Haziness continues as three-hour PSI inches into unhealthy range on Monday morning Published on Nov 3, 2014 7:22 AM An MRT train approaches Queenstown station at 7am this morning. -- ST PHOTO: CAROLINE CHIA The city skyline as seen from a block of flats in Strathmore Ave on 3 Nov 2014. The 3hour PSI at 8am was 103 (unhealthy range). -- ST PHOTO: CAROLINE CHIA A man takes a break during his morning stroll in Queenstown. The 3hour PSI at 8am was 103 (unhealthy range). -- ST PHOTO: CAROLINE CHIA Buildings in the southern part of Singapore were shrouded in haze this morning. The 3hour PSI at 8am was 103 (unhealthy range). -- ST PHOTO: CAROLINE CHIA By Kash Cheong SINGAPORE - Singapore woke up to another hazy morning on Monday as the three-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) inched into the unhealthy range of 103 at 8am. Overall, the 24-hour PSI reading at 8am was 102-111. The National Environment Agency (NEA) said on Sunday evening that hazy conditions are expected on Monday, and the prevailing winds are forecast to blow from the south or southwest. The 24-hr PSI for Singapore is expected to be in the high-end of the moderate range (51 to 100) but may enter the low-end of the unhealthy range (101 to 200). Given the air quality forecast for Monday, healthy people should reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion, the NEA said in its haze advisory on Sunday. This is especially so for the elderly, pregnant women and children. Those with chronic lung or heart disease should avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion. Those who are not feeling well, especially the elderly and children, and those with chronic heart or lung conditions, should seek medical attention. The haze had returned on Sunday, when the three-hour PSI soared from 86 in the afternoon to hit 127 at 9pm. This was after several days of clear air as the south-west monsoon season comes to an end, which was followed by an inter-monsoon season typically lasting from October to November. The inter-monsoon season is characterised by more rainfall as well as light and variable winds. The NEA said the haziness on Sunday was due to smoke from Sumatra, blown in by the prevailing southerly winds. Drier weather in South Sumatra recently has led to a sharp increase in the number of hotspots there. A total of 205 hotspots were detected in Sumatra on Saturday.
Former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew keeps tradition of planting a tree Former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew keeps tradition of planting a tree at Tanjong Pagar's annual Tree Planting Day Published on Nov 2, 2014 7:22 PM By Rachel Au-Yong SINGAPORE - There were games and snacks galore to enjoy, but the 1,500 Tanglin-Cairnhill residents who attended an environmental awareness carnival held yesterday afternoon were more interested in the arrival of former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew. In a rare public appearance, Mr Lee visited the ward in Tanjong Pagar GRC, where he is an MP, for its annual Tree Planting Day. Smartphone cameras flashed as he stepped out of his car and made his way to a garden plot where seven sea teak trees had been planted. Flanked by the four other MPs for Tanjong Pagar GRC, Mr Lee pressed a sphere that activated water sprinklers and bathed the trees in a kaleidoscope of lights. 1,500 residents of Tanjong Pagar GRC and Radin Mas SMC joins Former Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew and other ministers at the annual Tree Planting Day. -- ST PHOTO: DESMOND LIM Former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew (white, centre) at Tanjong Pagar GRC's annual Tree Planting Day, together with (from left of row of seats) former Tanjong Pagar GRC MP Koo Tsai Kee (in pale green), Tanjong Pagar GRC MPs Chia Shi-Lu, Lily Neo, Chan Chun Sing, who is also Minister for Social and Family Development, and Indranee Rajah, who is also Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Education. -- ST PHOTO: RACHEL AU-YONG It was the first time that the system had been used for such tree-planting ceremonies. Mr Lee started planting trees 51 years ago as part of his efforts to keep Singapore green, and he has an unbroken record of planting a tree every year since then. Tree planting is carried out across the island every November, as it is the start of the rainy season and watering can be minimised. Yesterday, Senior Minister of State for Law and Education and MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC Indranee Rajah said the ward was honoured to have Mr Lee back. She said the annual tree planting was a reminder of the importance of the environment and the need to take care of it. She also spoke about her ward's defining trait - a spirit of caring for residents through regular activities for the elderly and barrier-free access to shared spaces. Retiree Mak Tin Tee, 77, who last saw Mr Lee about five years ago, said in Teochew: "He looks older and more tired, but it only reminds me of the sacrifices he has made for our ward and our country." Also present yesterday were the other MPs for Tanjong Pagar GRC - Social and Family Development Minister Chan Chun Sing, Dr Lily Neo and Dr Chia Shi-Lu.
