The chief priest of Singapore's oldest Hindu temple was arrested on charges of "criminal breach of trust", according to police.

The Sri Mariamman Temple had lodged a police complaint after finding out that some gold ornaments, which were in the custody of the priest, had gone missing, the temple said in a statement on Saturday.

During an audit, it was discovered that the gold ornaments were missing, the temple said, according to Channel News Asia.

The temple did not mention the name of the chief priest in its statement.

"Gold ornaments, which are frequently used for prayers, are kept under the custody of the chief priest in the inner sanctum of the temple. Regular audits are done to ensure that the gold ornaments are physically accounted for," it said.

The priest was questioned and he later returned all the missing items, the temple said.

No other person was involved in the incident, according to the Sri Mariamman Temple committee.

Police confirmed that a report was lodged and addied that a 36-year-old man was arrested for criminal breach of trust as a servant.

The temple said that the chief priest is currently on bail.

"The temple committee had kept the Hindu Endowments Board informed of this matter from the time the loss was discovered and is working closely to have closure on this matter," it said.

Police said investigations are ongoing.

The chief priest of Singapore's oldest Hindu temple was arrested on charges of "criminal breach of trust", according to police. The Sri Mariamman Temple had lodged a police complaint after finding out that some gold ornaments, which were in the custody of the priest, had gone missing, the temple said in a statement on Saturday.

The chief priest of Singapore's oldest Hindu temple was arrested on charges of "criminal breach of trust", according to police. The Sri Mariamman Temple had lodged a police complaint after finding out that some gold ornaments, which were in the custody of the priest, had gone missing, the temple said in a statement on Saturday. During an audit, it was discovered that the gold ornaments were missing, the temple said, according to Channel News Asia. The temple did not mention the name of the chief priest in its statement. "Gold ornaments, which are frequently used for prayers, are kept under the custody of the chief priest in the inner sanctum of the temple. Regular audits are done to ensure that the gold ornaments are physically accounted for," it said. The priest was questioned and he later returned all the missing items, the temple said. No other person was involved in the incident, according to the Sri Mariamman Temple committee. Police confirmed that a report was lodged and addied that a 36-year-old man was arrested for criminal breach of trust as a servant. The temple said that the chief priest is currently on bail. "The temple committee had kept the Hindu Endowments Board informed of this matter from the time the loss was discovered and is working closely to have closure on this matter," it said. Police said investigations are ongoing.

Singapore police arrests chief priest of Hindu temple

Uber will keep its Asian headquarters in Singapore for now in view of regulatory uncertainty for thwarting a mooted shift to Hong Kong.

The company announced massive layoffs in May due to the coronavirus, and said it was ready to move its regional base to the semi-autonomous Chinese city if there was progress on regulation there.

The decision comes in the wake of China imposing a controversial national security law on Hong Kong -- although Uber did not mention the legislation in its announcement.

Uber has been operating in Hong Kong for several years despite not being legal there and facing strong resistance from the local taxi industry.

Announcing its decision, Uber said in a statement it had "seen strong public support for reform (in Hong Kong), but not the level of certainty from the government that we need".

"We have decided to keep Singapore as a regional hub for the medium term," the statement added.

Its Asian headquarters will remain in Singapore until the end of 2022, at the earliest. Its office in the city-state has about 90 employees.

The San Francisco-based company has not operated ride-hailing or food delivery services in Singapore since 2018, when it sold its Southeast Asian businesses to rival Grab.

Uber will keep its Asian headquarters in Singapore for now in view of regulatory uncertainty for thwarting a mooted shift to Hong Kong. The company announced massive layoffs in May due to the coronavirus, and said it was ready to move its regional base to the semi-autonomous Chinese city if there was progress on regulation there.

Uber will keep its Asian headquarters in Singapore for now in view of regulatory uncertainty for thwarting a mooted shift to Hong Kong. The company announced massive layoffs in May due to the coronavirus, and said it was ready to move its regional base to the semi-autonomous Chinese city if there was progress on regulation there. The decision comes in the wake of China imposing a controversial national security law on Hong Kong -- although Uber did not mention the legislation in its announcement. Uber has been operating in Hong Kong for several years despite not being legal there and facing strong resistance from the local taxi industry. Announcing its decision, Uber said in a statement it had "seen strong public support for reform (in Hong Kong), but not the level of certainty from the government that we need". "We have decided to keep Singapore as a regional hub for the medium term," the statement added. Its Asian headquarters will remain in Singapore until the end of 2022, at the earliest. Its office in the city-state has about 90 employees. The San Francisco-based company has not operated ride-hailing or food delivery services in Singapore since 2018, when it sold its Southeast Asian businesses to rival Grab.

Uber keeps Asia HQ in Singapore, ditching Hong Kong move

Singapore is reviewing penalties for violent offences following outcry over a 12-day prison sentence for a student who strangled his girlfriend until she blacked out.

The case of Yin Zi Qin, 23, is the latest in a series in the city-state involving university students where the punishment has been viewed by some as light.

Widespread public criticism of last Friday's sentencing has seen women's rights group AWARE warn that it could have a detrimental impact on public perceptions of violence against women.

Law minister K Shanmugam said on Tuesday he had asked for a review of penalties for such cases, the relative punishment for different offences and the extent to which educational background should be a relevant factor in sentencing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/singapores-fake-news-law-trips-up-opposition-as-election-looms-311149" hreflang="en">Singapore's fake news law trips up opposition as election looms</a>

Yin's attack happened after his girlfriend had broken up with him via WhatsApp in May 2019, case records show.

The following day, the dentistry student went to her house with roses to ask her to take him back. After she declined, he gripped her by the neck, pressed his thumb against her eye causing it to bleed, and she blacked out and fainted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/with-gloves-and-masks-singaporeans-vote-in-general-elections-312300" hreflang="en">With gloves and masks, Singaporeans vote in general elections</a>

Yin was charged for voluntarily causing harm, an offence punishable by jail of up to two years. His short detention means he will not have a criminal record. He will have to perform community service and undergo rehabilitation.

Yin could not be immediately reached for comment. The public prosecutor said it does not plan to appeal the case.

Earlier in the year, probation for a student who molested a woman on a train sparked a similar outcry, and he was jailed for two weeks after the prosecution appealed.&nbsp;

The case of a student who protested against what she perceived as a light sentence for a male peer who filmed her in the shower sparked a debate on sexual harassment last year.

Singapore is reviewing penalties for violent offences following outcry over a 12-day prison sentence for a student who strangled his girlfriend until she blacked out.

