<p>Singapore is taking proactive steps to harness the changing dynamics of global manufacturing flows by partnering with Malaysia and Indonesia to bolster its regional supply chain. This strategic collaboration aims to capitalise on rising investments from India, China, and Southeast Asia in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an event hosted by LSEG and Reuters Newsmaker,&nbsp;Managing Director of Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB)&nbsp;Jacqueline Poh highlighted the importance of fostering a robust manufacturing base that encompasses Singapore, the southern Malaysian state of Johor, and the nearby Riau Islands of Indonesia. This collaborative effort is envisioned to position Southeast Asia as a formidable production hub.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singapore’s objective is twofold: to maintain its status as one of the world’s premier financial centres and leverage the ongoing wealth shift towards Asia. Concurrently, the city-state is actively establishing itself as a wealth management hub catering to the ultra-rich.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the competition for a share of this growth is intensifying across the region as economies and businesses recover from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poh cautioned that the EDB anticipates a relatively subdued 2023 in terms of investments following a record-breaking 2022. In the previous year, Singapore secured S$22.5 billion (approximately $16.5 billion) in fixed asset investments, with over 66 per cent originating from electronics manufacturing projects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The primary driver for investments was the semiconductor super cycle," Reuters quoted Poh as saying. However, the electronics industry has faced a downturn, leading to a reversal of this trend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Singapore holds an 11 per cent share of the global semiconductor market, with 20 per cent of global semiconductor equipment being manufactured within the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, Poh emphasised the EDB’s commitment to promoting “green finance” and renewable energy investments, encompassing sectors such as solar, wind, and hydropower.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Rising Family Offices&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Singapore is maintaining its status as a sanctuary for the wealthy, who are establishing family offices to handle their money outside of their native countries in order to avoid political unrest and economic unpredictability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to data from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), there will be 1,100 single family offices in Singapore by the end of 2022, up from 400 at the end of 2020. These offices manage investments, taxes, asset transfers, and other financial problems for the wealthy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poh maintained that Singapore has made efforts to foster these family offices by enhancing training initiatives focused on asset management and financial planning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We've worked with the Wealth Management Institute at the MAS to start a brand-new course for family offices so that our family offices have to attend this new sort of training to better understand how they can deploy their capital,” Reuters quoted Poh as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Singapore is taking proactive steps to harness the changing dynamics of global manufacturing flows by partnering with Malaysia and Indonesia to bolster its regional supply chain.

Singapore is taking proactive steps to harness the changing dynamics of global manufacturing flows by partnering with Malaysia and Indonesia to bolster its regional supply chain. This strategic collaboration aims to capitalise on rising investments from India, China, and Southeast Asia in recent years. During an event hosted by LSEG and Reuters Newsmaker, Managing Director of Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) Jacqueline Poh highlighted the importance of fostering a robust manufacturing base that encompasses Singapore, the southern Malaysian state of Johor, and the nearby Riau Islands of Indonesia. This collaborative effort is envisioned to position Southeast Asia as a formidable production hub. Singapore’s objective is twofold: to maintain its status as one of the world’s premier financial centres and leverage the ongoing wealth shift towards Asia. Concurrently, the city-state is actively establishing itself as a wealth management hub catering to the ultra-rich. However, the competition for a share of this growth is intensifying across the region as economies and businesses recover from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Poh cautioned that the EDB anticipates a relatively subdued 2023 in terms of investments following a record-breaking 2022. In the previous year, Singapore secured S$22.5 billion (approximately $16.5 billion) in fixed asset investments, with over 66 per cent originating from electronics manufacturing projects. “The primary driver for investments was the semiconductor super cycle," Reuters quoted Poh as saying. However, the electronics industry has faced a downturn, leading to a reversal of this trend. Currently, Singapore holds an 11 per cent share of the global semiconductor market, with 20 per cent of global semiconductor equipment being manufactured within the country. Additionally, Poh emphasised the EDB’s commitment to promoting “green finance” and renewable energy investments, encompassing sectors such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Rising Family Offices Singapore is maintaining its status as a sanctuary for the wealthy, who are establishing family offices to handle their money outside of their native countries in order to avoid political unrest and economic unpredictability. According to data from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), there will be 1,100 single family offices in Singapore by the end of 2022, up from 400 at the end of 2020. These offices manage investments, taxes, asset transfers, and other financial problems for the wealthy. Poh maintained that Singapore has made efforts to foster these family offices by enhancing training initiatives focused on asset management and financial planning. “We've worked with the Wealth Management Institute at the MAS to start a brand-new course for family offices so that our family offices have to attend this new sort of training to better understand how they can deploy their capital,” Reuters quoted Poh as saying. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singapore in talks with Malaysia and Indonesia to establish regional supply chain: Report 

<p>An Indian-origin worker with Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower has been jailed for five weeks for asking an ex-colleague at DBS bank to access the remuneration details of his colleagues.</p>

<p>35-year-old Dinath Silvamany Muthaliyar, a Singapore citizen, used to work with DBS Bank before joining the ministry. He reportedly asked his ex-colleague, Liong Yan Sin, to access the databank containing information about the salaries of employees of the Ministry of Manpower.</p>

<p>Muthaliyar has now pleaded guilty to four counts under the Computer Misuse Act.</p>

<h2><strong>More details about the case</strong></h2>

<p>As per local media, the accused person contacted Liong in June 2018 to help him get the salary details of his colleagues at the ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecution alleged that “the accused wanted to find out his colleagues' salaries to ascertain his standing in respect of his salary and the difference between his salary and his colleagues' salaries."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Singapore unveils $5 billion retirement plan for those above 50</strong></p>

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<p>Reportedly, upon being asked for the same, Liong accessed the salary database to conduct searches between June and November 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He later disclosed the confidential information to Muthaliyar on WhatsApp.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the prosecution demand?</strong></h2>

<p>The prosecution requested a sentence of six to seven weeks in jail for Dinath, arguing that his level of responsibility for the crimes was lower than that of Liong. Liong had held a position of trust when he committed the offences.</p>

<p>Dinath pleaded guilty to four counts under the Computer Misuse Act for asking Liong to conduct unauthorised searches and four counts under the Banking Act for asking Liong to disclose unauthorised information. Additionally, 14 similar charges were considered during his sentencing.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/singapore-in-talks-with-malaysia-and-indonesia-to-establish-regional-supply-chain-report-636140"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Singapore in talks with Malaysia and Indonesia to establish regional supply chain: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The court learned that both Liong and Dinath were aware of the regulations prohibiting collections officers from improperly disclosing customer information to third parties and from accessing customer data beyond their job duties.</p>

<p>Liong had previously pleaded guilty to similar charges and received a 16-week jail sentence, while another individual, Ang Kok How, who had also asked Liong to obtain someone's address unlawfully, was sentenced to two weeks in jail.</p>

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An Indian-origin worker with Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower has been jailed for five weeks for asking an ex-colleague at DBS bank to access the remuneration details of his colleagues.

An Indian-origin worker with Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower has been jailed for five weeks for asking an ex-colleague at DBS bank to access the remuneration details of his colleagues. 35-year-old Dinath Silvamany Muthaliyar, a Singapore citizen, used to work with DBS Bank before joining the ministry. He reportedly asked his ex-colleague, Liong Yan Sin, to access the databank containing information about the salaries of employees of the Ministry of Manpower. Muthaliyar has now pleaded guilty to four counts under the Computer Misuse Act. More details about the case As per local media, the accused person contacted Liong in June 2018 to help him get the salary details of his colleagues at the ministry. The prosecution alleged that “the accused wanted to find out his colleagues' salaries to ascertain his standing in respect of his salary and the difference between his salary and his colleagues' salaries." Watch: Singapore unveils $5 billion retirement plan for those above 50 × Reportedly, upon being asked for the same, Liong accessed the salary database to conduct searches between June and November 2018. He later disclosed the confidential information to Muthaliyar on WhatsApp. What did the prosecution demand? The prosecution requested a sentence of six to seven weeks in jail for Dinath, arguing that his level of responsibility for the crimes was lower than that of Liong. Liong had held a position of trust when he committed the offences. Dinath pleaded guilty to four counts under the Computer Misuse Act for asking Liong to conduct unauthorised searches and four counts under the Banking Act for asking Liong to disclose unauthorised information. Additionally, 14 similar charges were considered during his sentencing. Also read: Singapore in talks with Malaysia and Indonesia to establish regional supply chain: Report The court learned that both Liong and Dinath were aware of the regulations prohibiting collections officers from improperly disclosing customer information to third parties and from accessing customer data beyond their job duties. Liong had previously pleaded guilty to similar charges and received a 16-week jail sentence, while another individual, Ang Kok How, who had also asked Liong to obtain someone's address unlawfully, was sentenced to two weeks in jail. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Singapore: Indian-origin worker jailed for seeking salary details of colleagues

The world is looking to diversify its supply chain away from China. Singapore is in talks with Malaysia and Indonesia to develop a strong regional supply chain base. Speaking at an event, Jacqueline Poh, economic development board's managing director, said that the city-state is expecting a more muted 2023 in terms of investments, after a record 2022 where it secured 16.5 billion dollars in fixed asset investments. More than 66% of the investments went for establishing electronics manufacturing projects.