Swimming: Tao Li wins silver in FINA World Cup POSTED: 02 Nov 2014 19:57 Singapore's Tao Li clocked 25.72 seconds to come in second in the Women's Butterfly 50m, behind Inge Dekker from the Netherlands. Swimmer Tao Li (File Photo: Singapore National Olympic Council) SINGAPORE: Singapore's Tao Li clinched silver in the Women's Butterfly 50m at the FINA Swimming World Cup in Singapore on Sunday (Nov 2). She clocked 25.72 seconds, behind Netherlands' Inge Dekker who timed 25.13. Australia's D'Cruz Marieke took the bronze with a time of 25.77. Meanwhile the relay team grabbed Singapore's third medal in the tournament, winning silver in the Mixed Freestyle 4x50m. Swimmers Russell Ong, Lukas Ming Menkhoff, Nur Marina Chan Shi Min Alif Abdullah and Amanda Lim clocked a total of 1:35.30 to come in second. The Russian team won the race with a timing of 1:33.88. The bronze went to the US team who came in at 1:36.59. - CNA/ir
President’s Star Charity 2014 show raises over S$6.3 million By Han Wei Chou POSTED: 03 Nov 2014 02:02 This year's star-studded President's Star Charity show raised more than S$6.32 million for 64 beneficiaries, exceeding the S$5.1 million raised last year. This year's President's Star Charity show raised more than S$6.3 million. (Photo: MediaCorp) SINGAPORE: The President’s Star Charity (PSC) 2014 show, which took place at the MediaCorp Television Theatre on Sunday (Nov 2), raised more than S$6.32 million for its 64 selected beneficiaries. This exceeds the S$5.1 million raised last year. Hosted by Gurmit Singh and Joanne Peh, this year’s PSC show stood out as the first edition to feature joint performances between the artistes and its beneficiaries. The two-and-a-half-hour show kicked off with a joint performance by the 30-strong Ruan Xian Chamber Ensemble, a local Chinese orchestra, and the ‘Kolintang’ performance troupe from Ain Society, a voluntary welfare organisation. Other highlights include performances by local artistes such as Pierre Png, Ian Fang, Joakim Gomez, Julie Tan and Jayley Woo, who participated in the show’s special Battle of the Sexes segment. Malaysian singer Yuna wowed the audience with her powerful voice as she sang her songs Rescue and Escape. “It’s such an honour to be here. A lot of people wouldn’t have had the opportunity to contribute. Charity has always been something that is very close to me. I try to do it as much as I can,” said Yuna backstage, post-performance. Julie Tan made her PSC debut with a K-pop-themed dance performance. She had hurt her ankle during rehearsals, but said the opportunity to contribute was worth it. “Honestly, we really can’t help much. We could only do our best on stage, and encourage people to donate. Although we suffered some minor injuries preparing for the segment, it is nothing compared to the happiness we feel as we see the donation figures go up!” Gomez, who danced to Michael Jackson’s hit songs with Fang, James Seah and Gurmit during the show, shared her sentiments. “I’ve been emulating Michael Jackson since I was two or three years old. I was really happy to get selected for this item. It was a great honour to don the fedora, the glove, the sequins… to put our passions to use for charity. We hope the people at home will donate!” he said. Popular indie band The Sam Willows performed their song For Love, alongside Sophie Soon, a visually-impaired violinist from iC2 Prephouse, a training facility for children with low vision. “It was a very interesting experience. I am used to working with classical music people and they are from a pop band," said Sophie. “I was wondering how a classical violinist would blend in, but it worked out really well because their personalities and stuff just seemed to complement mine.” President Tony Tan Keng Yam had said that this year’s fundraising effort is “particularly important” as the Government would match donations dollar-for-dollar under the Care and Share scheme. “The matching funds can be used by the voluntary welfare organisations to expand their capacity and capability to better serve our community,” he said. There will be an encore telecast of the PSC 2014 show on Nov 9 at 4.30pm on Channel 5. Those who wish to donate can still do so by calling the following numbers: 1900-112-8821 to make a S$5 donation 1900-112-8822 to make a S$20 donation 1900-112-8823 to make a S$100 donation Lines will remain open till midnight on Nov 9. - CNA/ha
Six favourite things that Singaporeans do using their smartphone [h=1]Published on Nov 4, 2014 8:24 AM[/h] Commuters on the train with their eyes fixed on their smartphones. -- ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM By Lester Hio SINGAPORE - Singapore has once again topped the world, and this time it is in smartphone adoption and usage. The country's smartphone adoption rate stands at 85 per cent on the recently-released Google Consumer Barometer. It is ahead of countries such as South Korea (80 per cent) and Sweden (75 per cent). According to the research, these are the top six activities that Singaporeans engage in using their smartphone: 1. Use search engines (77 per cent) That's only because a search engine is usually the default home page for people's mobile Internet browser. Apart from that, Singaporeans also use search engines to check food reviews to find out what they should have at a restaurant - when the waiter arrives to take their order. 2. Check e-mail (76 per cent) People frequently check their e-mail on their phone even when they are not in the office, as they are expected to reply to e-mail immediately. Setting an out-of-office e-mail notification does not stop their bosses from contacting them after office hours. 3. Visit social networks (69 per cent) Singaporeans aren't being anti-social when they tap away at their phones while in a group outing. No, they are actually being extra-social by reaching out to friends and family outside of the group they are currently engaged in. 4. Take photos/videos (66 per cent) It's a three-way split between selfies, pictures of food, and cat videos. 5. Watch online videos (55 per cent) Singaporeans love their online videos, and 35 per cent of those who watch videos on their smartphone do so while walking at a snail's pace along narrow, crowded corridors. 6. Look for product information (49 per cent) Many do this while shopping at a retail store - to see if they can get the same product cheaper online, or whether there's a seller on digital marketplace Carousell. Source: Google Consumer Barometer Website
Big focus on devices for the disabled at A*Star's Media Exploits technology conferenc Published on Nov 4, 2014 8:19 AM Computer vision engineer Vignesh Ramkrishnan with inSIGHT, a type of intelligent eyewear which helps those who cannot see detect obstacles in ways that a walking cane cannot. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG By Danson Cheong It looks just like a pair of sunglasses but it would actually help the blind avoid dangers. Called inSIGHT, the glasses will be a device that the blind or visually impaired can wear to help them detect obstacles hanging from above. "Blind people use a walking stick to move about but this detects only obstacles on the floor," said computer vision engineer Vignesh Ramkrishnan, one of three researchers from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) involved in the project. The device will use ultrasound and thermal sensors to detect hanging obstacles and vibrate when these are detected. It will also have a voice recorder and a camera for face recognition. It is one of the 53 technologies showcased at A*Star's annual Media Exploits technology conference and exhibition at the Biopolis today.
