Singapore&nbsp;has temporarily halted the use of two influenza vaccines as a precaution after some people who received them in South Korea died, becoming among the first countries to publicly announce a halt of the vaccines' usage.

South Korea reported that 48 have died as of Saturday after getting flu shots, but said it would carry on with the state-run vaccination programme as they found no direct link between the deaths and the shots.

No deaths associated with influenza vaccination have been reported in&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;to date, but the decision to halt the use of SKYCellflu Quadrivalent and VaxigripTetra was precautionary, the health ministry and the Health Sciences Authority (HAS) said in a statement late on Sunday.

The HSA is in touch with the South Korean authorities for further information as they investigate to determine if the deaths are related to influenza vaccinations.

SKYCellflu Quadrivalent is manufactured by South Korea's SK Bioscience and locally distributed by AJ Biologics, while VaxigripTetra is manufactured by Sanofi&nbsp;and locally distributed by Sanofi Aventis.

Two other influenza vaccines that have been brought into&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;for the Northern Hemisphere 2020/21 influenza season may continue to be used,&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;health authorities said.

Singapore has temporarily halted the use of two influenza vaccines as a precaution after some people who received them in South Korea died, becoming among the first countries to publicly announce a halt of the vaccines' usage.

Singapore has temporarily halted the use of two influenza vaccines as a precaution after some people who received them in South Korea died, becoming among the first countries to publicly announce a halt of the vaccines' usage. South Korea reported that 48 have died as of Saturday after getting flu shots, but said it would carry on with the state-run vaccination programme as they found no direct link between the deaths and the shots. No deaths associated with influenza vaccination have been reported in Singapore to date, but the decision to halt the use of SKYCellflu Quadrivalent and VaxigripTetra was precautionary, the health ministry and the Health Sciences Authority (HAS) said in a statement late on Sunday. The HSA is in touch with the South Korean authorities for further information as they investigate to determine if the deaths are related to influenza vaccinations. SKYCellflu Quadrivalent is manufactured by South Korea's SK Bioscience and locally distributed by AJ Biologics, while VaxigripTetra is manufactured by Sanofi and locally distributed by Sanofi Aventis. Two other influenza vaccines that have been brought into Singapore for the Northern Hemisphere 2020/21 influenza season may continue to be used, Singapore health authorities said.

Singapore temporarily halts use of two flu vaccines after South Korea deaths

Singapore has temporarily halted the use of two influenza vaccines as a precaution after some people who received them in South Korea died, becoming among the first countries to publicly announce a halt of the vaccines' usage.

South Korea reported that 48 have died as of Saturday after getting flu shots, but said it would carry on with the state-run vaccination programme as they found no direct link between the deaths and the shots.

No deaths associated with influenza vaccination have been reported in Singapore to date, but the decision to halt the use of SKYCellflu Quadrivalent and VaxigripTetra was precautionary, the health ministry and the Health Sciences Authority (HAS) said in a statement late on Sunday.

The HSA is in touch with the South Korean authorities for further information as they investigate to determine if the deaths are related to influenza vaccinations.

SKYCellflu Quadrivalent is manufactured by South Korea's SK Bioscience and locally distributed by AJ Biologics, while VaxigripTetra is manufactured by Sanofi and locally distributed by Sanofi Aventis.

Two other influenza vaccines that have been brought into Singapore for the Northern Hemisphere 2020/21 influenza season may continue to be used, Singapore health authorities said.

More than 140,000 companies with 1.9 million local employees here will receive Singapore dollars 5.5 billion (USD 4.5 billion) this month as part of a jobs scheme to help them retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic that has upended life and businesses across the globe.

The latest payout is Singapore dollars 1.5 billion more than the last round of disbursement in July, according to a Channel News Asia report.

First announced by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat in February's Budget, the Jobs Support Scheme (JSS), to be implemented from October 29, is a wage subsidy programme aimed at helping companies retain their workers as businesses have taken a hit from the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the October payouts, more than Singapore dollars 21.5 billion (USD 15.8) in JSS support would have been given out, said the Ministry of Finance and Inland Revenue Authority.

Meanwhile, Singapore reported four imported COVID-19 cases on Monday, all of whom have been placed under the Stay-Home Notice (SHN), taking the national tally to 57,915.

There was no locally transmitted coronavirus case, said the Ministry of Health (MOH).

The five imported cases, reported on Sunday, came from the Philippines, Greece, France and Guatemala. &nbsp;They are under SHN.

There are currently 40 confirmed cases in hospital and 36 are isolated and cared for at community facilities for mild symptoms.

Nine COVID-19 patients were discharged from hospitals and community facilities on Sunday, taking the recoveries to 57,807.

Separately, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suspended operations of Hawaii Hostel from October 11 to November 9 for failing to comply with safe management measures.

The hostel is not permitted to accept new bookings or accept check-ins for the duration of its suspension.

Under the COVID-19 measures act, such first-time offenders face a fine of up to Singapore dollars 10,000.

Subsequent offences may result in a fine of up to Singapore dollars 20,000, said STB.

More than 140,000 companies with 1.9 million local employees here will receive Singapore dollars 5.5 billion (USD 4.5 billion) this month as part of a jobs scheme to help them retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic that has upended life and businesses across the globe.

More than 140,000 companies with 1.9 million local employees here will receive Singapore dollars 5.5 billion (USD 4.5 billion) this month as part of a jobs scheme to help them retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic that has upended life and businesses across the globe. The latest payout is Singapore dollars 1.5 billion more than the last round of disbursement in July, according to a Channel News Asia report. First announced by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat in February's Budget, the Jobs Support Scheme (JSS), to be implemented from October 29, is a wage subsidy programme aimed at helping companies retain their workers as businesses have taken a hit from the COVID-19 pandemic. With the October payouts, more than Singapore dollars 21.5 billion (USD 15.8) in JSS support would have been given out, said the Ministry of Finance and Inland Revenue Authority. Meanwhile, Singapore reported four imported COVID-19 cases on Monday, all of whom have been placed under the Stay-Home Notice (SHN), taking the national tally to 57,915. There was no locally transmitted coronavirus case, said the Ministry of Health (MOH). The five imported cases, reported on Sunday, came from the Philippines, Greece, France and Guatemala. They are under SHN. There are currently 40 confirmed cases in hospital and 36 are isolated and cared for at community facilities for mild symptoms. Nine COVID-19 patients were discharged from hospitals and community facilities on Sunday, taking the recoveries to 57,807. Separately, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suspended operations of Hawaii Hostel from October 11 to November 9 for failing to comply with safe management measures. The hostel is not permitted to accept new bookings or accept check-ins for the duration of its suspension. Under the COVID-19 measures act, such first-time offenders face a fine of up to Singapore dollars 10,000. Subsequent offences may result in a fine of up to Singapore dollars 20,000, said STB.

Singapore to give SGD 5.5 billion to 140,000 companies to help them during COVID-19 pandemic

Singapore's September exports rise 5.9% y-o-y, slower than the forecasts. On a seasonally adjusted month-on-month basis, exports contracted 11.3% in September after a 10.5% rise in the previous month.

Singapore exports rise slower than expected: 10.8% rise in exports expected by economists

People are now paying to eat airline meals, but on the ground! We truly live in uncanny times.&nbsp;

Singapore Airlines, whose fleet has been rendered inoperable owing to the COVID-19 pandemic has capitalised on a food fetish for economic reprieve.

Hundreds of passengers are now paying Singapore Airlines the equivalent of a budget ticket to eat a meal inside grounded planes: A380 jumbos in specific.

World's biggest passenger jet

People are paying upto $470 for a taste of travelling! The “passengers” can dine on the world’s biggest passenger jet for SG $642.