Singapore is reviewing penalties for violent offences following outcry over a 12-day prison sentence for a student who strangled his girlfriend until she blacked out. The case of Yin Zi Qin, 23, is the latest in a series in the city-state involving university students where the punishment has been viewed by some as light. Widespread public criticism of last Friday's sentencing has seen women's rights group AWARE warn that it could have a detrimental impact on public perceptions of violence against women. Law minister K Shanmugam said on Tuesday he had asked for a review of penalties for such cases, the relative punishment for different offences and the extent to which educational background should be a relevant factor in sentencing. Also read: Singapore's fake news law trips up opposition as election looms Yin's attack happened after his girlfriend had broken up with him via WhatsApp in May 2019, case records show. The following day, the dentistry student went to her house with roses to ask her to take him back. After she declined, he gripped her by the neck, pressed his thumb against her eye causing it to bleed, and she blacked out and fainted. Also read: With gloves and masks, Singaporeans vote in general elections Yin was charged for voluntarily causing harm, an offence punishable by jail of up to two years. His short detention means he will not have a criminal record. He will have to perform community service and undergo rehabilitation. Yin could not be immediately reached for comment. The public prosecutor said it does not plan to appeal the case. Earlier in the year, probation for a student who molested a woman on a train sparked a similar outcry, and he was jailed for two weeks after the prosecution appealed. The case of a student who protested against what she perceived as a light sentence for a male peer who filmed her in the shower sparked a debate on sexual harassment last year.

Outcry over student strangler prompts Singapore to review penalties for violence

The coronavirus pandemic has hit Singapore’s economy and the country has entered a technical recession after shrinking by 41.2% in the second quarter compared to the previous quarter. Watch report

Coronavirus pandemic hits Singapore: Economy slips into recession

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains.

Lee, 68, was re-elected from his Group Representation Constituency (GRC) of Ang Mo Kio. The prime minister led his party's GRC team of Gan Thiam Poh, Darryl David, Ng Ling Ling and Nadia Ahmad Samdin.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat was also re-elected. His team included Maliki Osman, Jessica Tan, Cheryl Chan and Tan Kiat How of the East Coast GRC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/masked-singapore-locals-come-out-to-cast-vote-in-new-normal-style-312177">Have a look|&nbsp;Masked Singapore locals come out to cast vote in 'new normal' style</a>

The Opposition Workers' Party -- led by Indian-origin leader Pritam Singh -- won 10 seats, including the GRC of Sengkang where it defeated the PAP's team led by Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Ng Chee Meng. Meng is also the Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress.

Singh and his team retained the Aljunied GRC. Party member Dennis Tan retained the single member constituency seat of Hougang, defeating the PAP's Lee Hong Chuang. The Workers' Party had secured six seats in the last General election in 2015.

Some 2.65 million Singaporeans donning face masks and gloves voted in the elections for selecting 93 members of Parliament out of 192 candidates contesting for seats through 17 GRCs which groups together candidates in four or five, and 14 Single Member Constituencies.

The PAP has ruled Singapore since independence with absolute majority. Eleven political parties, including the PAP, campaigned for nine days amid the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 that has pushed the city-state's economy towards the worst-ever recession in nearly two decades.

In a bid to enhance the safety of voting amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of polling stations was increased from 880 to 1,100.

Prime Minister Lee last month called for general elections 10 months ahead of schedule to "clear the decks" and give the new government a fresh five-year mandate to focus on the national agenda.

Lee's PAP has won every election since the late 1950s. The ruling PAP is the only party with candidates contesting on all 93 seats. This is the second general election that the opposition has fielded candidates in all seats in Parliament.

In the last elections in September 2015, the PAP contested all 89 seats and won 83 of them, an absolute majority in the house.

Lee, who is the country's third prime minister, has led the government since 2004. His father Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore's first prime minister and he transformed the city-state into an affluent nation during his 31-year rule.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains. Lee, 68, was re-elected from his Group Representation Constituency (GRC) of Ang Mo Kio. The prime minister led his party's GRC team of Gan Thiam Poh, Darryl David, Ng Ling Ling and Nadia Ahmad Samdin. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat was also re-elected. His team included Maliki Osman, Jessica Tan, Cheryl Chan and Tan Kiat How of the East Coast GRC. Have a look| Masked Singapore locals come out to cast vote in 'new normal' style The Opposition Workers' Party -- led by Indian-origin leader Pritam Singh -- won 10 seats, including the GRC of Sengkang where it defeated the PAP's team led by Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Ng Chee Meng. Meng is also the Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress. Singh and his team retained the Aljunied GRC. Party member Dennis Tan retained the single member constituency seat of Hougang, defeating the PAP's Lee Hong Chuang. The Workers' Party had secured six seats in the last General election in 2015. Some 2.65 million Singaporeans donning face masks and gloves voted in the elections for selecting 93 members of Parliament out of 192 candidates contesting for seats through 17 GRCs which groups together candidates in four or five, and 14 Single Member Constituencies. The PAP has ruled Singapore since independence with absolute majority. Eleven political parties, including the PAP, campaigned for nine days amid the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 that has pushed the city-state's economy towards the worst-ever recession in nearly two decades. In a bid to enhance the safety of voting amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of polling stations was increased from 880 to 1,100. Prime Minister Lee last month called for general elections 10 months ahead of schedule to "clear the decks" and give the new government a fresh five-year mandate to focus on the national agenda. Lee's PAP has won every election since the late 1950s. The ruling PAP is the only party with candidates contesting on all 93 seats. This is the second general election that the opposition has fielded candidates in all seats in Parliament. In the last elections in September 2015, the PAP contested all 89 seats and won 83 of them, an absolute majority in the house. Lee, who is the country's third prime minister, has led the government since 2004. His father Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore's first prime minister and he transformed the city-state into an affluent nation during his 31-year rule.

Singapore's ruling PAP wins general election

Masked Singapore locals come out to cast vote in 'new normal' style

Wearing masks and gloves, Singaporeans were seen in queues to cast their votes in general elections on Friday.&nbsp;

Election officials covered their faces with face shields and enforced social distancing measures, took voters' temperatures to ensure polling doesn't lead to a rise in coronavirus infections.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gay-rights-the-taboo-subject-in-singapores-election-311533">Gay rights: The taboo subject in Singapore's election</a>

The safety measures led to the formation of long queues in some areas, due to which officials allowed people to vote without wearing disposable gloves.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapores-fake-news-law-trips-up-opposition-as-election-looms-311149">Singapore's fake news law trips up opposition as election looms</a>

The voting will close at 8:00 pm (1200 GMT) and final results are expected early on Saturday.&nbsp;

Analysts expect People's Action Party (PAP), that is ruling the country since its Independence in 1965 to ensure another smooth victory, however, some candidates backed by the estranged brother of the Singaporean PM can offer a tough fight.&nbsp;

The small but affluent Asian nation has seen many coronavirus infections in dormitories where low-paid foreign workers reside, but as the new cases drop, authorities eased a partial lockdown and decided to conduct polling.&nbsp;

The country was praised widely for handling the initial outbreak well as it has one of the lowest COVID-19 fatality rates, but a late surge in dormitories, which are in disorderly conditions, brought a lot of criticism.&nbsp;

Some Singaporeans warned of polling in the wake of coronavirus crisis as voting is mandatory in the country.&nbsp;

The opposition blames the ruling party to risk lives of many for conducting elections, however, officials say they have taken enough measures for ensuring safe and secure voting.&nbsp;

Earlier, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also cast his ballot and a video went viral where he was reminded by his wife as he stood in a queue to maintain social distance.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Wearing masks and gloves, Singaporeans were seen in queues to cast their votes in general elections on Friday. Election officials covered their faces with face shields and enforced social distancing measures, took voters' temperatures to ensure polling doesn't lead to a rise in coronavirus infections.