Majority of Singapore seniors are Web savvy, says global study [h=1][/h][h=2]Global study shows 78% of those 55 years and older access Internet every day [/h] Published on Nov 4, 2014 5:58 AM The Consumer Barometer published online provides an insight into Web consumption across 47 territories. The study found Singapore took the No. 1 spot for smartphone adoption, with 85 per cent of its population owning such a device. -- ST FILE PHOTO By Irene Tham Technology Correspondent It is no secret that Singaporeans are addicted to their smartphones. Now it turns out the majority of seniors here are also avid Internet users, according to a global study released by Google. The study found Singapore took the No. 1 spot for smartphone adoption, with 85 per cent of its population owning such a device. South Korea came in second at 80 per cent. Also, 78 per cent of those aged 55 and older here access the Internet every day either via the traditional Web browser or smartphone apps, putting Singapore fifth in the world for having the most Internet-savvy seniors. This is according to the Consumer Barometer published online, which provides an insight into Web consumption across 47 territories. It was based on face-to-face and online surveys with more than 128,000 respondents conducted by market research company TNS earlier this year. Japan topped the chart for having the most number of people aged 55 and above who access the Internet daily at 94 per cent, followed by Israel (82 per cent), Hong Kong (80 per cent) and Canada (80 per cent).
World's largest semisubmersible heavy transport vehicle makes Marina Bay stop Published on Nov 3, 2014 10:00 PM The Dockwise Vanguard - the world's largest semisubmersible heavy transport vehicle - was docked at the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal for two hours on Sunday afternoon. -- ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM The Dockwise Vanguard - the world's largest semisubmersible heavy transport vehicle - was docked at the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal for two hours on Sunday afternoon. -- ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM SINGAPORE - The Dockwise Vanguard - the world's largest semisubmersible heavy transport vehicle - was docked at the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal for two hours on Sunday afternoon. Members of the public were able to go onboard the heavy lift ship, which was designed to transport offshore oil and gas facilities as well as other ships. The giant ship is able to carry cargoes weighing up to 110,000 tonnes.