Singapore, Indonesia & Malaysia seek a regional supply chain base

<p>Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the Indian-origin Singapore-born economist, was sworn in as the ninth president of the Asian city-state on Thursday (September 14). The 66-year-old will serve a six-year term. He has succeeded President Halimah Yacob, Singapore's first female president. Her term ended on September 13.</p>

<p>Tharman has served Singapore all his life in public service. He found overwhelming support from the city-state's predominantly Chinese society in presidential election.</p>

<p>Tharman served as a senior minister between 2019 and 2023. He was co-ordinating minister for social policies between 2015 and 2023. He was also chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore between 2011 and 2023. Between May 2011 and May 2019, Tharman Shanmugaratnam served as deputy prime minister of Singapore.</p>

<p>Before this, Singapore has had two Indian-origin presidents.</p>

<p>The recently concluded elections in Singapore were largely seen to be indicative of support for the ruling party. The polls were closely watched after rare spate of scandals in Singapore politics. However, Tharman won more than two-thirds of the votes against two rivals. He won 70.4 per cent of the vote.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Vote of confidence in Singapore’</strong></h2>

<p>"I believe that it's a vote of confidence in Singapore. It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans," the former finance minister said in a speech before the results were announced earlier this month.</p>

<p>"I'm humbled by this vote. It is not just a vote for me, it is a vote for Singapore's future."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Singapore unveils $5 billion retirement plan for those above 50</strong></p>

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<p>His main rival was Ng Kok Song, who is a former chief investment officer of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GTC. The fund manages Singapore's foreign reserves.</p>

<p>Ng Kok Song conceded defeat after winning only 15.7 per cent of the vote.</p>

<p>There are stringent requirements for the position of Singapore president. The post formally oversees city's financial reserves and also holds power to veto some measures and approve anti-graft probes.</p>

<p><strong>Video | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-air-china-flight-makes-emergency-landing-in-singapore-nine-injured-634542">Air China flight makes emergency landing in Singapore, nine injured</a></strong></p>

<p>The presidency is non-partisan post under Singapore's constitution. However, political lines were drawn ahead of the election to replace Halimah Yacob. She ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017.</p>

<p>During the elections this time, Shanmugaratnam was widely seen as a favourite to win the post of president. He had resigned as a member of the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and also as a senior minister in the cabinet. This was necessitated as all presidential candidates in Singapore must be independent.</p>

<p>Singapore's government is run by the prime minister. Currently, Lee Hsien Loong of the PAP is the prime minister. The party has ruled Singapore continuously since 1959.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the Indian-origin Singapore-born economist, was sworn in as the ninth president of the Asian city-state on Thursday (September 14). The 66-year-old will serve a six-year term.

Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the Indian-origin Singapore-born economist, was sworn in as the ninth president of the Asian city-state on Thursday (September 14). The 66-year-old will serve a six-year term. He has succeeded President Halimah Yacob, Singapore's first female president. Her term ended on September 13. Tharman has served Singapore all his life in public service. He found overwhelming support from the city-state's predominantly Chinese society in presidential election. Tharman served as a senior minister between 2019 and 2023. He was co-ordinating minister for social policies between 2015 and 2023. He was also chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore between 2011 and 2023. Between May 2011 and May 2019, Tharman Shanmugaratnam served as deputy prime minister of Singapore. Before this, Singapore has had two Indian-origin presidents. The recently concluded elections in Singapore were largely seen to be indicative of support for the ruling party. The polls were closely watched after rare spate of scandals in Singapore politics. However, Tharman won more than two-thirds of the votes against two rivals. He won 70.4 per cent of the vote. ‘Vote of confidence in Singapore’ "I believe that it's a vote of confidence in Singapore. It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans," the former finance minister said in a speech before the results were announced earlier this month. "I'm humbled by this vote. It is not just a vote for me, it is a vote for Singapore's future." Watch | Singapore unveils $5 billion retirement plan for those above 50 × His main rival was Ng Kok Song, who is a former chief investment officer of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GTC. The fund manages Singapore's foreign reserves. Ng Kok Song conceded defeat after winning only 15.7 per cent of the vote. There are stringent requirements for the position of Singapore president. The post formally oversees city's financial reserves and also holds power to veto some measures and approve anti-graft probes. Video | Air China flight makes emergency landing in Singapore, nine injured The presidency is non-partisan post under Singapore's constitution. However, political lines were drawn ahead of the election to replace Halimah Yacob. She ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017. During the elections this time, Shanmugaratnam was widely seen as a favourite to win the post of president. He had resigned as a member of the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and also as a senior minister in the cabinet. This was necessitated as all presidential candidates in Singapore must be independent. Singapore's government is run by the prime minister. Currently, Lee Hsien Loong of the PAP is the prime minister. The party has ruled Singapore continuously since 1959. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Indian-origin economist, sworn in as Singapore president

<p>An Air China flight flying from Chengdu made an emergency landing and evacuation in Singapore, on Sunday (September 10) after smoke filled its front cargo hold and lavatory, said the city-state’s Changi Airport. In an update, they reported that nine passengers on the flight&nbsp;sustained “minor injuries”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials also said that the plane’s left engine caught fire which has since been put out.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement on Facebook, Changi Airport said that Flight CA403 “encountered smoke in the forward cargo hold and lavatory” while on its way to Singapore.</p>

<p>The flight, CA403, took off from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in the Chinese province of Sichuan and was en route to Singapore. According to airport officials, there were a total of 146 passengers and nine crew members on board.</p>

<p>The plane landed on the runway around 4:15 pm (local time) after the flight “declared emergency and requested priority landing” following reports of smoke in the plane, said the airport officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Air China and airport operator Changi Airport Group were providing assistance to the passengers and crew, said the Changi Airport. “After landing, emergency slides of the aircraft were deployed for expeditious evacuation,” said the airport officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video clip on X, formerly Twitter, purportedly shows passengers exiting on an emergency slide while another footage shows the cabin filled with smoke before the landing.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.</strong></em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CA403?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CA403</a> TFU-SIN emergency landing <a href="https://t.co/gq43LbYOxx">pic.twitter.com/gq43LbYOxx</a></p>
— ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaAvReview/status/1700802868088041547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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— ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaAvReview/status/1700803969541718106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About those injured</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In an update, Singapore airport officials said that nine passengers “sustained minor injuries related to smoke inhalation and abrasions during the evacuation process,” adding that they have since been “attended to”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Airport operations affected</strong></h2>

<p>Singapore’s Changi Airport said that Runway 3, where the Air China flight landed, will be temporarily closed and flight operations could be affected due to the incident.</p>

<p>“The disabled aircraft was towed away at about 1800 hours,” said the airport, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The runway was reopened at around 7:02 pm (local time) after checks. During the closure, one flight was diverted to Batam, Indonesia, said the airport officials. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The cause of the fire is under investigation, it added. Citing data from the flight tracking software Umetrip, the China Daily also reported that the plane was an Airbus A320Neo which can accommodate 158 passengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It reportedly took off from Chengdu at 11:30 am (local time) and was scheduled to land in Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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<br />
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An Air China flight flying from Chengdu made an emergency landing and evacuation in Singapore, on Sunday (September 10) after smoke filled its front cargo hold and lavatory, said the city-state’s Changi Airport.

An Air China flight flying from Chengdu made an emergency landing and evacuation in Singapore, on Sunday (September 10) after smoke filled its front cargo hold and lavatory, said the city-state’s Changi Airport. In an update, they reported that nine passengers on the flight sustained “minor injuries”. The officials also said that the plane’s left engine caught fire which has since been put out. What do we know about the incident? In a statement on Facebook, Changi Airport said that Flight CA403 “encountered smoke in the forward cargo hold and lavatory” while on its way to Singapore. The flight, CA403, took off from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in the Chinese province of Sichuan and was en route to Singapore. According to airport officials, there were a total of 146 passengers and nine crew members on board. The plane landed on the runway around 4:15 pm (local time) after the flight “declared emergency and requested priority landing” following reports of smoke in the plane, said the airport officials. Air China and airport operator Changi Airport Group were providing assistance to the passengers and crew, said the Changi Airport. “After landing, emergency slides of the aircraft were deployed for expeditious evacuation,” said the airport officials. A video clip on X, formerly Twitter, purportedly shows passengers exiting on an emergency slide while another footage shows the cabin filled with smoke before the landing. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. #CA403 TFU-SIN emergency landing pic.twitter.com/gq43LbYOxx — ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) September 10, 2023 × Another clip from the passenger on board. pic.twitter.com/9HDyBVotPp — ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) September 10, 2023 × About those injured In an update, Singapore airport officials said that nine passengers “sustained minor injuries related to smoke inhalation and abrasions during the evacuation process,” adding that they have since been “attended to”. Airport operations affected Singapore’s Changi Airport said that Runway 3, where the Air China flight landed, will be temporarily closed and flight operations could be affected due to the incident. “The disabled aircraft was towed away at about 1800 hours,” said the airport, in a statement. The runway was reopened at around 7:02 pm (local time) after checks. During the closure, one flight was diverted to Batam, Indonesia, said the airport officials. The cause of the fire is under investigation, it added. Citing data from the flight tracking software Umetrip, the China Daily also reported that the plane was an Airbus A320Neo which can accommodate 158 passengers. It reportedly took off from Chengdu at 11:30 am (local time) and was scheduled to land in Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video | Air China flight makes emergency landing in Singapore, nine injured

A recent survey indicates a remarkable transformation unfolding in the retirement aspirations of non-resident Indians. Traditionally, the dream for many NRIs had been to settle in economically developed countries like the US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, or the UK. However, India's rapid progress towards achieving developed nation status, coupled with its resilience during global challenges, is reshaping the retirement landscape.

Impact of India's growing economy: India, the hotspot for retirement?

Indian-origin Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a Singaporean economist, has been elected president of the nation. In the first presidential election to be held in the nation since 2011, Tharman Shanmugaratnam triumphed against two candidates of Chinese descent.

Singapore: Indian-origin Tharman Shanmugaratnam wins Singapore's presidential election

<p>Tharman Shanmugaratnam, an Indian-origin former Singaporean deputy prime minister, was elected president Friday (September 1), the official results showed. This was the city-state's first contested vote for the largely ceremonial position in more than a decade. He replaces incumbent Halimah Yacob who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Elections Department declared Shanmugaratnam of the People's Action Party (PAP) as the winner over two rival candidates after securing 70.4 per cent of votes cast. The other two candidates, Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian, effectively conceded the race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 66-year-old economist won 70.4 per cent of the vote in a landslide victory in the republic's three-way presidential contest. The result came in the backdrop of recent political scandals involving his ex-colleagues, but they didn't hurt his political aspirations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scorching-summer-japan-records-highest-average-temperature-in-125-years-631360">Scorching Summer! Japan records highest average temperature in 125 years</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Election returning officer Tan Meng Dui said: "I declare Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam as the candidate duly elected as the president of Singapore."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by media reports, he said that the results were humbling. "It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans," he said.</p>

<p>In a speech before the results were announced, Shanmugaratnam said: "I believe that it's a vote of confidence in Singapore. It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fortifies-new-delhi-over-130000-officers-air-support-to-ensure-safety-at-g20-summit-631318">India fortifies New Delhi: Over 130,000 officers, air support to ensure safety at G20 Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ahead of G20 summit, India's Chief Coordinator Shringla emphasises on global South focus&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Truly humbled:&nbsp;Tharman Shanmugaratnam&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After the Election Department released the final sample count, Tharman spoke to the media stating that he was "truly humbled" by the strong support Singaporeans had shown for him. He said a vote for him was a "vote for Singapore".</p>

<p>He added that "it's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans" and added that "that has been my platform, and I believe it has received strong endorsement by Singaporeans. So it's not just about me … this is about Singapore and confidence in Singapore".&nbsp;<br />
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Tharman will be Singapore's third Indian-origin president&nbsp;after Sellapan Ramanathan and Chengara Veetil Devan Nair.</p>

<p>Sellapan Ramanathan,&nbsp;popularly known as S R Nathan, a politician and civil servant of Tamil descent, served as the president after&nbsp;defeating Benjamin Sheares in 2009&nbsp;and was Singapore's longest-serving president.</p>

<p>Chengara Veetil Devan Nair, better known as Devan Nair, served as the third president of Singapore from 1981 until his resignation in 1985. Nair was the son of a rubber plantation clerk, who was originally from Thalassery, Kerala</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Tharman Shanmugaratnam, an Indian-origin former Singaporean deputy prime minister, was elected president Friday (September 1), the official results showed. This was the city-state's first contested vote for the largely ceremonial position in more than a decade.