Wearing masks and gloves, Singaporeans were seen in queues to cast their votes in general elections on Friday. Election officials covered their faces with face shields and enforced social distancing measures, took voters' temperatures to ensure polling doesn't lead to a rise in coronavirus infections. Also read | Gay rights: The taboo subject in Singapore's election The safety measures led to the formation of long queues in some areas, due to which officials allowed people to vote without wearing disposable gloves. Also read | Singapore's fake news law trips up opposition as election looms The voting will close at 8:00 pm (1200 GMT) and final results are expected early on Saturday. Analysts expect People's Action Party (PAP), that is ruling the country since its Independence in 1965 to ensure another smooth victory, however, some candidates backed by the estranged brother of the Singaporean PM can offer a tough fight. The small but affluent Asian nation has seen many coronavirus infections in dormitories where low-paid foreign workers reside, but as the new cases drop, authorities eased a partial lockdown and decided to conduct polling. The country was praised widely for handling the initial outbreak well as it has one of the lowest COVID-19 fatality rates, but a late surge in dormitories, which are in disorderly conditions, brought a lot of criticism. Some Singaporeans warned of polling in the wake of coronavirus crisis as voting is mandatory in the country. The opposition blames the ruling party to risk lives of many for conducting elections, however, officials say they have taken enough measures for ensuring safe and secure voting. Earlier, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also cast his ballot and a video went viral where he was reminded by his wife as he stood in a queue to maintain social distance.

With gloves and masks, Singaporeans vote in general elections

Singaporeans wearing masks and gloves cast their ballots on Friday under the cloud of the COVID-19 pandemic that is pushing the city-state's economy towards its worst-ever recession, making saving jobs the focus of the election.

Singapore goes to polls amid COVID-19 pandemic

Singaporeans wearing masks and gloves cast their ballots on Friday amid the COVID-19 pandemic that is pushing the city-state's economy towards its worst-ever recession, making saving jobs the focus of the election.

Polling underway in Singapore amid COVID-19 pandemic

Among a record eleven parties set to contest Singapore’s election on Friday, there has been virtual silence on one of the conservative city-state’s most controversial issues, gay rights.

Advocacy groups have stepped up awareness campaigns with scorecards for politicians and online rallies in recent weeks over what they see as everyday discrimination that stems from a rarely-used, colonial-era law banning sex between men.

But for some gay Singaporeans, casting their vote in the mandatory July 10 ballot will serve as a reminder that they have few political allies on one of the issues that matters most to them.

“It’s a non-topic with the parties, the choices we have,” said Victor Ong, a 44-year-old Singaporean who lives with his British husband Harry, whom he married four years ago in London, and their amber-coloured cat Whisky.

“As much as I want to make my decision based on their stance on that, there isn’t any material to work with.”

Ong’s marriage is not recognised in Singapore, meaning the couple are not eligible for some benefits like housing and tax. They also say they avoid public displays of affection due to worries about social norms shaped by the 377A law which effectively criminalises them.

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has previously called the law an “uneasy compromise” as society “is not that liberal on these matters”.

There is no mention of gay rights or 377A in the manifesto of his People’s Action Party, which has ruled Singapore since independence in 1965 and is widely-expected to be returned to power, or that of any other party in the election.

Of the four main parties contesting, only the new Progress Singapore Party responded to a request for comment. A spokesman said it did not object to removing criminal punishment for homosexuals but the debate over 377A was a “proxy combat zone” for other issues like family structures and marriage.

Political analyst Loke Hoe Yeong said the issue was considered “political suicide” for parties who feel they will be punished by either conservative or liberal voters.

Yet advocacy groups do sense a growing awareness around the issue, especially after India repealed a similar law in 2018.

“That tacit acceptance of the status quo is giving way to a sense of frustration amongst the younger voters,” said Clement Tan of Pink Dot SG, which hosted an online rally last month for Singapore’s LGBT community.

An ally has also emerged in Lee Hsien Yang, the prime minister’s estranged brother and son of the city-state’s modern day founder Lee Kuan Yew, who has become an increasingly vocal critic of the government in the run up to the vote.

“The tidal wave against discrimination on sexual orientation has swept across the world,” Lee, whose son is gay and married overseas, told Reuters.

“The British, from whom we ‘inherited’ 377A, have repealed it decades ago. A repeal merely decriminalises and ends this discrimination.”

Nearly 70 countries around the world criminalise gay sex, mainly in Africa and the Middle East.

Another rights group Sayoni changed tack ahead of this election. With parties mum on the issue, they decided to score individual politicians on their LGBT stance by reviewing public comments they had made and ranking them from A to F.

Ong says he will vote on Friday based on “basic needs” but he hopes that the future will bring change from a younger generation more supportive of gay rights.

“We are sons and daughters of Singapore, whether we are gay or straight, and to vote, I think it should be accounted for.”

Among a record eleven parties set to contest Singapore’s election on Friday, there has been virtual silence on one of the conservative city-state’s most controversial issues, gay rights.

Among a record eleven parties set to contest Singapore’s election on Friday, there has been virtual silence on one of the conservative city-state’s most controversial issues, gay rights. Advocacy groups have stepped up awareness campaigns with scorecards for politicians and online rallies in recent weeks over what they see as everyday discrimination that stems from a rarely-used, colonial-era law banning sex between men. But for some gay Singaporeans, casting their vote in the mandatory July 10 ballot will serve as a reminder that they have few political allies on one of the issues that matters most to them. “It’s a non-topic with the parties, the choices we have,” said Victor Ong, a 44-year-old Singaporean who lives with his British husband Harry, whom he married four years ago in London, and their amber-coloured cat Whisky. “As much as I want to make my decision based on their stance on that, there isn’t any material to work with.” Ong’s marriage is not recognised in Singapore, meaning the couple are not eligible for some benefits like housing and tax. They also say they avoid public displays of affection due to worries about social norms shaped by the 377A law which effectively criminalises them. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has previously called the law an “uneasy compromise” as society “is not that liberal on these matters”. There is no mention of gay rights or 377A in the manifesto of his People’s Action Party, which has ruled Singapore since independence in 1965 and is widely-expected to be returned to power, or that of any other party in the election. Of the four main parties contesting, only the new Progress Singapore Party responded to a request for comment. A spokesman said it did not object to removing criminal punishment for homosexuals but the debate over 377A was a “proxy combat zone” for other issues like family structures and marriage. Political analyst Loke Hoe Yeong said the issue was considered “political suicide” for parties who feel they will be punished by either conservative or liberal voters. Yet advocacy groups do sense a growing awareness around the issue, especially after India repealed a similar law in 2018. “That tacit acceptance of the status quo is giving way to a sense of frustration amongst the younger voters,” said Clement Tan of Pink Dot SG, which hosted an online rally last month for Singapore’s LGBT community. An ally has also emerged in Lee Hsien Yang, the prime minister’s estranged brother and son of the city-state’s modern day founder Lee Kuan Yew, who has become an increasingly vocal critic of the government in the run up to the vote. “The tidal wave against discrimination on sexual orientation has swept across the world,” Lee, whose son is gay and married overseas, told Reuters. “The British, from whom we ‘inherited’ 377A, have repealed it decades ago. A repeal merely decriminalises and ends this discrimination.” Nearly 70 countries around the world criminalise gay sex, mainly in Africa and the Middle East. Another rights group Sayoni changed tack ahead of this election. With parties mum on the issue, they decided to score individual politicians on their LGBT stance by reviewing public comments they had made and ranking them from A to F. Ong says he will vote on Friday based on “basic needs” but he hopes that the future will bring change from a younger generation more supportive of gay rights. “We are sons and daughters of Singapore, whether we are gay or straight, and to vote, I think it should be accounted for.”

