Stories from Singapore

Eligible platform workers and private hire or taxi drivers in Singapore will receive $200 in cash starting in late April. The measure addresses rising petrol prices affecting transport workers. The government will also provide temporary assistance to co-fund cost increases for essential transport services. This support targets services for school students, seniors, and persons with disabilities to prevent service disruptions. This measure aims to mitigate the impact of the fuel crisis on those reliant on petrol and diesel for daily operations. The announcement was part of a special report on the fuel crisis. The grant is intended to support groups most impacted by current pricing. The subsidy aims to ensure that rising expenses are not borne entirely by the drivers or the government.

CNA938 Singapore reports that a 'cash for trash' pilot program in Tongbahu has collected over 600 kilograms of pure recyclables. This initiative, organized by MPs, aims to engage people in taking action on climate change and is seen as a successful experiment in reuse systems.

A man in Singapore was arrested for attempting to sell a Rolex watch for $90,000. Upon investigation, the watch was found to be authentic rather than a counterfeit. The actual value of the timepiece is estimated at $120,000. The incident occurred this week. The incident follows the arrest of the individual for the fraudulent sale attempt.

Art exhibitions featuring the works of Colombian artist Fernando Botero and British artist David Hockney have opened. Botero's art includes exaggerated proportions in his paintings and bronze sculptures, while Hockney is known for his vibrant pop art. The exhibitions are being held at IMBA and feature immersive displays and merchandise.

EcoWorks CEO Sean Lum reports 20% monthly growth for shampoo and detergent refill stations at the Pinnacle at Duxton. The firm is installing these stations across Singapore to promote recycling and reduce manpower needs. The Pinnacle at Duxton estate consists of 1,800 households and serves as a primary testing site for the system.

Small businesses in Singapore's Kampong Glam district are seeking to qualify as a business improvement district. Recent reports indicate surging rents and subletting practices are displacing long-standing local businesses. The Kampong Glam Alliance aims to lead community shaping efforts through this designation. The government provides dollar-for-dollar matching funds for such districts. The group aims to secure $200,000 to enhance public spaces and attract more visitors. Proposed initiatives include bringing back traditional Malay weaving, sandals, and food stalls to the streets. Approximately 10 percent of local business owners are currently part of this alliance. The move follows concerns that rental increases and subletting practices are displacing small businesses that have operated in the area for decades.

The platform worker sector in Singapore is experiencing operational shocks. Estimates suggest there are approximately 16,000 to 20,000 food delivery workers. The total number of platform workers, including ride-hailing drivers, may reach 70,000. New requirements regarding Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) are expected to cause delivery delays. Workers face potential pressure from both regulatory changes and operational constraints. Riders and drivers face a potential squeeze from both regulatory requirements and delivery delays. New requirements regarding Personal Mobility Device (PMD) usage are expected to impact service availability.

Singapore and Japan are marking 60 years of diplomatic relations with a renewed push for cooperation. The upgrade marks a new phase of cooperation ahead of the 70th anniversary of ties in 2036. Both nations are among each other's largest trading partners and investors. Discussions include green and digital economies, supply chain resilience, and regional stability. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong exchanged congratulatory letters with Japanese counterpart Sanet Akaichi on Sunday. Senior Minister of State for Defense Zaki Muhammad and General Clark discussed efforts to enhance defense cooperation. General Clark visited the Singapore Army's Combat Service Support Command to be briefed on its role as a logistics hub. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of defense relations between the two nations.

Singaporean authorities have organized three direct flights to facilitate religious pilgrimages to Makkah and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Approximately 900 pilgrims will travel on these coordinated flights to ensure efficient movement and operations. The delegation will be led by Muhammad Faisal Ibrahim, the Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs. This marks the first time Singaporeans will use such coordinated flight schedules for this purpose. The coordinated flights aim to improve movement efficiency and operational oversight for the departing group. A health and safety system has been established to monitor the pilgrims throughout the trip.

DBS Bank and POSB have launched a $10 million support package to assist Singaporeans facing rising costs of living. Eligible platform workers, private hire drivers, and taxi drivers affected by rising petrol prices will receive $200 in cash starting in late April. Additional business support and assistance will be provided through December 31, 2027. The Singaporean government will increase the corporate income tax rebate announced in Budget 2026 to 50%. The government is also expanding the energy efficiency grant to all sectors. This grant extension will run until March 31, 2028, to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient equipment. Temporary assistance will also be provided to businesses to enhance operational capabilities. The minimum benefit and benefits cap will be raised for eligible companies starting at the end of April 2026.