After so many months allowed India to come to Singapore with Covid-19 virus, now then do something instead of completely bar them from coming to Singapore at all, very efficient and laughable#51
""Travellers found without the required valid documents will be refused entry into Singapore. We will not hesitate to take action against those who present forged documents to seek entry into Singapore, including barring them from entry to Singapore in the future," warned the ministry."
Travellers entering Singapore from India told to produce Covid-19 test results from recognised labs
Staff at Changi Airport Terminal 3 arrival hall assign returning passengers which hotel to serve their stay home notices on May 10, 2020.PHOTO: ST FILE
Clara Chong
All Covid-19 pre-departure test results for travellers from India entering Singapore must come from recognised labs which are internationally accredited or endorsed by the Indian government, said Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH).
Those without the required valid documents will not be allowed into the country.
Additionally, from today, all travellers - including Singapore citizens and permanent residents - with a recent travel history to India within the last 14 days before coming to Singapore will have to take a serology test. The test detects the presence of antibodies and can show if the person might have been infected.
Those who test positive will be exempted from taking the polymerase chain reaction swab test - which detects the presence of viral genetic material - before the end of their two-week stay-home notice (SHN) period.
The latest directive to produce valid pre-departure test results from recognised labs comes as faked test results are becoming increasingly common in India, with reports of agents and doctors taking bribes to produce them.
This requirement also follows a significant jump in imported cases from India, with the gradual easing of travel rules and loosening of the country's border restrictions.
In the five days from last Thursday to Monday, two-thirds of Singapore's imported cases, or 61 per cent of them, had visited India.
MOH said last Friday that there will be two levels of checks - one at the airport in India before boarding, and the other at the arrival immigration in Singapore.
"Travellers found without the required valid documents will be refused entry into Singapore. We will not hesitate to take action against those who present forged documents to seek entry into Singapore, including barring them from entry to Singapore in the future," warned the ministry.
This new and more stringent border restriction comes in addition to existing requirements - a two-week SHN period at dedicated SHN facilities and a further negative Covid-19 test before the end of the SHN period.
"This covers the full incubation period of Covid-19, and has been effective in preventing spread into our local community," MOH assured.
-
IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
Phrases used by parrots: "We take such ______ very seriously and will not hesitate to take action"
- Thread starter LITTLEREDDOT
- Start date
#52
The ministry also reminded diners to be socially responsible, adding that agencies will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against both patrons and premises that do not comply with safe management measures.
32 diners fined $300 each for flouting Covid-19 measures; 8 F&B outlets ordered to close
5 of 5
A patron was found consuming alcohol at 11.20pm at a coffeeshop at Block 26 Jalan Membina on Sept 19, 2020.PHOTO: SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY
Jessie Lim
SINGAPORE - Thirty-two diners have been fined $300 each for flouting Covid-19 rules at food and beverage outlets, such as not wearing a mask promptly after eating or drinking, intermingling between tables as well as sitting in groups of more than five diners.
In addition, eight more F&B outlets have been ordered to close and 14 outlets were also fined, said the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) on Tuesday (Sept 29).
Among the places ordered to close are Siam Square Mookata in Punggol Point Road, the Tanjong Pagar branch of Korean fried chicken chain Chicken Up, and Cafe de Muse in Shaw House.
Some common breaches found at the eight F&B outlets included the sale and consumption of alcohol after 10.30pm and diners across multiple tables intermingling with one another and sharing food.
Another 14 outlets were fined for breaching safe management measures, with 13 fined $1,000 and one - a repeat offender - fined $2,000.
Some offences committed by these outlets were admitting and seating groups of more than five together and not ensuring that food handlers wear their masks properly.
The MSE added that government agencies conducted additional inspections on 240 F&B outlets last Friday and Saturday.
Of these, 15 were found to have breached safe management measures.
Agencies are reviewing the breaches and the appropriate enforcement actions to be taken, including temporary closure of the outlets and the issuance of fines.
Two patrons were fined $300 each for not wearing their masks when talking to each other after they had completed their meal at an F&B outlet in Orchard Road on Sept 25, 2020. PHOTO: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD
Cafe de Muse at Shaw House was ordered to close for failing to take the temperature of customers entering its premises, and for failing to ensure safe distancing between customers on Sept 25, 2020. PHOTO: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD
"The Government will continue to step up enforcement checks at F&B outlets around Singapore to ensure that they remain safe spaces for all," the MSE said.
The ministry also reminded diners to be socially responsible, adding that agencies will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against both patrons and premises that do not comply with safe management measures.
The ministry also reminded diners to be socially responsible, adding that agencies will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against both patrons and premises that do not comply with safe management measures.
32 diners fined $300 each for flouting Covid-19 measures; 8 F&B outlets ordered to close
5 of 5
A patron was found consuming alcohol at 11.20pm at a coffeeshop at Block 26 Jalan Membina on Sept 19, 2020.PHOTO: SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY
Jessie Lim
SINGAPORE - Thirty-two diners have been fined $300 each for flouting Covid-19 rules at food and beverage outlets, such as not wearing a mask promptly after eating or drinking, intermingling between tables as well as sitting in groups of more than five diners.
In addition, eight more F&B outlets have been ordered to close and 14 outlets were also fined, said the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) on Tuesday (Sept 29).
Among the places ordered to close are Siam Square Mookata in Punggol Point Road, the Tanjong Pagar branch of Korean fried chicken chain Chicken Up, and Cafe de Muse in Shaw House.
Some common breaches found at the eight F&B outlets included the sale and consumption of alcohol after 10.30pm and diners across multiple tables intermingling with one another and sharing food.
Another 14 outlets were fined for breaching safe management measures, with 13 fined $1,000 and one - a repeat offender - fined $2,000.
Some offences committed by these outlets were admitting and seating groups of more than five together and not ensuring that food handlers wear their masks properly.
The MSE added that government agencies conducted additional inspections on 240 F&B outlets last Friday and Saturday.
Of these, 15 were found to have breached safe management measures.
Agencies are reviewing the breaches and the appropriate enforcement actions to be taken, including temporary closure of the outlets and the issuance of fines.
Two patrons were fined $300 each for not wearing their masks when talking to each other after they had completed their meal at an F&B outlet in Orchard Road on Sept 25, 2020. PHOTO: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD
"The Government will continue to step up enforcement checks at F&B outlets around Singapore to ensure that they remain safe spaces for all," the MSE said.
The ministry also reminded diners to be socially responsible, adding that agencies will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against both patrons and premises that do not comply with safe management measures.
#53
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threatens the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said the police in a statement.
37-year-old man to be charged for voluntarily causing hurt to policeman during car chase
Substances suspected to be controlled drugs were found on the man during the arrest.PHOTO: ST FILE
Cheryl Teh
SINGAPORE - A 37-year-old man is expected to be charged on Friday (Oct 9) for allegedly voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from carrying out his duty.
He was arrested in the wee hours of Wednesday morning, after a car chase that caused a 21-year-old full-time police national serviceman to be injured.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said that officers from Bedok Police Division were conducting vehicle checks at about 3.15am along Chai Chee Road, when they spotted a man driving recklessly in a carpark.
The officers signalled for the man to stop, but he sped off. A pursuit then ensued, with the driver committing several traffic violations, including running a red light and driving against the flow of traffic.
During the pursuit, the man drove into a carpark along Bedok North Street 1, and in the process hit the left side of the police car, causing injury to one of the police officers inside the vehicle. He then drove over the road divider and escaped.
The 21-year-old police NSF was conscious when conveyed to Changi General Hospital, where he received outpatient treatment.
The car was subsequently found abandoned along Bedok North Avenue 3. When the police searched the car, an object believed to be a stun device was found.
Officers from the Bedok Police Division confirmed the man's identity through follow-up investigations and arrested him. Substances suspected to be controlled drugs were found on him during the arrest.
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threatens the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said the police in a statement.
The man will be charged with voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from the discharge of his duty. He will also be investigated for the offences of dangerous driving, possession of arms without licence and suspected drug-related offences.
The police disclosed that the man was charged on Aug 14 for a rash act causing hurt. He was out on bail for that offence when the incident on Wednesday occurred.
If convicted voluntarily causing hurt, he could be jailed up to seven years, and fined or caned
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threatens the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said the police in a statement.
37-year-old man to be charged for voluntarily causing hurt to policeman during car chase
Substances suspected to be controlled drugs were found on the man during the arrest.PHOTO: ST FILE
Cheryl Teh
SINGAPORE - A 37-year-old man is expected to be charged on Friday (Oct 9) for allegedly voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from carrying out his duty.
He was arrested in the wee hours of Wednesday morning, after a car chase that caused a 21-year-old full-time police national serviceman to be injured.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said that officers from Bedok Police Division were conducting vehicle checks at about 3.15am along Chai Chee Road, when they spotted a man driving recklessly in a carpark.
The officers signalled for the man to stop, but he sped off. A pursuit then ensued, with the driver committing several traffic violations, including running a red light and driving against the flow of traffic.
During the pursuit, the man drove into a carpark along Bedok North Street 1, and in the process hit the left side of the police car, causing injury to one of the police officers inside the vehicle. He then drove over the road divider and escaped.
The 21-year-old police NSF was conscious when conveyed to Changi General Hospital, where he received outpatient treatment.
The car was subsequently found abandoned along Bedok North Avenue 3. When the police searched the car, an object believed to be a stun device was found.
Officers from the Bedok Police Division confirmed the man's identity through follow-up investigations and arrested him. Substances suspected to be controlled drugs were found on him during the arrest.
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threatens the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said the police in a statement.
The man will be charged with voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from the discharge of his duty. He will also be investigated for the offences of dangerous driving, possession of arms without licence and suspected drug-related offences.
The police disclosed that the man was charged on Aug 14 for a rash act causing hurt. He was out on bail for that offence when the incident on Wednesday occurred.
If convicted voluntarily causing hurt, he could be jailed up to seven years, and fined or caned
#54
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threaten the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said SPF in a statement.
The SPF has a standard template that says: "...will not hesitate to take action..."
20-year-old man arrested for possessing knife and punching police officer in Beach Road
Cheryl Teh
SINGAPORE - A 20-year-old man was arrested in the wee hours of Friday (Oct 9) for possessing a knife and punching a police officer.
Singapore Police Force (SPF) officers from the Central Police Division encountered the man at a lift lobby of Block 6 Beach Road at around 3.50 am, and conducted a spot check.
The man claimed that a black sling bag he was carrying was empty. He later attempted to flee and pulled out a knife from his bag when the officers asked for his particulars.
The officers disarmed the man and attempted to restrain him, but he ended up punching one of them and fleeing the scene.
The officer sustained facial injuries, and the knife was seized as a case exhibit.
The police arrested the man at a residential unit in the same block an hour later, for voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty and possession of scheduled weapon.
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threaten the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said SPF in a statement.
For voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty, the man could be jailed up to seven years, and fined or caned.
For possessing a knife, he could be jailed for up to five years and given at least six strokes of the cane.
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threaten the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said SPF in a statement.
The SPF has a standard template that says: "...will not hesitate to take action..."
20-year-old man arrested for possessing knife and punching police officer in Beach Road
Cheryl Teh
SINGAPORE - A 20-year-old man was arrested in the wee hours of Friday (Oct 9) for possessing a knife and punching a police officer.