Gay rights: The taboo subject in Singapore's election

Enforcing a fake news law in the run up to a national election, authorities in Singapore have ordered that online references to some comments made by opposition figures on key issues must carry a warning that the content contains false information.

Rights groups have long-warned that the law, which came into effect last year and has repeatedly been directed at opposition figures, may be used to silence criticism of the government ahead of the July 10 vote.

Since campaigning began on July 1, opposition candidates have been taken to task under the law over comments made on three issues; government spending for foreign students, plans to grow the city-state`s 5.7 million population to 10 million, and government advisories that discouraged COVID-19 testing for foreign workers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-one-party-dominates-singapore-politics-310968">Also read|&nbsp;Explainer: Why one party dominates Singapore politics</a>

Concerns about immigration and jobs have dominated discussion during the campaigning as the city-state faces its deepest ever recession due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As yet, no lawmakers from the ruling People's Action Party - which has governed since independence in 1965 - have been served correction orders.

The government has denied suggestions that the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) could be used to stifle opposition, and says the law does not curb legitimate criticism or restrict free speech. The POFMA office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Government ministers usually have the power to exercise the law, but during the election period this responsibility has been handed to senior civil servants.

Under the law, authorities can order political parties, news outlets and social media users to carry warnings that their pages or posts contain false statements, and to include links to a government fact-checking website.

The Singapore Democratic Party, one of the opposition parties that has fallen foul of the law, said in a post that carried the warning that it disputed the "correction" but was bound to comply and would appeal.

Rights groups and opposition parties have criticised the government for calling the election while Singapore was still trying to stamp out COVID-19 infections, though most cases have been in migrant worker dormitories.

The government says it needs a fresh mandate to tackle the economic and social challenges ahead.

Enforcing a fake news law in the run up to a national election, authorities in Singapore have ordered that online references to some comments made by opposition figures on key issues must carry a warning that the content contains false information.

Enforcing a fake news law in the run up to a national election, authorities in Singapore have ordered that online references to some comments made by opposition figures on key issues must carry a warning that the content contains false information. Rights groups have long-warned that the law, which came into effect last year and has repeatedly been directed at opposition figures, may be used to silence criticism of the government ahead of the July 10 vote. Since campaigning began on July 1, opposition candidates have been taken to task under the law over comments made on three issues; government spending for foreign students, plans to grow the city-state`s 5.7 million population to 10 million, and government advisories that discouraged COVID-19 testing for foreign workers. Also read| Explainer: Why one party dominates Singapore politics Concerns about immigration and jobs have dominated discussion during the campaigning as the city-state faces its deepest ever recession due to the coronavirus pandemic. As yet, no lawmakers from the ruling People's Action Party - which has governed since independence in 1965 - have been served correction orders. The government has denied suggestions that the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) could be used to stifle opposition, and says the law does not curb legitimate criticism or restrict free speech. The POFMA office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Government ministers usually have the power to exercise the law, but during the election period this responsibility has been handed to senior civil servants. Under the law, authorities can order political parties, news outlets and social media users to carry warnings that their pages or posts contain false statements, and to include links to a government fact-checking website. The Singapore Democratic Party, one of the opposition parties that has fallen foul of the law, said in a post that carried the warning that it disputed the "correction" but was bound to comply and would appeal. Rights groups and opposition parties have criticised the government for calling the election while Singapore was still trying to stamp out COVID-19 infections, though most cases have been in migrant worker dormitories. The government says it needs a fresh mandate to tackle the economic and social challenges ahead.

Singapore's fake news law trips up opposition as election looms

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced.

More than 14,000 dengue cases have been reported in the city since the start of the year, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

Experts from the agency are predicting that the total number of dengue cases might exceed the previous highest number of cases, which was 22,170 in 2013.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-who-returned-from-india-tests-covid-19-positive-in-singapore-309894">Also read|&nbsp;Woman who returned from India tests COVID-19 positive in Singapore</a>

Till now, 16 people have lost their lives to dengue in the present year. This is twice the number of deaths that took place in 2013, which was the worst dengue outbreak in the history of Singapore.

For the past three weeks, dengue cases have been exceeding 1,000, and a total of 1,468 cases were reported in the past one week.

The Singapore government has now increased the checks&nbsp;to remove potential mosquito breeding habitats at public areas and housing estates, and has also started inspecting various premises for any possible outbreak and sanitisation. Till now, 6,900 premises have undergone inspection and vector control.

One major reason for the dramatic increase in the&nbsp; number of cases may also be the intense lockdown that can cause more residential&nbsp;mosquito breeding.

The Singapore government is&nbsp;&nbsp;urging people to keep their surroundings clean and cooperate with the experts in dengue testing, amid the pandemic.

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced.

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced. More than 14,000 dengue cases have been reported in the city since the start of the year, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). Experts from the agency are predicting that the total number of dengue cases might exceed the previous highest number of cases, which was 22,170 in 2013. Also read| Woman who returned from India tests COVID-19 positive in Singapore Till now, 16 people have lost their lives to dengue in the present year. This is twice the number of deaths that took place in 2013, which was the worst dengue outbreak in the history of Singapore. For the past three weeks, dengue cases have been exceeding 1,000, and a total of 1,468 cases were reported in the past one week. The Singapore government has now increased the checks to remove potential mosquito breeding habitats at public areas and housing estates, and has also started inspecting various premises for any possible outbreak and sanitisation. Till now, 6,900 premises have undergone inspection and vector control. One major reason for the dramatic increase in the number of cases may also be the intense lockdown that can cause more residential mosquito breeding. The Singapore government is urging people to keep their surroundings clean and cooperate with the experts in dengue testing, amid the pandemic.

Singapore faces the worst dengue outbreak in its history; records more than 1,400 cases in a week

Singapore first family's property dispute is turning into a public rift. Founding father Lee Kuan Yew's sons are likely to face-off in the upcoming election. The brothers could be up against each other in the upcoming Singapore General election. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the story.