Tharman Shanmugaratnam, an Indian-origin former Singaporean deputy prime minister, was elected president Friday (September 1), the official results showed. This was the city-state's first contested vote for the largely ceremonial position in more than a decade. He replaces incumbent Halimah Yacob who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017. The Elections Department declared Shanmugaratnam of the People's Action Party (PAP) as the winner over two rival candidates after securing 70.4 per cent of votes cast. The other two candidates, Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian, effectively conceded the race. The 66-year-old economist won 70.4 per cent of the vote in a landslide victory in the republic's three-way presidential contest. The result came in the backdrop of recent political scandals involving his ex-colleagues, but they didn't hurt his political aspirations. Also read: Scorching Summer! Japan records highest average temperature in 125 years Election returning officer Tan Meng Dui said: "I declare Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam as the candidate duly elected as the president of Singapore." As quoted by media reports, he said that the results were humbling. "It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans," he said. In a speech before the results were announced, Shanmugaratnam said: "I believe that it's a vote of confidence in Singapore. It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together." Also read: India fortifies New Delhi: Over 130,000 officers, air support to ensure safety at G20 Summit Also read: Ahead of G20 summit, India's Chief Coordinator Shringla emphasises on global South focus × Truly humbled: Tharman Shanmugaratnam After the Election Department released the final sample count, Tharman spoke to the media stating that he was "truly humbled" by the strong support Singaporeans had shown for him. He said a vote for him was a "vote for Singapore". He added that "it's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans" and added that "that has been my platform, and I believe it has received strong endorsement by Singaporeans. So it's not just about me … this is about Singapore and confidence in Singapore". Tharman will be Singapore's third Indian-origin president after Sellapan Ramanathan and Chengara Veetil Devan Nair. Sellapan Ramanathan, popularly known as S R Nathan, a politician and civil servant of Tamil descent, served as the president after defeating Benjamin Sheares in 2009 and was Singapore's longest-serving president. Chengara Veetil Devan Nair, better known as Devan Nair, served as the third president of Singapore from 1981 until his resignation in 1985. Nair was the son of a rubber plantation clerk, who was originally from Thalassery, Kerala (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore: Indian-origin ex-deputy PM Tharman Shanmugaratnam elected president

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<p>Singapore on Friday (September 1) held its first contest presidential election in over a decade to elect the new head of the state. The frontrunners for the election are former deputy prime minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam (66), Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Song, aged 75,&nbsp;is the former chief investment officer of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC, which manages the country's foreign reserves. Lian (75)&nbsp;meanwhile, is a former chief executive of insurer NTUC Income.</p>

<p>Whoever wins the election will take over from Singapore's first female president, Halimah Yacob. The president's role is largely ceremonial. However, there are stringent requirements for the position which formally oversees Singapore's accumulated financial reserves and holds the power to veto certain measures and approve anti-graft probes.</p>

<p>Voting is compulsory for eligible citizens and those who do not vote are at risk of being struck from the voters' list. By 5 pm Friday, around 85 per cent of eligible voters exercised their franchise, according to the Elections Department Singapore (ELD).</p>

<h2><strong>The frontrunners</strong></h2>

<p>Former deputy prime minister Shanmugaratnam, a leader of the People's Action Party (PAP), is widely perceived as having the government's backing and was questioned about his independence during the campaign. Shanmugaratnam stepped down from the deputy PM's post ahead of his candidacy. His party was recently rocked by political scandals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing observers, AFP reported that Friday's vote could indicate the level of PAP support ahead of general elections due in 2025 or discontent after the scandals.</p>

<p>Tan Kin Lian has gained the support of several opposition leaders. Lian had recently said that it was okay to be merciful to drug mules facing the death penalty in Singapore, adding he did not believe would granting clemency would lead to a flood of drug traffickers.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, two days before the election, Ng Kok Song said that politics in Singapore had become highly contestable and having the "wrong team" in charge is “no longer a remote possibility,” CNA reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Singapore on Friday (September 1) held its first contest presidential election in over a decade to elect the new head of the state. The frontrunners for the election are former deputy prime minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam (66), Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian.

Singapore on Friday (September 1) held its first contest presidential election in over a decade to elect the new head of the state. The frontrunners for the election are former deputy prime minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam (66), Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Song, aged 75, is the former chief investment officer of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC, which manages the country's foreign reserves. Lian (75) meanwhile, is a former chief executive of insurer NTUC Income. Whoever wins the election will take over from Singapore's first female president, Halimah Yacob. The president's role is largely ceremonial. However, there are stringent requirements for the position which formally oversees Singapore's accumulated financial reserves and holds the power to veto certain measures and approve anti-graft probes. Voting is compulsory for eligible citizens and those who do not vote are at risk of being struck from the voters' list. By 5 pm Friday, around 85 per cent of eligible voters exercised their franchise, according to the Elections Department Singapore (ELD). The frontrunners Former deputy prime minister Shanmugaratnam, a leader of the People's Action Party (PAP), is widely perceived as having the government's backing and was questioned about his independence during the campaign. Shanmugaratnam stepped down from the deputy PM's post ahead of his candidacy. His party was recently rocked by political scandals. Citing observers, AFP reported that Friday's vote could indicate the level of PAP support ahead of general elections due in 2025 or discontent after the scandals. Tan Kin Lian has gained the support of several opposition leaders. Lian had recently said that it was okay to be merciful to drug mules facing the death penalty in Singapore, adding he did not believe would granting clemency would lead to a flood of drug traffickers. Meanwhile, two days before the election, Ng Kok Song said that politics in Singapore had become highly contestable and having the "wrong team" in charge is “no longer a remote possibility,” CNA reported on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore holds first presidential poll in over 10 years to pick next head of state

<p>The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago.<br />
<br />
However, now India has agreed to make an exception for Singapore and allow the export of rice to fulfil the South East Asian country's food security requirements.<br />
<br />
“India and Singapore enjoy a very close strategic partnership, characterised by shared interests, close economic ties and strong people-to-people connect. In view of this special relationship, India has decided to allow the export of rice to meet the food security requirements of Singapore. Formal orders in this regard will be issued shortly,” said India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, while responding to media queries on the export of rice to Singapore.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our response to media queries on export of rice to Singapore:<a href="https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR">https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR</a> <a href="https://t.co/lzqbRlzesb">pic.twitter.com/lzqbRlzesb</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1696573307082994092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-rice-exporters-receiving-requests-for-early-shipments-of-basmati-rice-report-621108">Indian rice exporters receiving requests for early shipments of basmati rice: Report</a></p>

<p>The MEA spokesperson added that the government will soon issue formal orders in this regard. The government on August 27 had temporarily placed a ban on the export of any basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas.<br />
<br />
However, the rice shipments that have been contracted beyond that price threshold will be allowed to export.</p>

<h2><strong>Ban on exports of non-basmati white rice</strong></h2>

<p>The government of India on July 20 banned non-basmati white rice exports with the aim of boosting domestic supply and keeping retail prices in check. Out of the total rice exported from India, 25 per cent of the consignment comprises the non-basmati white rice.<br />
<br />
The export policy, from 'Free with export duty of 20%' to 'Prohibited', was amended by the government with immediate effect to ensure non-basmati white rice's constant availability in the Indian market and to stem the rise in local prices.<br />
<br />
On September 8, 2022, an export duty of 20 per cent was imposed by the government on non-basmati white rice to decrease the price and ensure its availability in the domestic market.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India imposes curbs on basmati rice exports. Details</strong></p>

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<p>After the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice was imposed, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) got in touch with the Indian authorities and sought an exemption from the ban.<br />
<br />
“SFA is working closely with importers to increase the import of different varieties of rice from various sources. Singapore is also in close contact with the Indian authorities to seek exemption from the ban,” stated SFA in its statement.&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago.

The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago. However, now India has agreed to make an exception for Singapore and allow the export of rice to fulfil the South East Asian country's food security requirements. “India and Singapore enjoy a very close strategic partnership, characterised by shared interests, close economic ties and strong people-to-people connect. In view of this special relationship, India has decided to allow the export of rice to meet the food security requirements of Singapore. Formal orders in this regard will be issued shortly,” said India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, while responding to media queries on the export of rice to Singapore. Our response to media queries on export of rice to Singapore:https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR pic.twitter.com/lzqbRlzesb — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) August 29, 2023 × ALSO READ | Indian rice exporters receiving requests for early shipments of basmati rice: Report The MEA spokesperson added that the government will soon issue formal orders in this regard. The government on August 27 had temporarily placed a ban on the export of any basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas. However, the rice shipments that have been contracted beyond that price threshold will be allowed to export. Ban on exports of non-basmati white rice The government of India on July 20 banned non-basmati white rice exports with the aim of boosting domestic supply and keeping retail prices in check. Out of the total rice exported from India, 25 per cent of the consignment comprises the non-basmati white rice. The export policy, from 'Free with export duty of 20%' to 'Prohibited', was amended by the government with immediate effect to ensure non-basmati white rice's constant availability in the Indian market and to stem the rise in local prices. On September 8, 2022, an export duty of 20 per cent was imposed by the government on non-basmati white rice to decrease the price and ensure its availability in the domestic market. WATCH | India imposes curbs on basmati rice exports. Details After the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice was imposed, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) got in touch with the Indian authorities and sought an exemption from the ban. “SFA is working closely with importers to increase the import of different varieties of rice from various sources. Singapore is also in close contact with the Indian authorities to seek exemption from the ban,” stated SFA in its statement. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India makes exception for Singapore, agrees to export non-basmati rice

