</a> transmission.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/singapore-airlines-posts-record-32-billion-annual-loss-386184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country successfully battled the outbreak for a month as meetings were allowed between five people as restaurants were allowed to reopen with groups of two people allowed inside.

Authorities are now aiming to reduce the virus into influenza by ramping up vaccination drive. The health officials will now&nbsp;track infections with the purpose of treating people with testing carried out for quarantining people.

Finance minister Lawrence Wong had emphasised earlier that the government expected to open up further after virus clusters were discovered in mid-May primarily in Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Changi airport.&nbsp;

Health officials have been inoculating citizens with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines although China's Sinovac vaccine was allowed by private healthcare institutions after the World Health Organization (WHO) gave emergency use authorisation. However, the authorities are awaiting data from Sinovac before adding it nationally into its vaccination programme.

The authorities had said last month that the Delta variant was the most prevalent with several cases detected in May, however, infections began falling from June as relaxation measures were undertaken in mid-June.

Singapore has reported 62,000 coronavirus cases and just&nbsp;34 deaths.

(With inputs from Agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Singapore is set to further lift COVID-19 restrictions allowing up to five people to dine together from next Monday. The country has put strict coronavirus guidelines and vaccinated at least half of its population with one dose with the government declaring it would get at least two-thirds of the population fully vaccinated by August 9.

Singapore is set to further lift COVID-19 restrictions allowing up to five people to dine together from next Monday. The country has put strict coronavirus guidelines and vaccinated at least half of its population with one dose with the government declaring it would get at least two-thirds of the population fully vaccinated by August 9. Singapore had moved towards heightened alert in May to control the spread of the virus as it aimed to reduce virus transmission. Watch: The country successfully battled the outbreak for a month as meetings were allowed between five people as restaurants were allowed to reopen with groups of two people allowed inside. Authorities are now aiming to reduce the virus into influenza by ramping up vaccination drive. The health officials will now track infections with the purpose of treating people with testing carried out for quarantining people. Finance minister Lawrence Wong had emphasised earlier that the government expected to open up further after virus clusters were discovered in mid-May primarily in Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Changi airport. Health officials have been inoculating citizens with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines although China's Sinovac vaccine was allowed by private healthcare institutions after the World Health Organization (WHO) gave emergency use authorisation. However, the authorities are awaiting data from Sinovac before adding it nationally into its vaccination programme. The authorities had said last month that the Delta variant was the most prevalent with several cases detected in May, however, infections began falling from June as relaxation measures were undertaken in mid-June. Singapore has reported 62,000 coronavirus cases and just 34 deaths. (With inputs from Agencies)

Singapore set to relax more COVID-19 restrictions

A reformed gang member points out what were once opium dens and brothels on a tour of&nbsp;Singapore's financial district that explores the squeaky-clean Asian business hub's seedy criminal past.&nbsp;

Now known for its clockwork orderliness and having one of the world's lowest crime rates, the city-state was once a gritty port plagued by rival mobsters.

"This was the headquarters of the biggest gang in&nbsp;Singapore," says tour guide Bruce Mathieu, gesturing at a quiet street now housing restaurants, a hair salon and brightly coloured murals.&nbsp;

He recalled wandering the area as a child during the 1970s, among street food vendors pushing carts, gambling halls, and the distinctive smell of opium wafting down to the street from illicit upper-floor dens.

Singapore's gangland history traces its roots to so-called "secret societies" formed by Chinese immigrants when they flocked to work in&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;after it became a key British trading post in the 1800s.

The massive influx from China swelled the city's population, and their descendants now form the bulk of its citizens.

The groups played an important role by providing the army of newcomers with a social network, help finding jobs -- and protection.&nbsp;

"When secret societies, or triads, first started locally in the 1800s, it was more for survival than anything else," said Mathieu, a Singaporean whose mother is from the city-state but whose father is of French descent.

Chinese immigrants had to join secret societies to avoid "getting bullied, getting robbed, getting killed", he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unstoppable-182-unmarked-graves-found-at-third-canadian-school-395019">Also Read |&nbsp;'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school&nbsp;</a>

The societies were a "prominent feature of life" for the Chinese immigrants, but they also became associated with human trafficking, prostitution, kidnappings, the opium trade, and waves of violent riots, said Jean Abshire, author of "The History of&nbsp;Singapore".&nbsp;

Despite their description, they were far from secret and drew huge followings -- at the end of 1889, they had around 68,000 members, according to a history published by the National Heritage Board.&nbsp;

Life of crime

In the following decades, crackdowns and new laws -- including one that in 1958 gave authorities the power to detain suspected criminals without trial -- cleaned up the city and diminished the gangs' influence.