Tree Planting Day in Singapore: 5 things about the 51-year-old tradition Published on Nov 3, 2014 2:18 PM Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew planting a tree during his tour of the Serangoon Garden constituency in 1963. -- PHOTO: ST FILE 1,500 residents of Tanjong Pagar GRC and Radin Mas SMC joins Former Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew and other ministers at the annual Tree Planting Day. -- ST PHOTO: DESMOND LIM By Jalelah Abu Baker SINGAPORE - On Nov 2, former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew planted a sea teak tree in Bukit Merah View, marking the 51st year of a tradition he started. The usual shovelling was swopped for a more snazzy launch, and the tree was watered by sprinkers activated with the pressing of a plastic sphere. More than 1,000 residents turned up at the event held in Mr Lee's Tanjong Pagar constituency. 1. About this year's tree Residents of Tanjong Pagar GRC and Radin Mas SMC cheering on as the GRC’s MPs (from right) Mr Chan Chun Sing (in red), Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Ms Indranee Rajah, Dr Lily Neo and Dr Chia Shi-Lu and grassroots adviser Koo Tsai Kee kicked off the annual tree-planting ceremony on Nov 2, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: DESMOND LIM Mr Lee has planted more than 60 trees over the years, and this year, it was a tree that has become increasingly rare. According to nature website Wildsingapore, the sea teak tree is mainly found on sandy beaches where it is found in groups at the high water mark. Currently, it can be found on the natural cliffs of Sentosa. 2. Why plant a tree? Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew planting a Mempat tree in Holland Circus to mark the beginning of his tour of the Ulu Pandan constituency in June 1963. -- PHOTO: ST FILE Mr Lee envisioned that a clean and green Singapore would carry a competitive advantage. He started the tree-planting campaign by planting a mempat tree in Farrer Circus in June 1963. "After independence, I searched for some dramatic way to distinguish ourselves from other Third World countries. I settled for a clean and green Singapore," he wrote in his 2000 memoir, From Third World to First. 3. Why November? Dr Goh Keng Swee, then acting Prime Minister and Defence Minister, planting a rain tree on Mount Faber for the first Tree Planting Day in 1971. -- PHOTO: ST FILE The first Tree Planting Day in Singapore was held on Nov 7, 1971. Then-acting prime minister Goh Keng Swee launched the event by planting a rain tree on the summit of Mount Faber. Mr Lee said in his book that Tree Planting Day was set at the beginning of the rainy season in November to minimise watering. 4. Who plants trees? Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong planting a tree at his constituency’s annual Tree Planting Day held at the walkway between blocks 404 and 405 at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 on Nov 1, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG Each town council holds tree-planting day activities with its own Members of Parliament. There are also parks where foreign VIPs get to plant trees. Families even adopt trees for their children as gifts or wedding presents. And we do not only plant trees here. President Tony Tan Keng Yam and his wife, Mrs Mary Tan, planted a pink silk tree in Australia in June this year. They planted it at The Central Valley, home to ceremonial trees planted by significant dignitaries and leaders, according to the National Arboretum Canberra. 5. You can plant a tree too Children watering a sea gutta tree at the Bukit Batok Nature Reserve on Sept 27, 2009 as part of the National Parks Board's Plant-A-Tree programme. -- PHOTO: ST FILE In 2007, a Plant-A-Tree programme was started by the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) and the Garden City Fund. According to a media release on the National Parks Board website, the programme was started in response to tree planting requests from the public to the SEC. The programme enables individuals to plant one or more trees at designated parks or nature reserves on the last Sunday of each month or on special days like the World Environment Day or Earth Day. Sources: Wildsingapore, National Arboretum Canberra, The Straits Times jalmsab@sph.com.sg
Student Jonathan Goh writes record longest poem in Singapore, with more than 15,000 l Published on Nov 3, 2014 5:31 PM Student Jonathan Goh wrote more than 15,000 lines of rhyming couplets in a poem titled Eludoran: The Legend of Lorelei in A Geste of Grave Misconceptions, which bagged him a place in the Singapore Book of Records. PHOTO: JONATHAN GOH By Jalelah Abu Baker SINGAPORE - More than 15,000 lines of rhyming couplets have bagged student Jonathan Goh a place in the Singapore Book of Records. The poem, titled "Eludoran: The Legend of Lorelei in A Geste of Grave Misconceptions" is set in a fantasy world. The main character, a female animal, tries to prove to her possessive father that she is more than a dainty princess, and the poem details her journey through that. Mr Goh, 25, is currently studying for an Honours degree in Psychology at the University of Western Australia. He said that the poem was inspired by an unfinished one he read penned by Lord of The Rings author J.R.R Tolkien. On his choice of writing the story in the form of a poem, he said: "If you are a fantasy fan, there is something that grabs you, even more so than prose. It's the harmony of the rhythm," he told The Straits Times over the phone from Australia. An avid reader, Mr Goh took to writing in primary school. "I couldn't find the materials I was interested to read, so I started writing them," he said. He likes fantasy stories that involve animal characters. He recently bagged the first prize for his age category in a poetry competition open to the whole of Perth. He has hired an agent, and is hoping to internationally publish his poem. It