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<p>A migrant worker from India successfully sued his employers in Singapore for negligence after he fell off the back of an overcrowded lorry in 2021. According to a report by CNN on Sunday (August 27), 37-year-old Ramalingam Murugan's lawyer Muhamad Ashraf Syed Ansarai said that the accident caused him immense pain. “He injured himself coming down from a lorry which was overcrowded – a simple thing that turned out to be risky,” Ansarai said.</p>

<p>“But it is not uncommon for companies, especially those involved in heavy construction, to take risk assessments for granted,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>The accident</strong></h2>

<p>On January 3, 2021, Murugan, who belongs to the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, fractured his leg while disembarking from an overcrowded truck. Citing court documents, the report said that Murugan was ferried with at least 24 other workers on the back of the lorry from their dormitory to a work site and was the fourth to alight from the vehicle. It was raining that day.</p>

<p>He testified in court that he was pushed by another worker who was in a hurry to seek shelter from the rain, causing him to lose his balance and fracturing his right leg. The 37-year-old underwent surgery and was on medical leave for five months.</p>

<p>Last year, Murugan launched a lawsuit against Rigel Marine Services (his employer), seeking $73,500 in damages. Murugran argued that his employers failed to institute or enforce a safe system of transport for himself and other workers and did not carry out risk assessments to identify potential hazards.</p>

<p>However, Rigel Marine Services denied the claims and said that the accident was caused by the man's own carelessness. The company also counter-claimed for the medical expenses and medical leave wages that had been paid to and for Murugan, CNN reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Judge rules in favour of migrant construction worker</strong></h2>

<p>District Judge Tan May Tee ruled in favour of Murugan despite the company's justification. Dee said there was a clear breach of duty by the company, adding that without proper supervision and the maintenance of some order or discipline in alighting, the man was pushed by his co-workers which resulted in him losing his balance and falling.</p>

<p>She added that she found no contributory negligence on Murugan’s part, and there had been no way for him to avoid the accident as the vehicle was “not meant to carry more than 22 persons at the time.”</p>

<p>In a statement released through his lawyer, Murugan said he was “looking forward to the closure of this matter, and hoped he gets a reasonable compensation for his injuries. Judge Tee, meanwhile, said the damages awarded to the man will be assessed at a later stage.</p>

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A migrant worker from India successfully sued his employers in Singapore for negligence after he fell off the back of an overcrowded lorry in 2021. According to a report by CNN on Sunday (August 27), 37-year-old Ramalingam Murugan's lawyer Muhamad Ashraf Syed Ansarai said that the accident caused him immense pain.

A migrant worker from India successfully sued his employers in Singapore for negligence after he fell off the back of an overcrowded lorry in 2021. According to a report by CNN on Sunday (August 27), 37-year-old Ramalingam Murugan's lawyer Muhamad Ashraf Syed Ansarai said that the accident caused him immense pain. “He injured himself coming down from a lorry which was overcrowded – a simple thing that turned out to be risky,” Ansarai said. “But it is not uncommon for companies, especially those involved in heavy construction, to take risk assessments for granted,” he added. The accident On January 3, 2021, Murugan, who belongs to the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, fractured his leg while disembarking from an overcrowded truck. Citing court documents, the report said that Murugan was ferried with at least 24 other workers on the back of the lorry from their dormitory to a work site and was the fourth to alight from the vehicle. It was raining that day. He testified in court that he was pushed by another worker who was in a hurry to seek shelter from the rain, causing him to lose his balance and fracturing his right leg. The 37-year-old underwent surgery and was on medical leave for five months. Last year, Murugan launched a lawsuit against Rigel Marine Services (his employer), seeking $73,500 in damages. Murugran argued that his employers failed to institute or enforce a safe system of transport for himself and other workers and did not carry out risk assessments to identify potential hazards. However, Rigel Marine Services denied the claims and said that the accident was caused by the man's own carelessness. The company also counter-claimed for the medical expenses and medical leave wages that had been paid to and for Murugan, CNN reported. Judge rules in favour of migrant construction worker District Judge Tan May Tee ruled in favour of Murugan despite the company's justification. Dee said there was a clear breach of duty by the company, adding that without proper supervision and the maintenance of some order or discipline in alighting, the man was pushed by his co-workers which resulted in him losing his balance and falling. She added that she found no contributory negligence on Murugan’s part, and there had been no way for him to avoid the accident as the vehicle was “not meant to carry more than 22 persons at the time.” In a statement released through his lawyer, Murugan said he was “looking forward to the closure of this matter, and hoped he gets a reasonable compensation for his injuries. Judge Tee, meanwhile, said the damages awarded to the man will be assessed at a later stage. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Migrant worker from India sues employers in Singapore seeking $73,500 in damages, and wins: Report

Singapore will hand out a $5.2 billion pension fund top-up for citizens aged 50 and above to boost retirement savings amid rising costs of living, prime minister Lee Hsien Loong said.

Singapore unveils $5 billion retirement plan for those above 50

Three candidates have qualified to run for president of the city-state of Singapore, according to news agency PTI on Friday. One of them is Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former minister of Indian descent in Singapore. This occurs a few weeks after the 66-year-old's official presidential campaign kickoff.

Singapore: Tharman Shanmugaratnam to run for Presidency

<p>Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former Indian-origin minister in Singapore, is among three people who have qualified to run for the city-state’s presidential election, reported news agency PTI, on Friday (August 18). This comes weeks after the 66-year-old formally launched his presidential campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About Tharman and other candidate’s selection</strong></h2>

<p>Tharman (66) and two Chinese-origin former executives of government-linked companies have qualified to run for the upcoming presidential elections. The Elections Department (ELD) said that the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) received a total of six applications for the certificate of eligibility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two Chinese-origin candidates&nbsp;who have also qualified as candidates for the presidential election are Chief Investment Officer Ng Kok Song and former NTUC Income Chief Executive Tan Kin Lian, reported PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency citing the department also said that Tharman submitted his bid under the public sector service track while Ng and Tan applied under the public sector deliberative track and private sector deliberative track, respectively.</p>

<p>Under requirements laid out in Singapore’s Constitution, public sector presidential candidates must have held office for at least three years as a minister, chief justice, attorney-general or other high-level posts.</p>

<p>In line with this, since Tharman held office as a minister for at least three years, he qualified for the public sector service track. The 66-year-old launched his bid for the presidency on July 26. Therefore, he has since resigned from public and political posts last month.</p>

<p>The six-member PEC, headed by Public Service Commission chairman Lee Tzu Yang and also includes two supreme court judges, were satisfied that Ng, Tan and Tharman were men of “integrity, good character and reputation,” said ELD.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tharman’s campaign</strong></h2>

<p>Announcing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapores-former-indian-origin-minister-launches-presidential-bid-619794">launch of his campaign</a> last month, Tharman vowed to evolve Singapore’s culture as a “shining spot” in the world.</p>

<p>“I stepped into this race because I feel very strongly in the need to evolve Singapore’s culture, some of our norms and the way we go about working with each other so that we remain a shining spot in the world,” said the 66-year-old, during a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tharman was an economist and civil servant and worked predominantly at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, before joining politics in 2001. So far, he’s served as minister for education and finance and deputy prime minister from 2011 to 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Upcoming elections</strong></h2>

<p>Singapore had previously said it would hold the presidential election on September 1 if more than one person qualifies for the presidential run. Incumbent President Halimah Yacob’s six-year tenure will end on September 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singapore will hold its first presidential election since 2011, after President Halimah announced on May 29 that she will not seek a second term. She is the country’s eighth and first female president.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former Indian-origin minister in Singapore, is among three people who have qualified to run for the city-state’s presidential election, reported news agency PTI, on Friday (August 18).

Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former Indian-origin minister in Singapore, is among three people who have qualified to run for the city-state’s presidential election, reported news agency PTI, on Friday (August 18). This comes weeks after the 66-year-old formally launched his presidential campaign. About Tharman and other candidate’s selection Tharman (66) and two Chinese-origin former executives of government-linked companies have qualified to run for the upcoming presidential elections. The Elections Department (ELD) said that the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) received a total of six applications for the certificate of eligibility. The two Chinese-origin candidates who have also qualified as candidates for the presidential election are Chief Investment Officer Ng Kok Song and former NTUC Income Chief Executive Tan Kin Lian, reported PTI. The news agency citing the department also said that Tharman submitted his bid under the public sector service track while Ng and Tan applied under the public sector deliberative track and private sector deliberative track, respectively. Under requirements laid out in Singapore’s Constitution, public sector presidential candidates must have held office for at least three years as a minister, chief justice, attorney-general or other high-level posts. In line with this, since Tharman held office as a minister for at least three years, he qualified for the public sector service track. The 66-year-old launched his bid for the presidency on July 26. Therefore, he has since resigned from public and political posts last month. The six-member PEC, headed by Public Service Commission chairman Lee Tzu Yang and also includes two supreme court judges, were satisfied that Ng, Tan and Tharman were men of “integrity, good character and reputation,” said ELD. Tharman’s campaign Announcing the launch of his campaign last month, Tharman vowed to evolve Singapore’s culture as a “shining spot” in the world. “I stepped into this race because I feel very strongly in the need to evolve Singapore’s culture, some of our norms and the way we go about working with each other so that we remain a shining spot in the world,” said the 66-year-old, during a press conference. Tharman was an economist and civil servant and worked predominantly at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, before joining politics in 2001. So far, he’s served as minister for education and finance and deputy prime minister from 2011 to 2019. Upcoming elections Singapore had previously said it would hold the presidential election on September 1 if more than one person qualifies for the presidential run. Incumbent President Halimah Yacob’s six-year tenure will end on September 13. Singapore will hold its first presidential election since 2011, after President Halimah announced on May 29 that she will not seek a second term. She is the country’s eighth and first female president. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore: Indian-origin former minister Tharman among 3 people qualified to run in presidential election

In massive raids against a rumored global money laundering conspiracy, Singaporean investigators have recovered assets worth close to US$750 million, police announced on Wednesday. Ten foreign people from China, Turkey, Cambodia, Cyprus, and Vanuatu were detained by the police during the operation, which was conducted on Tuesday and targeted places throughout the city-state.