Gravitas: Singapore election to spring a surprise?

Nokia and Ericsson have been chosen as Singapore's main 5G network providers, telecom operators said.

Huawei loses out in Singapore 5G network provider bid

As Singapore gears for its upcoming general elections, a sibling rivalry may define the country’s future. Two brothers are battling each other head on to become the small country’s leader.&nbsp;Both are the sons of Lee Kuan Yew, the founder of modern Singapore.

Lee Hsien Yang, the younger son&nbsp;recently joined a new opposition party, effectively parting ways with his older brother Lee Hsien Loong and his People’s Action Party.

The PAP has ruled the city-state since its independence in 1965, with the dispute creaking in owing to property disagreements. Both the brothers are in lock heads to decide the fate of their father’s house. The younger son wants the house to be demolished, as stated in their father’s will. On the other hand, the elder brother and the prime minister is starkly against it.&nbsp;Loong wants to turn it into a museum and sees it as a historical landmark.

More than a house

The house signifies a memorable part of Singapore's political history. The founder Yew had moved into the five-bedroom home in 1945, and the PAP was founded here.&nbsp;Currently, the property is valued at 17 million Dollars.

The younger brother Yang. has joined the Progress Singapore Party. For his elder brother - a national museum will secure his legitimacy as a political heir to the city's founder.

This general election is expected to be the elder’s last, and he has called for an early election, even though his government completes the term next April.

Coronavirus connect?

With a population of 5.8 million people, Singapore's measures against the virus outbreak were hailed as an ideal model to be replicated across the world. Then, the cases soared to more than 42,000 cases. Most of the cases were linked to the foreign workers' dormitories.

The opposition, Progress Singapore Party 's leader Tan Cheng Bok has called the early elections an irresponsible act. He says the prime minister is placing politics over people's safety.

His party welcomed the younger lee with a tweet that said - “it's time for change”. The PAP has been in power since 1959.

As Singapore gears for its upcoming general elections, a sibling rivalry may define the country’s future. Two brothers are battling each other head on to become the small country’s leader.

As Singapore gears for its upcoming general elections, a sibling rivalry may define the country’s future. Two brothers are battling each other head on to become the small country’s leader. Both are the sons of Lee Kuan Yew, the founder of modern Singapore. Lee Hsien Yang, the younger son recently joined a new opposition party, effectively parting ways with his older brother Lee Hsien Loong and his People’s Action Party. The PAP has ruled the city-state since its independence in 1965, with the dispute creaking in owing to property disagreements. Both the brothers are in lock heads to decide the fate of their father’s house. The younger son wants the house to be demolished, as stated in their father’s will. On the other hand, the elder brother and the prime minister is starkly against it. Loong wants to turn it into a museum and sees it as a historical landmark. More than a house The house signifies a memorable part of Singapore's political history. The founder Yew had moved into the five-bedroom home in 1945, and the PAP was founded here. Currently, the property is valued at 17 million Dollars. The younger brother Yang. has joined the Progress Singapore Party. For his elder brother - a national museum will secure his legitimacy as a political heir to the city's founder. This general election is expected to be the elder’s last, and he has called for an early election, even though his government completes the term next April. Coronavirus connect? With a population of 5.8 million people, Singapore's measures against the virus outbreak were hailed as an ideal model to be replicated across the world. Then, the cases soared to more than 42,000 cases. Most of the cases were linked to the foreign workers' dormitories. The opposition, Progress Singapore Party 's leader Tan Cheng Bok has called the early elections an irresponsible act. He says the prime minister is placing politics over people's safety. His party welcomed the younger lee with a tweet that said - “it's time for change”. The PAP has been in power since 1959.

Sibling rivalry to play out in the upcoming Singapore general elections

Lee Hsien Yang, the estranged brother of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has joined the opposition Progress Singapore Party a day after the city-state called for&nbsp;general elections&nbsp;to be held in July.

“I joined the party because I think that Dr. Tan is committed to doing the right thing for Singapore,” he&nbsp;told reporters&nbsp;Wednesday following a breakfast meeting with party founder Tan Cheng Bock. “There are issues of income inequality, there are issues of poverty, there are issues of governance and transparency, there are issues around housing, there are many issues that are alive.”

Lee declined to say if he would be contesting in the July 10 election, but said he would be contributing to the party “in many ways.”

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/welcome-back-singapore-locals-rejoice-as-malls-reopen-pm-urges-caution-307106">Welcome back: Singapore locals rejoice as malls reopen; PM urges caution</a>

The city-state's parliament was dissolved Tuesday for a general election on July 10, even as the country struggles to recover from a major coronavirus outbreak that has swept through migrant worker dormitories.

Lee Hsien Yang is locked in a long-running row with his sibling, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, accusing him of seeking to capitalise on the legacy of their father, Singapore's late founding leader.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-approves-anti-viral-drug-for-covid-19-patients-304800">Singapore approves anti-viral drug for COVID-19 patients</a>

Tan, a popular figure who was once a lawmaker with the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said that Lee Hsien Yang was "not just an ordinary person."

"His father is the founder of Singapore, so that's very important," he said.

Their party, launched last year, will not threaten the PAP's decades-long hold on power but the combination of a Lee family member and Tan could draw some voters away from the ruling party, observers believe.

Lee Hsien Yang, a business executive, and his sister Lee Wei Ling fell out with their prime minister brother following the death of their father, Lee Kuan Yew, in 2015.

The Lee family row centres on allegations made by the premier's siblings that he is seeking to block the demolition of a family bungalow to capitalise on Lee Kuan Yew's legacy – something he has denied.

<blockquote align="center" data-dnt="true" data-twitter-extracted-i1592991682250497356="true">&nbsp;</blockquote>

Lee Hsien Yang, the estranged brother of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has joined the opposition Progress Singapore Party a day after the city-state called for general elections to be held in July.

Lee Hsien Yang, the estranged brother of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has joined the opposition Progress Singapore Party a day after the city-state called for general elections to be held in July. “I joined the party because I think that Dr. Tan is committed to doing the right thing for Singapore,” he told reporters Wednesday following a breakfast meeting with party founder Tan Cheng Bock. “There are issues of income inequality, there are issues of poverty, there are issues of governance and transparency, there are issues around housing, there are many issues that are alive.” Lee declined to say if he would be contesting in the July 10 election, but said he would be contributing to the party “in many ways.” Also see: Welcome back: Singapore locals rejoice as malls reopen; PM urges caution The city-state's parliament was dissolved Tuesday for a general election on July 10, even as the country struggles to recover from a major coronavirus outbreak that has swept through migrant worker dormitories. Lee Hsien Yang is locked in a long-running row with his sibling, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, accusing him of seeking to capitalise on the legacy of their father, Singapore's late founding leader. Also read: Singapore approves anti-viral drug for COVID-19 patients Tan, a popular figure who was once a lawmaker with the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said that Lee Hsien Yang was "not just an ordinary person." "His father is the founder of Singapore, so that's very important," he said. Their party, launched last year, will not threaten the PAP's decades-long hold on power but the combination of a Lee family member and Tan could draw some voters away from the ruling party, observers believe. Lee Hsien Yang, a business executive, and his sister Lee Wei Ling fell out with their prime minister brother following the death of their father, Lee Kuan Yew, in 2015. The Lee family row centres on allegations made by the premier's siblings that he is seeking to block the demolition of a family bungalow to capitalise on Lee Kuan Yew's legacy – something he has denied.