Singapore Police Force (SPF) officers from the Central Police Division encountered the man at a lift lobby of Block 6 Beach Road at around 3.50 am, and conducted a spot check.
The man claimed that a black sling bag he was carrying was empty. He later attempted to flee and pulled out a knife from his bag when the officers asked for his particulars.
The officers disarmed the man and attempted to restrain him, but he ended up punching one of them and fleeing the scene.
The officer sustained facial injuries, and the knife was seized as a case exhibit.
The police arrested the man at a residential unit in the same block an hour later, for voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty and possession of scheduled weapon.
"The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts which threaten the safety of our officers and will not hesitate to take action against those who blatantly disregard the law," said SPF in a statement.
For voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty, the man could be jailed up to seven years, and fined or caned.
For possessing a knife, he could be jailed for up to five years and given at least six strokes of the cane.
Exactly three months have passed from today (10 Oct) since the 2020 General Election (GE) was held on 10 Jul.
During the GE period, Singaporean voters came to know of Ivan Lim, the controversial candidate introduced by People’s Action Party (PAP).
His candidacy was announced on 26 Jun by PAP. He is a General Manager at Keppel Offshore & Marine and was slated to contest in Jurong GRC. Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat even praised Lim saying that he has had a very unusual journey in his education.
During the introduction, Lim told the media, “I chose to serve with PAP because the PAP values and attributes are close to my heart. In particular, being compassionate, and also being self-reliant on the ground.”
But not long thereafter, stories of his past started to surface (‘Online comments emerge that PAP new candidate Ivan Lim allegedly a “How Lian” character‘).
A Facebook user, Bryant Wong, shared that Lim was allegedly the commanding officer of his battalion and would speak “using a condescending voice” to tell others not to step into the air-conditioned tentage that he was using. “His action and speech were simply that of an elitist,” Mr Wong wrote.
“There were other instances during Battalion briefings where he would always [pepper] the briefings with his personal achievement (how he is a GM at shipyard, how many people reporting to him at work, etc).”
“He [Mr Lim] was never well liked by the soldiers and commanders of the Battalion due to his constant ‘humble brag’ and driving around camp in his expensive cars,” Mr Wong further noted. “So now he is going into politics to represent the ordinary folks in Parliament. With his character and personality – will he?”
Other netizens commented that Lim’s alleged “bad character” can be found all over on Facebook with negative remarks supposedly coming from his poly classmates, colleagues at Keppel as well as people serving with him during NS and reservist days. Some said he was a “shame” to PAP.
PM Lee: PAP will investigate
As online chatter over Lim dramatically rose, PAP suddenly announced on 27 Jun that Lim has withdrawn from contesting in 2020 GE.
Two days later on 29 Jun, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told everyone that PAP will investigate the allegations against Lim after GE.
“I don’t think that should be the end of the matter because we can’t let such serious things be said about somebody and have somebody live with the cloud permanently hanging over him (with) a question mark. I think it would be unfair to Ivan,” he said.
“It sets a very damaging precedent that you can condemn somebody and write him off on the basis of an internet campaign. We don’t have time to settle it now, but we can’t simply write off and destroy people like this.”
“So, after the elections, the party will investigate the veracity of allegations against Ivan and we will come to a view on the matter,” he added.
Still, PM Lee said he has confidence in the PAP’s recruitment process and his party’s candidates.
In the recent GE, the oppositions were able to make headway by winning 2 GRCs, Aljunied GRC and Sengkang GRC. Overall, PAP’s percentage share of valid votes dropped considerably from 69.9% in 2015 GE to 61.2% in the recent one.
If Lim had not withdrawn from 2020 GE, he would likely be an MP in Jurong GRC by now, since he was riding on the coattail of popular PAP minister Tharman contesting at Jurong GRC.
In any case, nothing has been heard about any investigations by the PAP into those allegations against Lim.
During the GE period, Singaporean voters came to know of Ivan Lim, the controversial candidate introduced by People’s Action Party (PAP).
His candidacy was announced on 26 Jun by PAP. He is a General Manager at Keppel Offshore & Marine and was slated to contest in Jurong GRC. Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat even praised Lim saying that he has had a very unusual journey in his education.
During the introduction, Lim told the media, “I chose to serve with PAP because the PAP values and attributes are close to my heart. In particular, being compassionate, and also being self-reliant on the ground.”
But not long thereafter, stories of his past started to surface (‘Online comments emerge that PAP new candidate Ivan Lim allegedly a “How Lian” character‘).
A Facebook user, Bryant Wong, shared that Lim was allegedly the commanding officer of his battalion and would speak “using a condescending voice” to tell others not to step into the air-conditioned tentage that he was using. “His action and speech were simply that of an elitist,” Mr Wong wrote.
“There were other instances during Battalion briefings where he would always [pepper] the briefings with his personal achievement (how he is a GM at shipyard, how many people reporting to him at work, etc).”
“He [Mr Lim] was never well liked by the soldiers and commanders of the Battalion due to his constant ‘humble brag’ and driving around camp in his expensive cars,” Mr Wong further noted. “So now he is going into politics to represent the ordinary folks in Parliament. With his character and personality – will he?”
Other netizens commented that Lim’s alleged “bad character” can be found all over on Facebook with negative remarks supposedly coming from his poly classmates, colleagues at Keppel as well as people serving with him during NS and reservist days. Some said he was a “shame” to PAP.
PM Lee: PAP will investigate
As online chatter over Lim dramatically rose, PAP suddenly announced on 27 Jun that Lim has withdrawn from contesting in 2020 GE.
Two days later on 29 Jun, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told everyone that PAP will investigate the allegations against Lim after GE.
“I don’t think that should be the end of the matter because we can’t let such serious things be said about somebody and have somebody live with the cloud permanently hanging over him (with) a question mark. I think it would be unfair to Ivan,” he said.
“It sets a very damaging precedent that you can condemn somebody and write him off on the basis of an internet campaign. We don’t have time to settle it now, but we can’t simply write off and destroy people like this.”
“So, after the elections, the party will investigate the veracity of allegations against Ivan and we will come to a view on the matter,” he added.
Still, PM Lee said he has confidence in the PAP’s recruitment process and his party’s candidates.
In the recent GE, the oppositions were able to make headway by winning 2 GRCs, Aljunied GRC and Sengkang GRC. Overall, PAP’s percentage share of valid votes dropped considerably from 69.9% in 2015 GE to 61.2% in the recent one.
If Lim had not withdrawn from 2020 GE, he would likely be an MP in Jurong GRC by now, since he was riding on the coattail of popular PAP minister Tharman contesting at Jurong GRC.
In any case, nothing has been heard about any investigations by the PAP into those allegations against Lim.
#55
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
Imported Singaporean Covid-19 patient who did not declare symptoms being investigated
The man was among the four new Covid-19 cases announced by the ministry.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Wong Shiying
UPDATED 1 HOUR AGO
SINGAPORE - A 68-year-old Singaporean man who was announced on Thursday (Nov 19) as a new imported coronavirus case is being investigated for not declaring he had symptoms.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a statement on Thursday night that investigations are being done to assess if there has been any breach of travel requirements.
The man had travelled from Indonesia and had shortness of breath since last Wednesday.
But on Tuesday, he said in his health declaration form for immigration clearance that he did not have any symptoms.
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
The Singaporean man is one of four new coronavirus cases announced on Thursday, all of whom were imported.
There were no new locally transmitted cases, for the ninth day in a row. This is the longest such period since a 12-day streak from Jan 23 to Feb 3.
Thursday’s figure takes Singapore’s total to 58,139.
The new imported cases were placed on stay-home notice on arrival in Singapore.
They include a special pass holder, a permanent resident (PR) and a work permit holder.
The special pass holder arrived from Montenegro to board a ship docked here as a crew member. The PR came from India while the work permit holder arrived from Indonesia.
Other than the Singaporean, all the imported cases were asymptomatic when tested.
MOH also said on Thursday that of 28 Covid-19 patients in hospital, one is in critical condition in the intensive care unit. This is the first critical case in just over a month since Oct 11.
Together with the 31 patients still recuperating in community facilities, Singapore now has 59 active cases.
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
Imported Singaporean Covid-19 patient who did not declare symptoms being investigated
The man was among the four new Covid-19 cases announced by the ministry.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Wong Shiying
UPDATED 1 HOUR AGO
SINGAPORE - A 68-year-old Singaporean man who was announced on Thursday (Nov 19) as a new imported coronavirus case is being investigated for not declaring he had symptoms.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a statement on Thursday night that investigations are being done to assess if there has been any breach of travel requirements.
The man had travelled from Indonesia and had shortness of breath since last Wednesday.
But on Tuesday, he said in his health declaration form for immigration clearance that he did not have any symptoms.
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
The Singaporean man is one of four new coronavirus cases announced on Thursday, all of whom were imported.
There were no new locally transmitted cases, for the ninth day in a row. This is the longest such period since a 12-day streak from Jan 23 to Feb 3.
Thursday’s figure takes Singapore’s total to 58,139.
The new imported cases were placed on stay-home notice on arrival in Singapore.
They include a special pass holder, a permanent resident (PR) and a work permit holder.
The special pass holder arrived from Montenegro to board a ship docked here as a crew member. The PR came from India while the work permit holder arrived from Indonesia.
Other than the Singaporean, all the imported cases were asymptomatic when tested.
MOH also said on Thursday that of 28 Covid-19 patients in hospital, one is in critical condition in the intensive care unit. This is the first critical case in just over a month since Oct 11.
Together with the 31 patients still recuperating in community facilities, Singapore now has 59 active cases.
Singaporean also can be imported case?#55
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
Imported Singaporean Covid-19 patient who did not declare symptoms being investigated
The man was among the four new Covid-19 cases announced by the ministry.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Wong Shiying
UPDATED 1 HOUR AGO
SINGAPORE - A 68-year-old Singaporean man who was announced on Thursday (Nov 19) as a new imported coronavirus case is being investigated for not declaring he had symptoms.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a statement on Thursday night that investigations are being done to assess if there has been any breach of travel requirements.
The man had travelled from Indonesia and had shortness of breath since last Wednesday.
But on Tuesday, he said in his health declaration form for immigration clearance that he did not have any symptoms.
“We urge everyone to continue to exercise social responsibility and will not hesitate to take enforcement actions against those who breach the rules,” said MOH.
The Singaporean man is one of four new coronavirus cases announced on Thursday, all of whom were imported.
There were no new locally transmitted cases, for the ninth day in a row. This is the longest such period since a 12-day streak from Jan 23 to Feb 3.
Thursday’s figure takes Singapore’s total to 58,139.
The new imported cases were placed on stay-home notice on arrival in Singapore.
They include a special pass holder, a permanent resident (PR) and a work permit holder.
The special pass holder arrived from Montenegro to board a ship docked here as a crew member. The PR came from India while the work permit holder arrived from Indonesia.
Other than the Singaporean, all the imported cases were asymptomatic when tested.
MOH also said on Thursday that of 28 Covid-19 patients in hospital, one is in critical condition in the intensive care unit. This is the first critical case in just over a month since Oct 11.
Together with the 31 patients still recuperating in community facilities, Singapore now has 59 active cases.
#56
Said Ms Tan: "STB... takes a serious view of any breach in safe management measures within hotel premises... "
Ah Boys To Men actor Maxi Lim's wedding faces probe for Covid-19 breaches
(From left) Director Jack Neo, the bride Lizy Teo, the groom Maxi Lim, emcee Justin Misson and DJ Jerald Justin Ko at the wedding reception.