Since&nbsp;Singapore's independence in 1965, it has undergone a dramatic transformation into a wealthy society and leading financial hub.

Remnants of the gangs live on and criminal cases are still regularly linked to them -- but nowhere near the scale of the past.

Besides sharing historical tidbits, Mathieu candidly recounts his life of crime and drug addiction in the hope it will keep others from making the same mistakes.&nbsp;

The ex-gang member has spent about 20 years in prison for drug possession, robbery, assault, stabbing, theft and forgery.

Corporal punishment is still used to punish some offences in&nbsp;Singapore, and Mathieu also endured 21 strokes of the cane for his crimes.

'Machete on my neck'

Members of the tour gasped as the 51-year-old recalled his first gang fight at the age of 12 -- after his friend was stabbed, he ran over to try to stop the bleeding with his t-shirt.&nbsp;

He shied away from specifics about his former gang's activities but vividly described his initiation ritual to the group.&nbsp;

"I'm kneeling down, there's a guy with a machete on my neck. At any point in time, if I get nervous and recite (a loyalty oath) wrongly... I kid you not, the machete would be brought down."

During his last stint in prison, which ended five years ago, the pain of being separated from his young daughter motivated him to quit drugs and leave his gang.&nbsp;

He now works as a motivational speaker and helps lead the popular "Triad Trails" tour to fight stereotypes about ex-offenders, an initiative partly organised by a non-profit group supporting former inmates.

"My favourite thing is actually the conversation with Bruce," said Gabriel Neo, a 31-year-old banker on the tour.&nbsp;

"How he managed to pick himself up from the lowest point of his life... is a very valuable lesson that I can learn from."

A reformed gang member points out what were once opium dens and brothels on a tour of Singapore's financial district that explores the squeaky-clean Asian business hub's seedy criminal past.

A reformed gang member points out what were once opium dens and brothels on a tour of Singapore's financial district that explores the squeaky-clean Asian business hub's seedy criminal past. Now known for its clockwork orderliness and having one of the world's lowest crime rates, the city-state was once a gritty port plagued by rival mobsters. "This was the headquarters of the biggest gang in Singapore," says tour guide Bruce Mathieu, gesturing at a quiet street now housing restaurants, a hair salon and brightly coloured murals. He recalled wandering the area as a child during the 1970s, among street food vendors pushing carts, gambling halls, and the distinctive smell of opium wafting down to the street from illicit upper-floor dens. Singapore's gangland history traces its roots to so-called "secret societies" formed by Chinese immigrants when they flocked to work in Singapore after it became a key British trading post in the 1800s. The massive influx from China swelled the city's population, and their descendants now form the bulk of its citizens. The groups played an important role by providing the army of newcomers with a social network, help finding jobs -- and protection. "When secret societies, or triads, first started locally in the 1800s, it was more for survival than anything else," said Mathieu, a Singaporean whose mother is from the city-state but whose father is of French descent. Chinese immigrants had to join secret societies to avoid "getting bullied, getting robbed, getting killed", he added. Also Read | 'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school The societies were a "prominent feature of life" for the Chinese immigrants, but they also became associated with human trafficking, prostitution, kidnappings, the opium trade, and waves of violent riots, said Jean Abshire, author of "The History of Singapore". Despite their description, they were far from secret and drew huge followings -- at the end of 1889, they had around 68,000 members, according to a history published by the National Heritage Board. Life of crime In the following decades, crackdowns and new laws -- including one that in 1958 gave authorities the power to detain suspected criminals without trial -- cleaned up the city and diminished the gangs' influence. Since Singapore's independence in 1965, it has undergone a dramatic transformation into a wealthy society and leading financial hub. Remnants of the gangs live on and criminal cases are still regularly linked to them -- but nowhere near the scale of the past. Besides sharing historical tidbits, Mathieu candidly recounts his life of crime and drug addiction in the hope it will keep others from making the same mistakes. The ex-gang member has spent about 20 years in prison for drug possession, robbery, assault, stabbing, theft and forgery. Corporal punishment is still used to punish some offences in Singapore, and Mathieu also endured 21 strokes of the cane for his crimes. 'Machete on my neck' Members of the tour gasped as the 51-year-old recalled his first gang fight at the age of 12 -- after his friend was stabbed, he ran over to try to stop the bleeding with his t-shirt. He shied away from specifics about his former gang's activities but vividly described his initiation ritual to the group. "I'm kneeling down, there's a guy with a machete on my neck. At any point in time, if I get nervous and recite (a loyalty oath) wrongly... I kid you not, the machete would be brought down." During his last stint in prison, which ended five years ago, the pain of being separated from his young daughter motivated him to quit drugs and leave his gang. He now works as a motivational speaker and helps lead the popular "Triad Trails" tour to fight stereotypes about ex-offenders, an initiative partly organised by a non-profit group supporting former inmates. "My favourite thing is actually the conversation with Bruce," said Gabriel Neo, a 31-year-old banker on the tour. "How he managed to pick himself up from the lowest point of his life... is a very valuable lesson that I can learn from."