Singapore prime minister’s brother joins opposition party ahead of July 10 election

Welcome back: Singapore locals rejoice as malls reopen; PM urges caution

An Indian national, linked to a group of Indians who had defrauded the Singapore taxman out of SGD 570,000 by making false Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund claims, has been jailed for 18 months by a court here.

Muthuvel Sankar, 41, pleaded guilty to two counts of corruption, three counts of GST fraud and one amalgamated charge of money laundering, The Straits Times reported.

He was jailed for 18 months and slapped with a SGD 66,891 tax penalty by the court on Thursday. Six other charges were taken into consideration.

Sankar avoided arrest when the authorities here busted the Indian syndicate in 2014 as he was not in Singapore at the time.

In October last year, he tried to re-enter Singapore as a tourist but was nabbed and charged in the court.

For the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau's (CPIB) director of operations, Chin Wee Liam, Sankar's prosecution has put to bed a case of some significance.

"Singapore is a tourist hub so if we don't put a stop to these kinds of practices, you can imagine the financial damage caused to public funds," he told The Straits Times.

It was the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (Iras) that discovered the fraud in 2013 after its data analytics tool flagged several suspicious GST refund claims made through the electronic tourist refund scheme (eTRS). Singapore Customs and the CPIB were then alerted.

It emerged that a group of four Indian nationals had made false GST tourist refund claims of about SGD 570,000 between September 2012 and January 2014, according to the Straits Times report.

They gave bribes to Mohamed Yusof Abdul Rahman, then a Customs officer at Changi Airport's GST Refund Inspection Counter, as reward for approving the claims.

The Indian nationals bought jewellery receipts from bona fide shoppers, obtained eTRS tickets from the retailers, and presented the tickets to Yusof, who endorsed them without verifying the goods.

Collecting the refunds in cash, the Indian nationals would spend some of the money on duty-free items before leaving for India.

The court heard on Thursday that Sankar was introduced to this fraud scheme in 2013 by a friend.

Using a similar modus operandi, Sankar made at least six false claims between June and November 2013, fraudulently obtaining SGD 29,800.

He took some of the money out of Singapore on at least five occasions.

No restitution has been made. Sankar also gave, or conspired with his friend to give, SGD 2,800 in bribes to Yusof on five occasions between 2013 and 2014.

Chin said Sankar had already been identified as a person of interest when they arrested his four accomplices in January 2014. 
"Unfortunately, Sankar was not around when we moved in," he said.

After finally nabbing him last year, CPIB worked with Iras and the police's Commercial Affairs Department to investigate his offences.

In court, Deputy Public Prosecutor Eric Hu said that Sankar did not return after leaving Singapore on November 24, 2013, as he had heard many Indian nationals were arrested for defrauding Iras.

But he took a risk and returned because five years had passed and was immediately arrested.

While Chin did not rule out other accomplices who might still be at large, he said the key men have now been taken to task.

An Indian national, linked to a group of Indians who had defrauded the Singapore taxman out of SGD 570,000 by making false Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund claims, has been jailed for 18 months by a court here.

An Indian national, linked to a group of Indians who had defrauded the Singapore taxman out of SGD 570,000 by making false Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund claims, has been jailed for 18 months by a court here. Muthuvel Sankar, 41, pleaded guilty to two counts of corruption, three counts of GST fraud and one amalgamated charge of money laundering, The Straits Times reported. He was jailed for 18 months and slapped with a SGD 66,891 tax penalty by the court on Thursday. Six other charges were taken into consideration. Sankar avoided arrest when the authorities here busted the Indian syndicate in 2014 as he was not in Singapore at the time. In October last year, he tried to re-enter Singapore as a tourist but was nabbed and charged in the court. For the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau's (CPIB) director of operations, Chin Wee Liam, Sankar's prosecution has put to bed a case of some significance. "Singapore is a tourist hub so if we don't put a stop to these kinds of practices, you can imagine the financial damage caused to public funds," he told The Straits Times. It was the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (Iras) that discovered the fraud in 2013 after its data analytics tool flagged several suspicious GST refund claims made through the electronic tourist refund scheme (eTRS). Singapore Customs and the CPIB were then alerted. It emerged that a group of four Indian nationals had made false GST tourist refund claims of about SGD 570,000 between September 2012 and January 2014, according to the Straits Times report. They gave bribes to Mohamed Yusof Abdul Rahman, then a Customs officer at Changi Airport's GST Refund Inspection Counter, as reward for approving the claims. The Indian nationals bought jewellery receipts from bona fide shoppers, obtained eTRS tickets from the retailers, and presented the tickets to Yusof, who endorsed them without verifying the goods. Collecting the refunds in cash, the Indian nationals would spend some of the money on duty-free items before leaving for India. The court heard on Thursday that Sankar was introduced to this fraud scheme in 2013 by a friend. Using a similar modus operandi, Sankar made at least six false claims between June and November 2013, fraudulently obtaining SGD 29,800. He took some of the money out of Singapore on at least five occasions. No restitution has been made. Sankar also gave, or conspired with his friend to give, SGD 2,800 in bribes to Yusof on five occasions between 2013 and 2014. Chin said Sankar had already been identified as a person of interest when they arrested his four accomplices in January 2014. "Unfortunately, Sankar was not around when we moved in," he said. After finally nabbing him last year, CPIB worked with Iras and the police's Commercial Affairs Department to investigate his offences. In court, Deputy Public Prosecutor Eric Hu said that Sankar did not return after leaving Singapore on November 24, 2013, as he had heard many Indian nationals were arrested for defrauding Iras. But he took a risk and returned because five years had passed and was immediately arrested. While Chin did not rule out other accomplices who might still be at large, he said the key men have now been taken to task.

Indian national jailed in Singapore for GST fraud

A Singapore court has sentenced an Indian-origin newspaper vendor to two weeks of imprisonment for breaching his stay-home notice.

Palanivelu Ramasamy pleaded guilty to one count of breaching his stay-home notice -- a part of the restrictions imposed under measures to control the spread of coronavirus through movements of people. He wanted to deliver newspapers to 14 units across eight floors at Goldhill Plaza.

On Wednesday, Ramasamy's lawyer told the court that he had left his house to deliver the newspapers because he received a complaint and wanted to resolve the matter.

However, the judge said Ramasamy's action was "out of a misplaced sense of duty" and asked the lawyer repeatedly if newspaper company Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) would have helped had he asked for assistance.

The court heard that Ramasamy had attended a wedding in India and returned to Singapore on March 21. He was issued a 14-day stay-home notice at the airport.