PHOTO: POWER98JK/INSTAGRAM
Kok Yufeng
23 DEC 2020
SINGAPORE (THE NEW PAPER) - As the Covid-19 pandemic worsened in March, Ah Boys To Men star Maxi Lim postponed his wedding reception, writing on Instagram that it was "the most socially responsible thing to do".
But when he and his wife, influencer Lizy Teo, who registered their marriage in late March, finally held the reception at One Degree 15 Marina in Sentosa Cove on Sunday (Dec 20), some attendees allegedly threw caution to the wind by ignoring safe management measures.
In videos and photos of the event posted on social media, Mr Lim's Ah Boys To Men cast members Charlie Goh, Joshua Tan and Noah Yap, emcee Justin Misson and others, including influencer Nicole Choo and comedians Fakkah Fuzz and Jai Kishan, can be seen performing and playing games onstage without wearing masks or face shields.
Some guests at the reception were also seen intermingling and not wearing their masks during the march-in.
A reader who tipped off The New Paper on Tuesday said he had made a complaint to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) after seeing the posts.
The reader, who is in his 30s and declined to be named, said: "I held my wedding recently and I am aware how the guidelines may put a damper on the joyous occasion.
"However, just like other couples who got married during this period, we know the importance of these guidelines and many of us, with constant reminders from the venue provider, followed (them) despite all the inconveniences," he added.
"To see a public figure ignoring such guidelines blatantly is disheartening. It is also ironic to see public figures breaking the rules when they had been advocating the public to observe safe management measures.
"
STB director of hotel and sector manpower Tan Yen Nee told TNP in a statement that STB is aware of the allegations and is investigating.
Under current rules, wedding receptions cannot exceed 100 people split across multiple zones of up to 50 people each.
Receptions with more than 20 attendees must be split into a designated core wedding party of up to 20 people, including the bride and groom, and groups of up to five people for the remaining guests.
It is not clear which of the attendees at Mr Lim's reception were in the core wedding party.
A safe distance of at least 1m must be observed between groups and the wedding party at all times, including for photo-taking.
Live performances are not allowed, and event emcees and people making speeches are also required to wear face shields or masks when speaking onstage.
Posts on social media show attendees onstage without masks or face shields at Mr Lim's reception. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM INSTAGRAM
It is not clear which of the attendees at Mr Lim's reception were in the core wedding party.
PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM INSTAGRAM
Said Ms Tan: "STB... takes a serious view of any breach in safe management measures within hotel premises... Strict enforcement action will be taken against errant businesses or individuals, which may include fines, temporary closure and prosecution to the full extent of the law."
One Degree 15 Marina's acting general manager, Mr Jonathan Sit, said before any wedding, its operations team will brief the couple and wedding coordinators on the necessary measures, and go through the programme to ensure there are no games, singing or shouting.
"Should there be breaches during the wedding, our staff and managers will immediately tell the guests and even the wedding couple to stay in their seats," he said.
Mr Sit did not say whether the club had done this during Mr Lim's wedding reception, and did not directly address queries on the alleged breaches.
Challenges
He added: "As a venue operator, we share the same challenges that government-appointed social distancing officers across the island face every day in doing their jobs, but we will continue to carry out all these measures that we have already put in place."
The Straits Times reported on Monday that One Degree 15 Marina was one of 10 hotels and hostels to have been fined for breaching safe management measures.
Fly Entertainment, which manages several of the attendees at the wedding, told TNP that it takes the safety measures and regulations to curb the spread of Covid-19 very seriously.
"We have been reminding and will continue to remind our artistes and staff to adhere to all safety measures strictly, whether at work or for personal engagements," said a spokesman.
"We have advised our artistes involved in this incident to cooperate with the authorities for any investigation."
Mr Lim and other guests that TNP contacted did not respond to queries by press time.
Said Ms Tan: "STB... takes a serious view of any breach in safe management measures within hotel premises... "
Ah Boys To Men actor Maxi Lim's wedding faces probe for Covid-19 breaches
(From left) Director Jack Neo, the bride Lizy Teo, the groom Maxi Lim, emcee Justin Misson and DJ Jerald Justin Ko at the wedding reception.
PHOTO: POWER98JK/INSTAGRAM
Kok Yufeng
23 DEC 2020
SINGAPORE (THE NEW PAPER) - As the Covid-19 pandemic worsened in March, Ah Boys To Men star Maxi Lim postponed his wedding reception, writing on Instagram that it was "the most socially responsible thing to do".
But when he and his wife, influencer Lizy Teo, who registered their marriage in late March, finally held the reception at One Degree 15 Marina in Sentosa Cove on Sunday (Dec 20), some attendees allegedly threw caution to the wind by ignoring safe management measures.
In videos and photos of the event posted on social media, Mr Lim's Ah Boys To Men cast members Charlie Goh, Joshua Tan and Noah Yap, emcee Justin Misson and others, including influencer Nicole Choo and comedians Fakkah Fuzz and Jai Kishan, can be seen performing and playing games onstage without wearing masks or face shields.
Some guests at the reception were also seen intermingling and not wearing their masks during the march-in.
A reader who tipped off The New Paper on Tuesday said he had made a complaint to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) after seeing the posts.
The reader, who is in his 30s and declined to be named, said: "I held my wedding recently and I am aware how the guidelines may put a damper on the joyous occasion.
"However, just like other couples who got married during this period, we know the importance of these guidelines and many of us, with constant reminders from the venue provider, followed (them) despite all the inconveniences," he added.
"To see a public figure ignoring such guidelines blatantly is disheartening. It is also ironic to see public figures breaking the rules when they had been advocating the public to observe safe management measures.
"
STB director of hotel and sector manpower Tan Yen Nee told TNP in a statement that STB is aware of the allegations and is investigating.
Under current rules, wedding receptions cannot exceed 100 people split across multiple zones of up to 50 people each.
Receptions with more than 20 attendees must be split into a designated core wedding party of up to 20 people, including the bride and groom, and groups of up to five people for the remaining guests.
It is not clear which of the attendees at Mr Lim's reception were in the core wedding party.
A safe distance of at least 1m must be observed between groups and the wedding party at all times, including for photo-taking.
Live performances are not allowed, and event emcees and people making speeches are also required to wear face shields or masks when speaking onstage.
Posts on social media show attendees onstage without masks or face shields at Mr Lim's reception. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM INSTAGRAM
It is not clear which of the attendees at Mr Lim's reception were in the core wedding party.
PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM INSTAGRAM
Said Ms Tan: "STB... takes a serious view of any breach in safe management measures within hotel premises... Strict enforcement action will be taken against errant businesses or individuals, which may include fines, temporary closure and prosecution to the full extent of the law."
One Degree 15 Marina's acting general manager, Mr Jonathan Sit, said before any wedding, its operations team will brief the couple and wedding coordinators on the necessary measures, and go through the programme to ensure there are no games, singing or shouting.
"Should there be breaches during the wedding, our staff and managers will immediately tell the guests and even the wedding couple to stay in their seats," he said.
Mr Sit did not say whether the club had done this during Mr Lim's wedding reception, and did not directly address queries on the alleged breaches.
Challenges
He added: "As a venue operator, we share the same challenges that government-appointed social distancing officers across the island face every day in doing their jobs, but we will continue to carry out all these measures that we have already put in place."
The Straits Times reported on Monday that One Degree 15 Marina was one of 10 hotels and hostels to have been fined for breaching safe management measures.
Fly Entertainment, which manages several of the attendees at the wedding, told TNP that it takes the safety measures and regulations to curb the spread of Covid-19 very seriously.
"We have been reminding and will continue to remind our artistes and staff to adhere to all safety measures strictly, whether at work or for personal engagements," said a spokesman.
"We have advised our artistes involved in this incident to cooperate with the authorities for any investigation."
Mr Lim and other guests that TNP contacted did not respond to queries by press time.
#57
The authorities will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against those that flout safe management measures, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Thursday.
Zam Zam Restaurant fined a second time for flouting Covid-19 measures; S'poreans reminded to stay vigilant
Repeat offender Zam Zam was fined $2,000, while 15 other food and beverage outlets were fined $1,000.PHOTO: ST FILE
Sue-Ann Tan
PUBLISHED 24 DEC 2020
SINGAPORE- The authorities will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against those that flout safe management measures, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Thursday (Dec 24).
With the year-end festive period in full swing, the ministry said: "We must not become complacent and must continue to remain vigilant; otherwise, our individual and collective sacrifices over the past year will be in vain."
Over the weekend from Dec 18 to 19, 16 food and beverage (F&B) outlets and 36 individuals were fined for breaching safe management measures.
They include Marche Movenpick in Raffles City Shopping Centre, Seoul Good at 50 Punggol East and Circuit Breaker Restro Bar at 53 Chander Road.
Zam Zam Restaurant in North Bridge Road was also caught for the second time.
Fifteen of the outlets were fined $1,000, but the repeat offender, Zam Zam, was fined $2,000.
The individuals were fined $300 each.
MSE stressed that diners must keep to a maximum group size of five at F&B outlets, and that people from different tables and groups should not intermingle.
Large groups should not be split into multiple tables and outlets are not allowed to accept such reservations, unless all members are from the same household.
People should also avoid visiting malls, supermarkets, post offices and stadiums at peak hours, MSE added. They can check the Space Out website before heading out, to find out if their destination is crowded.
They should also wear masks properly at all times, without removing the masks for product testing, for instance. Different groups should also ensure at least 1m spacing between them.
Those who want to visit beaches at Sentosa on weekends and public holidays need to reserve entry slots online, up to five days before their visit.
Before heading to gardens, parks or nature reserves managed by the National Parks Board (NParks), they can also check the Safe Distance @ Parks portal for the latest updates.
Some gardens, parks, beaches and facilities such as car parks managed by NParks may be closed temporarily in order to ensure safe distancing.
Those celebrating the holidays at home are allowed to have only five visitors per household.
MSE said: "While many may wish to meet up with family and friends, or visit popular areas for shopping or dining out, we urge everyone to avoid visiting in large groups and to adhere to the prevailing safe management measures."
It added that safe distancing ambassadors and enforcement officers will be deployed across the island, and that people should cooperate with them.
"A resurgence of infections as seen in other countries would have devastating effects on lives and livelihoods in Singapore. The cooperation of individuals and businesses will help to safeguard public health, while allowing businesses to remain open," it said.
"Together, our collective efforts will determine if we can successfully make the transition to phase three and to a new normal."
F&B outlets fined:
1. Marche Movenpick in Raffles City Shopping Centre
2. Tasty Loong, ORTO, 81 Lor Chencharu
3. BKK Bistro and Bar, ORTO, 81 Lor Chencharu
4. Big Fish Small Fish, 50 Punggol East
5. Seoul Good, 50 Punggol East
6. Beastro LLP, 50 Punggol East
7. Madya Cuisines, 50 Punggol East
8. Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant, 50 Punggol East
9. D' Rubinah, 10 Tebing Lane
10. Mei Heong Yuen, 67 Temple Street
11. Circuit Breaker Restro Bar, 53 Chander Road
12. Club Peaches in Concorde Hotel
13. Fish & Co. in Paragon
14. Miss G's Grill & Bar, 44 Pekin Street
15. Zam Zam Restaurant, 697-699 North Bridge Road (second offence)
16. Gin Khao Bistro, 31 Ocean Way
The authorities will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against those that flout safe management measures, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Thursday.