is not his first time trying to publish his works. Wanting to support him in his writing, his parents, teacher Madam Tay Siew Choo, and Mr Goh Eng Tat - a director at the Singapore Sports Council -have printed books featuring his works, and sold them to friends and family. It was Madam Tay, 55, who submitted her son's labour of love, written over more than a year, to be considered for the records. Madam Tay said: "I wanted to give him a surprise. It's something he very much wanted." Mr Goh is also trying to get global recognition for his work. He submitted his poem to the Guinness World Records, but he said they do not have a category for poems. He told ST: "They claim that 'poems are hard to define' and difficult to judge, but agreed that (my poem) is a definite contender for 'Longest' in its particular category." Here is an excerpt from the poem. Once long ago there was a maid completely reckless; unafraid to mock the Thousand and the creed that every yearling has to heed, forsaking dens to wander far away from kindred--sons of Kar-- those exiles cast from homeland heath who roam the tundra; set adrift by unforgiving tides of war... jalmsab@sph.com.sg
Two historical memorials to be unveiled POSTED: 04 Nov 2014 14:13 A marker to honour those who fought against the communists will be placed in the Esplanade Park, while a memorial to remember the victims of Konfrontasi will be placed on the Dhoby Ghaut Lawn opposite MacDonald House, Minister Lawrence Wong announced. People place flowers on a temporary structure to honour those who suffered during Konfrontasi. SINGAPORE: Two historical memorials will be unveiled – a marker on the fight against communism and the Konfrontasi memorial, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong said in Parliament on Tuesday (Nov 4). Addressing a query from Nominated MP Prof Tan Tai Yong on behalf of the Prime Minister, Mr Wong said it is important to have tangible landmarks to help younger and future generations of Singaporeans understand how the country got to where it is today. A marker to honour those who fought against the communists, to be placed in the Esplanade Park along Queen Elizabeth Walk, will be unveiled on Dec 8. This central and prominent location in the Civic District puts the memorial close to other historical memorials like the Cenotaph, the Lim Bo Seng Memorial and the Tan Kim Seng Fountain, which have been collectively gazetted as a national monument. "By putting these markers and memorials together, we create a larger sense of Singapore's history and the context of our early years," Mr Wong said. A memorial will be also placed on the Dhoby Ghaut Lawn opposite MacDonald House, in memory of the events of Mar 10, 1965 – which Mr Wong said was remembered by many as “the darkest day of Konfrontasi”, when a bomb planted by two Indonesian saboteurs killed three innocent civilians and injured 33 others. Both markers have strong support from the community and Government, Mr Wong said. “As Singapore prepares to celebrate 50 years of Independence next year, it is important to reflect on our collective past, and the struggles that we underwent to build today’s safe, secure and prosperous Singapore. The Government and the people must continue to work together to instil in all of us, especially the younger generation, an awareness of the history that underpins our shared identity as a nation,” he said. - CNA/cy
Paddlers at Singapore River Regatta encouraged to protect environment [h=1][/h] Published on Nov 9, 2014 7:38 PM Participants of the 32nd Singapore River Regatta 2014 racing to the finish line. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE Participants of the 32nd Singapore River Regatta 2014 racing to the finish line. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE A dragon boat team warming up before their race begins. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE The Project Blue WaVe mascot, Bobby the hawksbill turtle, greeting a young spectator at the 32nd Singapore River Regatta 2014. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE Bobby welcoming Dr Lam Pin Min, Minister of State for Health, to the 32nd Singapore River Regatta 2014. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE Dr Lam Pin Min and Bobby taking a selfie. -- PHOTO: PA WATER-VENTURE SINGAPORE – Environmental protection was highlighted at this year's Singapore River Regatta dragon boat race. Over two days, 349 organisations and clubs competed in 23 categories, the People's Association (PA) said in a media release on Sunday. Bobby the hawksbill turtle, Project Blue WaVe’s mascot, was present to help promote environmental conservation and remind participants to dispose of their litter before they left the Singapore River. Launched in October, Project Blue WaVe is a PA Water-Venture initiative to heighten environmental awareness and encourage more to step forward to play their part in conservation efforts. “Over the decades, we have seen residents from various age groups and races all over Singapore come together to enjoy a common sport through the Singapore River Regatta. This time around, we want to enable participants to be involved in a race that not just focuses on dragon boating, but also highlights the importance of keeping our water bodies clean," said Dr Chia Shi-Lu, Singapore Dragon Boat Association president. Jointly organised by the People’s Association (PA) Water-Venture, the Singapore Dragon Boat Association (SDBA) and the Civil Service Club (CSC), the annual Singapore River Regatta is one of Singapore’s longest-running iconic water sport event. This year's was the 32rd edition. The SIM Alumni team came in first in the National Premier (Open) category, the Home Team Sports & Recreation Association team clinched the top spot in the Public Service (Active Ager) category, while TJ Seahawk 2D team topped the PA GRO (Intergeneration) category. Minister of State for Health Lam Pin Min graced the event.