However, on March 30 -- the ninth day of his stay-home notice -- Ramasamy left his apartment at Towner Road for about two hours and 15 minutes.

The man, who has been a newspaper vendor with SPH since 1985, had been alerted to a complaint about a worker who had not delivered newspapers to his customers at Goldhill Plaza, said defence lawyer Aaron Lee of Allen &amp; Gledhill, who acted pro bono in the case.

This was due to restrictions imposed by the management at Goldhill Plaza arising from the COVID-19 situation. As Ramasamy's worker was not allowed to go up to the office units, he left the newspapers near the mailbox on the ground level instead.

Ramasamy has two workers under him and usually collects newspapers at 4 am and distributes them around the Thomson area in the suburb of Singapore. Instead of asking his workers to deliver the papers, Ramasamy left his flat on March 30 to personally deliver the newspapers. After that, he took a bus to reach home.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Joshua Lim asked for at least two-week jail term for Ramasamy, stating that the government had been very clear about the policies behind stay-home notices, with the media including newspapers publicising these widely. He added Ramasamy had gone to bus stops with high human traffic, students and worshippers at a temple and visited 14 units.

For breaching his stay-home notice, Palanivelu could have been jailed for up to six months, fined up to SGD 10,000 or both.

(with inputs from PTI)

A Singapore court has sentenced an Indian-origin newspaper vendor to two weeks of imprisonment for breaching his stay-home notice. Palanivelu Ramasamy pleaded guilty to one count of breaching his stay-home notice -- a part of the restrictions imposed under measures to control the spread of coronavirus through movements of people.

A Singapore court has sentenced an Indian-origin newspaper vendor to two weeks of imprisonment for breaching his stay-home notice. Palanivelu Ramasamy pleaded guilty to one count of breaching his stay-home notice -- a part of the restrictions imposed under measures to control the spread of coronavirus through movements of people. He wanted to deliver newspapers to 14 units across eight floors at Goldhill Plaza. On Wednesday, Ramasamy's lawyer told the court that he had left his house to deliver the newspapers because he received a complaint and wanted to resolve the matter. However, the judge said Ramasamy's action was "out of a misplaced sense of duty" and asked the lawyer repeatedly if newspaper company Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) would have helped had he asked for assistance. The court heard that Ramasamy had attended a wedding in India and returned to Singapore on March 21. He was issued a 14-day stay-home notice at the airport. However, on March 30 -- the ninth day of his stay-home notice -- Ramasamy left his apartment at Towner Road for about two hours and 15 minutes. The man, who has been a newspaper vendor with SPH since 1985, had been alerted to a complaint about a worker who had not delivered newspapers to his customers at Goldhill Plaza, said defence lawyer Aaron Lee of Allen & Gledhill, who acted pro bono in the case. This was due to restrictions imposed by the management at Goldhill Plaza arising from the COVID-19 situation. As Ramasamy's worker was not allowed to go up to the office units, he left the newspapers near the mailbox on the ground level instead. Ramasamy has two workers under him and usually collects newspapers at 4 am and distributes them around the Thomson area in the suburb of Singapore. Instead of asking his workers to deliver the papers, Ramasamy left his flat on March 30 to personally deliver the newspapers. After that, he took a bus to reach home. Deputy Public Prosecutor Joshua Lim asked for at least two-week jail term for Ramasamy, stating that the government had been very clear about the policies behind stay-home notices, with the media including newspapers publicising these widely. He added Ramasamy had gone to bus stops with high human traffic, students and worshippers at a temple and visited 14 units. For breaching his stay-home notice, Palanivelu could have been jailed for up to six months, fined up to SGD 10,000 or both. (with inputs from PTI)

Indian-origin newspaper vendor in Singapore jailed for breaching stay-home notice

Malaysia has agreed with neighbouring Singapore to suspend until December 31 a project for a high-speed rail link between the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and the city-state, to allow discussion of changes.

The project was first announced by both nations in 2013, and the cost was estimated at about $17 billion. The recent announcement came on Sunday in the wake of the coronavirus-induced crisis.

"The government of Malaysia and the government of Singapore have agreed to resume discussions on the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high speed rail infrastructure project in the near future," said Mohamed Azmin Ali, Malaysi's minister of international trade and industry.

"The discussions will encompass some of the proposed changes in the commercial and technical aspects of the project," he said in a statement.

Malaysia reported 57 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, taking its tally to 7,819, but with no additional deaths its toll stands at 115.

As far as Singapore is concerned, the city-state is gearing up to lift its circuit breaker measures imposed to curb the coronavirus pandemic after two months, even as the city-state reported 518 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, taking the total number of infections to 34,884.

Singapore's circuit breaker period will end on Monday, with measures to be progressively lifted in three phase starting the next day.

Of the 518 new cases reported on Sunday, only three cases are among Singaporeans or permanent residents, the Ministry of Health said in its daily update.

(with inputs from agencies)

Malaysia has agreed with neighbouring Singapore to suspend until December 31 a project for a high-speed rail link between the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and the city-state, to allow discussion of changes.

Malaysia has agreed with neighbouring Singapore to suspend until December 31 a project for a high-speed rail link between the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and the city-state, to allow discussion of changes. The project was first announced by both nations in 2013, and the cost was estimated at about $17 billion. The recent announcement came on Sunday in the wake of the coronavirus-induced crisis. "The government of Malaysia and the government of Singapore have agreed to resume discussions on the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high speed rail infrastructure project in the near future," said Mohamed Azmin Ali, Malaysi's minister of international trade and industry. "The discussions will encompass some of the proposed changes in the commercial and technical aspects of the project," he said in a statement. Malaysia reported 57 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, taking its tally to 7,819, but with no additional deaths its toll stands at 115. As far as Singapore is concerned, the city-state is gearing up to lift its circuit breaker measures imposed to curb the coronavirus pandemic after two months, even as the city-state reported 518 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, taking the total number of infections to 34,884. Singapore's circuit breaker period will end on Monday, with measures to be progressively lifted in three phase starting the next day. Of the 518 new cases reported on Sunday, only three cases are among Singaporeans or permanent residents, the Ministry of Health said in its daily update. (with inputs from agencies)

Malaysia, Singapore defer high-speed rail project until year-end

Singapore's government has installed vending machines dispensing free reusable face masks, the latest in measures aimed at preventing the spread of the new coronavirus.

Singapore installs free mask vending machines around island

Singapore downgraded its 2020 gross domestic product forecast for the third time on Tuesday, a Reuters report said quoting the trade ministry, as the bellwether economy braces for its deepest ever recession.