Triad tour shines light on Singapore's gangland past

Singapore and Bhutan have signed a new pact for the establishment of Model Technical Training Centres (MTTC) in the Technical Training Institute (TTI) of Thimphu and TTI of Khuruthang for skilling and training Bhutanese youth.

The two&nbsp;MTTCs will offer training to Bhutan's next generation in Automotive Technology (AT) and Facility Technology - Mechanical &amp; Electrical (FT-ME).

The pact was signed by Director of Bilateral Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan Sonam Tobgay and Singapore's envoy to Bhutan&nbsp;Simon Wong. The pact was signed virtually and&nbsp;aims at supporting post-Covid economic recovery.

Pointing to the "shared understanding that human capital is a key resource", Simon Wong said: " It is timely for us to launch this collaboration now, as we look to emerge from the global pandemic. It will complement Bhutan’s broad efforts in enabling the youth of the nation to fulfil their potential.”

The Automotive Technology (AT) programme will be implemented at MTTC Thimphu and the Facility Technology - Mechanical &amp; Electrical (FT-ME)&nbsp;programmes will be implemented at MTTC Khuruthang. Both the centres can train a total of 160 students each year. Envoy Simon Wong said, “His Majesty the King’s clear and forward-looking vision for Bhutan, and his support for the Singapore-Bhutan relationship, have made this initiative possible.”

It was Bhutanese&nbsp;King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's visit to&nbsp;the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), Singapore&nbsp;in 2015 which resulted in increased exchanges between Bhutan and Singapore on technical and vocational education and training.

Singapore and Bhutan have signed a new pact for the establishment of Model Technical Training Centres (MTTC) in the Technical Training Institute (TTI) of Thimphu and TTI of Khuruthang for skilling and training Bhutanese youth.

Singapore and Bhutan have signed a new pact for the establishment of Model Technical Training Centres (MTTC) in the Technical Training Institute (TTI) of Thimphu and TTI of Khuruthang for skilling and training Bhutanese youth. The two MTTCs will offer training to Bhutan's next generation in Automotive Technology (AT) and Facility Technology - Mechanical & Electrical (FT-ME). The pact was signed by Director of Bilateral Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan Sonam Tobgay and Singapore's envoy to Bhutan Simon Wong. The pact was signed virtually and aims at supporting post-Covid economic recovery. Pointing to the "shared understanding that human capital is a key resource", Simon Wong said: " It is timely for us to launch this collaboration now, as we look to emerge from the global pandemic. It will complement Bhutan’s broad efforts in enabling the youth of the nation to fulfil their potential.” The Automotive Technology (AT) programme will be implemented at MTTC Thimphu and the Facility Technology - Mechanical & Electrical (FT-ME) programmes will be implemented at MTTC Khuruthang. Both the centres can train a total of 160 students each year. Envoy Simon Wong said, “His Majesty the King’s clear and forward-looking vision for Bhutan, and his support for the Singapore-Bhutan relationship, have made this initiative possible.” It was Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's visit to the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), Singapore in 2015 which resulted in increased exchanges between Bhutan and Singapore on technical and vocational education and training.