Zam Zam Restaurant fined a second time for flouting Covid-19 measures; S'poreans reminded to stay vigilant
Repeat offender Zam Zam was fined $2,000, while 15 other food and beverage outlets were fined $1,000.PHOTO: ST FILE
Sue-Ann Tan
PUBLISHED 24 DEC 2020
SINGAPORE- The authorities will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against those that flout safe management measures, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Thursday (Dec 24).
With the year-end festive period in full swing, the ministry said: "We must not become complacent and must continue to remain vigilant; otherwise, our individual and collective sacrifices over the past year will be in vain."
Over the weekend from Dec 18 to 19, 16 food and beverage (F&B) outlets and 36 individuals were fined for breaching safe management measures.
They include Marche Movenpick in Raffles City Shopping Centre, Seoul Good at 50 Punggol East and Circuit Breaker Restro Bar at 53 Chander Road.
Zam Zam Restaurant in North Bridge Road was also caught for the second time.
Fifteen of the outlets were fined $1,000, but the repeat offender, Zam Zam, was fined $2,000.
The individuals were fined $300 each.
MSE stressed that diners must keep to a maximum group size of five at F&B outlets, and that people from different tables and groups should not intermingle.
Large groups should not be split into multiple tables and outlets are not allowed to accept such reservations, unless all members are from the same household.
People should also avoid visiting malls, supermarkets, post offices and stadiums at peak hours, MSE added. They can check the Space Out website before heading out, to find out if their destination is crowded.
They should also wear masks properly at all times, without removing the masks for product testing, for instance. Different groups should also ensure at least 1m spacing between them.
Those who want to visit beaches at Sentosa on weekends and public holidays need to reserve entry slots online, up to five days before their visit.
Before heading to gardens, parks or nature reserves managed by the National Parks Board (NParks), they can also check the Safe Distance @ Parks portal for the latest updates.
Some gardens, parks, beaches and facilities such as car parks managed by NParks may be closed temporarily in order to ensure safe distancing.
Those celebrating the holidays at home are allowed to have only five visitors per household.
MSE said: "While many may wish to meet up with family and friends, or visit popular areas for shopping or dining out, we urge everyone to avoid visiting in large groups and to adhere to the prevailing safe management measures."
It added that safe distancing ambassadors and enforcement officers will be deployed across the island, and that people should cooperate with them.
"A resurgence of infections as seen in other countries would have devastating effects on lives and livelihoods in Singapore. The cooperation of individuals and businesses will help to safeguard public health, while allowing businesses to remain open," it said.
"Together, our collective efforts will determine if we can successfully make the transition to phase three and to a new normal."
F&B outlets fined:
1. Marche Movenpick in Raffles City Shopping Centre
2. Tasty Loong, ORTO, 81 Lor Chencharu
3. BKK Bistro and Bar, ORTO, 81 Lor Chencharu
4. Big Fish Small Fish, 50 Punggol East
5. Seoul Good, 50 Punggol East
6. Beastro LLP, 50 Punggol East
7. Madya Cuisines, 50 Punggol East
8. Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant, 50 Punggol East
9. D' Rubinah, 10 Tebing Lane
10. Mei Heong Yuen, 67 Temple Street
11. Circuit Breaker Restro Bar, 53 Chander Road
12. Club Peaches in Concorde Hotel
13. Fish & Co. in Paragon
14. Miss G's Grill & Bar, 44 Pekin Street
15. Zam Zam Restaurant, 697-699 North Bridge Road (second offence)
16. Gin Khao Bistro, 31 Ocean Way
#58
Cliches aplenty.
"MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
"MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task," it added.
Licence of pleasure craft suspended after people filmed partying near Lazarus Island on Boxing Day
Photos and videos of the incident were posted on social media on Dec 26.
PHOTOS: BU HUI YAN/FACEBOOOK
Lim Min Zhang
23 JAN 2021
SINGAPORE - A pleasure craft's licence has been suspended by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) over an incident on Boxing Day last year that allegedly broke safe distancing rules.
This included having more than five people in a group.
In a statement on Saturday (Jan 23), MPA said the Advant's licence will be suspended for 30 days over the Dec 26 incident near Lazarus Island.
MPA said preliminary investigations revealed the number of passengers on the craft was more than the maximum group size of five that was allowed at the time.
Singapore entered its third phase of reopening on Dec 28, which allowed up to eight people for social gatherings.
The craft had been chartered for a social gathering and there was co-mingling among the individuals on board, based on the investigations which is still ongoing.
Photos and videos of the incident were posted on social media on Dec 26, showing at least 10 men and women dancing without masks.
MPA added that further action may be taken against anyone found to have breached the law.
"MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
"MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task," it added.
The latest incident was among other recent group gatherings that allegedly contravened Covid-19 measures, prompting enforcement action from the authorities.
CherryLoft Resorts & Hotels in Pasir Ris was fined $1,000 and ordered to suspend bookings for 30 days earlier this month after it breached multiple safe management measures and allowed 19 people to gather on its premises. All 19 were fined $300 each.
Last October, 12 people were charged with allegedly flouting safe distancing measures and taking part in an unlawful gathering on Lazarus Island amid the Covid-19 outbreak on Aug 8. So far, eight members of the group have been fined $3,000 each.
First-time offenders who breach laws under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act may face a fine of up to $10,000, up to six months' jail, or both.
Repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000, sentenced to a maximum of a year in jail, or both.
The craft or vessel can also have its licence suspended by MPA for up to 30 days, and the owner or operator be required to put in place an approved safe management plan.
Cliches aplenty.
"MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
"MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task," it added.
Licence of pleasure craft suspended after people filmed partying near Lazarus Island on Boxing Day
Photos and videos of the incident were posted on social media on Dec 26.
PHOTOS: BU HUI YAN/FACEBOOOK
Lim Min Zhang
23 JAN 2021
SINGAPORE - A pleasure craft's licence has been suspended by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) over an incident on Boxing Day last year that allegedly broke safe distancing rules.
This included having more than five people in a group.
In a statement on Saturday (Jan 23), MPA said the Advant's licence will be suspended for 30 days over the Dec 26 incident near Lazarus Island.
MPA said preliminary investigations revealed the number of passengers on the craft was more than the maximum group size of five that was allowed at the time.
Singapore entered its third phase of reopening on Dec 28, which allowed up to eight people for social gatherings.
The craft had been chartered for a social gathering and there was co-mingling among the individuals on board, based on the investigations which is still ongoing.
Photos and videos of the incident were posted on social media on Dec 26, showing at least 10 men and women dancing without masks.
MPA added that further action may be taken against anyone found to have breached the law.
"MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
"MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task," it added.
The latest incident was among other recent group gatherings that allegedly contravened Covid-19 measures, prompting enforcement action from the authorities.
CherryLoft Resorts & Hotels in Pasir Ris was fined $1,000 and ordered to suspend bookings for 30 days earlier this month after it breached multiple safe management measures and allowed 19 people to gather on its premises. All 19 were fined $300 each.
Last October, 12 people were charged with allegedly flouting safe distancing measures and taking part in an unlawful gathering on Lazarus Island amid the Covid-19 outbreak on Aug 8. So far, eight members of the group have been fined $3,000 each.
First-time offenders who breach laws under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act may face a fine of up to $10,000, up to six months' jail, or both.
Repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000, sentenced to a maximum of a year in jail, or both.
The craft or vessel can also have its licence suspended by MPA for up to 30 days, and the owner or operator be required to put in place an approved safe management plan.
#59
The Sports Hub also stressed that it "will not hesitate to take necessary action against individuals who exploit our booking system".
Badminton: Anger, frustration as social players turn to resellers to book courts
Laura Chia, Rebecca Mah and Deepanraj Ganesan
24 JAN 2021
SINGAPORE - Kenny Koh has been an avid badminton player for over a decade and usually enjoys playing the sport with his friends once a week at the public courts at Clementi and Jurong West Sports Halls.
But in the past four months, Koh, 28, has become increasingly frustrated after multiple failed attempts to book the courts via the ActiveSG booking system run by national agency Sport Singapore (SportSG).
He has since had to resort to getting court time via third parties on Facebook and Meetup.
Koh told The Straits Times: "It is frustrating to see courts always being snapped up quickly. From 7am to 10pm every day, it is booked. It's so sad to see that there are people profiteering from this.
"I love the sport and I still want to play… At the end of the day, what can someone who wants to play badminton do? Either fork up the higher fee to play or just don't play at all."
Koh is not alone, as a number of recreational players have also voiced their anger and frustration after being unable to book public sports facilities at SportSG's sports halls and Singapore Sports Hub's OCBC Arena, only to find out that these are being resold on various platforms such as Carousell, Facebook, Meetup and Telegram.
Meetup allows users to organise online groups to host real-life events for others to participate in, and players who wish to join the events typically pay a fee to cover the cost of booking, shuttlecocks, and/or to secure their place in the session.
While those who choose to hire courts via resellers may not have to fork out much more money, the middlemen can still make a tidy profit.
Koh usually pays $3.50/hour if he books through the ActiveSG app, but booking through these organisers costs $10 per person for two hours. There are usually eight players each session, which means a $73 profit for the middleman who pays $7 for two hours and collects $80 from the players.
Checks by ST showed that one reseller for slots at the OCBC arena - Meetup organiser Northeast Badminton Club - collects $12 per person (a total of $60 for a five person group) for a two-hour slot that would originally cost $16 during peak timings.
With some resellers hawking up to four courts per day at sports halls at a cost of $8-$16 per person during peak timings, they can pocket up to $450 per day in profit, while NorthEast Badminton Club with up to eight courts at the OCBC Arena can earn up to $350 a day before deducting the cost of the shuttlecocks.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to 11-a-side football due to social distancing rules, slots for public football fields were also in hot demand with many turning to resellers to secure spots.
Recreational badminton player Levain S., 27, said that this situation of people selling slots for profit is "killing the interest of casual players".
He added: "I used to play at Clementi Sports Hall earlier in the year because it was still possible then to do some bookings. You had to be punctual and log on at 7am to book. But now it is almost impossible.
"Of course it is still affordable but it totally ruins the interest. I used to play thrice a week but now if my friends happen to have a slot then I would consider playing."
Players whom ST spoke to said booking checks by staff can differ at the facilities. Users are sometimes asked for the booking confirmation, name and/or identification card number of the person who booked the court. Other times, the person who made the booking has to be there. Some suggested that bookings could be limited to only one per person, or to ensure the person who made the booking is present.
Responding to ST's queries, ActiveSG Chief Sng Hock Lin noted that ActiveSG's 26 centres had more than 17 million visits in 2019 and more than seven million users last year, with demand for facilities such as badminton courts "consistently high at more than 80 per cent before Covid-19 and even after Phase 2". Sport Singapore has worked to progressively open up more facilities such as reopening Dual-Use Scheme facilities.
While Sng said the majority of ActiveSG members abided by its rules and regulations, he added: "Unfortunately, there were some minority groups that engaged in undesirable acts to exploit the system to profiteer. To circumvent these situations, we introduced new policies since reopening our facilities in Phase Two last year."
For example, hirers of badminton courts are now required to be present and be part of the group playing during the booked slot and players are required to wear a coloured wrist band during play for identification purposes and to prevent intermixing between courts as part of its safe management measures.