NParks celebrates SG50 with free concerts, spruced up highway greenery Published on Nov 9, 2014 3:18 PM More plants and lighting will be added to highways in Singapore as part of the National Parks Board SG50 celebration. -- PHOTO: NATIONAL PARKS BOARD By Aw Cheng Wei SINGAPORE - The National Parks Board will be celebrating Singapore's golden jubilee with music and flora. A series of free concerts, showcasing local singers, will be held at green spaces around the country including Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Gardens by the Bay and Bedok Reservoir Park. Some 50 community garden groups will also create showcases at HortPark near Alexandra. More plants and lighting will also be added to the highways, sprucing up the nation's spine, making them more distinctive and beautiful for Singapore's 50th birthday. Minister of State (National Development) Desmond Lee at the launch of Jurong Spring Nature Way on Sunday said that the aim of the festivities was to bring everyone together and celebrate and create memories in our parks and gardens
CHIJ celebrates 160 years, launches fund to help needy students Published on Nov 9, 2014 3:27 PM By Chew Hui Min SINGAPORE - The Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (CHIJ) schools celebrated its 160th anniversary on Sunday with a record-breaking bid and the launch of a fund to help needy students. The IJ Spirit Fund was set up by the CHIJ alumni association and will help students in need at primary and secondary schools in Toa Payoh. It will also be used to fund projects that inculcate the schools' values, as reflected in the school motto "Simple in Virtue, Steadfast in Duty". "The Fund embodies the belief that every girl deserves access to opportunities which will enable her to reach her full potential and hopefully one day give back to society," Dr Claire Ang, president of the alumni association, said in a statement. CHIJ students and alumni celebrating the schools' 160th anniversary by attempting to establish a Guiness record for a human chain of girls around Chijmes while singing the school song. A fund to help needy students was also launched at the event. -- PHOTO: CHIJ ALUMNI ASSOCIATION The school and its alumni also held a celebration at Chijmes on Sunday, and attempted to set a Guiness record for a human chain of girls around Chijmes while singing the school song. Dr Ang said the record was 311. "Our number was 402. We have to wait for Guinness book to verify it, which will take some time. However we have made it into the Singapore book of records," she told The Straits Times. Chijmes at Victoria Street was where the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus started in 1854, and the chapel was later converted into a lifestyle destination housing restaurants and pubs. To contribute to the IJ Spirit fund, one can sponsor a child at $80 per month, participate in the Gala charity dinner or make a direct donation to the IJ spirit fund online http://www.chijalumni.org chuimin@sph.com.sg
Singapore and Chinese armies wrap up joint war games Published on Nov 9, 2014 3:11 PM Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen (second from right) interacting with troops from the Singapore Armed Forces during his visit to Exercise COOPERATION 2014. -- PHOTO: MINDEF The People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China and the Singapore Armed Forces wrapped up their biggest joint war games to date, in which troops from both sides fired their weapons and practised their battle manoeuvres. -- ST PHOTO: JERMYN CHOW By Jermyn Chow NANJING, CHINA - The People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China and the Singapore Armed Forces wrapped up their biggest joint war games to date, in which troops from both sides fired their weapons and practised their battle manoeuvres. The exercise, codenamed Cooperation, was the third in the series and played out in the 12km square training area in Nanjing, China. It is the first time that both armies are putting their infantry troops through conventional land warfare scenarios, stepping up the intensity the joint military drill. The previous two editions in 2009 and 2010 were based on anti-terror drills that tested how soldiers respond to chemical and explosive threats, among other missions. Seventy soldiers from each side were put through their paces in a series of missions which included shooting practices and clearing obstacles. Also involved in the drill were the PLA's three main battle tanks The nine-day drill, which started on Nov 1, culminated in a combined live-firing exercise on Sunday, that saw the men and machines teaming up to take out 84 targets. The final outcome was witnessed by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, who attended Sunday's closing ceremony at the Xingli training area. Also present was the Nanjing military region commander, General Cai Yingting. Dr Ng, who is in China for a week-long visit that will end this Friday, thanked General Cai for hosting the Singapore troops, saying that the joint exercise builds good and close military ties between both sides. "There are very few things that forge closer ties than charging up the hill together, sleeping on the same barracks, bathing in cold water together and eating food together." General Cai said this year's joint exercise has taken Sino-Singapore ties to new highs as it improves the camaraderie of the troops who fight shoulder to shoulder in the battlefield.
Singapore, Aussie troops to conduct urban-based exercise for first time Published on Nov 9, 2014 2:59 PM A soldier from the Singapore Guards (left) and the 7th Australian Regiment (right) clear a room during a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the Singapore Guards and the 7th Australian Regiment carry out a Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP) sharing session before performing a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Second Sergeant Jason Yap (right), 27, fits a round corner sensor on 22-year-old Private Jacob Damon's gun (left), during a Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP) sharing session before performing a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the Singapore Guards demonstrate how they clear a room in an urban environment during a Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP) sharing session with the 7th Australian Regiment before performing a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the 7th Australian Regiment demonstrate how they clear a room in an urban environment during a Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP) sharing session with the Singapore Guards before performing a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the Singapore Guards and the 7th Australian Regiment clear a room during a dry run of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the Singapore Guards and the 7th Australian Regiment prepare to take a group photograph in the middle of performing dry runs of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG Soldiers from the Singapore Guards and the 7th Australian Regiment take a group photograph in the middle of performing dry runs of an urban-based exercise at the Urban Operations Training Facility in Shoalwater Bay Traning Area, Rockhampton, on Nov 9, 2014. -- ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG By Adrian Lim In Rockhampton (Australia) ROCKHAMPTON, Australia - In another milestone for Singapore and Australia's bilateral military relations, troops from both countries will participate in an urban-based exercise in Rockhampton on Monday. Around 100 soldiers from the Singapore Guards and the 7th Royal Australian Regiment will mount a capture of buildings ranging from single to 4 storeys at the Urban Operations Training Facility located in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA). The facility is modelled after a township, with shipping containers used to simulate areas such as a marketplace and residential buildings. In preparation for the exercise, a sharing session on urban tactics and a dry-run was conducted on Sunday, which The Straits Times attended. Before conducting the urban operation at dawn on Monday, troops will be inserted onto the ground, some 7km away from their objective, via helicopter the night before. The exercise is part of the ongoing seven-day bilateral military operation called Exercise Trident, which is now in its second year. On Saturday, troops from both armies performed a beach landing together for the first time at Freshwater Bay in SWBTA. The ship-to-shore exercise, which also involved Singapore's air force and navy, was observed by Second Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing and Australia's Assistant Defence Minister Stuart Robert.