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the aviation industry into a crisis, with many being laid off, and the number of flights in air decreasing in the face of the pressure.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/worlds-10-safest-airlines-to-travel-in-2020-283019" hreflang="en">World's 10 safest airlines to travel in 2020</a>

Due to this, companies are looking for other means to resuscitate the industry. Many are offering tours of aircraft, or a flying experience without the flight.

Thousands of jobs have been cut by Singapore Airlines in the aftermath of the pandemic, and almost all of its aircraft are grounded. To find some reprieve, the airlines has turned one of its A380s into a pop-up restaurant, serving customers a taste of airline meals.

Mission successful&nbsp;

According to the Straits Times, this proved successful. All 900 seats for October 24 and 25 sold out within half an hour.

Owing to “overwhelming demand”, the carrier has decided to keep the restaurant open for two extra days. Customers can now have lunch and dinner on all four dates.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/how-tourism-is-making-a-return-in-times-of-coronavirus-310236" hreflang="en">How tourism is making a return in times of coronavirus</a>

The Airlines is offering a variety of meals, with the most expensive being a four-course meal in a first-class suite. The cheapest meal costs SG$53 and consists of a three-course meal in economy class.

However, social distancing norms are being followed, with about half of the seats being left empty on the jets, which are parked at Changi Airport.

It gets better! Singapore Airlines is now also delivering plane meals to people’s homes.

People are now paying to eat airline meals, but on the ground! We truly live in uncanny times. Singapore Airlines, whose fleet has been rendered inoperable owing to the COVID-19 pandemic has capitalised on a food fetish for economic reprieve.

People are now paying to eat airline meals, but on the ground! We truly live in uncanny times. Singapore Airlines, whose fleet has been rendered inoperable owing to the COVID-19 pandemic has capitalised on a food fetish for economic reprieve. Hundreds of passengers are now paying Singapore Airlines the equivalent of a budget ticket to eat a meal inside grounded planes: A380 jumbos in specific. World's biggest passenger jet People are paying upto $470 for a taste of travelling! The “passengers” can dine on the world’s biggest passenger jet for SG $642. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the aviation industry into a crisis, with many being laid off, and the number of flights in air decreasing in the face of the pressure. In Pics: World's 10 safest airlines to travel in 2020 Due to this, companies are looking for other means to resuscitate the industry. Many are offering tours of aircraft, or a flying experience without the flight. Thousands of jobs have been cut by Singapore Airlines in the aftermath of the pandemic, and almost all of its aircraft are grounded. To find some reprieve, the airlines has turned one of its A380s into a pop-up restaurant, serving customers a taste of airline meals. Mission successful According to the Straits Times, this proved successful. All 900 seats for October 24 and 25 sold out within half an hour. Owing to “overwhelming demand”, the carrier has decided to keep the restaurant open for two extra days. Customers can now have lunch and dinner on all four dates. In Pics: How tourism is making a return in times of coronavirus The Airlines is offering a variety of meals, with the most expensive being a four-course meal in a first-class suite. The cheapest meal costs SG$53 and consists of a three-course meal in economy class. However, social distancing norms are being followed, with about half of the seats being left empty on the jets, which are parked at Changi Airport. It gets better! Singapore Airlines is now also delivering plane meals to people’s homes.

People are paying a hefty amount to eat on board a grounded Singapore Airlines' jumbo jet

Singapore is offering a “pandemic baby bonus” to encourage folks to have infants during the coronavirus pandemic.

Singapore offers ‘pandemic baby bonus’ to boost birth rate

Coronavirus has had&nbsp;economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions.&nbsp;

Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment&nbsp;for the eligible couples.

Singapore has one of the lowest birth rates in the world. And the country has not had much success in boosting it.

Singapore's Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was quoted by the BBC to say that the government had received reports about couples postponing plans of parenthood due to adverse financial situation caused by coronavirus pandemic.

Singapore currently pays upto USD 7330 in benefits under its baby bonus system.

No announcement as to exact amount of the fresh benefits has been made and the deputy prime minister said that this will be announced at a later date.

BBC reported that Singapore's birth rate touched an 8-year low in 2018. The birth rate was 1.14 births per woman.

Coronavirus has had economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions. Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment for the eligible couples.

Coronavirus has had economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions. Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment for the eligible couples. Singapore has one of the lowest birth rates in the world. And the country has not had much success in boosting it. Singapore's Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was quoted by the BBC to say that the government had received reports about couples postponing plans of parenthood due to adverse financial situation caused by coronavirus pandemic. Singapore currently pays upto USD 7330 in benefits under its baby bonus system. No announcement as to exact amount of the fresh benefits has been made and the deputy prime minister said that this will be announced at a later date. BBC reported that Singapore's birth rate touched an 8-year low in 2018. The birth rate was 1.14 births per woman.

Singapore to give 'baby bonus' for birth in times of the pandemic

Hidden in the urban jungle of Singapore against a backdrop of high-rise apartments, resides the city's last remaining traditional village - a once-sleepy dwelling that is seeing a recent flurry of activity.

Singapore's last village becomes local tourism hotspot

Ants scurry around in transparent boxes stacked outside a Singaporean store that is tapping into an unlikely but growing local trend of keeping the six-legged creatures as pets.

John Ye says he became fascinated with the "altruistic, compassionate" creepy-crawlies after receiving some as a gift from his brother-in-law.

The 41-year-old eventually ditched a job in electronics distribution to open "Just Ants" in January and cater to fellow enthusiasts.

"I wish to have a place where people can gather and share insights, and share their ant-keeping journey," Ye told AFP.

The shop sells ant farms along with specialist equipment, including mini handheld vacuums for catching the insects, tiny feeding dishes and mealworms used as feed.

It was forced to close for a period due to a coronavirus lockdown earlier this year but has reopened since restrictions were eased, and business is picking up.

It stocks 30 to 40 species, sourced from ant-keeper friends or collected by Ye and his team around Singapore.

Catching the creatures is no easy task. It is usually only possible during so-called "nuptial flights" -- when new queens and winged male ants take to the air in the hope of finding a mate.

- Pets or pests? -

The queen ants are then placed in test tubes or small tanks, where they give birth to a colony of worker ants if they have mated.

Ye's personal collection includes tens of thousands of marauder ants, a species of the creature commonly found across Asia, housed in a large box.

The number of ant aficionados in Singapore is small but growing, according to Ye -- a Facebook group where keepers exchange advice and information has nearly 4,000 members.

But Ye knows he has his work cut out to convince people in Singapore, where ant-keeping is rare, that the creatures are pets and not pests.

Most Singaporeans believe "you should actually not keep ants because ants... are poisonous, they are dirty, disgusting, they carry diseases", he conceded.

"We always fear something that we don't understand."

Beginner ant-keeper Wei Sern Lim visited the shop to buy a box of food and a new home for his colony.

"It's nicer to see the products and a lot more convenient just to have a physical shop," the 30-year-old told AFP.

Others simply turned up to see whether such a shop really existed.

"I'm very tickled, they are actually selling ants as pets -- it's totally unheard of," said visitor Michelle Serio.

Ants scurry around in transparent boxes stacked outside a Singaporean store that is tapping into an unlikely but growing local trend of keeping the six-legged creatures as pets.