Hirers who are found flouting these rules will have action taken against them, including being suspended from future bookings, warned Sng.
A Singapore Sports Hub spokesman said: "To ensure fair usage of our spaces, we are continually enhancing our booking system, and have multiple layers in place that monitor and flag whenever multiple transactions are detected from a single computer, network or location. Once detected, these transactions are immediately stopped from being processed."
The Sports Hub also stressed that it "will not hesitate to take necessary action against individuals who exploit our booking system".
While student Benjamin Li, 23, feels that "something definitely has to be done", he noted that there is no "simple solution" as stopping resellers could instead deprive people of the opportunity to play. He added: "What I fear is a haphazard plaster that might deter people from being able to play completely."
A French national who only wanted to be known as Bobby told ST: "The system has to be better. If the OCBC Arena people can see the booking made by the same person every week and almost everyday, surely there must be some alarms being raised. It is depriving people like me who just want to play some badminton with friends."
HOW MUCH THIRD PARTIES CHARGE:
Non-peak hour timings: Weekdays 7am-6pm.
Peak hour timings: Weekdays 6pm-10pm, Weekends and Public Holidays.
ORIGINAL RATES:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-Peak price (per hour): $3.50 (Singaporean and Permanent Residents), $4.60 (Standard Rate)
Peak price (per hour) : $7.40, $9.70
SportsHub
Non-peak (per hour): $5, $6.50
Peak (per hour): $8, $13
RESELLERS' RATES:
(As advertised on various platforms, per 2-hour slot)
Meetup.com :
Sports Halls (ActiveSG):
Non-peak: $6-$10 per pax
Peak: $8-$16 per pax
SportsHub: $12 per pax
Carousell:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG): $7-$16
SportsHub: $8
Telegram:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-peak: $7-$10 per pax
Peak: $10-$14 per pax
SportsHub: $8 per pax
Facebook:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-peak: $6-$10 per pax
Peak: $8-$15 per pax
SportsHub: $6-12 per pax
The Sports Hub also stressed that it "will not hesitate to take necessary action against individuals who exploit our booking system".
Badminton: Anger, frustration as social players turn to resellers to book courts
Laura Chia, Rebecca Mah and Deepanraj Ganesan
24 JAN 2021
SINGAPORE - Kenny Koh has been an avid badminton player for over a decade and usually enjoys playing the sport with his friends once a week at the public courts at Clementi and Jurong West Sports Halls.
But in the past four months, Koh, 28, has become increasingly frustrated after multiple failed attempts to book the courts via the ActiveSG booking system run by national agency Sport Singapore (SportSG).
He has since had to resort to getting court time via third parties on Facebook and Meetup.
Koh told The Straits Times: "It is frustrating to see courts always being snapped up quickly. From 7am to 10pm every day, it is booked. It's so sad to see that there are people profiteering from this.
"I love the sport and I still want to play… At the end of the day, what can someone who wants to play badminton do? Either fork up the higher fee to play or just don't play at all."
Koh is not alone, as a number of recreational players have also voiced their anger and frustration after being unable to book public sports facilities at SportSG's sports halls and Singapore Sports Hub's OCBC Arena, only to find out that these are being resold on various platforms such as Carousell, Facebook, Meetup and Telegram.
Meetup allows users to organise online groups to host real-life events for others to participate in, and players who wish to join the events typically pay a fee to cover the cost of booking, shuttlecocks, and/or to secure their place in the session.
While those who choose to hire courts via resellers may not have to fork out much more money, the middlemen can still make a tidy profit.
Koh usually pays $3.50/hour if he books through the ActiveSG app, but booking through these organisers costs $10 per person for two hours. There are usually eight players each session, which means a $73 profit for the middleman who pays $7 for two hours and collects $80 from the players.
Checks by ST showed that one reseller for slots at the OCBC arena - Meetup organiser Northeast Badminton Club - collects $12 per person (a total of $60 for a five person group) for a two-hour slot that would originally cost $16 during peak timings.
With some resellers hawking up to four courts per day at sports halls at a cost of $8-$16 per person during peak timings, they can pocket up to $450 per day in profit, while NorthEast Badminton Club with up to eight courts at the OCBC Arena can earn up to $350 a day before deducting the cost of the shuttlecocks.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to 11-a-side football due to social distancing rules, slots for public football fields were also in hot demand with many turning to resellers to secure spots.
Recreational badminton player Levain S., 27, said that this situation of people selling slots for profit is "killing the interest of casual players".
He added: "I used to play at Clementi Sports Hall earlier in the year because it was still possible then to do some bookings. You had to be punctual and log on at 7am to book. But now it is almost impossible.
"Of course it is still affordable but it totally ruins the interest. I used to play thrice a week but now if my friends happen to have a slot then I would consider playing."
Players whom ST spoke to said booking checks by staff can differ at the facilities. Users are sometimes asked for the booking confirmation, name and/or identification card number of the person who booked the court. Other times, the person who made the booking has to be there. Some suggested that bookings could be limited to only one per person, or to ensure the person who made the booking is present.
Responding to ST's queries, ActiveSG Chief Sng Hock Lin noted that ActiveSG's 26 centres had more than 17 million visits in 2019 and more than seven million users last year, with demand for facilities such as badminton courts "consistently high at more than 80 per cent before Covid-19 and even after Phase 2". Sport Singapore has worked to progressively open up more facilities such as reopening Dual-Use Scheme facilities.
While Sng said the majority of ActiveSG members abided by its rules and regulations, he added: "Unfortunately, there were some minority groups that engaged in undesirable acts to exploit the system to profiteer. To circumvent these situations, we introduced new policies since reopening our facilities in Phase Two last year."
For example, hirers of badminton courts are now required to be present and be part of the group playing during the booked slot and players are required to wear a coloured wrist band during play for identification purposes and to prevent intermixing between courts as part of its safe management measures.
Hirers who are found flouting these rules will have action taken against them, including being suspended from future bookings, warned Sng.
A Singapore Sports Hub spokesman said: "To ensure fair usage of our spaces, we are continually enhancing our booking system, and have multiple layers in place that monitor and flag whenever multiple transactions are detected from a single computer, network or location. Once detected, these transactions are immediately stopped from being processed."
The Sports Hub also stressed that it "will not hesitate to take necessary action against individuals who exploit our booking system".
While student Benjamin Li, 23, feels that "something definitely has to be done", he noted that there is no "simple solution" as stopping resellers could instead deprive people of the opportunity to play. He added: "What I fear is a haphazard plaster that might deter people from being able to play completely."
A French national who only wanted to be known as Bobby told ST: "The system has to be better. If the OCBC Arena people can see the booking made by the same person every week and almost everyday, surely there must be some alarms being raised. It is depriving people like me who just want to play some badminton with friends."
HOW MUCH THIRD PARTIES CHARGE:
Non-peak hour timings: Weekdays 7am-6pm.
Peak hour timings: Weekdays 6pm-10pm, Weekends and Public Holidays.
ORIGINAL RATES:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-Peak price (per hour): $3.50 (Singaporean and Permanent Residents), $4.60 (Standard Rate)
Peak price (per hour) : $7.40, $9.70
SportsHub
Non-peak (per hour): $5, $6.50
Peak (per hour): $8, $13
RESELLERS' RATES:
(As advertised on various platforms, per 2-hour slot)
Meetup.com :
Sports Halls (ActiveSG):
Non-peak: $6-$10 per pax
Peak: $8-$16 per pax
SportsHub: $12 per pax
Carousell:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG): $7-$16
SportsHub: $8
Telegram:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-peak: $7-$10 per pax
Peak: $10-$14 per pax
SportsHub: $8 per pax
Facebook:
Sports Halls (ActiveSG)
Non-peak: $6-$10 per pax
Peak: $8-$15 per pax
SportsHub: $6-12 per pax
#60
Cliches galore.
It added: “MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
“MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task,”
9 Britons, 1 Singapore PR charged over unlawful gathering on yacht during Phase 2
They were each charged with an offence under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act.
PHOTOS: BU HUI YAN/FACEBOOOK
Shaffiq Alkhatib
Court Correspondent
5 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Nine Britons and a Singapore permanent resident (PR) appeared in a district court on Friday (Feb 5) after they allegedly took part in an unlawful gathering on a pleasure craft in breach of Covid-19 rules on Dec 26 last year.
They were each charged with an offence under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act.
The nine Britons are: Annabelle Morgan Duke, 26; Philip Edward Knatchbull Holmes, 27; Amy Grace Ropner, 28; Mark Alexander Bellamy, 29; Amy Georgina Hunt, 30; Thomas Cuthbert Williams-Jones, 30; Oliver Francis William Campbell, 31; Benjamin David Waters, 32 and Amy Alexandra Stewart, 32.
The sole PR is Mark Lau San Mao, 30.
The court heard on Friday that Lau and Ropner intend to plead guilty to their charges on March 1.
The cases involving the remaining eight people have been adjourned to Feb 26.
At that time of the incident, gatherings were limited to five persons.
Pictures and videos of the Boxing Day gathering on the pleasure craft named Advant near Lazarus Island were earlier posted on social media.
They showed a group of merrymakers dancing without masks.
In a statement on Jan 23, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said Advant’s licence would be suspended for 30 days.
It added: “MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
“MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task,”
First-time offenders who breach laws under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act may face a fine of up to $10,000, up to six months’ jail, or both. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000, sentenced to a maximum of a year in jail, or both.
Cliches galore.
It added: “MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
“MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task,”
9 Britons, 1 Singapore PR charged over unlawful gathering on yacht during Phase 2
They were each charged with an offence under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act.
PHOTOS: BU HUI YAN/FACEBOOOK
Shaffiq Alkhatib
Court Correspondent
5 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Nine Britons and a Singapore permanent resident (PR) appeared in a district court on Friday (Feb 5) after they allegedly took part in an unlawful gathering on a pleasure craft in breach of Covid-19 rules on Dec 26 last year.
They were each charged with an offence under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act.
The nine Britons are: Annabelle Morgan Duke, 26; Philip Edward Knatchbull Holmes, 27; Amy Grace Ropner, 28; Mark Alexander Bellamy, 29; Amy Georgina Hunt, 30; Thomas Cuthbert Williams-Jones, 30; Oliver Francis William Campbell, 31; Benjamin David Waters, 32 and Amy Alexandra Stewart, 32.
The sole PR is Mark Lau San Mao, 30.
The court heard on Friday that Lau and Ropner intend to plead guilty to their charges on March 1.
The cases involving the remaining eight people have been adjourned to Feb 26.
At that time of the incident, gatherings were limited to five persons.
Pictures and videos of the Boxing Day gathering on the pleasure craft named Advant near Lazarus Island were earlier posted on social media.
They showed a group of merrymakers dancing without masks.
In a statement on Jan 23, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said Advant’s licence would be suspended for 30 days.
It added: “MPA reminds all pleasure craft owners and operators to adhere strictly to the safe management plan they have submitted for their business operations, and play their part to keep the Covid-19 situation under control in Singapore.
“MPA takes a very serious view of any breach of safe management measures and will not hesitate to take the parties involved to task,”
First-time offenders who breach laws under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act may face a fine of up to $10,000, up to six months’ jail, or both. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000, sentenced to a maximum of a year in jail, or both.
First-time offenders who breach laws under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act may face a fine of up to $10,000, up to six months’ jail, or both. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000, sentenced to a maximum of a year in jail, or both.