Singapore: Police seizes $736 million in assets anti-laundering raids

<p>Singapore on Tuesday (August 15) launched one of the biggest anti-money laundering operations the country has ever witnessed, leading to the seizure of assets worth $736 million.</p>

<p>South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Singapore Police Force (SPF) arrested 10 foreign nationals, including three Chinese, in the crackdown and seized cash, prime properties, luxury cars and other valuable assets.</p>

<p>The authorities said Wednesday it was a well-coordinated operation involving several agencies and more than 400 personnel, including those from the Criminal Investigation Department, Commercial Affairs Department (CAD), Special Operations Command or riot police, and Police Intelligence Department.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the allegations against those arrested?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the authorities, the group is allegedly involved in laundering money earned through criminal activities overseas, such as scams and online gambling.</p>

<p>Police said another 12 are assisting the investigations while eight people were put on the most-wanted list and are currently on the run.</p>

<p>The police identified them through extensive investigations, including the analysis of suspicious transaction reports (STRs) made by financial institutions about suspicious activity, as reported by Strait Times.</p>

<h2><strong>Police in action mode</strong></h2>

<p>The police have issued a prohibition of disposal orders for 94 properties and 50 vehicles, collectively valued at over S$815 million, along with various ornaments, bottles of liquor, and wine.</p>

<p>These orders prohibit the suspects from selling the mentioned properties and vehicles as the police open an investigation.<br />
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In addition, the police have seized over 35 associated bank accounts, holding an estimated total balance exceeding S$110 million, to aid investigations and prevent the transfer of suspected criminal proceeds.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-disney-to-close-lucasfilm-singapore-studio-amid-industry-challenges-and-restructuring-625711"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Disney to close Lucasfilm Singapore studio amid industry challenges and restructuring</strong></a></p>

<p>Furthermore, the authorities have confiscated more than S$23 million in cash, over 250 luxury bags and watches, 120 electronic devices including computers and mobile phones, over 270 pieces of jewellery, two gold bars, and 11 documents containing information about virtual assets.</p>

<h2><strong>Singapore’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy</strong></h2>

<p>Singapore’s Commercial Affairs Department (CAD) said in a statement that they were committed to keeping their country from becoming a safe haven for financial criminals.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait</strong></p>

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<p>CAD director David Chew said, “We have zero tolerance for the use of Singapore as a safe haven for criminals or their families, nor for the abuse of our banking facilities."</p>

<p>“Our message to these criminals is simple – if we catch you, we will arrest you. If we find your ill-gotten gains, we will seize them. We will deal with you to the fullest extent of our laws,” he added.</p>

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Singapore on Tuesday (August 15) launched one of the biggest anti-money laundering operations the country has ever witnessed, leading to the seizure of assets worth $736 million.

Singapore on Tuesday (August 15) launched one of the biggest anti-money laundering operations the country has ever witnessed, leading to the seizure of assets worth $736 million. South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Singapore Police Force (SPF) arrested 10 foreign nationals, including three Chinese, in the crackdown and seized cash, prime properties, luxury cars and other valuable assets. The authorities said Wednesday it was a well-coordinated operation involving several agencies and more than 400 personnel, including those from the Criminal Investigation Department, Commercial Affairs Department (CAD), Special Operations Command or riot police, and Police Intelligence Department. What are the allegations against those arrested? According to the authorities, the group is allegedly involved in laundering money earned through criminal activities overseas, such as scams and online gambling. Police said another 12 are assisting the investigations while eight people were put on the most-wanted list and are currently on the run. The police identified them through extensive investigations, including the analysis of suspicious transaction reports (STRs) made by financial institutions about suspicious activity, as reported by Strait Times. Police in action mode The police have issued a prohibition of disposal orders for 94 properties and 50 vehicles, collectively valued at over S$815 million, along with various ornaments, bottles of liquor, and wine. These orders prohibit the suspects from selling the mentioned properties and vehicles as the police open an investigation. In addition, the police have seized over 35 associated bank accounts, holding an estimated total balance exceeding S$110 million, to aid investigations and prevent the transfer of suspected criminal proceeds. Also read: Disney to close Lucasfilm Singapore studio amid industry challenges and restructuring Furthermore, the authorities have confiscated more than S$23 million in cash, over 250 luxury bags and watches, 120 electronic devices including computers and mobile phones, over 270 pieces of jewellery, two gold bars, and 11 documents containing information about virtual assets. Singapore’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy Singapore’s Commercial Affairs Department (CAD) said in a statement that they were committed to keeping their country from becoming a safe haven for financial criminals. Watch: Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait × CAD director David Chew said, “We have zero tolerance for the use of Singapore as a safe haven for criminals or their families, nor for the abuse of our banking facilities." “Our message to these criminals is simple – if we catch you, we will arrest you. If we find your ill-gotten gains, we will seize them. We will deal with you to the fullest extent of our laws,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Singapore’s massive anti-money laundering operation: Cash, assets worth $700mn seized, 10 arrested

<p>In a bizarre incident, a man after being fired from his job, got furious and locked up nine of his former colleagues in the office in Singapore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, in the month of September, 52-year-old Vict Lim Siong Hock padlocked the main door of his ex-workplace, confining people inside for about an hour, as per Channel News Asia (CNA) reports.</p>

<p>On Monday (Aug 7), he was fined $2,976 by a court after he pleaded guilty to one count of wrongful confinement, with another charge of sending an abusive message to his former colleague, the outlet added.</p>

<p>Lim accepted the position of a driver and logistics assistant at an electronics company situated in Pantech Business Hub in late May 2022 and began working on 1 July 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He used to work between 8 am and 4.30 pm or 5 pm and was allotted an hour for the lunch break. However, he was terminated on Aug 30, 2022, prior to the completion of his probation period, CNA reported citing court records.</p>

<p>After he was fired, Lim purchased a padlock from a hardware shop and decided to lock the main door, which was the only entrance to the office. He planned on doing so as he was resentful about being laid off. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He went to the office on 1 September&nbsp;2022 and secured the entrance with the padlock around 2:20 pm. On being questioned, Lim said that he assumed his ex-colleagues were on their lunch breaks and that "probably all of them" had left the office.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-taliban-couldnt-silence-her-this-exiled-afghan-journo-is-changing-lives-one-story-at-a-time-623453">Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time</a></p>

<p>However, the prosecutor said that such lunch breaks were staggered so that there was at least one employee looking after the office premises at all times.</p>

<p>After Lim had locked the door, after about 10 minutes an employee, who wanted to use the restroom, to his surprise realized that the door was locked from the outside. He then informed his fellow colleagues and the nine of them got trapped inside.</p>

<p>They then asked for help from another colleague who worked in a different part of the building. On inspecting, the latter confirmed that the door had been padlocked.</p>

<p>To safely get the trapped employees out of confinement, the owner of the organisation hired a locksmith, who charged around $60 to remove the padlock later that day. He then filed a complaint against Lim whose actions were recorded on CCTV camera.</p>

<p>For the wrongful act of confining, he could have been imprisoned for up to three years, faced a penalty or both.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a bizarre incident, a man after being fired from his job, got furious and locked up nine of his former colleagues in the office in Singapore. Last year, in the month of September, 52-year-old Vict Lim Siong Hock padlocked the main door of his ex-workplace, confining people inside for about an hour, as per Channel News Asia (CNA) reports.

In a bizarre incident, a man after being fired from his job, got furious and locked up nine of his former colleagues in the office in Singapore. Last year, in the month of September, 52-year-old Vict Lim Siong Hock padlocked the main door of his ex-workplace, confining people inside for about an hour, as per Channel News Asia (CNA) reports. On Monday (Aug 7), he was fined $2,976 by a court after he pleaded guilty to one count of wrongful confinement, with another charge of sending an abusive message to his former colleague, the outlet added. Lim accepted the position of a driver and logistics assistant at an electronics company situated in Pantech Business Hub in late May 2022 and began working on 1 July 2022. He used to work between 8 am and 4.30 pm or 5 pm and was allotted an hour for the lunch break. However, he was terminated on Aug 30, 2022, prior to the completion of his probation period, CNA reported citing court records. After he was fired, Lim purchased a padlock from a hardware shop and decided to lock the main door, which was the only entrance to the office. He planned on doing so as he was resentful about being laid off. He went to the office on 1 September 2022 and secured the entrance with the padlock around 2:20 pm. On being questioned, Lim said that he assumed his ex-colleagues were on their lunch breaks and that "probably all of them" had left the office. Also read: Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time However, the prosecutor said that such lunch breaks were staggered so that there was at least one employee looking after the office premises at all times. After Lim had locked the door, after about 10 minutes an employee, who wanted to use the restroom, to his surprise realized that the door was locked from the outside. He then informed his fellow colleagues and the nine of them got trapped inside. They then asked for help from another colleague who worked in a different part of the building. On inspecting, the latter confirmed that the door had been padlocked. To safely get the trapped employees out of confinement, the owner of the organisation hired a locksmith, who charged around $60 to remove the padlock later that day. He then filed a complaint against Lim whose actions were recorded on CCTV camera. For the wrongful act of confining, he could have been imprisoned for up to three years, faced a penalty or both. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore: Furious man locks ex-colleagues at former workplace after being fired from job

<p>Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking&nbsp;heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict.</p>

<p>The execution has ignited debates over the country's strict anti-drug laws and its stance on capital punishment.</p>

<p>Mohamed Shalleh Adul Latiff, had been sentenced to death for possessing approximately 55g of heroin with the intent to traffick it in 2019, reported the Guardian.</p>

<p>The execution, which took place on a Thursday (August 3), was confirmed by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) through an official statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Background and trial</strong></h2>

<p>Before his arrest in 2016, Mohamed Shalleh worked as a delivery driver. During his trial, he claimed that he believed he was transporting contraband cigarettes to repay a debt to a friend.</p>

<p>Despite his defence, he was sentenced to death, becoming the 16th person to be executed since Singapore resumed executions in March 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Recent executions</strong></h2>

<p>This particular execution follows a grim pattern, being the fifth hanging of the year. It comes shortly after the execution of Saridewi Binte Djamani, a 45-year-old Singaporean woman who was put to death for trafficking around 30g of heroin. Her execution, which occurred less than a week prior, marked the first time Singapore had executed a woman in nearly two decades. Just two days before Saridewi's execution, a 57-year-old man named Mohd Aziz bin Hussain was hanged for trafficking approximately 50g of heroin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | I</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-woman-jumps-from-cruise-ship-dies-in-singapore-strait-621606">SRO successfully launches seven Singaporean satellites onboard PSLV workhorse</a></p>

<h2><strong>International response and Singapore's stance</strong></h2>

<p>The United Nations has strongly criticised these recent executions, urging Singapore to impose a moratorium on the death penalty.</p>

<p>However, Singapore remains steadfast in its position, asserting that capital punishment serves as a powerful deterrent against drug trafficking.</p>

<p>Despite mounting international pressure, the country continues to uphold some of the world's strictest anti-drug laws. For instance, the possession of over 500 grams of cannabis or more than 15g of heroin can lead to a sentence of death.</p>

<p>The recent spate of executions in Singapore, particularly for drug-related offences, has reignited the global discourse on the death penalty and its efficacy in deterring crime.&nbsp;</p>

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Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict.

Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict. The execution has ignited debates over the country's strict anti-drug laws and its stance on capital punishment. Mohamed Shalleh Adul Latiff, had been sentenced to death for possessing approximately 55g of heroin with the intent to traffick it in 2019, reported the Guardian. The execution, which took place on a Thursday (August 3), was confirmed by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) through an official statement. Background and trial Before his arrest in 2016, Mohamed Shalleh worked as a delivery driver. During his trial, he claimed that he believed he was transporting contraband cigarettes to repay a debt to a friend. Despite his defence, he was sentenced to death, becoming the 16th person to be executed since Singapore resumed executions in March 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also watch | Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait Recent executions This particular execution follows a grim pattern, being the fifth hanging of the year. It comes shortly after the execution of Saridewi Binte Djamani, a 45-year-old Singaporean woman who was put to death for trafficking around 30g of heroin. Her execution, which occurred less than a week prior, marked the first time Singapore had executed a woman in nearly two decades. Just two days before Saridewi's execution, a 57-year-old man named Mohd Aziz bin Hussain was hanged for trafficking approximately 50g of heroin. Also read | ISRO successfully launches seven Singaporean satellites onboard PSLV workhorse International response and Singapore's stance The United Nations has strongly criticised these recent executions, urging Singapore to impose a moratorium on the death penalty. However, Singapore remains steadfast in its position, asserting that capital punishment serves as a powerful deterrent against drug trafficking. Despite mounting international pressure, the country continues to uphold some of the world's strictest anti-drug laws. For instance, the possession of over 500 grams of cannabis or more than 15g of heroin can lead to a sentence of death. The recent spate of executions in Singapore, particularly for drug-related offences, has reignited the global discourse on the death penalty and its efficacy in deterring crime. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Third drug trafficking convict executed in Singapore in less than a week

A 64-year-old woman died after she reportedly jumped from the Royal Caribbean cruise in the Singapore strait on Monday morning. Her son, a Melbourne-based businessman initially accused the crew staff of washing the hands off and reached out to the Indian government seeking help on Monday evening.

Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait

<p>A 64-year-old Indian woman, Reeta Sahani, has gone missing from a cruise ship sailing through the Strait of Singapore from Penang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reeta's husband reported the incident on Monday (July 31). The couple was returning to Singapore from Penang, the northern island state of Peninsular Malaysia, aboard the Spectrum of the Seas.</p>

<p>On the last day of their four-day cruise, Jakesh, 70, woke up to find Reeta missing from the room, reported The Straits Times. The retiree tried to find his wife on the cruise ship. When he could not locate her, he informed the ship's crew. They told him the cruise's overboard detection systems alerted that something had fallen from the vessel into the Singapore Strait.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-16-dead-several-feared-trapped-after-girder-launcher-crane-collapses-in-thane-621231">India: At least 16 dead, several feared trapped after girder launcher crane collapses in Thane</a></strong></p>

<p>The Singapore Strait, a busy shipping route between the Malacca Strait and the South of China Sea, is 113 kilometres long and 19 kilometres wide, with Singapore on the north.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apoorv Sahani, Jakesh's son, was not on the cruise ship with the couple. He said the family has no clue about his mother's current status. Apoorv, 39, also mentioned his mother could not swim. Meanwhile, the police questioned Jakesh for a few hours about the incident. "We have asked to see the CCTV footage, but so far, we have not received any information to confirm that it was her. All we know is the ship's crew thinks she jumped into the water," said Apoorv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan Bomb Blast: Death toll continues to rise, motive of the attack unknown</strong></p>

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<p>According to Apoorv, the cruise officials asked Jakesh to get off the ship because they had to prepare it for another journey. "But we still believe Reeta is on the ship, stuck somewhere," he said. The incident did not make sense to Apoorv as he said Reeta was on vacation, enjoying herself when it happened.</p>

<p>The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) issued an official statement about the incident on Monday, saying the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Singapore received the notification about the incident at about 07:50 AM.</p>

<p>It stated, "MRCC Singapore is coordinating the search and immediately issued navigational safety broadcast to vessels in the Singapore Strait and vessels in port to keep a lookout for the missing person and report any sightings to MRCC Singapore."</p>

<p>According to the statement by MPA, the passenger was on board the Cyrpus-flagged Spectrum of the Seas and had fallen overboard. The crew berthed the vessel earlier in Singapore to aid the probe and departed at around 04:30 PM, it stated further.</p>

<p>The company refused to comment any further about the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A 64-year-old Indian woman, Reeta Sahani, has gone missing from a cruise ship sailing through the Strait of Singapore from Penang. Reeta's husband reported the incident on Monday (July 31).

A 64-year-old Indian woman, Reeta Sahani, has gone missing from a cruise ship sailing through the Strait of Singapore from Penang. Reeta's husband reported the incident on Monday (July 31). The couple was returning to Singapore from Penang, the northern island state of Peninsular Malaysia, aboard the Spectrum of the Seas. On the last day of their four-day cruise, Jakesh, 70, woke up to find Reeta missing from the room, reported The Straits Times. The retiree tried to find his wife on the cruise ship. When he could not locate her, he informed the ship's crew. They told him the cruise's overboard detection systems alerted that something had fallen from the vessel into the Singapore Strait. ALSO READ | India: At least 16 dead, several feared trapped after girder launcher crane collapses in Thane The Singapore Strait, a busy shipping route between the Malacca Strait and the South of China Sea, is 113 kilometres long and 19 kilometres wide, with Singapore on the north. Apoorv Sahani, Jakesh's son, was not on the cruise ship with the couple. He said the family has no clue about his mother's current status. Apoorv, 39, also mentioned his mother could not swim. Meanwhile, the police questioned Jakesh for a few hours about the incident. "We have asked to see the CCTV footage, but so far, we have not received any information to confirm that it was her. All we know is the ship's crew thinks she jumped into the water," said Apoorv. WATCH | Pakistan Bomb Blast: Death toll continues to rise, motive of the attack unknown According to Apoorv, the cruise officials asked Jakesh to get off the ship because they had to prepare it for another journey. "But we still believe Reeta is on the ship, stuck somewhere," he said. The incident did not make sense to Apoorv as he said Reeta was on vacation, enjoying herself when it happened. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) issued an official statement about the incident on Monday, saying the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Singapore received the notification about the incident at about 07:50 AM. It stated, "MRCC Singapore is coordinating the search and immediately issued navigational safety broadcast to vessels in the Singapore Strait and vessels in port to keep a lookout for the missing person and report any sightings to MRCC Singapore." According to the statement by MPA, the passenger was on board the Cyrpus-flagged Spectrum of the Seas and had fallen overboard. The crew berthed the vessel earlier in Singapore to aid the probe and departed at around 04:30 PM, it stated further. The company refused to comment any further about the incident. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian woman goes missing from cruise ship en route to Singapore

After a 25-minute mission, ISRO has successfully completed its second launch mission this month, placing seven Singaporean polar satellites in orbit with its PSLV launcher this morning. The mission's primary satellite, the DSSAR satellite, has also been separated and placed in its intended orbit.

India: ISRO successfully launches Singapore's earth-observing satellite

ISRO has successfully carried out its second launch mission this month: Seven Singaporean polar satellites have been successfully placed in orbit.

ISRO successfully launches Singapore's earth observing satellite

<p>Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years.</p>

<p>"The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau.</p>

<p>The woman was convicted of trafficking "not less than 30.72 grams" of heroin, which is more than twice the volume that paves the way for the death penalty in Singapore.</p>

<p>Djamani, who was sentenced by the court in 2018, "was accorded full due process under the law, and was represented by legal counsel throughout the process," said the bureau in a statement.</p>

<p>"She appealed against her conviction and sentence, and the Court of Appeal dismissed her appeal on 6 October 2022," the bureau stated, adding that the court also rejected her plea for presidential clemency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Djamani was the first woman who has faced execution in the city-state since 2004, said the bureau.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-first-time-in-20-years-singapore-to-hang-woman-convicted-of-drug-trafficking-619261">For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trafficking</a></p>

<p>She is the 15th prisoner who has been hanged since executions were resumed by the government in March 2022 after putting a two-year pause to it during the Covid pandemic.</p>

<p>Earlier, a 57-year-old local man, Mohd Aziz bin Hussain, was hanged after getting convicted for trafficking about 50 grams of heroin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some of the world's toughest anti-drug laws have been in place in Singapore where a person caught trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis or over 15 grams of heroin can face the death penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Capital punishment is used only for the most serious crimes, such as the trafficking of significant quantities of drugs which cause very serious harm, not just to individual drug abusers, but also to their families and the wider society,” the CNB stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hanging triggers outrage among rights groups</strong></h2>

<p>The hanging of Djamani has triggered renewed outrage among rights groups. “The government of Singapore violates human belief in redemption and the capacity for rehabilitation by insisting instead on taking a drastic and irreversible action,” stated Celia Ouellette, founder of the non-profit group Responsible Business Initiative for Justice.</p>

<p>“Singapore risks not only its international reputation but its financial future as well. It’s time for it to abolish capital punishment once and for all," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong's brother hit with fake news notice | World Newspoint</strong></p>

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<p>Secretary General of France-based NGO International Federation for Human Rights Adilur Rahman Khan called Djamani’s execution a “grim milestone” and appealed to the Singaporean government to stop executions.</p>

<p>Amnesty International’s death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said that the woman's execution “defied international safeguards on the use of the death penalty.”</p>

<p>“There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs. As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore’s authorities are doing neither,” she added in a statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years. "The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau.

Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years. "The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau. The woman was convicted of trafficking "not less than 30.72 grams" of heroin, which is more than twice the volume that paves the way for the death penalty in Singapore. Djamani, who was sentenced by the court in 2018, "was accorded full due process under the law, and was represented by legal counsel throughout the process," said the bureau in a statement. "She appealed against her conviction and sentence, and the Court of Appeal dismissed her appeal on 6 October 2022," the bureau stated, adding that the court also rejected her plea for presidential clemency. Djamani was the first woman who has faced execution in the city-state since 2004, said the bureau. ALSO READ | For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trafficking She is the 15th prisoner who has been hanged since executions were resumed by the government in March 2022 after putting a two-year pause to it during the Covid pandemic. Earlier, a 57-year-old local man, Mohd Aziz bin Hussain, was hanged after getting convicted for trafficking about 50 grams of heroin. Some of the world's toughest anti-drug laws have been in place in Singapore where a person caught trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis or over 15 grams of heroin can face the death penalty. “Capital punishment is used only for the most serious crimes, such as the trafficking of significant quantities of drugs which cause very serious harm, not just to individual drug abusers, but also to their families and the wider society,” the CNB stated. Hanging triggers outrage among rights groups The hanging of Djamani has triggered renewed outrage among rights groups. “The government of Singapore violates human belief in redemption and the capacity for rehabilitation by insisting instead on taking a drastic and irreversible action,” stated Celia Ouellette, founder of the non-profit group Responsible Business Initiative for Justice. “Singapore risks not only its international reputation but its financial future as well. It’s time for it to abolish capital punishment once and for all," she added. WATCH | Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong's brother hit with fake news notice | World Newspoint Secretary General of France-based NGO International Federation for Human Rights Adilur Rahman Khan called Djamani’s execution a “grim milestone” and appealed to the Singaporean government to stop executions. Amnesty International’s death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said that the woman's execution “defied international safeguards on the use of the death penalty.” “There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs. As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore’s authorities are doing neither,” she added in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singapore hangs woman for drug trafficking in first execution of nearly 20 years

The official launch of Shanmugaratnam's presidential campaign comes a month after Thurman first declared his intention to run for president. He has pledged to elevate the nation's culture and make it a shining sport in the world. Shanmugaratnam is a former minister of Indian descent in Singapore.

Singapore Presidential Polls 2023: Tharman launches bid to be country's 'President for a new era'

Singapore authorities have evoked the fake news law against Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's brother who is now under the scanner has been ordered to attach a fake news notice in order to correct a Facebook post that shares untrue statement about senior ministers of the ruling party of Singapore.

Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong's brother hit with fake news notice | World Newspoint

<p>For the first time in 20 years, Singapore is about to execute a woman who was convicted of drug trafficking, a local human rights organisation has claimed, urging the government to halt executions.</p>

<p>The 45-year-old woman, identified as Saridewi Djaman, is among the two convicts who will be sent to the gallows.</p>

<p>While the other convict—a 56-year-old man found guilty of trafficking 50 grams of heroin— is scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday (July 26).</p>

<p>Saridewi, who was convicted of trafficking around 30 grams of heroin—will be sent to the gallows this Friday (July 28). She was sentenced to death in 2018.</p>

<p>If carried out, she would be the first woman to be executed in Singapore since 2004 when 36-year-old hairdresser Yen May Woen was hanged for the same crime, said activist Kokila Annamalai— a member of the local rights organisation Transformative Justice Collective (TJC)— AFP news agency reported on Tuesday (July 25).</p>

<p>The human rights organisation said that the two prisoners are Singaporeans and their families have received notices setting the dates of their executions.</p>

<p>Prison officials are yet to confirmed TJC's claim of the two upcoming executions.</p>

<h2>Why is Singapore declining as business hub?</h2>

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<h2><strong>Human rights watchdog urges govt to halt executions </strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, rights watchdog Amnesty International urged Singapore to halt the impending executions.</p>

<p>“It is unconscionable that authorities in Singapore continue to cruelly pursue more executions in the name of drug control,” Amnesty's death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said in a statement.</p>

<p>“There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs.</p>

<p>“As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore's authorities are doing neither,” Sangiorgio added.</p>

<h2><strong>Singapore tough on crimes</strong></h2>

<p>Singapore has some of the world's stringent anti-narcotic laws, with major convictions turning into the death penalty.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-kill-three-palestinians-in-west-banks-nablus-palestinian-ministry-619177">Israeli troops kill 3 Palestinians in West Bank's Nablus: Palestinian ministry</a></p>

<p>At least 13 people have been hanged so far since the government resumed executions following a two-year hiatus in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports AFP news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-explains-why-twitter-had-to-rebrand-itself-to-x-and-dump-the-blue-bird-619150">Elon Musk explains why Twitter had to rebrand itself to 'X' and dump the blue bird</a></p>

<p>Capital punishment is also given for other certain crimes such as murder and some forms of kidnapping.</p>

<p>The activists have for many years been demanding the state to soften its stand on narcotics laws, but the government believes that this mode of punishment is an effective deterrent against crime.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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For the first time in 20 years, Singapore is about to execute a woman who was convicted of drug trafficking, a local human rights organisation has claimed, urging the government to halt executions.

For the first time in 20 years, Singapore is about to execute a woman who was convicted of drug trafficking, a local human rights organisation has claimed, urging the government to halt executions. The 45-year-old woman, identified as Saridewi Djaman, is among the two convicts who will be sent to the gallows. While the other convict—a 56-year-old man found guilty of trafficking 50 grams of heroin— is scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday (July 26). Saridewi, who was convicted of trafficking around 30 grams of heroin—will be sent to the gallows this Friday (July 28). She was sentenced to death in 2018. If carried out, she would be the first woman to be executed in Singapore since 2004 when 36-year-old hairdresser Yen May Woen was hanged for the same crime, said activist Kokila Annamalai— a member of the local rights organisation Transformative Justice Collective (TJC)— AFP news agency reported on Tuesday (July 25). The human rights organisation said that the two prisoners are Singaporeans and their families have received notices setting the dates of their executions. Prison officials are yet to confirmed TJC's claim of the two upcoming executions. Why is Singapore declining as business hub? Human rights watchdog urges govt to halt executions On Tuesday, rights watchdog Amnesty International urged Singapore to halt the impending executions. “It is unconscionable that authorities in Singapore continue to cruelly pursue more executions in the name of drug control,” Amnesty's death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said in a statement. “There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs. “As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore's authorities are doing neither,” Sangiorgio added. Singapore tough on crimes Singapore has some of the world's stringent anti-narcotic laws, with major convictions turning into the death penalty. Also read | Israeli troops kill 3 Palestinians in West Bank's Nablus: Palestinian ministry At least 13 people have been hanged so far since the government resumed executions following a two-year hiatus in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports AFP news agency. Also read | Elon Musk explains why Twitter had to rebrand itself to 'X' and dump the blue bird Capital punishment is also given for other certain crimes such as murder and some forms of kidnapping. The activists have for many years been demanding the state to soften its stand on narcotics laws, but the government believes that this mode of punishment is an effective deterrent against crime. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trafficking

<p>Singapore, a nation with usually stable and drama-free politics, has been hit by yet another political controversy, as two senior members of the nation's largest opposition party quit after admitting to an inappropriate relationship.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, this is the third scandal to rock Singapore within a week.</p>

<p>Of the total 93 lawmakers, the leading opposition party now only has eight lawmakers left in the parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>An 'inappropriate relationship'</strong></h2>

<p>The Worker's Party (WP), Singapore's largest opposition party, said on Wednesday (July 19) that Member of Parliament Leon Perera and the party's youth wing president Nicole Seah have handed in their resignations after a video of the two was circulated on social media. In the video, they were seen holding hands.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/two-singaporean-lawmakers-resign-after-admitting-to-inappropriate-relationship-616585">Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’</a></strong></p>

<p>Party chief Pritam Singh as per Reuters told the press that Parera had been untruthful about the relationship when first asked back in 2020 - early 2021.</p>

<p>"This is unacceptable," he said.</p>

<p>He revealed that Seah had also denied the relationship when asked by party leaders.</p>

<p>"The Constitution of the Workers' Party requires candidates to be honest and frank in their dealings with the party and the people of Singapore," said Singh.</p>

<p>As per AFP, 53-year-old Leon Perera, and 36-year-old Nicole Seah, who were part of the party's top decision-making body, are both married with children.</p>

<p>In the resignation letter, the two lawmakers have apologised to their families, constituents and the party.</p>

<h2><strong>Scandals that rocked Singapore politics recently</strong></h2>

<p>In the last one week, three scandals have rocked the nation's political landscape.</p>

<p>Just last week, the nation's transport minister S Iswaran was arrested in connection with&nbsp;a graft investigation. The controversy has also ensnared a billionaire hotel tycoon. While the nation's anti-graft body hasn't disclosed details of the investigation against&nbsp;Iswaran yet, the transport minister has been ordered to go on leave.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-tycoon-who-brought-f1-races-to-city-state-arrested-in-high-level-graft-probe-615963">Singapore tycoon, who brought F1 races to city-state, arrested in high-level graft probe</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday, two lawmakers, including Tan Chuan-Jin, the house speaker, quit because of an inappropriate relationship. All three controversial figures were members of Singapore's ruling party, the People's Action Party (PAP).</p>

<p>As per Reuters, both the Worker's Party and PAP have in the past sacked ministers over extramarital affairs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Singapore, a nation with usually stable and drama-free politics, has been hit by yet another political controversy, as two senior members of the nation's largest opposition party quit after admitting to an inappropriate relationship.