Ants scurry around in transparent boxes stacked outside a Singaporean store that is tapping into an unlikely but growing local trend of keeping the six-legged creatures as pets. John Ye says he became fascinated with the "altruistic, compassionate" creepy-crawlies after receiving some as a gift from his brother-in-law. The 41-year-old eventually ditched a job in electronics distribution to open "Just Ants" in January and cater to fellow enthusiasts. "I wish to have a place where people can gather and share insights, and share their ant-keeping journey," Ye told AFP. The shop sells ant farms along with specialist equipment, including mini handheld vacuums for catching the insects, tiny feeding dishes and mealworms used as feed. It was forced to close for a period due to a coronavirus lockdown earlier this year but has reopened since restrictions were eased, and business is picking up. It stocks 30 to 40 species, sourced from ant-keeper friends or collected by Ye and his team around Singapore. Catching the creatures is no easy task. It is usually only possible during so-called "nuptial flights" -- when new queens and winged male ants take to the air in the hope of finding a mate. - Pets or pests? - The queen ants are then placed in test tubes or small tanks, where they give birth to a colony of worker ants if they have mated. Ye's personal collection includes tens of thousands of marauder ants, a species of the creature commonly found across Asia, housed in a large box. The number of ant aficionados in Singapore is small but growing, according to Ye -- a Facebook group where keepers exchange advice and information has nearly 4,000 members. But Ye knows he has his work cut out to convince people in Singapore, where ant-keeping is rare, that the creatures are pets and not pests. Most Singaporeans believe "you should actually not keep ants because ants... are poisonous, they are dirty, disgusting, they carry diseases", he conceded. "We always fear something that we don't understand." Beginner ant-keeper Wei Sern Lim visited the shop to buy a box of food and a new home for his colony. "It's nicer to see the products and a lot more convenient just to have a physical shop," the 30-year-old told AFP. Others simply turned up to see whether such a shop really existed. "I'm very tickled, they are actually selling ants as pets -- it's totally unheard of," said visitor Michelle Serio.

Singaporean 'ant-repreneur' sells tiny six-legged pets

A report on Friday said that a scandal-hit Bellagraph Nova Group in Singapore is still seeking to buy Newcastle United. Also read: Honda to withdraw from Formula One at end of 2021 season The firm, founded by two Singaporean entrepreneurs and a Chinese business partner, announced in August it was in "advanced talks" to buy the English Premier League team.

A report on Friday said that a scandal-hit Bellagraph Nova Group in Singapore is still seeking to buy Newcastle United. Also read: Honda to withdraw from Formula One at end of 2021 season The firm, founded by two Singaporean entrepreneurs and a Chinese business partner, announced in August it was in "advanced talks" to buy the English Premier League team. Despite, a police probe and accusations it doctored photos to falsely show its founders meeting with Barack Obama. Singapore police are also investigating a company which is linked to the Singaporean co-founders, cousins Terence and Nelson Loh after an accounting firm lodged a report over unauthorised signatures on the group's financial statements. The firm's Chinese co-founder Evangeline Shen nonetheless told the BBC the firm was still pushing ahead with its bid, reported to be worth $280 million ($360 million). "We are always in contact and we are still very aggressive on trying to close the deal," she said, adding the company's team recently met a representative of Newcastle's owner. "We started real planning for the club such as whom to hire as trainer and whom to sign for players," she added. Shen did not respond to queries sent to her by AFP. (Inputs from AFP)

Scandal-hit firm in Singapore says still bidding for Newcastle: Reports

A Singaporean opposition politician and lawyer was arrested Friday on suspicion of misappropriating money and harassment, days before a client of his faces a libel case against the city-state's leader.&nbsp;

Lim Tean was handcuffed and escorted from his office as he prepared his client's case against Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and his own lawyer slammed the arrest as "politically motivated".

But police swiftly rejected the allegations as "baseless".

Lim, who heads a political party called Peoples Voice, is accused of misappropriating money awarded by a court to a client, and of harassing a female former employee of his law firm.

Police said they had asked Lim, who stood unsuccessfully as a candidate at general elections in July, to attend an interview last month to assist in investigations but he refused to show up.

"Police had no choice but to arrest Mr Lim Tean in order to conduct the investigations," they said.

Lim is the lawyer for a blogger who has been sued for defamation by Prime Minister Lee. The case has been scheduled for next week, and Lee is expected to take the witness stand.

Singapore officials have long been accused of using financially costly libel suits to silence opponents and political dissent.

But they have said the suits are necessary to defend their integrity.

Peoples Voice is one of several small opposition groups who are seen as no match for the ruling People's Action Party (PAP).

The PAP has governed Singapore uninterrupted for over six decades. While the party has been praised for its successful economic management, critics frequently accuse them of restricting civil liberties. &nbsp;

A Singaporean opposition politician and lawyer was arrested Friday on suspicion of misappropriating money and harassment, days before a client of his faces a libel case against the city-state's leader.

A Singaporean opposition politician and lawyer was arrested Friday on suspicion of misappropriating money and harassment, days before a client of his faces a libel case against the city-state's leader. Lim Tean was handcuffed and escorted from his office as he prepared his client's case against Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and his own lawyer slammed the arrest as "politically motivated". But police swiftly rejected the allegations as "baseless". Lim, who heads a political party called Peoples Voice, is accused of misappropriating money awarded by a court to a client, and of harassing a female former employee of his law firm. Police said they had asked Lim, who stood unsuccessfully as a candidate at general elections in July, to attend an interview last month to assist in investigations but he refused to show up. "Police had no choice but to arrest Mr Lim Tean in order to conduct the investigations," they said. Lim is the lawyer for a blogger who has been sued for defamation by Prime Minister Lee. The case has been scheduled for next week, and Lee is expected to take the witness stand. Singapore officials have long been accused of using financially costly libel suits to silence opponents and political dissent. But they have said the suits are necessary to defend their integrity. Peoples Voice is one of several small opposition groups who are seen as no match for the ruling People's Action Party (PAP). The PAP has governed Singapore uninterrupted for over six decades. While the party has been praised for its successful economic management, critics frequently accuse them of restricting civil liberties.

Singapore opposition politician held ahead of case against prime minister

Simgapore is set to become the first in the world to use facial verification for national identity cards, which will allow citizens to access private and government services.

The service was earlier tested in a bank, and after its successful trial, it is now being rolled out all over the country.

This technology has been designed by a UK-based company called&nbsp;iProov. As per the initial reports, it has been understood that this technology will help not only recognise the&nbsp;face but also test if the concerned person is actually present there.

"You have to make sure that the person is genuinely present when they authenticate, that you're not looking at a photograph or a video or a replayed recording or a deepfake," said Andrew Bud, founder and chief executive of iProov.

The technology will be combined with Singapore's&nbsp;digital identity scheme SingPass, allowing participants to access government services.

"This is the first time that cloud-based face verification has been used to secure the identity of people who are using a national digital identity scheme," said Bud.

Facial verification technology will also help the police authorities get alerted when a criminal walks past.

"Face recognition has all sorts of social implications. Face verification is extremely benign," Bud said.

While the technology is new and exciting for few, some feel it might give access to the government into locals' private matters too.&nbsp;

However, as of now, the government is not planning to regulate or restrict the technology. "We don't really restrict how this digital face verification can be used, as long as it complies with our requirements," said Kwok Quek Sin, senior director of national digital identity at GovTech Singapore.

"And the basic requirement is that it is done with consent and with the awareness of the individual."

Technology partners and companies think many countries, who have a common national identity card/system, might want to join in on this revolutionary idea soon.

Simgapore is set to become the first in the world to use facial verification for national identity cards, which will allow citizens to access private and government services.

