Stories from Singapore

A new tripartite council on jobs has been established to assist workers and businesses in integrating AI skills. The initiative is intended to prevent benefits from being left solely to market forces. Ng stated the council is an example of collective action to help workers seize new opportunities. Labour Chief Ng Chi-Ming announced the launch of the Tripartite Jobs Council to address the upcoming AI revolution. The festival features over 100 programs across the country. The event includes stories, trades, and communities related to Singapore's waterways. CNS Nicholas Ng stated that AI will disrupt and reshape entire industries by using agents that do not require human intervention. The council aims to prepare the nation to succeed in an environment where AI improves productivity.

Singapore's High Court has allowed an appeal by the prosecution and reversed the acquittal of three women. The court's decision follows the prosecution's request to overturn the previous ruling. Keon ruled that District Judge John Eung erred in law regarding the organizers' knowledge of the Public Order Act. The court found the trio should have made reasonable inquiries to inform themselves of the relevant prohibition order. The organizers faced potential jail terms of up to six months and fines of up to $10,000 each. However, Justice C. The Singapore High Court reversed the acquittal of three individuals who sent letters regarding the Palestinian cause to the Prime Minister's office. Three women, Mossamad Subikun Nahar, Siti Amira Mohamed Azrori, and Annamalai Kokila Parvati, were acquitted in Singapore.

The ASTAR Innovation Factory at Simtech has developed a 4D printed orthopedic cast called the TESSA cast. The device is designed for health and healing applications. The source noted the cast was featured at Prototype Island in Milan.

Singapore's Gardens by the Bay was ranked as the third best attraction in the world. The ranking comes from TripAdvisor's 2026 Travelers Choice Awards. The urban park features flower domes, super trees, and a cloud forest. It was ranked behind the Royal Yacht Britannia in the United Kingdom. The ranking was determined by the quality and quantity of user reviews and ratings on a platform over a 12-month period. An editorial review process was also used to establish the ranking. Angkor Wat in Cambodia was also recognized, ranking 21st on the list. Gardens by the Bay was one of two Asian attractions to make the list, alongside Angkor Wat in Cambodia which ranked 21st.

Mr. The announcement was made by Singaporean officials. The policy will initially apply to workers from China and Thailand. Firms will no longer be required to conduct mandatory overseas skill testing before workers enter the country. Singapore will reduce hiring timelines for new foreign construction workers beginning January 20, 2027. The move is intended to create jobs and act as a buffer against external shocks through increased intra-region trade. The move follows discussions regarding intra-region trade potential within ASEAN and South Asia. Businesses in Singapore are expected to adopt more cautious hiring and wage plans according to the latest report from the Manpower Ministry. Manufacturing firms anticipate growth while the services industry remains wary of worsening conditions.

National Development Minister Desmond Lee announced that prospective construction workers will undergo local testing instead of overseas testing starting January 2027. The measure aims to streamline the hiring process for construction workers, who may be able to be hired approximately three months faster. Analysts noted cautious sentiment in the F&B, accommodation, and retail trade sectors due to shifting demand. Authorities stated the move is necessary to support strong construction growth expected in the coming years. Starting January 20, 2026, workers from China and Thailand will no longer be required to pass a skills test before entering Singapore. Industry feedback indicated that overseas certifications often do not match local deployment needs. The Workers' Party Central Executive Committee met on Tuesday and Wednesday to discuss a disciplinary panel's report.

The practice is permitted under existing regulations. The application of the punishment differs between boys and girls, according to the report. The move aims to raise disciplinary standards within the education system.

Latest research from MONEY2020 suggests the fintech market in Southeast Asia is no longer expanding at its previous rapid rate. This follows a period of explosive growth in the region for payments, transfers, and unicorn company formation.

The Transport and Logistics Bureau announced a subsidy for auto LPG to assist nearly 17,000 taxis. The changes are scheduled to take effect next Monday. The operator is currently onboarding licensed cross-border taxis from GrabCab and other taxi operators. Licensed taxis will be permitted to drop off passengers anywhere in Singapore starting next Monday. Currently, the taxi terminal at Bansan Street serves as the only designated cross-border terminal in the country. Additionally, taxis in foreign countries will be permitted to pick up passengers from new designated points via ride-hailing bookings. Fares for trips from Bansan Street Terminal to Johor Bahru are expected to increase to at least 80 Singapore dollars, up from the current 50 to 60 range.

Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) stated it is ready to support local businesses following global developments in the oil market. The announcement follows news that the UAE is leaving the oil cartel, which accounts for approximately 3% of the world's crude supply.