Singapore, a nation with usually stable and drama-free politics, has been hit by yet another political controversy, as two senior members of the nation's largest opposition party quit after admitting to an inappropriate relationship. As per Reuters, this is the third scandal to rock Singapore within a week. Of the total 93 lawmakers, the leading opposition party now only has eight lawmakers left in the parliament. An 'inappropriate relationship' The Worker's Party (WP), Singapore's largest opposition party, said on Wednesday (July 19) that Member of Parliament Leon Perera and the party's youth wing president Nicole Seah have handed in their resignations after a video of the two was circulated on social media. In the video, they were seen holding hands. Also read | Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’ Party chief Pritam Singh as per Reuters told the press that Parera had been untruthful about the relationship when first asked back in 2020 - early 2021. "This is unacceptable," he said. He revealed that Seah had also denied the relationship when asked by party leaders. "The Constitution of the Workers' Party requires candidates to be honest and frank in their dealings with the party and the people of Singapore," said Singh. As per AFP, 53-year-old Leon Perera, and 36-year-old Nicole Seah, who were part of the party's top decision-making body, are both married with children. In the resignation letter, the two lawmakers have apologised to their families, constituents and the party. Scandals that rocked Singapore politics recently In the last one week, three scandals have rocked the nation's political landscape. Just last week, the nation's transport minister S Iswaran was arrested in connection with a graft investigation. The controversy has also ensnared a billionaire hotel tycoon. While the nation's anti-graft body hasn't disclosed details of the investigation against Iswaran yet, the transport minister has been ordered to go on leave. Also read | Singapore tycoon, who brought F1 races to city-state, arrested in high-level graft probe On Monday, two lawmakers, including Tan Chuan-Jin, the house speaker, quit because of an inappropriate relationship. All three controversial figures were members of Singapore's ruling party, the People's Action Party (PAP). As per Reuters, both the Worker's Party and PAP have in the past sacked ministers over extramarital affairs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Another political scandal in Singapore: Workers Party leaders quit over inappropriate relationship

Singapore's passport has now become the world's most powerful in the world. The Indian passport has jumped to the 80th spot. What should you know about it? What makes a passport stronger or weaker? And most importantly, how does it affect you and me? Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: World's most powerful passports

<p>Two Singaporean lawmakers from the ruling party, including the speaker of the parliament, stepped down after admitting to an “inappropriate relationship” with each other.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a statement on Monday that two lawmakers from the People’s Action Party are exiting, fuelling one of the biggest political crises in the city-state’s history.</p>

<p>One of them is speaker Tan Chuan-Jin, 54, who was once seen as a potential prime minister candidate. Notably, he is the second parliament speaker to exit for having an inappropriate relationship in just over a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>PM accepts resignations</strong></h2>

<p>“I have accepted Tan’s resignation from the People’s Action Party,” Lee said in a statement on Monday.</p>

<p>“His resignation is necessary, to maintain the high standards of propriety and personal conduct which the PAP has upheld all these years.”</p>

<p>Another lawmaker who resigned with immediate effect as a member of parliament is Cheng Li Hui.</p>

<p>Lee later told local media that Tan had an inappropriate relationship with Cheng Li Hui.</p>

<p>“It is painful to do this to our friends and comrades-in-arms, and it can also be politically embarrassing and costly. But the PAP has to maintain party discipline and standard of conduct,” Lee was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Ruling party in crisis</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes at a time when a cabinet minister and billionaire Ong Beng Seng are under the scanner of the city-state’s anti-corruption agency in a high-profile corruption case.</p>

<p>Experts are describing the developments as a major crisis for the PAP, which has been in power since 1959, before the city-state’s independence in 1965.</p>

<p>PAP has been looking to reinvent itself by promoting a new breed of political leaders led by Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. It is heading for a national vote by 2025 and a presidential election is expected to take place by September.</p>

<p>Tan, in his resignation letter, did not say anything about the “inappropriate relationship” with another lawmaker.&nbsp;Rather, the letter&nbsp;mentioned “unparliamentary language” as the reason he&nbsp;quit. He also apologised to an opposition lawmaker.</p>

<p>Earlier, Tan said that he was muttering to himself, but his “private thoughts” were caught during a recording of the parliament hearing.</p>

<p>“For me personally, this recent episode has added to the hurt I have caused my family,” Tan wrote in the letter published by the Prime Minister’s Office.</p>

<p>“I have let them down. We have spoken about my personal conduct before.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Two Singaporean lawmakers from the ruling party, including the speaker of the parliament, stepped down after admitting to an “inappropriate relationship” with each other.

Two Singaporean lawmakers from the ruling party, including the speaker of the parliament, stepped down after admitting to an “inappropriate relationship” with each other. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a statement on Monday that two lawmakers from the People’s Action Party are exiting, fuelling one of the biggest political crises in the city-state’s history. One of them is speaker Tan Chuan-Jin, 54, who was once seen as a potential prime minister candidate. Notably, he is the second parliament speaker to exit for having an inappropriate relationship in just over a decade. PM accepts resignations “I have accepted Tan’s resignation from the People’s Action Party,” Lee said in a statement on Monday. “His resignation is necessary, to maintain the high standards of propriety and personal conduct which the PAP has upheld all these years.” Another lawmaker who resigned with immediate effect as a member of parliament is Cheng Li Hui. Lee later told local media that Tan had an inappropriate relationship with Cheng Li Hui. “It is painful to do this to our friends and comrades-in-arms, and it can also be politically embarrassing and costly. But the PAP has to maintain party discipline and standard of conduct,” Lee was quoted as saying. Ruling party in crisis The development comes at a time when a cabinet minister and billionaire Ong Beng Seng are under the scanner of the city-state’s anti-corruption agency in a high-profile corruption case. Experts are describing the developments as a major crisis for the PAP, which has been in power since 1959, before the city-state’s independence in 1965. PAP has been looking to reinvent itself by promoting a new breed of political leaders led by Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. It is heading for a national vote by 2025 and a presidential election is expected to take place by September. Tan, in his resignation letter, did not say anything about the “inappropriate relationship” with another lawmaker. Rather, the letter mentioned “unparliamentary language” as the reason he quit. He also apologised to an opposition lawmaker. Earlier, Tan said that he was muttering to himself, but his “private thoughts” were caught during a recording of the parliament hearing. “For me personally, this recent episode has added to the hurt I have caused my family,” Tan wrote in the letter published by the Prime Minister’s Office. “I have let them down. We have spoken about my personal conduct before.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’

South African Deputy Minister has been in the news for all the wrong reasons for days now and this time he has been accused of living a luxurious lifestyle. It is now come to light that Mashatile had moved to a waterfall mansion owned by his son-in-law.

Row over South Africa's Deputy President's lifestyle, Singapore Transport Minister under probe | WION

<p>The doctors in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore were left flabbergasted after they discovered an eight-legged octopus stuck inside the oesophagus (food pipe) of a 55-year-old man. The patient had been complaining about facing difficulty in swallowing from the time he had a meal, which included the mollusk. The man said that after he had the meal, he started vomiting. He was also facing difficulty in swallowing, which forced him to pay a visit to the Tan Tock Seng Hospital. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A CT scan of the patient was conducted by the doctors, which revealed the presence of a super-dense man in the oesophagus of the man, as reported by the New York Post. Later, the doctors carried out an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, which is a gastrointestinal examination involving a small, flexible tube, during which they found a tentacled octopus stuck two inches from the oesophagus-stomach border.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/unveiling-the-depth-third-active-octopus-nursery-found-in-deep-sea-habitat-off-costa-rican-coast-watch-610518">Unveiling the depth: Third active octopus nursery found in deep-sea habitat off Costa Rican coast. </a></p>

<p>After many failed attempts to pull the octopus from the throat of the man, the endoscope was manoeuvred past the animal and then retroflexed, which allowed the doctors to extract the creature.</p>

<p>Then, the doctors used forceps to grasp the head of the octopus and pull it from the throat of the man. Two days after the surgery, the man recovered well and was discharged from the hospital.</p>

<h2><strong>Food obstructions - a common issue</strong></h2>

<p>According to the doctors present in the hospital, food obstructions are among the most common issues which are encountered at the facility. In around 10 per cent to 20 per cent of cases, endoscopic intervention is important, while 1 per cent of them need surgery, they stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The ‘push technique’ is the primary method recommended with high success rates, however applying excessive force can cause oesophagal perforation,” the medical team stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2016, a similar case was seen when a 2-year-old boy in Wichita, Kansas was hospitalised after an octopus got stuck in his throat during an apparent sushi session which went awry.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Woman gets amputated after getting stuck in a travelator</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;came to light when an octopus was found inside the throat of a two-year-old boy in Kansas, United States. A 36-year-old man was arrested in the case on suspicion of child abuse as doctors had also noticed injuries on the boy's face. Meanwhile, around six people die every year from eating sannakji, &nbsp;which is a &nbsp;live octopus dish that is considered a delicacy in South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Fatalities generally occur when the suckers adhere to the sides of the throat of the diner, which causes asphyxiation to the victim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The doctors in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore were left flabbergasted after they discovered an eight-legged octopus stuck inside the oesophagus (food pipe) of a 55-year-old man.

The doctors in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore were left flabbergasted after they discovered an eight-legged octopus stuck inside the oesophagus (food pipe) of a 55-year-old man. The patient had been complaining about facing difficulty in swallowing from the time he had a meal, which included the mollusk. The man said that after he had the meal, he started vomiting. He was also facing difficulty in swallowing, which forced him to pay a visit to the Tan Tock Seng Hospital. A CT scan of the patient was conducted by the doctors, which revealed the presence of a super-dense man in the oesophagus of the man, as reported by the New York Post. Later, the doctors carried out an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, which is a gastrointestinal examination involving a small, flexible tube, during which they found a tentacled octopus stuck two inches from the oesophagus-stomach border. ALSO READ | Unveiling the depth: Third active octopus nursery found in deep-sea habitat off Costa Rican coast. After many failed attempts to pull the octopus from the throat of the man, the endoscope was manoeuvred past the animal and then retroflexed, which allowed the doctors to extract the creature. Then, the doctors used forceps to grasp the head of the octopus and pull it from the throat of the man. Two days after the surgery, the man recovered well and was discharged from the hospital. Food obstructions - a common issue According to the doctors present in the hospital, food obstructions are among the most common issues which are encountered at the facility. In around 10 per cent to 20 per cent of cases, endoscopic intervention is important, while 1 per cent of them need surgery, they stated. “The ‘push technique’ is the primary method recommended with high success rates, however applying excessive force can cause oesophagal perforation,” the medical team stated. In 2016, a similar case was seen when a 2-year-old boy in Wichita, Kansas was hospitalised after an octopus got stuck in his throat during an apparent sushi session which went awry. WATCH | Gravitas: Woman gets amputated after getting stuck in a travelator came to light when an octopus was found inside the throat of a two-year-old boy in Kansas, United States. A 36-year-old man was arrested in the case on suspicion of child abuse as doctors had also noticed injuries on the boy's face. Meanwhile, around six people die every year from eating sannakji, which is a live octopus dish that is considered a delicacy in South Korea. Fatalities generally occur when the suckers adhere to the sides of the throat of the diner, which causes asphyxiation to the victim. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Doctors discover ‘half-eaten’ octopus stuck inside throat of man in Singapore

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