Simgapore is set to become the first in the world to use facial verification for national identity cards, which will allow citizens to access private and government services. The service was earlier tested in a bank, and after its successful trial, it is now being rolled out all over the country. This technology has been designed by a UK-based company called iProov. As per the initial reports, it has been understood that this technology will help not only recognise the face but also test if the concerned person is actually present there. "You have to make sure that the person is genuinely present when they authenticate, that you're not looking at a photograph or a video or a replayed recording or a deepfake," said Andrew Bud, founder and chief executive of iProov. The technology will be combined with Singapore's digital identity scheme SingPass, allowing participants to access government services. "This is the first time that cloud-based face verification has been used to secure the identity of people who are using a national digital identity scheme," said Bud. Facial verification technology will also help the police authorities get alerted when a criminal walks past. "Face recognition has all sorts of social implications. Face verification is extremely benign," Bud said. While the technology is new and exciting for few, some feel it might give access to the government into locals' private matters too. However, as of now, the government is not planning to regulate or restrict the technology. "We don't really restrict how this digital face verification can be used, as long as it complies with our requirements," said Kwok Quek Sin, senior director of national digital identity at GovTech Singapore. "And the basic requirement is that it is done with consent and with the awareness of the individual." Technology partners and companies think many countries, who have a common national identity card/system, might want to join in on this revolutionary idea soon.

Singapore becomes first to use facial verification in national ID

Most people just want to get rid of them, but ants have become the primary business for an entrepreneur who is selling them as pets in Singapore. The city state's first shop specializing in pet ants, "Just Ants" opened in late February just as lockdown measures to curb the spread of coronavirus set in, bringing business to a halt.

Pest or pet? Ant farms fascinate Singaporeans

Scientists in Singapore have invented a system that uses the same technology as noise-cancelling headphones to allow residents of crowded cities to keep their windows open while reducing the noise. Watch report.

Noise cancelling headphones for homes: Scientists use noise to fight noise

Representatives from seven former combatant nations, including India, observed the 75th anniversary of the end of the World War II at a war memorial in Singapore on Saturday.

Seventy-five years ago on September 12, 1945, the last major surrender ceremony of Japanese forces was signed at Singapore's City Hall, ending the World War II.

However, the representatives from seven nations separately turned up at the Singapore Cenotaph to pay respects to the fallen due to COVID-19.

Indian High Commissioner P Kumaran paid respects at the memorial to mark the anniversary.

A multi-national remembrance ceremony originally planned for the anniversary at Kranji War Cemetery had to be called off due to restrictions imposed to control the spread of coronavirus.

Despite COVID-19 restrictions scuppering the remembrance ceremony, the representatives of the committee ensured that the memories of the fallen were kept alive.

The original ceremony was to comprises the High Commissions or Embassies of Australia, Canada, India, Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, and Singaporean representatives from the Battlebox, an award-winning war museum in Singapore managed by private heritage consultancy Singapore History Consultants (SHC).

High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and representatives from these seven nations -- former enemy combatants in the Pacific theatre of WWII but now close partners -- honoured the significance of the date on their own, laid wreaths at the Cenotaph at varying times.

While these nations could not come together in an official ceremony this year, the spirit of post-war reconciliation and peace was maintained, said SHC in a release.

Today's multi-national observances continue years of efforts to bring together former combatants to pay respect to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in WWII.

The date, September 12, is significant because the surrender of the Japanese Southern Army to South East Asia Command in Singapore on that day in 1945 was the last major surrender ceremony of WWII.

It terminated not only Japan's military occupation of Southeast Asia, but also the Pacific War and, as a result, the Second World War.

In 2015, Japan joined the remembrance ceremony for the 70th anniversary of the End of WWII at Kranji War Cemetery.

Two years later in 2017, Japan became a member of the organising committee for the 75th anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, a move that was unanimously supported by other Commonwealth countries in the committee.

On Saturday, students of The Japanese School Singapore also made 2,000 tsuru or paper cranes symbolising peace and reconciliation. Staff members laid them alongside the wreaths at the war memorial.&nbsp;

Representatives from seven former combatant nations, including India, observed the 75th anniversary of the end of the World War II at a war memorial in Singapore on Saturday.

Representatives from seven former combatant nations, including India, observed the 75th anniversary of the end of the World War II at a war memorial in Singapore on Saturday. Seventy-five years ago on September 12, 1945, the last major surrender ceremony of Japanese forces was signed at Singapore's City Hall, ending the World War II. However, the representatives from seven nations separately turned up at the Singapore Cenotaph to pay respects to the fallen due to COVID-19. Indian High Commissioner P Kumaran paid respects at the memorial to mark the anniversary. A multi-national remembrance ceremony originally planned for the anniversary at Kranji War Cemetery had to be called off due to restrictions imposed to control the spread of coronavirus. Despite COVID-19 restrictions scuppering the remembrance ceremony, the representatives of the committee ensured that the memories of the fallen were kept alive. The original ceremony was to comprises the High Commissions or Embassies of Australia, Canada, India, Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, and Singaporean representatives from the Battlebox, an award-winning war museum in Singapore managed by private heritage consultancy Singapore History Consultants (SHC). High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and representatives from these seven nations -- former enemy combatants in the Pacific theatre of WWII but now close partners -- honoured the significance of the date on their own, laid wreaths at the Cenotaph at varying times. While these nations could not come together in an official ceremony this year, the spirit of post-war reconciliation and peace was maintained, said SHC in a release. Today's multi-national observances continue years of efforts to bring together former combatants to pay respect to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in WWII. The date, September 12, is significant because the surrender of the Japanese Southern Army to South East Asia Command in Singapore on that day in 1945 was the last major surrender ceremony of WWII. It terminated not only Japan's military occupation of Southeast Asia, but also the Pacific War and, as a result, the Second World War. In 2015, Japan joined the remembrance ceremony for the 70th anniversary of the End of WWII at Kranji War Cemetery. Two years later in 2017, Japan became a member of the organising committee for the 75th anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, a move that was unanimously supported by other Commonwealth countries in the committee. On Saturday, students of The Japanese School Singapore also made 2,000 tsuru or paper cranes symbolising peace and reconciliation. Staff members laid them alongside the wreaths at the war memorial.

Seven nations observe 75th anniversary of end of World War II in Singapore

ByteDance, the owner of popular short-video app TikTok, is planning to invest billions of dollars and recruit hundreds of employees in Singapore over the next three years, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday.

The company’s plans about setting up a new data centre in the city-state is untrue, the source said, adding that the Beijing-based firm had stepped up the purchase of cloud-computing servers in Singapore to backup US&nbsp;data for contingency.

Separately, a company source said TikTok had moved some engineers to Singapore from China, starting this year.

Bloomberg earlier reported&nbsp;that ByteDance was planning to make Singapore its beachhead for the rest of Asia as part of its global expansion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-will-be-no-extension-trump-says-on-tiktok-deadline-326736">Also read|&nbsp;'There will be no extension': Trump says on TikTok deadline</a>

Singapore has been ramping up efforts over the last few years to attract tech firms and investors. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the global trade and transport hub hard, accelerating the need to reinvent itself.

The city-state is likely to become more attractive to companies seeking a neutral ground amid rising tensions between the United States and China, according to analysts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bytedance-may-miss-us-deadline-for-tiktok-deal-says-report-326587">Also read: ByteDance may miss US deadline for TikTok deal, says report</a>

The investment comes as ByteDance is being forced to sell TikTok’s US assets under pressure from the Trump administration, which has cited potential national security risk due to the vast amount of private data the app is compiling on US&nbsp;consumers.

According to a Bloomberg report on Thursday, the company is likely to miss the September 20 deadline imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump for the sale of assets as new Chinese regulations have complicated deal talks with bidders Microsoft Corp and Oracle Corp.

ByteDance, the owner of popular short-video app TikTok, is planning to invest billions of dollars and recruit hundreds of employees in Singapore over the next three years, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday.