We will take them seriously when we see serious penalties (including jail) being imposed.
These people need to be made examples of, so that valuable court time is not wasted on
clowns who think they are smart asses. And strip work-permit holders of their employment
passes.
We will take them seriously when we see serious penalties (including jail) being imposed.
These people need to be made examples of, so that valuable court time is not wasted on
clowns who think they are smart asses. And strip work-permit holders of their employment
passes.
#61
Case said it has issued a warning letter to the retailer, adding that it “will not hesitate to take the necessary action provided for under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA), which includes referring the matter to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore”.
Toothless CASE. Still no action after 37 complaints. Waiting for 500 complaints before it acts?
37 complaints made against retailer MDS Collections, mostly for undelivered orders: Case
By MICHELLE LEE
Published FEBRUARY 09, 2021
MDS Collections
In certain cases, consumers were told to collect their orders at MDS retail outlets but found the stores to be shut.
SINGAPORE — A total of 37 complaints were made against clothing company MDS Collections from June 1 to Dec 31 last year, the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) said on Tuesday (Feb 9).
The majority of the complaints have to do with consumers not receiving their orders or receiving incomplete orders on scheduled delivery dates. Some have yet to receive their items despite more than six months of waiting, the consumer watchdog said in a statement.In certain cases, consumers were told to collect their orders at MDS retail outlets but found the stores to be shut.
Case said it has issued a warning letter to the retailer, adding that it “will not hesitate to take the necessary action provided for under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA), which includes referring the matter to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore”.
“Under the CPFTA, it is an unfair practice for a supplier to make false claims that goods are available or available in particular quantities if the supplier knows or can reasonably be expected to know it is not so.”
Other complaints about the retailer involved a subscription service for its online store.
Customers who signed up for the service — some paying up to S$99.90 a month for various perks — said they noticed unauthorised charges, and were charged monthly fees even after having terminated their subscriptions, Case said.
Customers also reported not having received refunds after months, despite the retailer’s refund policy stating the maximum processing time to be 45 days. “MDS Collections also failed to resolve most of the complaints received by Case to date, while still continuing with their online sales,” Case added.
Customers with unresolved complaints relating to MDS Collections may seek advice from Case.
Read more at https://www.todayonline.com/singapo...I8k4gSXm7oahNeHy8wfiyycrCdyC6t4cI1z8_4ThyvICc
Case said it has issued a warning letter to the retailer, adding that it “will not hesitate to take the necessary action provided for under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA), which includes referring the matter to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore”.
Toothless CASE. Still no action after 37 complaints. Waiting for 500 complaints before it acts?
37 complaints made against retailer MDS Collections, mostly for undelivered orders: Case
By MICHELLE LEE
Published FEBRUARY 09, 2021
MDS Collections
In certain cases, consumers were told to collect their orders at MDS retail outlets but found the stores to be shut.
SINGAPORE — A total of 37 complaints were made against clothing company MDS Collections from June 1 to Dec 31 last year, the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) said on Tuesday (Feb 9).
The majority of the complaints have to do with consumers not receiving their orders or receiving incomplete orders on scheduled delivery dates. Some have yet to receive their items despite more than six months of waiting, the consumer watchdog said in a statement.In certain cases, consumers were told to collect their orders at MDS retail outlets but found the stores to be shut.
Case said it has issued a warning letter to the retailer, adding that it “will not hesitate to take the necessary action provided for under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA), which includes referring the matter to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore”.
“Under the CPFTA, it is an unfair practice for a supplier to make false claims that goods are available or available in particular quantities if the supplier knows or can reasonably be expected to know it is not so.”
Other complaints about the retailer involved a subscription service for its online store.
Customers who signed up for the service — some paying up to S$99.90 a month for various perks — said they noticed unauthorised charges, and were charged monthly fees even after having terminated their subscriptions, Case said.
Customers also reported not having received refunds after months, despite the retailer’s refund policy stating the maximum processing time to be 45 days. “MDS Collections also failed to resolve most of the complaints received by Case to date, while still continuing with their online sales,” Case added.
Customers with unresolved complaints relating to MDS Collections may seek advice from Case.
Read more at https://www.todayonline.com/singapo...I8k4gSXm7oahNeHy8wfiyycrCdyC6t4cI1z8_4ThyvICc
#62
NParks: "We take a serious view of unauthorised greenery clearance and will not hesitate to take the appropriate enforcement action."
NParks investigating after swathes of Kranji Woodland along rail corridor were cleared by mistake
Kranji Woodlands in an aerial picture taken in May 2019 (left), and a picture taken in February 2021.PHOTOS: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
Ang Qing
16 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Large swathes of Kranji Woodland along the rail corridor were mistakenly cleared while the authorities were in the midst of biodiversity impact assessments there.
Aerial photos of the site showing the destruction of the woodland, a 70ha green patch that is home to around 40 species of birds, emerged on social media on Sunday (Feb 14). One picture showed a narrow strip of trees surrounding the rail corridor, with much of the rest cleared.
In response to these posts, a JTC Corporation spokesman said on Tuesday that the land was "erroneously" cleared by its contractor before the completion of environmental assessments.
The National Parks Board told The Straits Times that it is investigating the unauthorised clearance at the site.
"We take a serious view of unauthorised greenery clearance and will not hesitate to take the appropriate enforcement action," it added.
Development projects in Singapore near sensitive nature areas are subject to greater scrutiny and developers may be required to carry out more detailed environmental studies.
The green patches cleared were on a site slated for the Agri-Food Innovation Park, which is part of the Sungei Kadut Eco-District (Sked). The master plan for the latter, which seeks to support new growth sectors such as agri-tech and environmental technology, was announced in February last year.
Upon discovering the mistake during a site inspection on Jan 13, JTC instructed the contractor Huationg to stop all clearing works immediately.
The green patches cleared were on a site slated for the Agri-Food Innovation Park.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
No further clearing has taken place at the site since then and the contractor has been issued a stern warning, JTC said.
According to the statutory board, it had engaged an environmental specialist to conduct a biodiversity baseline study last December to create an environmental monitoring and management plan (EMMP) for specified plots of land within the area. These were expected to be completed around April before plans to engage stakeholders.
"JTC will continue with the baseline study and EMMP and will work closely with all relevant stakeholders... to ensure that the Sked redevelopment plans are carried out with due consultation and in an environmentally responsible and sensitive manner," the spokesman said.
One picture showed a narrow strip of trees surrounding the rail corridor, with much of the rest cleared.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
"The findings of the studies will be publicly available when ready."
In a statement, Huationg apologised and said it was working with JTC on ongoing investigations "to determine the cause of this lapse, and to prevent future occurrences".
"We are also reviewing internally and working with JTC to strengthen our project management processes," the contractor added.
NParks: "We take a serious view of unauthorised greenery clearance and will not hesitate to take the appropriate enforcement action."
NParks investigating after swathes of Kranji Woodland along rail corridor were cleared by mistake
Kranji Woodlands in an aerial picture taken in May 2019 (left), and a picture taken in February 2021.PHOTOS: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
Ang Qing
16 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Large swathes of Kranji Woodland along the rail corridor were mistakenly cleared while the authorities were in the midst of biodiversity impact assessments there.
Aerial photos of the site showing the destruction of the woodland, a 70ha green patch that is home to around 40 species of birds, emerged on social media on Sunday (Feb 14). One picture showed a narrow strip of trees surrounding the rail corridor, with much of the rest cleared.
In response to these posts, a JTC Corporation spokesman said on Tuesday that the land was "erroneously" cleared by its contractor before the completion of environmental assessments.
The National Parks Board told The Straits Times that it is investigating the unauthorised clearance at the site.
"We take a serious view of unauthorised greenery clearance and will not hesitate to take the appropriate enforcement action," it added.
Development projects in Singapore near sensitive nature areas are subject to greater scrutiny and developers may be required to carry out more detailed environmental studies.
The green patches cleared were on a site slated for the Agri-Food Innovation Park, which is part of the Sungei Kadut Eco-District (Sked). The master plan for the latter, which seeks to support new growth sectors such as agri-tech and environmental technology, was announced in February last year.
Upon discovering the mistake during a site inspection on Jan 13, JTC instructed the contractor Huationg to stop all clearing works immediately.
The green patches cleared were on a site slated for the Agri-Food Innovation Park.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
No further clearing has taken place at the site since then and the contractor has been issued a stern warning, JTC said.
According to the statutory board, it had engaged an environmental specialist to conduct a biodiversity baseline study last December to create an environmental monitoring and management plan (EMMP) for specified plots of land within the area. These were expected to be completed around April before plans to engage stakeholders.
"JTC will continue with the baseline study and EMMP and will work closely with all relevant stakeholders... to ensure that the Sked redevelopment plans are carried out with due consultation and in an environmentally responsible and sensitive manner," the spokesman said.
One picture showed a narrow strip of trees surrounding the rail corridor, with much of the rest cleared.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
"The findings of the studies will be publicly available when ready."
In a statement, Huationg apologised and said it was working with JTC on ongoing investigations "to determine the cause of this lapse, and to prevent future occurrences".
"We are also reviewing internally and working with JTC to strengthen our project management processes," the contractor added.
#63
Chan Chun Seng: "We take a very serious view of this incident. It is clear to us that there were gaps in the way that the project was managed and supervised. And that we must do better."
Cleared Kranji woodland: All agencies reviewing land clearance projects to 'avoid repeat of mistakes'
The incident has prompted a review of how agencies work, both internally and with each other.
ST PHOTO
Audrey Tan and Ang Qing
21 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Development works on a Kranji woodland plot that was cleared by mistake remain stalled, as the authorities get to the bottom of what went wrong.
The incident - where 4.5 ha of greenery was cleared before a biodiversity study was completed - has also prompted a review of how agencies work, both internally and with each other, said Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing on Monday (Feb 22).
"The public service will learn from this and improve," he said, adding that he had instructed all agencies involved in land clearance projects to immediately check and make sure that their processes were in order, "so as to avoid any repeat of the mistakes made".
Originally scrubland with scattered non-native trees, the site of the former KTM railway line where the clearing took place did not require an Environmental Impact Assessment, although other studies were required.
Mr Chan spoke during a virtual press conference also attended by National Development Minister Desmond Lee as well as JTC chief executive Tan Boon Khai and Dr Leong Chee Chiew, commissioner of parks and recreation at the National Parks Board (NParks).
Calling the situation "regrettable and deeply concerning", Mr Lee stressed that a thorough investigation would be done, with the findings made public.
Mr Joseph Leong, permanent secretary for defence development and second permanent secretary for communications and information, will lead the review of processes, which will take about three months.
Said Mr Chan: "We take a very serious view of this incident. It is clear to us that there were gaps in the way that the project was managed and supervised. And that we must do better."
Chain of events
On Feb 14, aerial footage circulating on social media showed that swathes of the vegetation flanking the Rail Corridor in Sungei Kadut had been cleared.
On Feb 14, aerial footage circulating on social media showed that swathes of the vegetation flanking the Rail Corridor in Sungei Kadut had been cleared.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
JTC said two days later on Feb 16 that the area had been cleared erroneously by its contractor before a biodiversity survey was completed, and that the green patches had been cleared at the end of December.
However, satellite footage showed that the land clearance in the area started earlier, since March 2020.
Kranji Woodlands in aerial pictures taken in May 2019 (left) and February 2021.