Singapore to skill Bhutanese youth under new pact

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit. 
 
Since completing its exit from the European Union at the end of last year, Britain has been pressing ahead with new trade deals especially with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, with the most recent agreement signed with Australia. 
 
Digital trade is seen as key by the government to support British tech companies in capitalising on investment opportunities abroad to try to help a post-COVID recovery. 
 
The government said any agreement with Singapore could remove barriers to digital trade and enable British exporters to expand into high-tech markets. The talks will be kicked off in a video call. 
 
"A cutting-edge deal with Singapore will keep us at the forefront of the technological revolution, ensuring we lead the way in digitally delivered trade and industries like fintech and cybersecurity," British trade minister Liz Truss said. 
 
"The UK will be the first European country to ever negotiate a Digital Economy Agreement, which shows what we can do as a sovereign trading nation," she said in a statement. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit.

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit. Since completing its exit from the European Union at the end of last year, Britain has been pressing ahead with new trade deals especially with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, with the most recent agreement signed with Australia. Digital trade is seen as key by the government to support British tech companies in capitalising on investment opportunities abroad to try to help a post-COVID recovery. The government said any agreement with Singapore could remove barriers to digital trade and enable British exporters to expand into high-tech markets. The talks will be kicked off in a video call. "A cutting-edge deal with Singapore will keep us at the forefront of the technological revolution, ensuring we lead the way in digitally delivered trade and industries like fintech and cybersecurity," British trade minister Liz Truss said. "The UK will be the first European country to ever negotiate a Digital Economy Agreement, which shows what we can do as a sovereign trading nation," she said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, Singapore launch talks on digital trade agreement

Some people in Singapore on Friday began receiving the COVID vaccine manufactured by the Chinese company Sinovac at private clinics, even as one of the city-state’s top health officials cast doubt on its effectiveness.

Singapore allowed 24 private health clinics to administer the vaccine after the World Health Organization authorized it for emergency use this month. But even though initial demand for the shot appeared to be strong, Singapore’s government has so far stopped short of adding it to the national vaccination program.

One reason that people in Singapore and elsewhere would choose to get a Sinovac shot even when more effective vaccines are available is that they are from mainland China or plan to travel there. Chinese state media organizations have been waging a misinformation campaign that questions the safety of American-made vaccines, and Beijing has said that foreigners who receive Chinese shots will have an easier time getting into the country.

Kenneth Mak, Singapore’s director of medical services, on Friday told reporters that he worried about reports from other countries of people becoming sick with COVID even after receiving the Sinovac shot. He cited cases in Indonesia, where officials said this past week that dozens of doctors and other health workers who had received Sinovac in one district had been hospitalized.

“It does give the impression that the efficacy of different vaccines will vary quite significantly,” Mak said.

Studies have shown that the vaccines manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna — the only ones in Singapore’s national program so far — are 90% effective at preventing infections in real-world conditions. There have been rare reports of severe COVID in people who have been fully vaccinated with those shots.

Other studies indicate that so-called breakthrough infections in people who are given Chinese vaccines, including the one made by Sinovac, are more common than they are in people who receive the Pfizer or Moderna shots. Studies of Phase 3 trials of Sinovac’s vaccine, called CoronaVac, around the world have reported an effect of between 50% and 84%.

When WHO endorsed Sinovac’s vaccine for emergency use this month, the agency said that it was only 51% effective at preventing symptomatic disease.

The Chinese vaccines are still considered to be very effective against severe disease, but scientists have warned that developing nations that choose to use them could end up lagging behind countries that select Pfizer or Moderna.

Singapore has been averaging about 20 new coronavirus cases a day over the past week, according to a New York Times database. More than a third of the city’s 5.7 million people have been fully vaccinated and nearly half have received at least one COVID shot. The government expects to complete vaccinations by the end of the year.

Some people in Singapore on Friday began receiving the COVID vaccine manufactured by the Chinese company Sinovac at private clinics, even as one of the city-state’s top health officials cast doubt on its effectiveness.