Clean government - not about high salaries, but 'realistic' ones: PM Lee POSTED: 11 Nov 2014 00:38 In an interview with Chinese TV personality Yang Lan on Beijing Satellite TV, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong touched on regional trade agreements, China's proposed Maritime Silk Road, and Singapore's take on the issue of clean government. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in an interview on Beijing Satellite TV. SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong indicated that Singapore would like to be a conduit for a Maritime Silk Road, mooted by Chinese President Xi Jinping. In a half-hour interview with Yang Lan on Beijing Satellite TV that was broadcast on Monday (Nov 10), he said the world is watching China’s anti-corruption drive as it could be a tremendous boost to its development and stability, and described it as an admirable effort. He also addressed the notion of clean government in Singapore. He said it is not about high salaries, but ones that are "realistic and correct", in order to find the right people who are “most capable”, and “most trustworthy”. Here are some excerpts from Mr Lee's interview, aired while the Prime Minister is in Beijing for the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) summit. ON REGIONAL COOPERATION Q: In the Asia-Pacific region, there are many bilateral, multi-lateral, regional and sub-regional trade agreements and mechanisms of cooperation. For example, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) which is supported by the United States, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which China is involved in. Do you think there is an element of competition between these two groupings? A: Of course there is some element of competition and overlapping, but that cannot be helped. Because the most ideal way to cooperate is to do so on a global basis, which involves all economies. It becomes a multi-lateral agreement, such as through the Doha Round of negotiations. But the Doha Round involves many countries, so it becomes difficult to reach an agreement. In the Asia-Pacific region, we hope that if fewer countries are involved, that makes it less difficult and we can get things done faster. So for APEC, we have a voluntary method of cooperation, and we have already made some progress. The TPP and RCEP are both recognised as pathways to achieve free trade in the Asia-Pacific. Our economies are in different stages of development, and our different mechanisms for cooperation need to adapt to these realities. Q: One reality is that Singapore is very much involved in these various trade agreements and cooperation mechanisms. How does this reflect Singapore's view of itself? What does globalisation mean to Singapore? A: We have no choice. We are a very small country, with a very open economy. If we are not outward-looking, then we have no way to go. In countries such as China, the US, and Japan, the domestic economy is already huge, the domestic demand is sufficient. We do not have that - if we rely on domestic demand to boost manufacturing, I think very few companies will come to Singapore. If we rely on our own farming to supply all our food, then I think we will starve. So we have to look outwards. If there is an opportunity, we will try our best to take part in these negotiations for free trade agreements, and try our best to cooperate with other countries, to deepen our relationships; enhance our mutually beneficial work. THE NEW MARITIME SILK ROAD Q: President Xi Jinping has proposed the idea of developing a new Maritime Silk Road. In such a scenario, for the relevant economies, in terms of infrastructure - including information networks and the internet, and other network systems - there can be improvements. Does Singapore see an opportunity and role for itself in such a scenario? A: The idea of a Maritime Silk Road - it can deepen our cooperation with neighbouring countries, and strengthen, especially, trade and investment from China and its neighbouring countries. So of course, we hope that some of these services can be supplied through Singapore's port, airport and networks. MAINTAINING INTEGRITY IN GOVERNMENT Q: Economic reform, the creative economy, and urbanisation are some of the topics up for discussion at APEC. Another important theme is anti-corruption. What are your views on the relationship between anti-corruption measures and economic development? In the past, people have viewed this as a political issue and a social issue. A: In the long term, anti-corruption measures are necessary for economic development. In Singapore, we feel anti-corruption is very important. Since the People's Action Party became the ruling party, its 55 years - we have always stood firm on maintaining a clean and corruption-free Government. Of course, sometimes some people may break the rules, or break the law. No matter who is involved, we deal with this very strictly according to law. So I admire Mr Xi's anti-corruption drive in China. Q: So you have been paying attention to the anti-corruption drive? A: I think the whole world is paying attention. Because if China can succeed in this, I think it will be a tremendous boost to China's development and stability. Q: In China, particularly at the government level, the topic of Singapore's clean government is often discussed. But very often people attribute its success to high salaries for office-holders. Do you think it is that simple? A: I think the topic of high salaries can cause a sharp reaction. In principle, we are not talking about high salaries, what we want are realistic and correct salaries. We want talent, we want morally upright people, and we want the right people for the right jobs. The most important job must be done by the most capable, the most trustworthy person. If we want the services of such capable and trustworthy people, then we must treat them fairly and equally. We must have a practical system - a realistic salary. At the same time our requirements are strict - your performance must be good. Legally, you absolutely cannot do anything you are not supposed to do, and if that happens, you will be punished under the law, and the punishment will be severe. So this is not just a question of salaries, it is also a matter of the system, an issue of transparency, and our whole culture. - CNA/xy