ByteDance, the owner of popular short-video app TikTok, is planning to invest billions of dollars and recruit hundreds of employees in Singapore over the next three years, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday. The company’s plans about setting up a new data centre in the city-state is untrue, the source said, adding that the Beijing-based firm had stepped up the purchase of cloud-computing servers in Singapore to backup US data for contingency. Separately, a company source said TikTok had moved some engineers to Singapore from China, starting this year. Bloomberg earlier reported that ByteDance was planning to make Singapore its beachhead for the rest of Asia as part of its global expansion. Also read| 'There will be no extension': Trump says on TikTok deadline Singapore has been ramping up efforts over the last few years to attract tech firms and investors. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the global trade and transport hub hard, accelerating the need to reinvent itself. The city-state is likely to become more attractive to companies seeking a neutral ground amid rising tensions between the United States and China, according to analysts. Also read: ByteDance may miss US deadline for TikTok deal, says report The investment comes as ByteDance is being forced to sell TikTok’s US assets under pressure from the Trump administration, which has cited potential national security risk due to the vast amount of private data the app is compiling on US consumers. According to a Bloomberg report on Thursday, the company is likely to miss the September 20 deadline imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump for the sale of assets as new Chinese regulations have complicated deal talks with bidders Microsoft Corp and Oracle Corp.

ByteDance to invest billions, recruit hundreds in Singapore in three years: Source

The studio lights dim, the band begins to strum, and it's showtime for a Singapore getai concert - a popular form of entertainment in southeast Asia that features songs, skits and over-the-top costumes to celebrate the dead.

Singapore's concert for the dead goes online

Singapore's economy has seen a downfall due to the ongoing pandemic, which has resulted in an increase in the unemployment rate.

The increase in unemployment rate has led to some locals fearing that the immigrants might be 'snatching away' their jobs. However, the SIngapore Prime Minister&nbsp;Lee Hsien Loong has warned these locals against this anti-immigrant sentiment.

In an almost two-hours long speech in the Parliament,&nbsp;Lee Hsien Loong said,&nbsp;"Even as we adjust our work pass policies, we must be careful not to give the wrong impression that we are now closing up and no longer welcoming foreigners."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-origin-pritam-singh-becomes-singapores-first-leader-of-opposition-324412">Also read:&nbsp;Indian-origin Pritam Singh becomes Singapore's first Leader of Opposition</a>

The statement came after Lee's government made some changes in the conditions for work passes for international workers.&nbsp;Last week, it raised the salary threshold for issuing work passes for foreigners, the second hike this year. This has been one of the main decisions taken by Lee's government to promote local hiring.

The government's initiation towards tightening of the inflow of foreigners has led to an increase in dislike towards the international workers in the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-is-battling-record-dengue-outbreak-with-lab-bred-mosquitoes-323766">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes</a>

The city-state's jobless rate has hit a decade-high in recent months, despite the government spending about S$100 billion ($73.47 billion) in support measures for coronasvirus relief.

Lee also mentioned, in his speech, that several Fortune 500 companies want to set up their Asian headquarters in Singapore, and he also made the announcement that a&nbsp;a pharmaceutical firm, which he did not name, wanted to build a vaccine manufacturing facility in the city. However, he added that "for them to come here, they must feel welcome and be allowed to bring in the talent they need."

Singapore's economy has seen a downfall due to the ongoing pandemic, which has resulted in an increase in the unemployment rate. The increase in unemployment rate has led to some locals fearing that the immigrants might be 'snatching away' their jobs.

Singapore's economy has seen a downfall due to the ongoing pandemic, which has resulted in an increase in the unemployment rate. The increase in unemployment rate has led to some locals fearing that the immigrants might be 'snatching away' their jobs. However, the SIngapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has warned these locals against this anti-immigrant sentiment. In an almost two-hours long speech in the Parliament, Lee Hsien Loong said, "Even as we adjust our work pass policies, we must be careful not to give the wrong impression that we are now closing up and no longer welcoming foreigners." Also read: Indian-origin Pritam Singh becomes Singapore's first Leader of Opposition The statement came after Lee's government made some changes in the conditions for work passes for international workers. Last week, it raised the salary threshold for issuing work passes for foreigners, the second hike this year. This has been one of the main decisions taken by Lee's government to promote local hiring. The government's initiation towards tightening of the inflow of foreigners has led to an increase in dislike towards the international workers in the city. Also read: Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes The city-state's jobless rate has hit a decade-high in recent months, despite the government spending about S$100 billion ($73.47 billion) in support measures for coronasvirus relief. Lee also mentioned, in his speech, that several Fortune 500 companies want to set up their Asian headquarters in Singapore, and he also made the announcement that a a pharmaceutical firm, which he did not name, wanted to build a vaccine manufacturing facility in the city. However, he added that "for them to come here, they must feel welcome and be allowed to bring in the talent they need."

Singapore PM warns against anti-immigrant sentiment

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition.

Singh's Workers' Party won 10 parliamentary seats out of the 93 it contested in the July 10 General Election, making it the biggest opposition presence in Singapore's parliamentary history.

As the House began proceedings on Monday, one of the first orders of business was a ministerial statement by the Leader of the House Indranee Rajah on formally recognising Singh, 43, as the country's first Opposition leader.

Addressing Parliament, Singh underlined the need to focus on foreigners and their living conditions. He said how foreign workers are managed and accommodated needs to be improved.

“Their (foreigners) presence gives Singapore a vitality that keeps us economically relevant and also provides jobs and opportunities to our fellow Singaporeans. Many of us count the foreigners in our midst - regardless of race, language or religion - as our friends," Channel News Asia quoted Singh as saying.

“It is precisely because we need foreigners to help power our economy that we need to pay more attention to the Singapore worker... some of whom feel excluded from (the) opportunities created in their homeland," Singh said.

Leader of House Indranee, who is also of Indian-origin from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said, "With more opposition MPs reflecting a 'strong desire among Singaporeans for a greater diversity of views in politics' as noted by the Prime Minister (Lee Hsien Loong) in his swearing-in speech.. It is timely and appropriate that the position of the Leader of the Opposition be more formally recognised."

The PAP has an absolute majority in the House with 83 elected members.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-is-battling-record-dengue-outbreak-with-lab-bred-mosquitoes-323766">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes</a>

The House passed a motion to double Singh's speaking time from 20 minutes -- which is allotted to backbenchers -- to 40 minutes, the duration allotted to office holders.

Singh took the seat directly opposite Prime Minister Lee in the chamber.

This is similar to the practice in other countries that formally recognise the role of the Leader of the Opposition, Indranee pointed out.

Singh called on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to publish the names of "recalcitrant" employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion.

The MOM had recently placed 47 companies on the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) watchlist for discriminatory hiring practices.

A wealth management firm on the list was found to have almost three-quarters of its professionals from the same country, he said.

In another similar case, a bank was found to have two-thirds of its professionals from a particular country.

“The obvious question is, how did those two companies get to those stages without the MOM taking action?" he asked.

“MOM website states at one point and I quote: ‘MOM does not tolerate unfair hiring practices and employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion will face scrutiny and stiff penalties if found to have unfair hiring practices," he said.

Following the General Election, Prime Minister Loong had said Singh will be designated the Leader of the Opposition in the 14th Parliament, and that he would be given staff support and resources to perform his duties.

There have been de facto leaders of the Opposition in the past, such as former Singapore People's Party chief Chiam See Tong. However, this is the first time the position is being recognised officially.

During her address on Monday, Indranee, 57, reiterated that Singh will be given an office in Parliament, staff support and resources, as well as additional allowance.

The Leader of the Opposition will generally be given the right of first response among MPs to ask the lead question to ministers on policies, bills and motions in Parliament.