Some people in Singapore on Friday began receiving the COVID vaccine manufactured by the Chinese company Sinovac at private clinics, even as one of the city-state’s top health officials cast doubt on its effectiveness. Singapore allowed 24 private health clinics to administer the vaccine after the World Health Organization authorized it for emergency use this month. But even though initial demand for the shot appeared to be strong, Singapore’s government has so far stopped short of adding it to the national vaccination program. One reason that people in Singapore and elsewhere would choose to get a Sinovac shot even when more effective vaccines are available is that they are from mainland China or plan to travel there. Chinese state media organizations have been waging a misinformation campaign that questions the safety of American-made vaccines, and Beijing has said that foreigners who receive Chinese shots will have an easier time getting into the country. Kenneth Mak, Singapore’s director of medical services, on Friday told reporters that he worried about reports from other countries of people becoming sick with COVID even after receiving the Sinovac shot. He cited cases in Indonesia, where officials said this past week that dozens of doctors and other health workers who had received Sinovac in one district had been hospitalized. “It does give the impression that the efficacy of different vaccines will vary quite significantly,” Mak said. Studies have shown that the vaccines manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna — the only ones in Singapore’s national program so far — are 90% effective at preventing infections in real-world conditions. There have been rare reports of severe COVID in people who have been fully vaccinated with those shots. Other studies indicate that so-called breakthrough infections in people who are given Chinese vaccines, including the one made by Sinovac, are more common than they are in people who receive the Pfizer or Moderna shots. Studies of Phase 3 trials of Sinovac’s vaccine, called CoronaVac, around the world have reported an effect of between 50% and 84%. When WHO endorsed Sinovac’s vaccine for emergency use this month, the agency said that it was only 51% effective at preventing symptomatic disease. The Chinese vaccines are still considered to be very effective against severe disease, but scientists have warned that developing nations that choose to use them could end up lagging behind countries that select Pfizer or Moderna. Singapore has been averaging about 20 new coronavirus cases a day over the past week, according to a New York Times database. More than a third of the city’s 5.7 million people have been fully vaccinated and nearly half have received at least one COVID shot. The government expects to complete vaccinations by the end of the year.

Singapore allows Sinovac shots but casts doubt on their effectiveness

Singapore's population rose by about 1.1% each year over the past decade, the slowest rate since independence in 1965, the latest census showed on Wednesday, with locals having fewer children and immigration policies tightening. 
 
Just last year, the global financial hub saw its population fall 0.3% to 5.69 million, the first drop since 2003, due to fewer foreign arrivals on the back of travel curbs and job losses brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
Like many other developed countries, Singapore is struggling with the implications of low birth rates and an ageing population. 
 
Residents aged 65 years and over formed 15.2% of the population in 2020, up from 9% in 2010. 
 
Between 2010 and 2020, the number of Singaporean citizens increased to 3.52 million from 3.23 million. But more are staying single and those who marry are having fewer children. 
 
The average number of children born to a resident female, who has been married, aged 40 to 49 years dropped to 1.76 in 2020, from 2.02 in 2010. 
 
The median age of the resident population, which includes citizens and permanent residents, increased to 41.5 years in 2020 from 37.4 years in 2010, the latest census showed. 
 
Authorities have also been accelerating immigration restrictions since the 2011 general elections when the ruling People's Action Party polled a record low share of the popular vote, hurt by citizens' anxiety over an influx of foreigners. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Singapore's population rose by about 1.1% each year over the past decade, the slowest rate since independence in 1965, the latest census showed on Wednesday, with locals having fewer children and immigration policies tightening.

Singapore's population rose by about 1.1% each year over the past decade, the slowest rate since independence in 1965, the latest census showed on Wednesday, with locals having fewer children and immigration policies tightening. Just last year, the global financial hub saw its population fall 0.3% to 5.69 million, the first drop since 2003, due to fewer foreign arrivals on the back of travel curbs and job losses brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. Like many other developed countries, Singapore is struggling with the implications of low birth rates and an ageing population. Residents aged 65 years and over formed 15.2% of the population in 2020, up from 9% in 2010. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of Singaporean citizens increased to 3.52 million from 3.23 million. But more are staying single and those who marry are having fewer children. The average number of children born to a resident female, who has been married, aged 40 to 49 years dropped to 1.76 in 2020, from 2.02 in 2010. The median age of the resident population, which includes citizens and permanent residents, increased to 41.5 years in 2020 from 37.4 years in 2010, the latest census showed. Authorities have also been accelerating immigration restrictions since the 2011 general elections when the ruling People's Action Party polled a record low share of the popular vote, hurt by citizens' anxiety over an influx of foreigners. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore records slowest decade of population growth since independence

Singapore&nbsp;will begin slowly easing a month-long partial lockdown from next week after the curbs succeeded in stemming a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> outbreak, authorities said Thursday.