PHOTOS: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
On Monday, site developer JTC clarified that land clearance for the 25ha Agri-Food Innovation Park - which will be part of the larger Sungei Kadut Eco-District - had started in March 2020. Most of this clearance had been approved.
But the work was supposed to be done in phases. The land cleared in December had been outside of plots approved for clearance, JTC said.
So far, about 11ha of land in the 25ha plot has been cleared. Of this, 4.5ha was cleared mistakenly.
The Rail Corridor, as well as an additional green buffer of between 15m and 20m on either side of it, will be retained, totalling 6ha.
The 25ha Agri-Food Innovation Park will be part of the larger Sungei Kadut Eco-District.
PHOTO: JTC
JTC said it accepted supervisory responsibilities and that it will look into whether its own officers and the private contractors involved had followed due process, and how JTC can better supervise the various agencies and qualified personnel as they implement the project.
All parties have agreed to provide full cooperation, JTC said.
Meanwhile, NParks, which is the custodian of native biodiversity here, will also be conducting an investigation to determine if there were breaches to the Parks and Trees Act and Wildlife Act.
NParks' Dr Leong said the Board's role is to assess requests for tree felling, provide approvals where appropriate, and also look into potential impacts on wildlife.
"So, our investigation will be thorough in looking at whether there were breaches to the Parks and Trees Act, and the Wildlife Act," Dr Leong said.
"What JTC has uncovered in its chronological order will be referenced when we carry out our investigation. So, at this point in time, I need to clarify that as far as NParks goes, we do not make any assumptions on who did what and when and so on and so forth. Because our investigation needs to be thorough," he added.
Under the Parks and Trees Act, those found guilty of felling a tree larger than 1m in girth without the approval of the commissioner could face a fine of up to $50,000.
Those who breach the Wildlife Act can also face a penalty of up to $50,000, with the possibility of a six-month imprisonment, Dr Leong said.
"This is serious, and I will not make any assumptions at this point in time," he said.
Mr Tan, the JTC chief executive, said that as the project and site developer, JTC acknowledged that it has overall responsibility of the site.
He added: "We do not run away from this responsibility. We will not and nor do we intend to."
The need for a biodiversity study
The affected site was occupied by the former railway line operated by the Malaysian company Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), but was returned to Singapore on July 1, 2011.
With the rail line no longer in use, and the site left unmanaged, pending redevelopment works, vegetation had sprouted up over the past few years.
JTC said Albizia trees - a non-native tree species that is fast-growing - now dominate the site.
With the rail line no longer in use, and the site left unmanaged pending redevelopment works, vegetation had sprouted up over the past few years.
PHOTO: JTC
As the site was also not located close to any sensitive nature areas, an environmental impact assessment was not deemed necessary, JTC added.
Last March, land clearance work started, following NParks' approval of tree felling in some areas.
However, in August, the consultants engaged to carry out planning and design works for the area resubmitted a new building plan that showed a new proposed drain.
This drain would discharge into the Pang Sua River - and could eventually end up in the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, which is slated to open as a nature park in 2022.
The Pang Sua River in the Sungei Kadut area.
ST PHOTO: ALPHONSUS CHERN
An earlier study had pointed to the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, located about 3km east of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, as being the main "seeding source" for mangrove propagules for many other mangrove areas.
At that point, the Wildlife Act had come into effect.
This Act empowers NParks' director-general of wildlife management to issue directions to developers to carry out wildlife-related measures to safeguard wildlife, public health or safety, or the health of the ecosystem.
So in response to the resubmission, NParks had required a fauna baseline study - essentially a checklist of the types of animals found in the area - and an environmental monitoring and management plan to be done.
This study, as well as the environmental monitoring and management programme, will likely be completed in April.
JTC said it will engage stakeholders on the findings of the studies, and that the results of the baseline study and consultation will be publicly shared.
Chan Chun Seng: "We take a very serious view of this incident. It is clear to us that there were gaps in the way that the project was managed and supervised. And that we must do better."
Cleared Kranji woodland: All agencies reviewing land clearance projects to 'avoid repeat of mistakes'
The incident has prompted a review of how agencies work, both internally and with each other.
ST PHOTO
Audrey Tan and Ang Qing
21 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Development works on a Kranji woodland plot that was cleared by mistake remain stalled, as the authorities get to the bottom of what went wrong.
The incident - where 4.5 ha of greenery was cleared before a biodiversity study was completed - has also prompted a review of how agencies work, both internally and with each other, said Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing on Monday (Feb 22).
"The public service will learn from this and improve," he said, adding that he had instructed all agencies involved in land clearance projects to immediately check and make sure that their processes were in order, "so as to avoid any repeat of the mistakes made".
Originally scrubland with scattered non-native trees, the site of the former KTM railway line where the clearing took place did not require an Environmental Impact Assessment, although other studies were required.
Mr Chan spoke during a virtual press conference also attended by National Development Minister Desmond Lee as well as JTC chief executive Tan Boon Khai and Dr Leong Chee Chiew, commissioner of parks and recreation at the National Parks Board (NParks).
Calling the situation "regrettable and deeply concerning", Mr Lee stressed that a thorough investigation would be done, with the findings made public.
Mr Joseph Leong, permanent secretary for defence development and second permanent secretary for communications and information, will lead the review of processes, which will take about three months.
Said Mr Chan: "We take a very serious view of this incident. It is clear to us that there were gaps in the way that the project was managed and supervised. And that we must do better."
Chain of events
On Feb 14, aerial footage circulating on social media showed that swathes of the vegetation flanking the Rail Corridor in Sungei Kadut had been cleared.
On Feb 14, aerial footage circulating on social media showed that swathes of the vegetation flanking the Rail Corridor in Sungei Kadut had been cleared.
PHOTO: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
JTC said two days later on Feb 16 that the area had been cleared erroneously by its contractor before a biodiversity survey was completed, and that the green patches had been cleared at the end of December.
However, satellite footage showed that the land clearance in the area started earlier, since March 2020.
Kranji Woodlands in aerial pictures taken in May 2019 (left) and February 2021.
PHOTOS: BRICE LI/FACEBOOK
On Monday, site developer JTC clarified that land clearance for the 25ha Agri-Food Innovation Park - which will be part of the larger Sungei Kadut Eco-District - had started in March 2020. Most of this clearance had been approved.
But the work was supposed to be done in phases. The land cleared in December had been outside of plots approved for clearance, JTC said.
So far, about 11ha of land in the 25ha plot has been cleared. Of this, 4.5ha was cleared mistakenly.
The Rail Corridor, as well as an additional green buffer of between 15m and 20m on either side of it, will be retained, totalling 6ha.
The 25ha Agri-Food Innovation Park will be part of the larger Sungei Kadut Eco-District.
PHOTO: JTC
JTC said it accepted supervisory responsibilities and that it will look into whether its own officers and the private contractors involved had followed due process, and how JTC can better supervise the various agencies and qualified personnel as they implement the project.
All parties have agreed to provide full cooperation, JTC said.
Meanwhile, NParks, which is the custodian of native biodiversity here, will also be conducting an investigation to determine if there were breaches to the Parks and Trees Act and Wildlife Act.
NParks' Dr Leong said the Board's role is to assess requests for tree felling, provide approvals where appropriate, and also look into potential impacts on wildlife.
"So, our investigation will be thorough in looking at whether there were breaches to the Parks and Trees Act, and the Wildlife Act," Dr Leong said.
"What JTC has uncovered in its chronological order will be referenced when we carry out our investigation. So, at this point in time, I need to clarify that as far as NParks goes, we do not make any assumptions on who did what and when and so on and so forth. Because our investigation needs to be thorough," he added.
Under the Parks and Trees Act, those found guilty of felling a tree larger than 1m in girth without the approval of the commissioner could face a fine of up to $50,000.
Those who breach the Wildlife Act can also face a penalty of up to $50,000, with the possibility of a six-month imprisonment, Dr Leong said.
"This is serious, and I will not make any assumptions at this point in time," he said.
Mr Tan, the JTC chief executive, said that as the project and site developer, JTC acknowledged that it has overall responsibility of the site.
He added: "We do not run away from this responsibility. We will not and nor do we intend to."
The need for a biodiversity study
The affected site was occupied by the former railway line operated by the Malaysian company Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), but was returned to Singapore on July 1, 2011.
With the rail line no longer in use, and the site left unmanaged, pending redevelopment works, vegetation had sprouted up over the past few years.
JTC said Albizia trees - a non-native tree species that is fast-growing - now dominate the site.
With the rail line no longer in use, and the site left unmanaged pending redevelopment works, vegetation had sprouted up over the past few years.
PHOTO: JTC
As the site was also not located close to any sensitive nature areas, an environmental impact assessment was not deemed necessary, JTC added.
Last March, land clearance work started, following NParks' approval of tree felling in some areas.
However, in August, the consultants engaged to carry out planning and design works for the area resubmitted a new building plan that showed a new proposed drain.
This drain would discharge into the Pang Sua River - and could eventually end up in the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, which is slated to open as a nature park in 2022.
The Pang Sua River in the Sungei Kadut area.
ST PHOTO: ALPHONSUS CHERN
An earlier study had pointed to the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, located about 3km east of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, as being the main "seeding source" for mangrove propagules for many other mangrove areas.
At that point, the Wildlife Act had come into effect.
This Act empowers NParks' director-general of wildlife management to issue directions to developers to carry out wildlife-related measures to safeguard wildlife, public health or safety, or the health of the ecosystem.
So in response to the resubmission, NParks had required a fauna baseline study - essentially a checklist of the types of animals found in the area - and an environmental monitoring and management plan to be done.
This study, as well as the environmental monitoring and management programme, will likely be completed in April.
JTC said it will engage stakeholders on the findings of the studies, and that the results of the baseline study and consultation will be publicly shared.
#64
"The Government takes a serious view of the violations by the operator and investigations are ongoing," MSE said.
Four F&B outlets ordered shut for Covid-19 breaches over CNY, 234 people fined
Club One Min at Concorde Shopping Mall (left) and Jin Jin Eating House at 496 North Bridge Road.
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD, URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Ang Qing
24 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Club One Min in Concorde Shopping Mall and Jin Jin Eating House in North Bridge Road are among four food and beverage outlets ordered to close for breaching safe management measures (SMM) after stepped-up inspections during the Chinese New Year period.
Thirteen outlets were also fined for breaching these measures, and 234 people were fined for failing to follow safe distancing at parks and beaches, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Wednesday (Feb 24).
Second offender Club One Min was found to have allowed gatherings of more than eight people, and provided hostesses who intermingled with patrons on Feb 19.
The Singapore Tourism Board has ordered the operator to close for 20 days between Feb 20 and March 11. It was previously closed for 10 days between Dec 20 and Dec 29 for allowing groups of more than eight people.
"The Government takes a serious view of the violations by the operator and investigations are ongoing," MSE said.
The remaining three outlets were ordered to close for 10 days after diners were found consuming alcohol after 10.30pm.
The Singapore Food Agency ordered Stall Eight at Food Park Coffeeshop in Bedok to close between Feb 19 and Feb 28.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority also ordered Jin Jin Eating House and 200 HCM Food at Joo Chiat Road to close between Feb 23 and March 4.
Thirteen eateries including Shi Li Fang at Orchard Central, Rong Hua Bak Kut Teh at Waterway Point and Basil Thai Kitchen at Paragon were fined $1,000 each for breaches involving seating groups of diners less than 1 metre apart and for failing to prevent intermingling.