This will be at the discretion of the Speaker and subject to existing conventions, she said.

As Leader of the Opposition, Singh's duties include leading and organising the Opposition's parliamentary business. He may also take on other duties such as attending official state functions and taking part in visits and meetings with members of the Government and the public service.

He will also, from time to time, receive briefings by the government on confidential issues, and the matters to be briefed will be determined by the government, said Indranee.

These duties and privileges are based on the conventions and practices of other Westminster-style parliamentary systems, but reflect adaptations to Singapore's political and parliamentary context, she added.

"With greater diversity of views, we can expect more robust debate and, in some cases, sharper exchanges. But we should work to ensure that diversity does not lead to polarity, of the country or of the people," said Indranee.

"Experience elsewhere shows that unity in diversity is not an assured outcome. Our goal should be to harness this diversity of views in a constructive manner, so that we can as a Parliament better serve the interests of Singaporeans and Singapore."

&nbsp;

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition.

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition. Singh's Workers' Party won 10 parliamentary seats out of the 93 it contested in the July 10 General Election, making it the biggest opposition presence in Singapore's parliamentary history. As the House began proceedings on Monday, one of the first orders of business was a ministerial statement by the Leader of the House Indranee Rajah on formally recognising Singh, 43, as the country's first Opposition leader. Addressing Parliament, Singh underlined the need to focus on foreigners and their living conditions. He said how foreign workers are managed and accommodated needs to be improved. “Their (foreigners) presence gives Singapore a vitality that keeps us economically relevant and also provides jobs and opportunities to our fellow Singaporeans. Many of us count the foreigners in our midst - regardless of race, language or religion - as our friends," Channel News Asia quoted Singh as saying. “It is precisely because we need foreigners to help power our economy that we need to pay more attention to the Singapore worker... some of whom feel excluded from (the) opportunities created in their homeland," Singh said. Leader of House Indranee, who is also of Indian-origin from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said, "With more opposition MPs reflecting a 'strong desire among Singaporeans for a greater diversity of views in politics' as noted by the Prime Minister (Lee Hsien Loong) in his swearing-in speech.. It is timely and appropriate that the position of the Leader of the Opposition be more formally recognised." The PAP has an absolute majority in the House with 83 elected members. Also read: Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes The House passed a motion to double Singh's speaking time from 20 minutes -- which is allotted to backbenchers -- to 40 minutes, the duration allotted to office holders. Singh took the seat directly opposite Prime Minister Lee in the chamber. This is similar to the practice in other countries that formally recognise the role of the Leader of the Opposition, Indranee pointed out. Singh called on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to publish the names of "recalcitrant" employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion. The MOM had recently placed 47 companies on the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) watchlist for discriminatory hiring practices. A wealth management firm on the list was found to have almost three-quarters of its professionals from the same country, he said. In another similar case, a bank was found to have two-thirds of its professionals from a particular country. “The obvious question is, how did those two companies get to those stages without the MOM taking action?" he asked. “MOM website states at one point and I quote: ‘MOM does not tolerate unfair hiring practices and employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion will face scrutiny and stiff penalties if found to have unfair hiring practices," he said. Following the General Election, Prime Minister Loong had said Singh will be designated the Leader of the Opposition in the 14th Parliament, and that he would be given staff support and resources to perform his duties. There have been de facto leaders of the Opposition in the past, such as former Singapore People's Party chief Chiam See Tong. However, this is the first time the position is being recognised officially. During her address on Monday, Indranee, 57, reiterated that Singh will be given an office in Parliament, staff support and resources, as well as additional allowance. The Leader of the Opposition will generally be given the right of first response among MPs to ask the lead question to ministers on policies, bills and motions in Parliament. This will be at the discretion of the Speaker and subject to existing conventions, she said. As Leader of the Opposition, Singh's duties include leading and organising the Opposition's parliamentary business. He may also take on other duties such as attending official state functions and taking part in visits and meetings with members of the Government and the public service. He will also, from time to time, receive briefings by the government on confidential issues, and the matters to be briefed will be determined by the government, said Indranee. These duties and privileges are based on the conventions and practices of other Westminster-style parliamentary systems, but reflect adaptations to Singapore's political and parliamentary context, she added. "With greater diversity of views, we can expect more robust debate and, in some cases, sharper exchanges. But we should work to ensure that diversity does not lead to polarity, of the country or of the people," said Indranee. "Experience elsewhere shows that unity in diversity is not an assured outcome. Our goal should be to harness this diversity of views in a constructive manner, so that we can as a Parliament better serve the interests of Singaporeans and Singapore."

Indian-origin Pritam Singh becomes Singapore's first Leader of Opposition

Pritam Singh becomes Singapore's first Leader of Opposition

Singapore is battling its deadliest dengue outbreak ever. But, guess what the govt is doing to stop the outbreak? Sending 'secret agent' mosquitoes. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the report.

Gravitas: Singapore's Secret Agent Mosquitoes

The latest contraption authorities in Singapore have devised a new way to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue -- lab-reared male mosquitoes are being released outside housing blocks.

These bacteria-carrying males fly off and mate with a wild female mosquito. The resulting eggs don't hatch.

And the population of mosquitoes is inhibited.

Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-singapores-secret-agent-mosquitoes-323798/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added.

Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining.

Dengue now poses a bigger threat than the pandemic.&nbsp;

Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections.

In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas.

For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said.

Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans.

When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch.

The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore.

The latest contraption authorities in Singapore have devised a new way to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue -- lab-reared male mosquitoes are being released outside housing blocks.

The latest contraption authorities in Singapore have devised a new way to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue -- lab-reared male mosquitoes are being released outside housing blocks. These bacteria-carrying males fly off and mate with a wild female mosquito. The resulting eggs don't hatch. And the population of mosquitoes is inhibited. Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria. Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added. Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining. Dengue now poses a bigger threat than the pandemic. Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections. In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas. For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said. Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans. When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch. The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore.

Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes

Singapore is battling its deadliest dengue outbreak ever. Mosquitoes in then country are proving to be more dangerous than Coronavirus. Hence the government is breeding lab-reared mosquitoes to fight the dengue mosquitoes.

Singapore breeds lab-reared mosquitoes to fight deadly dengue outbreak

From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue.

With the click of a button and a whirr of a fan, a hatch opens and 150 lab-reared male mosquitoes are sent flying, off in search of a female companion with whom they can mate but not reproduce.

The dengue virus, which in rare cases can be fatal, is carried and spread to humans by infected mosquitoes.

But Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria.

Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added.

Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining.

Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections.

A new strain of the disease, combined with unseasonably wet weather and coronavirus lockdowns that left construction sites and other mosquito breeding grounds undisturbed, are all seen as factors behind the dengue outbreak.

That has put the onus on traditional deterrents like fogging, fining people for flouting anti-mosquito regulations like leaving plant pots full of stagnant water, and deploying novel techniques such as the Wolbachia project.

In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas.

For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said.

Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans.

When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch.

<figure>&nbsp;</figure>

The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore.

“You’ve got to flood the island with these mosquitoes, and people get annoyed,” said Paul Tambyah, senior consultant at Singapore’s National University Hospital.

“They’re not going to grab the mosquito and examine and see whether it’s a male or female. They’re going to swipe them away, and that kind of defeats the purpose,” he said.

From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue.