The city-state has weathered the pandemic largely unscathed but saw an uptick in local transmissions in recent weeks as new variants spread.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-singapore-finds-delta-most-prevalent-among-coronavirus-variants-locally-390316">COVID-19: Singapore finds delta most prevalent among coronavirus variants locally</a>

Fresh restrictions were introduced in mid-May, including a cap on the size of social gatherings at two, the closure of schools and a ban on dining-in at restaurants.&nbsp;

With cases falling steadily, maximum sizes for gatherings will be lifted to five from Monday, and bigger groups will be allowed at events such as live performances.

If the situation remains under control, more restrictions will be lifted from June 21, including a resumption of restaurant dine-ins, while people will be allowed to work out at gyms without masks.

However, employees who can work from home must continue to do so.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapores-death-toll-from-covid-19-tops-casualties-in-sars-outbreak-390385">Singapore's death toll from COVID-19 tops casualties in SARS outbreak</a>

Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong, a member of a government task force dealing with the virus, said the city-state's outbreak was now "under control".

"Over the last few weeks, the number of COVID-19 cases... has fallen progressively, fewer clusters are emerging and (are) generally smaller clusters."

Schools have been closed since last month amid fears that new variants were affecting youngsters more.

The&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;outbreak led to the cancellation, for the second time, of a quarantine-free travel corridor with Hong Kong.&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;said the plan would be reviewed again in early July.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-virus-surge-singapore-set-to-vaccinate-students-from-june-3-388595">Amid virus surge, Singapore set to vaccinate students from June 3</a>

At the start of the pandemic,&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;saw sizeable outbreaks in crowded dormitories housing low-paid foreign workers that infected tens of thousands.&nbsp;

But by global standards, its experience with the virus has been mild. Officials in the city of 5.7 million have reported about 62,000 cases so far and 34 deaths.

Singapore will begin slowly easing a month-long partial lockdown from next week after the curbs succeeded in stemming a coronavirus outbreak, authorities said Thursday.

Singapore will begin slowly easing a month-long partial lockdown from next week after the curbs succeeded in stemming a coronavirus outbreak, authorities said Thursday. The city-state has weathered the pandemic largely unscathed but saw an uptick in local transmissions in recent weeks as new variants spread. Also read | COVID-19: Singapore finds delta most prevalent among coronavirus variants locally Fresh restrictions were introduced in mid-May, including a cap on the size of social gatherings at two, the closure of schools and a ban on dining-in at restaurants. With cases falling steadily, maximum sizes for gatherings will be lifted to five from Monday, and bigger groups will be allowed at events such as live performances. If the situation remains under control, more restrictions will be lifted from June 21, including a resumption of restaurant dine-ins, while people will be allowed to work out at gyms without masks. However, employees who can work from home must continue to do so. Also read | Singapore's death toll from COVID-19 tops casualties in SARS outbreak Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong, a member of a government task force dealing with the virus, said the city-state's outbreak was now "under control". "Over the last few weeks, the number of COVID-19 cases... has fallen progressively, fewer clusters are emerging and (are) generally smaller clusters." Schools have been closed since last month amid fears that new variants were affecting youngsters more. The Singapore outbreak led to the cancellation, for the second time, of a quarantine-free travel corridor with Hong Kong. Singapore said the plan would be reviewed again in early July. Also read | Amid virus surge, Singapore set to vaccinate students from June 3 At the start of the pandemic, Singapore saw sizeable outbreaks in crowded dormitories housing low-paid foreign workers that infected tens of thousands. But by global standards, its experience with the virus has been mild. Officials in the city of 5.7 million have reported about 62,000 cases so far and 34 deaths.

Singapore to ease curbs as virus cases fall

Why are countries like Singapore banning women from freezing their eggs? WION's Palki Sharma says when it comes to women, the reproductive cycle and career cycle clash, women should be allowed to exercise their reproductive rights.

Gravitas: Why has Singapore banned freezing of eggs for women?

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