Swimming: Schooling shines in first college meet By Adelene Wong , TODAY POSTED: 11 Nov 2014 07:12 TODAY reports: "I have learnt my lesson," says Joseph Schooling, after the incident at the Incheon Asian Games' Athletes' Village for which he earned a warning from the SNOC. He is one of the big recipients at tonight’s MAP Awards Joseph Schooling (left) at his first swimming meet for the Texas Longhorns, with room-mate Will Licon. (Photo: Joseph Schooling) SINGAPORE: Joseph Schooling has wasted little time in proving his worth to his new coach Eddie Reese at the University of Texas in Austin (UT Austin), winning an individual gold and recording this year’s fastest 100-yard butterfly split time in a medley relay in his debut outing for the Texas Longhorns. Schooling, 19, is fast settling in to life as a freshman at UT Austin after five years of high school at Florida’s Bolles School, where he flourished under the tutelage of Spaniard Sergio Lopez. Tonight, Schooling will receive S$370,000 for his silver medal at this year’s Commonwealth Games, and one gold, silver and bronze at the Asian Games under the Singapore National Olympic Council’s Multi-Million Dollar Award (MAP) Programme. At last month’s collegiate quad meet (Oct 25 to 26), Schooling swam 47.92s for the 100yd butterfly, finishing one-hundredth of a second ahead of Pete Brumm (47.93s), and also beating Aaron Whitaker (47.96s), both from the University of Michigan. But what had the swimming fraternity buzzing was the 45.85s fly split he swam - the fastest in the United States this year - in helping UT Austin win gold in the 400yd medley relay. The time is only about one second off the United States 100yd fly record of 44.18s by Austin Staab of Stanford University in 2009. In long-course metres, this converts to about 52secs - about two seconds off the American record of 49.82s set by Michael Phelps in 2009. “The quad meet was good. I expected myself to be up there,” said Schooling. “It was not exactly the most easy suiting myself into a new way of life. Everything is different - school, swimming and just life. “I have to adapt to it and am enjoying myself now, and getting used to the intensity of the training under Eddie, too.” Reese was the men’s head coach for the US Olympic Swimming team in 2004 and 2008, and most recently the team’s assistant coach for the 2012 London Olympics. His resume was one of the factors Schooling chose UT Austin late last year, ahead of other top schools believed to be wooing him including University of California, Berkeley, and University of Florida. “Weights are harder and I am stronger. We have a consistent weight-training programme here, compared to almost none at Bolles,” said Schooling. “I am getting mightier in the pool and I can feel the difference. It showed as quickly as in my first quad meet. “I am also doing a lot of IM (individual medley) work, which is good for me all-around. Besides focusing on IM, we are also all split into three groups — sprint, middle-distance and distance. Each group has about 15 swimmers and I am in the middle-distance group.” Schooling is enjoying training with the likes of Jimmy Feigen, who was part of the second-placed US 4x100m freestyle relay team at the 2012 Olympics, and Jack Conger, a gold medallist at the 2013 Summer Universiade. “We just need to keep working hard in the pool. I am looking forward for the prestigious National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Championships in March,” Schooling added. Returning to the States straight from the Asian Games in Incheon also meant Schooling missed the full impact of the brouhaha over his night out from the Athletes’ Village with team-mates Teo Zhen Ren and Roanne Ho which earned the trio a warning from the SNOC. Addressing the incident now, Schooling said: “I did not speak out initially because it was all a process and we were advised to wait and let investigations be carried out first. “I was not really paying attention to the whole situation back home. I have to focus on what I am doing in the US, not on what I can’t control 10,000 miles away. “Everyone makes mistakes. No one is perfect and I have learnt my lesson from it.” -TODAY/av
Singapore athletes reap S$3.44 million from major Games Asian Games Incheon 2014: Singapore's Jazreel Tan in action during the Women's Singles final. Photo: Sport Singapore By Low Lin Fhoong linfhoong@mediacorp.com.sg - Published: 7:44 PM, November 11, 2014 SINGAPORE — A total of S$3.44 million was handed out to Team Singapore’s athletes at the Singapore National Olympic Council’s Multi-million dollar (MAP) awards ceremony today (Nov 11). The awards were given out for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, where the Singaporean athletes won a medal haul of eight gold, five silver and four bronze in Glasgow, while their Asiad outing reaped a haul of 5-6-13. Said bowler Jazreel Tan, the Asian Games’ most bemedalled athlete with one gold, two silver and one bronze: “It feels pretty awesome. The MAP is a great initiative to provide motivation and financial support for athletes. As athletes, we train and compete because of our passion for the sport.”