From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue. With the click of a button and a whirr of a fan, a hatch opens and 150 lab-reared male mosquitoes are sent flying, off in search of a female companion with whom they can mate but not reproduce. The dengue virus, which in rare cases can be fatal, is carried and spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. But Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria. Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added. Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining. Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections. A new strain of the disease, combined with unseasonably wet weather and coronavirus lockdowns that left construction sites and other mosquito breeding grounds undisturbed, are all seen as factors behind the dengue outbreak. That has put the onus on traditional deterrents like fogging, fining people for flouting anti-mosquito regulations like leaving plant pots full of stagnant water, and deploying novel techniques such as the Wolbachia project. In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas. For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said. Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans. When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch. The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore. “You’ve got to flood the island with these mosquitoes, and people get annoyed,” said Paul Tambyah, senior consultant at Singapore’s National University Hospital. “They’re not going to grab the mosquito and examine and see whether it’s a male or female. They’re going to swipe them away, and that kind of defeats the purpose,” he said.

Singapore battles record dengue outbreak with more mosquitoes

Singapore is set to open its third Apple store, but it will be regarded as one of its kind as the new store will float on water.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-satellite-astrosat-detects-uv-light-from-galaxy-93-billion-light-years-away-from-earth-322936" hreflang="en">Indian satellite AstroSat detects UV light from galaxy 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth</a>

According to TODAY's report, the new outlet will open at Marina Bay Sands, making it the world's first apple store that sits on the water.&nbsp;

The sphere floating on Marina Bay was previously occupied by the nightclub Avalon from 2011 to 2016.&nbsp;

"We will soon open the doors to our new store by the Bay,” said Apple in a teaser on its website.

"Apple Marina Bay Sands will be at the heart of creativity, a place we’ve made for you to capture your ideas and passions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/one-bad-apple-freefortnite-tournament-takes-a-dig-at-apple-322317" hreflang="en">'One bad apple': #FreeFortnite tournament takes a dig at Apple</a>

"It will be a space for you to explore, connect and create something new."

The tech giant opened its first store in Singapore in 2017 at the Knightsbridge building along Orchard Road. Apple opened its second store in July 2019 at Jewel Changi Airport.&nbsp;

Earlier, Apple Inc became the first publicly traded US company to reach $2 trillion in market value due to strong demand amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singapore is set to open its third Apple store, but it will be regarded as one of its kind as the new store will float on water. Also read: Indian satellite AstroSat detects UV light from galaxy 9.

Singapore is set to open its third Apple store, but it will be regarded as one of its kind as the new store will float on water. Also read: Indian satellite AstroSat detects UV light from galaxy 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth According to TODAY's report, the new outlet will open at Marina Bay Sands, making it the world's first apple store that sits on the water. The sphere floating on Marina Bay was previously occupied by the nightclub Avalon from 2011 to 2016. "We will soon open the doors to our new store by the Bay,” said Apple in a teaser on its website. "Apple Marina Bay Sands will be at the heart of creativity, a place we’ve made for you to capture your ideas and passions. Also read: 'One bad apple': #FreeFortnite tournament takes a dig at Apple "It will be a space for you to explore, connect and create something new." The tech giant opened its first store in Singapore in 2017 at the Knightsbridge building along Orchard Road. Apple opened its second store in July 2019 at Jewel Changi Airport. Earlier, Apple Inc became the first publicly traded US company to reach $2 trillion in market value due to strong demand amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Explore, connect and create': World's first floating Apple store to open in Singapore

Singapore began destroying nine tonnes of seized ivory Tuesday, the largest such action globally in recent years, including contraband tusks that came from more than 300 African elephants.

The destruction by an industrial rock crusher was held on the eve of World&nbsp;Elephant&nbsp;Day, and aims to prevent the items from re-entering the market and disrupt the global supply chain of illegally traded ivory, Singapore's National Parks Board said.

In the event, streamed online, workers in hard hats were seen emptying trolley-loads of tusks into a skip where they were then pulverised by an industrial rock crusher.

<img alt="Elephant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="403079e4-e45d-4510-8f91-250c5a0ffe9a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2836%29_12.jpg" />

Ivory, seized from various shipments in past years, is crushed by the National Parks Board (NParks) at a facility in Singapore

The crushing process may take several days and the fragments will then be incinerated.

"The destruction of the ivory... will prevent it from re-entering the market and will disrupt the global supply chain of illegally traded ivory," the National Parks Board said of the event.

An estimated 100 African&nbsp;elephants are killed every day by poachers seeking ivory, meat and body parts, leaving only 400,000 remaining, environmentalists estimate. A large chunk of the demand for ivory comes from Asian countries such as China and Vietnam, where it is turned into jewels and ornaments.

As well as taking a tough stance on transited products, Singapore said last year it would ban the domestic trade in ivory from September 2021.

"Elephant&nbsp;poaching is at crisis levels in Asia and Africa due to the illegal trade," said R. Raghunathan, CEO of World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore.

Raghunathan said the city-state's ivory crush and other initiatives underlined its determination to "stamp out the illicit transit of wildlife products through Singapore".

Neighbouring Malaysia destroyed 9.55 tonnes of seized&nbsp;elephant&nbsp;tusks in 2016.

Singapore began destroying nine tonnes of seized ivory Tuesday, the largest such action globally in recent years, including contraband tusks that came from more than 300 African elephants.

Singapore began destroying nine tonnes of seized ivory Tuesday, the largest such action globally in recent years, including contraband tusks that came from more than 300 African elephants. The destruction by an industrial rock crusher was held on the eve of World Elephant Day, and aims to prevent the items from re-entering the market and disrupt the global supply chain of illegally traded ivory, Singapore's National Parks Board said. In the event, streamed online, workers in hard hats were seen emptying trolley-loads of tusks into a skip where they were then pulverised by an industrial rock crusher. Ivory, seized from various shipments in past years, is crushed by the National Parks Board (NParks) at a facility in Singapore The crushing process may take several days and the fragments will then be incinerated. "The destruction of the ivory... will prevent it from re-entering the market and will disrupt the global supply chain of illegally traded ivory," the National Parks Board said of the event. An estimated 100 African elephants are killed every day by poachers seeking ivory, meat and body parts, leaving only 400,000 remaining, environmentalists estimate. A large chunk of the demand for ivory comes from Asian countries such as China and Vietnam, where it is turned into jewels and ornaments. As well as taking a tough stance on transited products, Singapore said last year it would ban the domestic trade in ivory from September 2021. "Elephant poaching is at crisis levels in Asia and Africa due to the illegal trade," said R. Raghunathan, CEO of World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore. Raghunathan said the city-state's ivory crush and other initiatives underlined its determination to "stamp out the illicit transit of wildlife products through Singapore". Neighbouring Malaysia destroyed 9.55 tonnes of seized elephant tusks in 2016.

Singapore crushes massive ivory haul on eve of World Elephant Day

The&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;prime minister's nephew said on Tuesday that he would pay a S$15,000 ($10,920) fine for contempt of court, but that he did not admit guilt in the case.&nbsp;

Li Shengwu's case involved a private Facebook post in 2017 in which he said the&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;government is "very litigious and has a pliant court system". Earlier this year, he said he had opted not to participate in the proceedings against him.

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His post had come amid a bitter public feud among the children of the island's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, including the current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Li's father, Lee Hsien Yang.

"I have decided to pay the fine, in order to buy some peace and quiet," Li said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "I do not admit guilt... I disagree that my words were illegal."

The Singapore prime minister's nephew said on Tuesday that he would pay a S$15,000 ($10,920) fine for contempt of court, but that he did not admit guilt in the case.

The Singapore prime minister's nephew said on Tuesday that he would pay a S$15,000 ($10,920) fine for contempt of court, but that he did not admit guilt in the case. Li Shengwu's case involved a private Facebook post in 2017 in which he said the Singapore government is "very litigious and has a pliant court system". Earlier this year, he said he had opted not to participate in the proceedings against him. Also read: Singapore company director charged over Wirecard scandal His post had come amid a bitter public feud among the children of the island's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, including the current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Li's father, Lee Hsien Yang. "I have decided to pay the fine, in order to buy some peace and quiet," Li said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "I do not admit guilt... I disagree that my words were illegal."