Singapore downgraded its 2020 gross domestic product forecast for the third time on Tuesday, a Reuters report said quoting the trade ministry, as the bellwether economy braces for its deepest ever recession. The city-state lowered its GDP forecast to a contraction range of -7% to -4% from the prior range of -1% to -4%, the report added. Singapore's economy shrank 0.7% year-on-year in the first quarter and 4.7% on a quarter-on-quarter, a less severe decline than advance estimates, although officials and analysts warned of more pain ahead. "There continues to be a significant degree of uncertainty over the length and severity of the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the trajectory of the economic recovery," said Gabriel Lim, permanent secretary at the ministry of trade and industry. Following the news, the central bank chief economist Ed Robinson said monetary policy remains unchanged and will next be reviewed in October, as planned. Singapore also downgraded its 2020 forecast for non-oil domestic exports to -4.0% to -1.0%, from -0.5% to 1.5% previously. Exports have been a rare bright spot for the economy in recent months mainly due to a surge in demand for pharmaceuticals. The city-state has among the highest number of infections in Asia and has said that easing of the lockdown from next month will only be done gradually. "The downward revision...implies a significant deterioration in the second-quarter momentum due to the circuit breaker period as well as a weak recovery trajectory," said Selena Ling, OCBC Bank's head of treasury research and strategy.

Singapore slashes 2020 GDP outlook again as city-state stares at deepest ever recession

As many Muslims around the world celebrate to mark Eid al-Fitr, thousands of migrant workers in Singapore will spend the holiday under quarantine in dormitories. To mark the holiday, Singaporean business Dushyant Kumar, his wife, and team of chefs cooked up a massive biryani meal for at least 600 migrants for a Sunday (May 24) evening Eid feast.

Singapore businessman serves food to migrants spending Eid in quarantine

For third-generation hawker Kristen Choong, the coronavirus pandemic wasn't the end of the world, but it hasn't been great for business. In early April, the beginning of Singapore's "circuit breaker", a self-styled lockdown aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus, business for her noodle stand fell about 90%.

Last generation Singapore hawker weathers the pandemic storm

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity.

Kasturi Govindasamy Retnamswamy was arrested after the incident that happened at a shopping mall on May 7 and was captured on video.

The 40-year old was remanded at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for psychiatric evaluation after the incident.

According to The Straits Times, she was taken to a court on Saturday and faced with five charges, including use of abusive words and criminal force against a public servant.

The next hearing is scheduled for May 22 after her remand in the IMH.

The woman is believed to have insulted the mall staff and hurled abuses at a security officer who was trying to get her to put on her mask correctly.

The widely-shared video of the incident shows a woman taunting a mall employee, demanding that he removes his face mask to speak to her.

The mall staff informed the police and when the officers requested to see her identity, she allegedly started peeling off the address sticker on her identity card.

Retnamswamy is the second person of Indian origin to be remanded at the IMH for psychiatric evaluation after the incident involving face masks.

Paramjeet Kaur, 40, who made headlines after videos emerged of her claiming to be a sovereign, when confronted for not wearing a mask in public, was charged on May 5 with one count of being a public nuisance and three counts of violating COVID-19 rules.

Kaur, a Singaporean, will attend her next court hearing on May 19.

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity.

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity. Kasturi Govindasamy Retnamswamy was arrested after the incident that happened at a shopping mall on May 7 and was captured on video. The 40-year old was remanded at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for psychiatric evaluation after the incident. According to The Straits Times, she was taken to a court on Saturday and faced with five charges, including use of abusive words and criminal force against a public servant. The next hearing is scheduled for May 22 after her remand in the IMH. The woman is believed to have insulted the mall staff and hurled abuses at a security officer who was trying to get her to put on her mask correctly. The widely-shared video of the incident shows a woman taunting a mall employee, demanding that he removes his face mask to speak to her. The mall staff informed the police and when the officers requested to see her identity, she allegedly started peeling off the address sticker on her identity card. Retnamswamy is the second person of Indian origin to be remanded at the IMH for psychiatric evaluation after the incident involving face masks. Paramjeet Kaur, 40, who made headlines after videos emerged of her claiming to be a sovereign, when confronted for not wearing a mask in public, was charged on May 5 with one count of being a public nuisance and three counts of violating COVID-19 rules. Kaur, a Singaporean, will attend her next court hearing on May 19.

Indian-origin woman faces charges for refusing to wear mask in Singapore

World is one News, WION in an exclusive conversation speaks to Singapore's Minister of Home Affairs and law, ,Mr K Shanmugam

WION Exclusively speaks to K Shanmugam |  Minister of Home affairs & law, singapore

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyAI</a> : Important Update for passengers regarding evacuation flights from India. Please visit <a href="https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo">https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo</a> for details. <a href="https://t.co/O23kcKLVlU">pic.twitter.com/O23kcKLVlU</a>
— Air India (@airindiain) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain/status/1258084784389017600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The flights will operate from May 08 to May 14. These flights are specifically for people who are stranded and wish to be evacuated. These outgoing flights will have certain rules in place.

Air India will only be allowing the eligible passengers to board the flight. The eligibility will depend on the nationality status with respect to the destination countries, i.e., the passenger should either hold a green card/permanent residency or a one-year valid visa.

The passengers will have to go through thermal screening, compulsorily wear face masks and follow all protocols of social distancing at all times.

The entire cost of the travel will be borne by the passenger. In addition to this, if the passenger is quarantined or deported, he/she will have to bear the entire cost for that too.

The bookings can be made through Air India's official website.

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US.

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US. #FlyAI : Important Update for passengers regarding evacuation flights from India. Please visit https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo for details. pic.twitter.com/O23kcKLVlU — Air India (@airindiain) May 6, 2020 × The flights will operate from May 08 to May 14. These flights are specifically for people who are stranded and wish to be evacuated. These outgoing flights will have certain rules in place. Air India will only be allowing the eligible passengers to board the flight. The eligibility will depend on the nationality status with respect to the destination countries, i.e., the passenger should either hold a green card/permanent residency or a one-year valid visa. The passengers will have to go through thermal screening, compulsorily wear face masks and follow all protocols of social distancing at all times. The entire cost of the travel will be borne by the passenger. In addition to this, if the passenger is quarantined or deported, he/she will have to bear the entire cost for that too. The bookings can be made through Air India's official website.

Air India starts bookings for London, Singapore and the US

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the&nbsp;Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-samudra-setu-ins-jalashwa-set-to-evacuate-stranded-indians-from-maldives-297209">Also read:&nbsp;Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives</a>

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1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. 
 
Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de">https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de</a> <a href="https://t.co/ARJTc71i3u">pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258342149373952001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The first flight will land in Kerala&nbsp;around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm.

Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in&nbsp;Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK.

However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports.

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Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo">https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo</a> <a href="https://t.co/rKCuADft7E">pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258360615246200832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shramik-trains-over-163-run-so-far-more-than-160-lakh-migrants-ferried-297207">Also read:&nbsp;Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried</a>

Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation.

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United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VandeBharatMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VandeBharatMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/8d5a4OrYO9">pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258382635497209859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the&nbsp;operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight.

Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. &nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon. Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives 1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai#COVID https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × The first flight will land in Kerala around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi. The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm. Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK. However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports. Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE#Covid https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × Also read: Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation. United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. #VandeBharatMission pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9 — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight. Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. (With inputs from ANI)

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