A total of 234 people were each fined $300 for breaching SMMs during the past two weekends at parks and beaches, MSE added.
These offences included gathering in groups of more than eight people and intermingling between groups. In Changi Beach Park, for instance, 76 people were caught, including one group of 20 people.
76 individuals were fined for breaching safe management measures at Changi Beach Park.
PHOTO: NATIONAL PARKS BOARD
Diners at Food Park Coffeeshop at 69 Bedok South Avenue 3 (left) and 200 HCM Food at 200 Joo Chiat Road.
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY, URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
The ministry urged members of the public and operators to remain vigilant and continue observing SMMs as social interactions are likely to increase, especially on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year or chap goh meh on this Friday (Feb 26).
"Where possible, members of public are advised to plan visits to potentially crowded areas such as shopping malls, F&B outlets, markets, supermarkets and parks, during off peak hours," it added.
"The Government takes a serious view of the violations by the operator and investigations are ongoing," MSE said.
Four F&B outlets ordered shut for Covid-19 breaches over CNY, 234 people fined
Club One Min at Concorde Shopping Mall (left) and Jin Jin Eating House at 496 North Bridge Road.
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD, URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Ang Qing
24 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - Club One Min in Concorde Shopping Mall and Jin Jin Eating House in North Bridge Road are among four food and beverage outlets ordered to close for breaching safe management measures (SMM) after stepped-up inspections during the Chinese New Year period.
Thirteen outlets were also fined for breaching these measures, and 234 people were fined for failing to follow safe distancing at parks and beaches, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) said on Wednesday (Feb 24).
Second offender Club One Min was found to have allowed gatherings of more than eight people, and provided hostesses who intermingled with patrons on Feb 19.
The Singapore Tourism Board has ordered the operator to close for 20 days between Feb 20 and March 11. It was previously closed for 10 days between Dec 20 and Dec 29 for allowing groups of more than eight people.
"The Government takes a serious view of the violations by the operator and investigations are ongoing," MSE said.
The remaining three outlets were ordered to close for 10 days after diners were found consuming alcohol after 10.30pm.
The Singapore Food Agency ordered Stall Eight at Food Park Coffeeshop in Bedok to close between Feb 19 and Feb 28.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority also ordered Jin Jin Eating House and 200 HCM Food at Joo Chiat Road to close between Feb 23 and March 4.
Thirteen eateries including Shi Li Fang at Orchard Central, Rong Hua Bak Kut Teh at Waterway Point and Basil Thai Kitchen at Paragon were fined $1,000 each for breaches involving seating groups of diners less than 1 metre apart and for failing to prevent intermingling.
A total of 234 people were each fined $300 for breaching SMMs during the past two weekends at parks and beaches, MSE added.
These offences included gathering in groups of more than eight people and intermingling between groups. In Changi Beach Park, for instance, 76 people were caught, including one group of 20 people.
PHOTO: NATIONAL PARKS BOARD
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY, URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
The ministry urged members of the public and operators to remain vigilant and continue observing SMMs as social interactions are likely to increase, especially on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year or chap goh meh on this Friday (Feb 26).
"Where possible, members of public are advised to plan visits to potentially crowded areas such as shopping malls, F&B outlets, markets, supermarkets and parks, during off peak hours," it added.
#65
Mrs Teo, who is also Second Minister for Home Affairs, said: "The Singapore Government takes very seriously the safety of all of our foreign domestic workers who are here.
Govt to review 3 areas, including how doctors flag abuse, to ensure torture of Myanmar maid who died doesn't happen again
Law Minister K. Shanmugam described the abuse of Ms Piang Ngaih Don (right) as "evil", and stressed that the law has to come down with full force.
PHOTOS: HELPING HANDS FOR MIGRANT WORKERS, LIANHE WANBAO
David Sun
25 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - The abuse suffered by Myanmar domestic helper Piang Ngaih Don must never happen again, and the Government is reviewing three key areas to ensure this.
Speaking to the media at a virtual doorstop on Thursday (Feb 25), Manpower Minister Josephine Teo said the three areas are safeguards against abusive employers, the reporting system for doctors, and the involvement of community and partner organisations.
"Let me be absolutely clear. There is no place for abuse against foreign domestic workers in Singapore. There is simply no place for it," she stressed.
Mrs Teo, who is also Second Minister for Home Affairs, said: "The Singapore Government takes very seriously the safety of all of our foreign domestic workers who are here."
She noted that while there are already safeguards in place, Singapore, as a society, must do better.
"We appreciate the many foreign domestic workers who have come to Singapore to help us look after our families," she said. "We recognise the sacrifices that they have made and we are determined to put an end to any form of abuse towards them and to ensure their safety."
Ms Piang was 24 when she died on July 26, 2016.
She weighed just 24kg then, having lost 38 per cent of her weight since she started working here on May 28, 2015.
On Tuesday, Ms Piang's Singaporean employer, Gaiyathiri Murugayan, 40, the wife of police officer Kevin Chelvam, 41, admitted to starving, torturing and ultimately killing her.
Chelvam was suspended from service on Aug 8, 2016, and faces multiple charges in connection with the abuse and death of Ms Piang.
Gaiyathiri's mother, who was living with the couple, was also charged in 2016.
The cases are still before the courts.
Ms Piang was examined by doctors twice during her employment, and her employment agency also spoke with her on two occasions. But no signs of her distress were picked up.
Asked if any action will be taken against the doctor who last examined Ms Piang, or others who may have known about the abuse such as two tenants who lived with the couple and the mother, Law Minister K. Shanmugam, who also spoke at the doorstop, said it was difficult to comment as the cases were still before the courts.
He said: "Those matters have all been looked into, but I think we ought to be careful commenting on them until these three cases are disposed of."
Mr Shanmugam said, however, that regardless of the outcome of the criminal case against Chelvam, he will face internal disciplinary proceedings by the police after the criminal proceedings have been completed.
"Regardless of the outcome of the criminal proceedings, even if he gets acquitted, he will face disciplinary proceedings," he said.
The minister also described the abuse of Ms Piang as "evil", and stressed that the law has to come down with full force.
He said: "The point I’ll make is that people who seem ordinary are capable of extraordinary evil, and there are two pillars in any society to keep evil in check. One is education. Two, we need rule of law to keep such evil in check. The law has to come down with full force, when the rules are broken."
Mr Shanmugam added: "We need, and thankfully, we have a system, where it doesn’t matter who you are, whether you are a police officer, civil servant, or man on the street. If the investigation shows that you ought to be charged, you will be charged, and you will face the full weight of the law."
Mrs Teo, who is also Second Minister for Home Affairs, said: "The Singapore Government takes very seriously the safety of all of our foreign domestic workers who are here.
Govt to review 3 areas, including how doctors flag abuse, to ensure torture of Myanmar maid who died doesn't happen again
Law Minister K. Shanmugam described the abuse of Ms Piang Ngaih Don (right) as "evil", and stressed that the law has to come down with full force.
PHOTOS: HELPING HANDS FOR MIGRANT WORKERS, LIANHE WANBAO
David Sun
25 FEB 2021
SINGAPORE - The abuse suffered by Myanmar domestic helper Piang Ngaih Don must never happen again, and the Government is reviewing three key areas to ensure this.
Speaking to the media at a virtual doorstop on Thursday (Feb 25), Manpower Minister Josephine Teo said the three areas are safeguards against abusive employers, the reporting system for doctors, and the involvement of community and partner organisations.
"Let me be absolutely clear. There is no place for abuse against foreign domestic workers in Singapore. There is simply no place for it," she stressed.
Mrs Teo, who is also Second Minister for Home Affairs, said: "The Singapore Government takes very seriously the safety of all of our foreign domestic workers who are here."
She noted that while there are already safeguards in place, Singapore, as a society, must do better.
"We appreciate the many foreign domestic workers who have come to Singapore to help us look after our families," she said. "We recognise the sacrifices that they have made and we are determined to put an end to any form of abuse towards them and to ensure their safety."
Ms Piang was 24 when she died on July 26, 2016.
She weighed just 24kg then, having lost 38 per cent of her weight since she started working here on May 28, 2015.
On Tuesday, Ms Piang's Singaporean employer, Gaiyathiri Murugayan, 40, the wife of police officer Kevin Chelvam, 41, admitted to starving, torturing and ultimately killing her.
Chelvam was suspended from service on Aug 8, 2016, and faces multiple charges in connection with the abuse and death of Ms Piang.
Gaiyathiri's mother, who was living with the couple, was also charged in 2016.
The cases are still before the courts.
Ms Piang was examined by doctors twice during her employment, and her employment agency also spoke with her on two occasions. But no signs of her distress were picked up.
Asked if any action will be taken against the doctor who last examined Ms Piang, or others who may have known about the abuse such as two tenants who lived with the couple and the mother, Law Minister K. Shanmugam, who also spoke at the doorstop, said it was difficult to comment as the cases were still before the courts.
He said: "Those matters have all been looked into, but I think we ought to be careful commenting on them until these three cases are disposed of."
Mr Shanmugam said, however, that regardless of the outcome of the criminal case against Chelvam, he will face internal disciplinary proceedings by the police after the criminal proceedings have been completed.
"Regardless of the outcome of the criminal proceedings, even if he gets acquitted, he will face disciplinary proceedings," he said.
The minister also described the abuse of Ms Piang as "evil", and stressed that the law has to come down with full force.
He said: "The point I’ll make is that people who seem ordinary are capable of extraordinary evil, and there are two pillars in any society to keep evil in check. One is education. Two, we need rule of law to keep such evil in check. The law has to come down with full force, when the rules are broken."
Mr Shanmugam added: "We need, and thankfully, we have a system, where it doesn’t matter who you are, whether you are a police officer, civil servant, or man on the street. If the investigation shows that you ought to be charged, you will be charged, and you will face the full weight of the law."
#66
“The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts and will not hesitate to act against those who blatantly disregard the law,” SPF said.
Man arrested near Clementi coffee shop for carrying offensive weapon
A 40-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, Mar 14, 2021 for the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
(Photo: Singapore Police Force)
14 Mar 2021
SINGAPORE: A 40-year-old man was arrested early on Sunday morning (Mar 14) for the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said it received a call for help at about 12.10am. A man was "allegedly seen holding a knife and walking towards a coffee shop along Clementi West Street 2", it added.
He was arrested and a knife was seized.
The man will be charged in court on Monday with the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, which carries a jail term of up to three years and at least six strokes of the cane.
“The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts and will not hesitate to act against those who blatantly disregard the law,” SPF said.
“The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts and will not hesitate to act against those who blatantly disregard the law,” SPF said.
Man arrested near Clementi coffee shop for carrying offensive weapon
A 40-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, Mar 14, 2021 for the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
(Photo: Singapore Police Force)
14 Mar 2021
SINGAPORE: A 40-year-old man was arrested early on Sunday morning (Mar 14) for the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said it received a call for help at about 12.10am. A man was "allegedly seen holding a knife and walking towards a coffee shop along Clementi West Street 2", it added.
He was arrested and a knife was seized.
The man will be charged in court on Monday with the possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, which carries a jail term of up to three years and at least six strokes of the cane.
“The police have zero tolerance towards such brazen acts and will not hesitate to act against those who blatantly disregard the law,” SPF said.
Last edited:
Similar threads