Singapore PM's nephew says will pay S$15,000 fine in contempt of court case

Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed an AI device with a sense of touch that can identify objects and textures. The device, officially dubbed ACES (Asynchronous Coded Electronic Skin), is composed of 100 different small sensors and is about 1 square centimetre in size.

Star Wars-inspired 'smart skin' developed by Singapore scientists

Singapore will make some incoming travellers wear an electronic monitoring device to ensure that they comply with coronavirus quarantines as the city-state gradually reopens its borders, authorities said on Monday.

From August 11, the devices will be given to incoming travellers, including citizens and residents, from a select group of countries who will be allowed to isolate at home rather than at a state-appointed facility.

Similar measures using electronic wristbands to track peoples' movements during quarantine have been used in Hong Kong and South Korea.

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Travellers to Singapore are required to activate the device, which use GPS and Bluetooth signals, upon reaching their home and will receive notifications on the device which they must acknowledge.

Any attempt to leave home or tamper with the device will trigger an alert to the authorities.&nbsp;

Hong Kong in March introduced a scheme for incoming travellers to use a slim electronic wristband, similar to a tag worn by hospital patients, to enforce quarantines for arriving passengers. South Korea has also used such wristbands connected to smartphone apps for those who violate quarantine.

Singapore, which has not given details on what the device will look like, said in a statement that it will not store any personal data and does not have any voice or video recording function.&nbsp;

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Those aged 12 and below will not have to wear the devices.

The city-state, which is also planning to give all residents a wearable virus-tracing dongle, has tough punishments for breach of its quarantine and social distancing rules.

Under the Infectious Diseases Act, punishments can be fines of up to S$10,000 ($7,272) or imprisonment of up to six months, or both. It has also revoked the work passes of foreigners who flouted the rules.

Singapore has reported 52,825 coronavirus infections, mostly due to mass outbreaks in cramped migrant workers dormitories, but imported cases have been creeping up in recent days.&nbsp;

Singapore will make some incoming travellers wear an electronic monitoring device to ensure that they comply with coronavirus quarantines as the city-state gradually reopens its borders, authorities said on Monday.

Singapore will make some incoming travellers wear an electronic monitoring device to ensure that they comply with coronavirus quarantines as the city-state gradually reopens its borders, authorities said on Monday. From August 11, the devices will be given to incoming travellers, including citizens and residents, from a select group of countries who will be allowed to isolate at home rather than at a state-appointed facility. Similar measures using electronic wristbands to track peoples' movements during quarantine have been used in Hong Kong and South Korea. Also read: Singapore faces the worst dengue outbreak in its history; records more than 1,400 cases in a week Travellers to Singapore are required to activate the device, which use GPS and Bluetooth signals, upon reaching their home and will receive notifications on the device which they must acknowledge. Any attempt to leave home or tamper with the device will trigger an alert to the authorities. Hong Kong in March introduced a scheme for incoming travellers to use a slim electronic wristband, similar to a tag worn by hospital patients, to enforce quarantines for arriving passengers. South Korea has also used such wristbands connected to smartphone apps for those who violate quarantine. Singapore, which has not given details on what the device will look like, said in a statement that it will not store any personal data and does not have any voice or video recording function. Also read: Singapore police arrests chief priest of Hindu temple Those aged 12 and below will not have to wear the devices. The city-state, which is also planning to give all residents a wearable virus-tracing dongle, has tough punishments for breach of its quarantine and social distancing rules. Under the Infectious Diseases Act, punishments can be fines of up to S$10,000 ($7,272) or imprisonment of up to six months, or both. It has also revoked the work passes of foreigners who flouted the rules. Singapore has reported 52,825 coronavirus infections, mostly due to mass outbreaks in cramped migrant workers dormitories, but imported cases have been creeping up in recent days.

Singapore to make travellers wear electronic tags to enforce quarantine

Researchers in Singapore have come up with an "electronic skin" that is capable of recreating a sense of touch. It is dubbed as an innovation that will allow people with prosthetic limbs to detect objects, as well as feel texture, or even temperature and pain.

<img alt="km" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd767f3a-0cdd-439b-9c6f-d239c0ffa607" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_72.jpg" />

The device is called Asynchronous Coded Electronic Skin or ACES. It is made up of 100 small sensors and is about 1 sq cm (0.16 square inch) in size.

According to researchers from the National University of Singapore, it can process information faster than the human nervous system, can recognise 20 to 30 different textures and can read Braille letters with more than 90 per cent accuracy.

"So humans need to slide to feel texture, but in this case the skin, with just a single touch, is able to detect textures of different roughness," said research team leader Benjamin Tee, adding that AI algorithms let the device learn quickly.

During the demonstration, the device detected that a squishy stress ball was soft, whereas, the plastic ball was hard.&nbsp;

"When you lose your sense of touch, you essentially become numb... and prosthetic users face that problem," said Tee.

"So by recreating an artificial version of the skin, for their prosthetic devices, they can hold a hand and feel the warmth and feel that it is soft, how hard are they holding the hand," said Tee.

<img alt="jn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3692ddc8-edf7-4705-a81f-da207d17b693" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_57.jpg" />

Tee revealed the inspiration behind this concept. The researcher was inspired by a scene by a scene from the "Star Wars" movie trilogy in which the character Luke Skywalker loses his right hand and it is replaced by a robotic one, seemingly able to experience touch sensations again.

Despite being in the experimental stage, the device has gathered "tremendous interest", especially from the medical community, Tee said.&nbsp;

Similar patents developed by his team include a transparent skin that can repair itself when torn and a light-emitting material for wearable electronic devices, Tee said.

(Inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Researchers in Singapore have come up with an "electronic skin" that is capable of recreating a sense of touch. It is dubbed as an innovation that will allow people with prosthetic limbs to detect objects, as well as feel texture, or even temperature and pain.

Researchers in Singapore have come up with an "electronic skin" that is capable of recreating a sense of touch. It is dubbed as an innovation that will allow people with prosthetic limbs to detect objects, as well as feel texture, or even temperature and pain. The device is called Asynchronous Coded Electronic Skin or ACES. It is made up of 100 small sensors and is about 1 sq cm (0.16 square inch) in size. According to researchers from the National University of Singapore, it can process information faster than the human nervous system, can recognise 20 to 30 different textures and can read Braille letters with more than 90 per cent accuracy. "So humans need to slide to feel texture, but in this case the skin, with just a single touch, is able to detect textures of different roughness," said research team leader Benjamin Tee, adding that AI algorithms let the device learn quickly. During the demonstration, the device detected that a squishy stress ball was soft, whereas, the plastic ball was hard. "When you lose your sense of touch, you essentially become numb... and prosthetic users face that problem," said Tee. "So by recreating an artificial version of the skin, for their prosthetic devices, they can hold a hand and feel the warmth and feel that it is soft, how hard are they holding the hand," said Tee. Tee revealed the inspiration behind this concept. The researcher was inspired by a scene by a scene from the "Star Wars" movie trilogy in which the character Luke Skywalker loses his right hand and it is replaced by a robotic one, seemingly able to experience touch sensations again. Despite being in the experimental stage, the device has gathered "tremendous interest", especially from the medical community, Tee said. Similar patents developed by his team include a transparent skin that can repair itself when torn and a light-emitting material for wearable electronic devices, Tee said. (Inputs from Reuters)

Star Wars inspires scientists to create sense-capable artificial skin

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